Shields, MI
Population 7,276 · Michigan
About Shields, MI
Shields is a small community in Michigan with a population of 7,276 residents. The median household income is $83,986 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Shields is 48.6 years.
Housing in Shields has a median home value of $173,300 and median monthly rent of $937. Of the 3,211 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 2,568 owner-occupied and 510 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Shields is 4.1% and the poverty rate is 13.2%. 32.0% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 22.4 minutes.
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 Census data.
What is the median household income in Shields?
The median household income in Shields, MI is $83,986 per year.
What is the median home value in Shields?
The median home value in Shields, MI is $173,300.
What is the average rent in Shields?
The median monthly rent in Shields, MI is $937.
What is the unemployment rate in Shields?
The unemployment rate in Shields, MI is 4.1%.