Mears, MI
Population 189 · Michigan
About Mears, MI
Mears is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 189 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $41,364 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.3 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Mears features a median home value of $107,600, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Mears one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,034, 11% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 108 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (63 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (29 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mears shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 13.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Mears have an average one-way commute time of 18.4 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
21.4% of Mears 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 21.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 6.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Mears, MI
Compared to national averages, Mears has a median household income of $41,364 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $107,600, which is 56% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,034 is 11% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Mears's income is 37% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 41% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Mears, MI?
Mears offers affordable housing with a median home value of $107,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,034/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 18.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,364) that falls below the national average. However, Mears’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Mears has a population of 189 with a median age of 51.3 years. Compare Mears with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Mears
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
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 Mears With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Mears
What is the population of Mears, MI?
The population of Mears, MI is 189 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 Mears?
The median household income in Mears, MI is $41,364 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mears?
The median home value in Mears, MI is $107,600, which is 56% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mears?
The median monthly rent in Mears, MI is $1,034, which is 11% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mears?
The unemployment rate in Mears, MI is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Mears, MI a good place to live?
Mears offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 189 and a median age of 51.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Mears, MI?
21.4% of residents in Mears 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 Mears?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mears, MI: median home value is $107,600 (56% below national), median rent is $1,034/month, and median household income is $41,364. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Mears?
The poverty rate in Mears, MI is 13.2%, 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 Mears, MI?
Mears's population is 21.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 6.9% of residents are foreign-born.