New Buffalo, MI
Population 1,306 · Michigan
About New Buffalo, MI
New Buffalo is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,306 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,524 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 53.8 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 New Buffalo features a median home value of $342,700, which is 40% above the national median of $244,900. This positions New Buffalo in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $825, 29% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,666 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (578 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (180 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in New Buffalo shows an unemployment rate of 1.9%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 10.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in New Buffalo have an average one-way commute time of 20.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
40.1% of New Buffalo residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 6.9% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 8.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in New Buffalo, MI
Compared to national averages, New Buffalo has a median household income of $64,524 (14% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $342,700, which is 40% above the national median. Monthly rent at $825 is 29% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, New Buffalo's income is 2% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 87% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in New Buffalo, MI?
New Buffalo offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $825/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.9%, and a well-educated community where 40.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 10.0%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 20.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,524) that falls below the national average. However, New Buffalo’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
New Buffalo has a population of 1,306 with a median age of 53.8 years. Compare New Buffalo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near New Buffalo
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reese | 1,303 | $83,125 | $174,600 | Compare |
| Lakewood Club | 1,315 | $67,277 | $144,900 | Compare |
| Rapid City | 1,315 | $65,438 | $212,500 | Compare |
| White Cloud | 1,297 | $55,417 | $150,600 | Compare |
| Greilickville | 1,296 | $84,327 | $407,200 | Compare |
| Douglas | 1,295 | $77,841 | $383,000 | Compare |
| Stanton | 1,292 | $45,714 | $89,000 | Compare |
| Three Oaks | 1,322 | $60,500 | $185,100 | 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 New Buffalo With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about New Buffalo
What is the population of New Buffalo, MI?
The population of New Buffalo, MI is 1,306 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Michigan.
What is the median household income in New Buffalo?
The median household income in New Buffalo, MI is $64,524 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in New Buffalo?
The median home value in New Buffalo, MI is $342,700, which is 40% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in New Buffalo?
The median monthly rent in New Buffalo, MI is $825, which is 29% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in New Buffalo?
The unemployment rate in New Buffalo, MI is 1.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is New Buffalo, MI a good place to live?
New Buffalo offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,306 and a median age of 53.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is New Buffalo, MI?
40.1% of residents in New Buffalo aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in New Buffalo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for New Buffalo, MI: median home value is $342,700 (40% above national), median rent is $825/month, and median household income is $64,524. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.3x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in New Buffalo?
The poverty rate in New Buffalo, MI is 10.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is New Buffalo, MI?
New Buffalo's population is 6.9% White, 1.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.6% two or more races. 8.2% of residents are foreign-born.