Shields, MI
Population 7,276 · Michigan
About Shields, MI
Shields is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 7,276 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,986 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.6 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 Shields features a median home value of $173,300, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Shields in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $937, 19% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,211 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (2,568 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (510 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shields shows an unemployment rate of 4.1%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 13.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Shields have an average one-way commute time of 22.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
32.0% of Shields residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 3.4% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 1.0% Asian residents, with 7.7% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Shields, MI
Compared to national averages, Shields has a median household income of $83,986 (12% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $173,300, which is 29% below the national median. Monthly rent at $937 is 19% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Shields's income is 27% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 6% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Shields, MI?
Shields offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,986, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $173,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $937/month. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 22.4 minutes.
Shields has a population of 7,276 with a median age of 48.6 years. Compare Shields with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Shields
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walled Lake | 7,275 | $67,335 | $213,000 | Compare |
| River Rouge | 7,092 | $32,568 | $55,900 | Compare |
| Iron Mountain | 7,508 | $56,622 | $117,600 | Compare |
| Hastings | 7,515 | $56,309 | $159,000 | Compare |
| Fair Plain | 6,992 | $55,536 | $147,800 | Compare |
| Freeland | 7,562 | $103,431 | $241,400 | Compare |
| Brighton | 7,576 | $81,772 | $302,800 | Compare |
| Albion | 7,608 | $40,040 | $91,100 | 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 Shields With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Shields
What is the population of Shields, MI?
The population of Shields, MI is 7,276 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Shields?
The median household income in Shields, MI is $83,986 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shields?
The median home value in Shields, MI is $173,300, which is 29% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shields?
The median monthly rent in Shields, MI is $937, which is 19% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shields?
The unemployment rate in Shields, MI is 4.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Shields, MI a good place to live?
Shields offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 7,276 and a median age of 48.6, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Shields, MI?
32.0% of residents in Shields 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 Shields?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shields, MI: median home value is $173,300 (29% below national), median rent is $937/month, and median household income is $83,986. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Shields?
The poverty rate in Shields, MI is 13.2%, 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 Shields, MI?
Shields's population is 3.4% White, 0.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 1.0% Asian, and 1.3% two or more races. 7.7% of residents are foreign-born.