Reading, MI
Population 1,241 · Michigan
About Reading, MI
Reading is a small community in Michigan with a population of 1,241 residents. The median household income is $48,804 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Reading is 31 years.
Housing in Reading has a median home value of $103,300 and median monthly rent of $741. Of the 416 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 247 owner-occupied and 131 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Reading is 6.0% and the poverty rate is 43.2%. 10.6% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 19.6 minutes.
Cost of Living in Reading, MI
Compared to national averages, Reading has a median household income of $48,804 (35% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $103,300, which is 58% below the national median. Monthly rent at $741 is 36% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Reading's income is 26% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 44% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Reading, MI?
Reading offers affordable housing with a median home value of $103,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $741/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.6 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,804) that falls below the national average. However, Reading’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Reading has a population of 1,241 with a median age of 31 years. Compare Reading with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Reading
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edwardsburg | 1,244 | $53,661 | $115,400 | Compare |
| Birch Run | 1,236 | $65,313 | $185,900 | Compare |
| Grass Lake | 1,235 | $74,306 | $199,400 | Compare |
| Stockbridge | 1,235 | $49,875 | $184,200 | Compare |
| Petersburg | 1,261 | $76,071 | $197,100 | Compare |
| Kent City | 1,218 | $74,375 | $134,100 | Compare |
| Weidman | 1,217 | $49,545 | $104,200 | Compare |
| Ontonagon | 1,266 | $46,806 | $92,100 | 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 Reading With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Reading
What is the population of Reading, MI?
The population of Reading, MI is 1,241 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Reading?
The median household income in Reading, MI is $48,804 per year.
What is the median home value in Reading?
The median home value in Reading, MI is $103,300.
What is the average rent in Reading?
The median monthly rent in Reading, MI is $741.
What is the unemployment rate in Reading?
The unemployment rate in Reading, MI is 6.0%.