Marlette, MI
Population 1,771 · Michigan
About Marlette, MI
Marlette is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,771 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $44,375 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 40.2 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Marlette features a median home value of $116,900, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Marlette one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $820, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 853 total housing units, 59% are owner-occupied (461 units) and 41% are renter-occupied (317 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Marlette shows an unemployment rate of 10.7%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 17.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Marlette have an average one-way commute time of 26.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.8% of Marlette 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 1.5% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 2.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Marlette, MI
Compared to national averages, Marlette has a median household income of $44,375 (41% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $116,900, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $820 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Marlette's income is 33% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 36% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Marlette, MI?
Marlette offers affordable housing with a median home value of $116,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $820/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($44,375) that falls below the national average. However, Marlette’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Marlette has a population of 1,771 with a median age of 40.2 years. Compare Marlette with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Marlette
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Jordan | 1,776 | $53,929 | $125,100 | Compare |
| Bessemer | 1,778 | $50,792 | $76,100 | Compare |
| Evart | 1,764 | $34,091 | $99,400 | Compare |
| Cassopolis | 1,763 | $40,529 | $99,700 | Compare |
| Au Sable | 1,780 | $46,369 | $107,900 | Compare |
| Kingsley | 1,783 | $65,714 | $248,900 | Compare |
| Wakefield | 1,789 | $48,413 | $71,400 | Compare |
| Crystal Falls | 1,734 | $59,712 | $79,900 | 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 Marlette With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Marlette
What is the population of Marlette, MI?
The population of Marlette, MI is 1,771 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 Marlette?
The median household income in Marlette, MI is $44,375 per year, which is 41% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Marlette?
The median home value in Marlette, MI is $116,900, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Marlette?
The median monthly rent in Marlette, MI is $820, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Marlette?
The unemployment rate in Marlette, MI is 10.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Marlette, MI a good place to live?
Marlette offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,771 and a median age of 40.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Marlette, MI?
11.8% of residents in Marlette 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 Marlette?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Marlette, MI: median home value is $116,900 (52% below national), median rent is $820/month, and median household income is $44,375. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Marlette?
The poverty rate in Marlette, MI is 17.5%, 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 Marlette, MI?
Marlette's population is 1.5% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 2.5% of residents are foreign-born.