Melvindale, MI
Population 12,605 · Michigan
About Melvindale, MI
Melvindale is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 12,605 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $41,356 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.6 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 Melvindale features a median home value of $113,100, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Melvindale one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,116, 4% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 4,693 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (2,597 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (1,731 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Melvindale shows an unemployment rate of 7.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 34.4%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Melvindale have an average one-way commute time of 25.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.0% of Melvindale 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 15.8% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, and 4.0% Asian residents, with 18.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Melvindale, MI
Compared to national averages, Melvindale has a median household income of $41,356 (45% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $113,100, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,116 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Melvindale's income is 37% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 38% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Melvindale, MI?
Melvindale offers affordable housing with a median home value of $113,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,116/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($41,356) that falls below the national average. However, Melvindale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Melvindale has a population of 12,605 with a median age of 31.6 years. Compare Melvindale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Melvindale
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Woodhaven | 12,761 | $83,291 | $221,200 | Compare |
| Escanaba | 12,374 | $40,169 | $116,600 | Compare |
| Rochester | 12,939 | $104,920 | $450,800 | Compare |
| Riverview | 12,269 | $71,783 | $200,500 | Compare |
| Ionia | 12,950 | $60,729 | $161,100 | Compare |
| New Baltimore | 12,060 | $97,027 | $309,800 | Compare |
| Fenton | 11,950 | $83,077 | $211,700 | Compare |
| Niles | 11,838 | $47,815 | $115,400 | 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 Melvindale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Melvindale
What is the population of Melvindale, MI?
The population of Melvindale, MI is 12,605 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Melvindale?
The median household income in Melvindale, MI is $41,356 per year, which is 45% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Melvindale?
The median home value in Melvindale, MI is $113,100, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Melvindale?
The median monthly rent in Melvindale, MI is $1,116, which is 4% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Melvindale?
The unemployment rate in Melvindale, MI is 7.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Melvindale, MI a good place to live?
Melvindale offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 12,605 and a median age of 31.6, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Melvindale, MI?
15.0% of residents in Melvindale 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 Melvindale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Melvindale, MI: median home value is $113,100 (54% below national), median rent is $1,116/month, and median household income is $41,356. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Melvindale?
The poverty rate in Melvindale, MI is 34.4%, 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 Melvindale, MI?
Melvindale's population is 15.8% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 1.1% Black or African American, 4.0% Asian, and 12.3% two or more races. 18.1% of residents are foreign-born.