Kent City, MI
Population 1,218 · Michigan
About Kent City, MI
Kent City is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,218 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $74,375 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Kent City features a median home value of $134,100, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Kent City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $325, 72% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 457 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (391 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (50 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Kent City shows an unemployment rate of 1.8%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Kent City have an average one-way commute time of 24.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.1% of Kent City 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 23.9% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 1.5% Asian residents, with 23.6% of the population being foreign-born.
How Kent City Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Kent City, MI
Compared to national averages, Kent City has a median household income of $74,375 (1% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $134,100, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $325 is 72% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Kent City's income is 13% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 27% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Kent City, MI?
Kent City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $134,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $325/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.8%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.3%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 24.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($74,375) that falls below the national average. However, Kent City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Kent City has a population of 1,218 with a median age of 34.2 years. Compare Kent City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Kent City
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weidman | 1,217 | $49,545 | $104,200 | Compare |
| Brown City | 1,211 | $60,357 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Luna Pier | 1,204 | $51,830 | $176,000 | Compare |
| Grass Lake | 1,235 | $74,306 | $199,400 | Compare |
| Stockbridge | 1,235 | $49,875 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Birch Run | 1,236 | $65,313 | $185,900 | Compare |
| North Branch | 1,199 | $42,500 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Reading | 1,241 | $48,804 | $103,300 | 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 Kent City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Kent City
What is the population of Kent City, MI?
The population of Kent City, MI is 1,218 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Kent City?
The median household income in Kent City, MI is $74,375 per year, which is 1% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Kent City?
The median home value in Kent City, MI is $134,100, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Kent City?
The median monthly rent in Kent City, MI is $325, which is 72% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Kent City?
The unemployment rate in Kent City, MI is 1.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Kent City, MI a good place to live?
Kent City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,218 and a median age of 34.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Kent City, MI?
11.1% of residents in Kent City 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 Kent City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Kent City, MI: median home value is $134,100 (45% below national), median rent is $325/month, and median household income is $74,375. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Kent City?
The poverty rate in Kent City, MI is 8.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Kent City, MI?
Kent City's population is 23.9% White, 0.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 1.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 23.6% of residents are foreign-born.