Rose City, MI
Population 588 · Michigan
About Rose City, MI
Rose City is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 588 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $26,406 per year, which is 65% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.3 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 Rose City features a median home value of $67,900, which is 72% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Rose City one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $538, 54% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 269 total housing units, 57% are owner-occupied (123 units) and 43% are renter-occupied (92 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Rose City shows an unemployment rate of 13.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 33.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Rose City have an average one-way commute time of 27.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
7.8% of Rose City 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 1.5% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Rose City Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Rose City, MI
Compared to national averages, Rose City has a median household income of $26,406 (65% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $67,900, which is 72% below the national median. Monthly rent at $538 is 54% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Rose City's income is 60% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 63% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Rose City, MI?
Rose City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $67,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $538/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($26,406) that falls below the national average. However, Rose City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Rose City has a population of 588 with a median age of 45.3 years. Compare Rose City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Rose City
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Range | 587 | $54,583 | $85,300 | Compare |
| Suttons Bay | 587 | $123,125 | $524,700 | Compare |
| Trufant | 586 | $83,750 | $119,600 | Compare |
| Addison | 585 | $53,056 | $132,700 | Compare |
| Cement City | 584 | $50,750 | $100,900 | Compare |
| Dansville | 597 | $109,063 | $178,100 | Compare |
| Tekonsha | 579 | $52,679 | $90,700 | Compare |
| Gobles | 598 | $39,931 | $100,000 | 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 Rose City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Rose City
What is the population of Rose City, MI?
The population of Rose City, MI is 588 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 Rose City?
The median household income in Rose City, MI is $26,406 per year, which is 65% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Rose City?
The median home value in Rose City, MI is $67,900, which is 72% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Rose City?
The median monthly rent in Rose City, MI is $538, which is 54% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Rose City?
The unemployment rate in Rose City, MI is 13.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Rose City, MI a good place to live?
Rose City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 588 and a median age of 45.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Rose City, MI?
7.8% of residents in Rose City 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 Rose City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Rose City, MI: median home value is $67,900 (72% below national), median rent is $538/month, and median household income is $26,406. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Rose City?
The poverty rate in Rose City, MI is 33.9%, 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 Rose City, MI?
Rose City's population is 1.5% White, 0.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.5% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.