Shelby, MI
Population 2,571 · Michigan
About Shelby, MI
Shelby is a small community in Michigan with a population of 2,571 residents. The median household income is $53,309 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Shelby is 29.3 years.
Housing in Shelby has a median home value of $124,000 and median monthly rent of $682. Of the 877 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 582 owner-occupied and 255 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Shelby is 5.7% and the poverty rate is 16.8%. 15.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.3 minutes.
Cost of Living in Shelby, MI
Compared to national averages, Shelby has a median household income of $53,309 (29% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $124,000, which is 49% below the national median. Monthly rent at $682 is 41% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Shelby's income is 19% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 32% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Shelby, MI?
Shelby offers affordable housing with a median home value of $124,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $682/month, and short commute times averaging just 16.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,309) that falls below the national average. However, Shelby’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelby has a population of 2,571 with a median age of 29.3 years. Compare Shelby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Shelby
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Village of Grosse Pointe Shores | 2,589 | $182,000 | $671,600 | Compare |
| Pleasant Ridge | 2,607 | $161,058 | $435,500 | Compare |
| Franklin | 2,610 | $176,571 | $696,700 | Compare |
| Spring Lake | 2,530 | $75,000 | $271,100 | Compare |
| Mattawan | 2,615 | $82,026 | $177,500 | Compare |
| Montague | 2,630 | $69,375 | $184,700 | Compare |
| Woodland Beach | 2,509 | $70,330 | $159,300 | Compare |
| Carleton | 2,635 | $63,826 | $177,800 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, MI?
The population of Shelby, MI is 2,571 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, MI is $53,309 per year.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, MI is $124,000.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, MI is $682.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, MI is 5.7%.