North Branch, MI
Population 1,199 · Michigan
About North Branch, MI
North Branch is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,199 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,500 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.9 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 North Branch features a median home value of $121,400, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. This makes North Branch one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $797, 31% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 536 total housing units, 60% are owner-occupied (308 units) and 40% are renter-occupied (202 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in North Branch shows an unemployment rate of 7.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in North Branch have an average one-way commute time of 34.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.5% of North Branch 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 3.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.5% Asian residents, with 1.5% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in North Branch, MI
Compared to national averages, North Branch has a median household income of $42,500 (43% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $121,400, which is 50% below the national median. Monthly rent at $797 is 31% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, North Branch's income is 36% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 34% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in North Branch, MI?
North Branch offers affordable housing with a median home value of $121,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $797/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,500) that falls below the national average. However, North Branch’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
North Branch has a population of 1,199 with a median age of 34.9 years. Compare North Branch with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near North Branch
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luna Pier | 1,204 | $51,830 | $176,000 | Compare |
| Brown City | 1,211 | $60,357 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Lawrence | 1,186 | $36,188 | $106,700 | Compare |
| Weidman | 1,217 | $49,545 | $104,200 | Compare |
| Kent City | 1,218 | $74,375 | $134,100 | Compare |
| Grass Lake | 1,235 | $74,306 | $199,400 | Compare |
| Stockbridge | 1,235 | $49,875 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Birch Run | 1,236 | $65,313 | $185,900 | 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 North Branch With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about North Branch
What is the population of North Branch, MI?
The population of North Branch, MI is 1,199 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 North Branch?
The median household income in North Branch, MI is $42,500 per year, which is 43% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in North Branch?
The median home value in North Branch, MI is $121,400, which is 50% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in North Branch?
The median monthly rent in North Branch, MI is $797, which is 31% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in North Branch?
The unemployment rate in North Branch, MI is 7.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is North Branch, MI a good place to live?
North Branch offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,199 and a median age of 34.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is North Branch, MI?
7.5% of residents in North Branch 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 North Branch?
Key cost-of-living indicators for North Branch, MI: median home value is $121,400 (50% below national), median rent is $797/month, and median household income is $42,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in North Branch?
The poverty rate in North Branch, MI is 24.1%, 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 North Branch, MI?
North Branch's population is 3.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 1.5% of residents are foreign-born.