Merrill, MI
Population 825 · Michigan
About Merrill, MI
Merrill is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 825 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $47,000 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 38.4 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Merrill features a median home value of $89,700, which is 63% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Merrill one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $722, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 278 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (197 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (59 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Merrill shows an unemployment rate of 24.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 27.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Merrill have an average one-way commute time of 28.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.2% of Merrill 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 29.2% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.4% Asian residents, with 6.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Merrill, MI
Compared to national averages, Merrill has a median household income of $47,000 (37% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $89,700, which is 63% below the national median. Monthly rent at $722 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Merrill's income is 29% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 51% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Merrill, MI?
Merrill offers affordable housing with a median home value of $89,700, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $722/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($47,000) that falls below the national average. However, Merrill’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Merrill has a population of 825 with a median age of 38.4 years. Compare Merrill with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Merrill
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McBain | 825 | $46,786 | $116,100 | Compare |
| Grawn | 824 | $57,386 | $120,200 | Compare |
| Springport | 822 | $50,000 | $100,700 | Compare |
| Ubly | 830 | $56,042 | $113,500 | Compare |
| Pellston | 834 | $59,464 | $117,100 | Compare |
| Sheridan | 816 | $56,786 | $140,600 | Compare |
| Mendon | 839 | $82,031 | $123,000 | Compare |
| Village of Clarkston | 842 | $94,519 | $433,300 | 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 Merrill With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Merrill
What is the population of Merrill, MI?
The population of Merrill, MI is 825 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 Merrill?
The median household income in Merrill, MI is $47,000 per year, which is 37% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Merrill?
The median home value in Merrill, MI is $89,700, which is 63% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Merrill?
The median monthly rent in Merrill, MI is $722, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Merrill?
The unemployment rate in Merrill, MI is 24.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Merrill, MI a good place to live?
Merrill offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 825 and a median age of 38.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Merrill, MI?
13.2% of residents in Merrill 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 Merrill?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Merrill, MI: median home value is $89,700 (63% below national), median rent is $722/month, and median household income is $47,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Merrill?
The poverty rate in Merrill, MI is 27.9%, 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 Merrill, MI?
Merrill's population is 29.2% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 6.2% of residents are foreign-born.