Monroe, MI
Population 20,330 · Michigan
About Monroe, MI
Monroe is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 20,330 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,532 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.9 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Monroe features a median home value of $161,500, which is 34% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Monroe in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $898, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 9,013 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (5,779 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (2,746 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Monroe shows an unemployment rate of 6.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Monroe have an average one-way commute time of 22.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.5% of Monroe 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 1.7% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 2.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Monroe, MI
Compared to national averages, Monroe has a median household income of $59,532 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $161,500, which is 34% below the national median. Monthly rent at $898 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Monroe's income is 10% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 12% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Monroe, MI?
Monroe offers affordable housing with a median home value of $161,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $898/month, and short commute times averaging just 22.4 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,532) that falls below the national average. However, Monroe’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Monroe has a population of 20,330 with a median age of 36.9 years. Compare Monroe with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Monroe
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adrian | 20,493 | $42,851 | $119,900 | Compare |
| Marquette | 20,691 | $55,825 | $254,100 | Compare |
| Ypsilanti | 19,937 | $44,141 | $223,700 | Compare |
| Cutlerville | 19,465 | $65,833 | $200,900 | Compare |
| Mount Pleasant | 21,420 | $39,924 | $168,700 | Compare |
| Ferndale | 19,156 | $91,732 | $233,600 | Compare |
| Birmingham | 21,612 | $153,125 | $712,700 | Compare |
| Haslett | 19,025 | $74,164 | $269,200 | 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 Monroe With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Monroe
What is the population of Monroe, MI?
The population of Monroe, MI is 20,330 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 Monroe?
The median household income in Monroe, MI is $59,532 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Monroe?
The median home value in Monroe, MI is $161,500, which is 34% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Monroe?
The median monthly rent in Monroe, MI is $898, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Monroe?
The unemployment rate in Monroe, MI is 6.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Monroe, MI a good place to live?
Monroe offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 20,330 and a median age of 36.9, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Monroe, MI?
21.5% of residents in Monroe 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 Monroe?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Monroe, MI: median home value is $161,500 (34% below national), median rent is $898/month, and median household income is $59,532. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Monroe?
The poverty rate in Monroe, MI is 18.3%, 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 Monroe, MI?
Monroe's population is 1.7% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 8.2% two or more races. 2.2% of residents are foreign-born.