South Lyon, MI
Population 11,825 · Michigan
About South Lyon, MI
South Lyon is a mid-sized city located in Michigan with a population of 11,825 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $83,822 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.8 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in South Lyon features a median home value of $280,900, which is 15% above the national median of $244,900. This positions South Lyon in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,208, 4% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 5,201 total housing units, 80% are owner-occupied (4,006 units) and 20% are renter-occupied (1,027 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in South Lyon shows an unemployment rate of 3.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in South Lyon have an average one-way commute time of 30.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
45.0% of South Lyon residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This significantly higher educational attainment rate often correlates with access to knowledge-economy jobs and higher household incomes. The community's demographic composition includes 1.5% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.5% Asian residents, with 6.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in South Lyon, MI
Compared to national averages, South Lyon has a median household income of $83,822 (12% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $280,900, which is 15% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,208 is 4% above the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, South Lyon's income is 27% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 53% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in South Lyon, MI?
South Lyon offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $83,822, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 45.0% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 4.8%, better than the national average.
South Lyon has a population of 11,825 with a median age of 41.8 years. Compare South Lyon with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near South Lyon
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Niles | 11,838 | $47,815 | $115,400 | Compare |
| Fenton | 11,950 | $83,077 | $211,700 | Compare |
| New Baltimore | 12,060 | $97,027 | $309,800 | Compare |
| Farmington | 11,472 | $94,115 | $273,000 | Compare |
| East Grand Rapids | 11,394 | $168,487 | $488,500 | Compare |
| Grosse Pointe Park | 11,394 | $121,796 | $460,500 | Compare |
| Riverview | 12,269 | $71,783 | $200,500 | Compare |
| Clawson | 11,314 | $86,630 | $250,800 | 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.
Compare South Lyon With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about South Lyon
What is the population of South Lyon, MI?
The population of South Lyon, MI is 11,825 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a mid-sized city in Michigan.
What is the median household income in South Lyon?
The median household income in South Lyon, MI is $83,822 per year, which is 12% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in South Lyon?
The median home value in South Lyon, MI is $280,900, which is 15% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in South Lyon?
The median monthly rent in South Lyon, MI is $1,208, which is 4% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in South Lyon?
The unemployment rate in South Lyon, MI is 3.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is South Lyon, MI a good place to live?
South Lyon offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 11,825 and a median age of 41.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is South Lyon, MI?
45.0% of residents in South Lyon 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 Lyon?
Key cost-of-living indicators for South Lyon, MI: median home value is $280,900 (15% above national), median rent is $1,208/month, and median household income is $83,822. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.4x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in South Lyon?
The poverty rate in South Lyon, MI is 4.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is South Lyon, MI?
South Lyon's population is 1.5% White, 0.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 1.5% two or more races. 6.2% of residents are foreign-born.