South Haven, MI
Population 3,994 · Michigan
About South Haven, MI
South Haven is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 3,994 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $64,338 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 59.5 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 South Haven features a median home value of $372,200, which is 52% above the national median of $244,900. This places South Haven in a higher-cost housing market, where property demand often outpaces supply. Median monthly rent is $718, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,400 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (1,407 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (525 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Haven shows an unemployment rate of 4.5%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 20.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in South Haven have an average one-way commute time of 16.8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
42.1% of South Haven 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 4.1% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 3.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Haven, MI
Compared to national averages, South Haven has a median household income of $64,338 (14% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $372,200, which is 52% above the national median. Monthly rent at $718 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, South Haven's income is 3% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 103% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in South Haven, MI?
South Haven offers rent that’s lower than the national average at $718/month, and a well-educated community where 42.1% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 16.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($64,338) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $372,200. However, South Haven’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
South Haven has a population of 3,994 with a median age of 59.5 years. Compare South Haven with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near South Haven
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Belleville | 3,961 | $59,929 | $162,700 | Compare |
| Dorr | 3,952 | $95,575 | $262,400 | Compare |
| Marine City | 4,047 | $63,156 | $146,500 | Compare |
| Lathrup Village | 4,049 | $99,286 | $270,900 | Compare |
| Otsego | 4,079 | $76,944 | $155,500 | Compare |
| North Muskegon | 4,089 | $101,087 | $241,100 | Compare |
| Lowell | 4,133 | $71,406 | $231,100 | Compare |
| Roosevelt Park | 4,148 | $60,938 | $178,600 | 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 South Haven With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Haven
What is the population of South Haven, MI?
The population of South Haven, MI is 3,994 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 South Haven?
The median household income in South Haven, MI is $64,338 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Haven?
The median home value in South Haven, MI is $372,200, which is 52% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Haven?
The median monthly rent in South Haven, MI is $718, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Haven?
The unemployment rate in South Haven, MI is 4.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Haven, MI a good place to live?
South Haven offers a moderate cost of living, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 3,994 and a median age of 59.5, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is South Haven, MI?
42.1% of residents in South Haven aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in South Haven?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Haven, MI: median home value is $372,200 (52% above national), median rent is $718/month, and median household income is $64,338. The home-value-to-income ratio is 5.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in South Haven?
The poverty rate in South Haven, MI is 20.5%, 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 South Haven, MI?
South Haven's population is 4.1% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 10.2% two or more races. 3.3% of residents are foreign-born.