Muskegon, MI
Population 37,203 · Michigan
About Muskegon, MI
Muskegon is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 37,203 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $46,342 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Muskegon features a median home value of $121,800, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Muskegon one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $927, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 16,023 total housing units, 54% are owner-occupied (7,436 units) and 46% are renter-occupied (6,285 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Muskegon shows an unemployment rate of 9.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 20.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Muskegon have an average one-way commute time of 20.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.8% of Muskegon 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 9.2% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, and 1.1% Asian residents, with 4.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Muskegon Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Muskegon, MI
Compared to national averages, Muskegon has a median household income of $46,342 (38% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,800, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $927 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Muskegon's income is 30% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 34% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Muskegon, MI?
Muskegon offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $927/month, and short commute times averaging just 20.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($46,342) that falls below the national average. However, Muskegon’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Muskegon has a population of 37,203 with a median age of 36 years. Compare Muskegon with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Muskegon
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | 39,511 | $57,183 | $117,400 | Compare |
| Holland | 34,266 | $72,905 | $235,800 | Compare |
| Eastpointe | 34,003 | $58,196 | $129,100 | Compare |
| Bay City | 32,445 | $47,904 | $89,900 | Compare |
| Midland | 42,461 | $74,906 | $192,400 | Compare |
| Jackson | 31,206 | $42,848 | $94,700 | Compare |
| Saginaw | 43,879 | $37,298 | $54,000 | Compare |
| Southgate | 29,551 | $64,635 | $165,400 | 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 Muskegon With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Muskegon
What is the population of Muskegon, MI?
The population of Muskegon, MI is 37,203 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 Muskegon?
The median household income in Muskegon, MI is $46,342 per year, which is 38% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Muskegon?
The median home value in Muskegon, MI is $121,800, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Muskegon?
The median monthly rent in Muskegon, MI is $927, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Muskegon?
The unemployment rate in Muskegon, MI is 9.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Muskegon, MI a good place to live?
Muskegon offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 37,203 and a median age of 36, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Muskegon, MI?
15.8% of residents in Muskegon 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 Muskegon?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Muskegon, MI: median home value is $121,800 (50% below national), median rent is $927/month, and median household income is $46,342. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Muskegon?
The poverty rate in Muskegon, MI is 20.2%, 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 Muskegon, MI?
Muskegon's population is 9.2% White, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.6% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, and 29.9% two or more races. 4.2% of residents are foreign-born.