Kaleva, MI
Population 520 · Michigan
About Kaleva, MI
Kaleva is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 520 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $43,333 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Kaleva features a median home value of $88,500, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Kaleva one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $964, 17% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 272 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (160 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (42 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kaleva shows an unemployment rate of 6.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 35.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Kaleva have an average one-way commute time of 25.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
16.2% of Kaleva residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 1.2% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 1.7% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Kaleva, MI
Compared to national averages, Kaleva has a median household income of $43,333 (42% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $88,500, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $964 is 17% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Kaleva's income is 34% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 52% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Kaleva, MI?
Kaleva offers affordable housing with a median home value of $88,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $964/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($43,333) that falls below the national average. However, Kaleva’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kaleva has a population of 520 with a median age of 36.3 years. Compare Kaleva with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Kaleva
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galien | 519 | $51,458 | $126,300 | Compare |
| South Boardman | 521 | $80,781 | $182,700 | Compare |
| Peck | 525 | $52,204 | $101,200 | Compare |
| Atlantic Mine | 513 | $47,361 | $90,000 | Compare |
| Pewamo | 511 | $76,250 | $179,500 | Compare |
| Republic | 530 | $41,136 | $60,700 | Compare |
| Mecosta | 509 | $70,069 | $92,200 | Compare |
| Thompsonville | 508 | $62,083 | $100,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Kaleva With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kaleva
What is the population of Kaleva, MI?
The population of Kaleva, MI is 520 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Kaleva?
The median household income in Kaleva, MI is $43,333 per year, which is 42% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kaleva?
The median home value in Kaleva, MI is $88,500, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Kaleva?
The median monthly rent in Kaleva, MI is $964, which is 17% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kaleva?
The unemployment rate in Kaleva, MI is 6.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Kaleva, MI a good place to live?
Kaleva offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 520 and a median age of 36.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Kaleva, MI?
16.2% of residents in Kaleva aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Kaleva?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kaleva, MI: median home value is $88,500 (64% below national), median rent is $964/month, and median household income is $43,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Kaleva?
The poverty rate in Kaleva, MI is 35.4%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Kaleva, MI?
Kaleva's population is 1.2% White, 2.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 1.7% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.