Lawrence, MI
Population 1,186 · Michigan
About Lawrence, MI
Lawrence is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,186 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $36,188 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33 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 Lawrence features a median home value of $106,700, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Lawrence one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $586, 50% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 458 total housing units, 46% are owner-occupied (190 units) and 54% are renter-occupied (227 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Lawrence shows an unemployment rate of 9.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 32.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Lawrence have an average one-way commute time of 22.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.6% of Lawrence 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 27.7% White, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 11.4% Asian residents, with 13.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Lawrence Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Lawrence, MI
Compared to national averages, Lawrence has a median household income of $36,188 (52% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $106,700, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $586 is 50% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Lawrence's income is 45% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 42% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Lawrence, MI?
Lawrence offers affordable housing with a median home value of $106,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $586/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($36,188) that falls below the national average. However, Lawrence’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Lawrence has a population of 1,186 with a median age of 33 years. Compare Lawrence with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Lawrence
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Branch | 1,199 | $42,500 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Luna Pier | 1,204 | $51,830 | $176,000 | Compare |
| Baldwin | 1,161 | $23,631 | $104,100 | Compare |
| Brown City | 1,211 | $60,357 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Carson City | 1,161 | $42,750 | $109,200 | Compare |
| Frankfort | 1,158 | $51,813 | $305,600 | Compare |
| Concord | 1,156 | $62,143 | $158,900 | Compare |
| Weidman | 1,217 | $49,545 | $104,200 | 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 Lawrence With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Lawrence
What is the population of Lawrence, MI?
The population of Lawrence, MI is 1,186 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 Lawrence?
The median household income in Lawrence, MI is $36,188 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Lawrence?
The median home value in Lawrence, MI is $106,700, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Lawrence?
The median monthly rent in Lawrence, MI is $586, which is 50% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Lawrence?
The unemployment rate in Lawrence, MI is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Lawrence, MI a good place to live?
Lawrence offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,186 and a median age of 33, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Lawrence, MI?
13.6% of residents in Lawrence 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 Lawrence?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Lawrence, MI: median home value is $106,700 (56% below national), median rent is $586/month, and median household income is $36,188. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Lawrence?
The poverty rate in Lawrence, MI is 32.5%, 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 Lawrence, MI?
Lawrence's population is 27.7% White, 5.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 11.4% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 13.1% of residents are foreign-born.