Pellston, MI
Population 834 · Michigan
About Pellston, MI
Pellston is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 834 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,464 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.4 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 Pellston features a median home value of $117,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Pellston one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,013, 13% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 351 total housing units, 74% are owner-occupied (239 units) and 26% are renter-occupied (86 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Pellston shows an unemployment rate of 1.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 17.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Pellston have an average one-way commute time of 23.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
17.3% of Pellston 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 1.3% White, 19.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.4% of the population being foreign-born.
How Pellston Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Pellston, MI
Compared to national averages, Pellston has a median household income of $59,464 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $117,100, which is 52% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,013 is 13% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Pellston's income is 10% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 36% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Pellston, MI?
Pellston offers affordable housing with a median home value of $117,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,013/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.3%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 23.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,464) that falls below the national average. However, Pellston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Pellston has a population of 834 with a median age of 35.4 years. Compare Pellston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Pellston
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubly | 830 | $56,042 | $113,500 | Compare |
| Mendon | 839 | $82,031 | $123,000 | Compare |
| Village of Clarkston | 842 | $94,519 | $433,300 | Compare |
| McBain | 825 | $46,786 | $116,100 | Compare |
| Merrill | 825 | $47,000 | $89,700 | Compare |
| Grawn | 824 | $57,386 | $120,200 | Compare |
| Springport | 822 | $50,000 | $100,700 | Compare |
| Sheridan | 816 | $56,786 | $140,600 | 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 Pellston With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Pellston
What is the population of Pellston, MI?
The population of Pellston, MI is 834 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 Pellston?
The median household income in Pellston, MI is $59,464 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Pellston?
The median home value in Pellston, MI is $117,100, which is 52% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Pellston?
The median monthly rent in Pellston, MI is $1,013, which is 13% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Pellston?
The unemployment rate in Pellston, MI is 1.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Pellston, MI a good place to live?
Pellston offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 834 and a median age of 35.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Pellston, MI?
17.3% of residents in Pellston 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 Pellston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Pellston, MI: median home value is $117,100 (52% below national), median rent is $1,013/month, and median household income is $59,464. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Pellston?
The poverty rate in Pellston, MI is 17.1%, 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 Pellston, MI?
Pellston's population is 1.3% White, 19.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.4% of residents are foreign-born.