Palo, MI
Population 409 · Michigan
About Palo, MI
Palo is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 409 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $34,403 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 26.1 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 Palo features a median home value of $92,600, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Palo one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 119 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (102 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (17 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Palo shows an unemployment rate of 3.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 18.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Palo have an average one-way commute time of 43.4 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
0.0% of Palo 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 18.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 7.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Palo, MI
Compared to national averages, Palo has a median household income of $34,403 (54% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $92,600, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Palo's income is 48% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 50% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Palo, MI?
Palo offers affordable housing with a median home value of $92,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($34,403) that falls below the national average. However, Palo’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Palo has a population of 409 with a median age of 26.1 years. Compare Palo with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Palo
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carp Lake | 407 | $27,318 | $170,800 | Compare |
| Lost Lake Woods | 407 | $69,375 | $172,000 | Compare |
| Estral Beach | 406 | $63,462 | $207,900 | Compare |
| Barryton | 405 | $47,857 | $77,900 | Compare |
| Brethren | 405 | $42,434 | $104,500 | Compare |
| Hanover | 413 | $68,333 | $142,700 | Compare |
| Northport | 413 | $71,250 | $243,100 | Compare |
| White Pine | 404 | $39,792 | $59,700 | 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 Palo With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Palo
What is the population of Palo, MI?
The population of Palo, MI is 409 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 Palo?
The median household income in Palo, MI is $34,403 per year, which is 54% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Palo?
The median home value in Palo, MI is $92,600, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Palo?
The median monthly rent in Palo, MI is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Palo?
The unemployment rate in Palo, MI is 3.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Palo, MI a good place to live?
Palo offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 409 and a median age of 26.1, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Palo, MI?
0.0% of residents in Palo 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 Palo?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Palo, MI: median home value is $92,600 (62% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $34,403. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.7x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Palo?
The poverty rate in Palo, 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 Palo, MI?
Palo's population is 18.8% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 7.1% of residents are foreign-born.