Mecosta, MI
Population 509 · Michigan
About Mecosta, MI
Mecosta is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 509 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $70,069 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.1 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 Mecosta features a median home value of $92,200, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Mecosta one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $804, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 223 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (168 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (35 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Mecosta shows an unemployment rate of 9.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 19.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Mecosta have an average one-way commute time of 23.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
10.9% of Mecosta 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 0.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Mecosta, MI
Compared to national averages, Mecosta has a median household income of $70,069 (7% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $92,200, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $804 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Mecosta's income is 6% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 50% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Mecosta, MI?
Mecosta offers affordable housing with a median home value of $92,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $804/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($70,069) that falls below the national average. However, Mecosta’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Mecosta has a population of 509 with a median age of 45.1 years. Compare Mecosta with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Mecosta
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thompsonville | 508 | $62,083 | $100,700 | Compare |
| Eau Claire | 507 | $62,500 | $130,000 | Compare |
| Pewamo | 511 | $76,250 | $179,500 | Compare |
| Atlantic Mine | 513 | $47,361 | $90,000 | Compare |
| Millers Lake | 505 | $68,068 | $216,000 | Compare |
| Galien | 519 | $51,458 | $126,300 | Compare |
| Kaleva | 520 | $43,333 | $88,500 | Compare |
| Shaftsburg | 498 | $90,054 | $235,900 | 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 Mecosta With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Mecosta
What is the population of Mecosta, MI?
The population of Mecosta, MI is 509 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 Mecosta?
The median household income in Mecosta, MI is $70,069 per year, which is 7% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Mecosta?
The median home value in Mecosta, MI is $92,200, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Mecosta?
The median monthly rent in Mecosta, MI is $804, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Mecosta?
The unemployment rate in Mecosta, MI is 9.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Mecosta, MI a good place to live?
Mecosta offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 509 and a median age of 45.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Mecosta, MI?
10.9% of residents in Mecosta 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 Mecosta?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Mecosta, MI: median home value is $92,200 (62% below national), median rent is $804/month, and median household income is $70,069. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Mecosta?
The poverty rate in Mecosta, MI is 19.4%, 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 Mecosta, MI?
Mecosta's population is 0.2% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 1.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 5.7% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.