Sterling Heights, MI
Population 133,473 · Michigan
About Sterling Heights, MI
Sterling Heights is a major city in Michigan with a population of 133,473 residents. The median household income is $78,429 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in Sterling Heights is 41.5 years.
Housing in Sterling Heights has a median home value of $260,700 and median monthly rent of $1,267. Of the 53,255 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 39,252 owner-occupied and 12,155 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Sterling Heights is 6.2% and the poverty rate is 10.6%. 31.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.3 minutes.
How Sterling Heights Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Sterling Heights, MI
Compared to national averages, Sterling Heights has a median household income of $78,429 (4% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $260,700, which is 6% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,267 is 9% above the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Sterling Heights's income is 19% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 42% above the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Sterling Heights, MI?
Sterling Heights offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $78,429, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 10.6%, better than the national average.
Sterling Heights has a population of 133,473 with a median age of 41.5 years. Compare Sterling Heights with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Sterling Heights
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Warren | 138,128 | $63,741 | $181,900 | Compare |
| Ann Arbor | 121,179 | $81,089 | $435,100 | Compare |
| Lansing | 112,546 | $52,170 | $119,400 | Compare |
| Dearborn | 107,846 | $65,192 | $205,900 | Compare |
| Livonia | 94,058 | $96,317 | $265,300 | Compare |
| Troy | 87,307 | $119,299 | $396,800 | Compare |
| Westland | 84,155 | $62,216 | $176,500 | Compare |
| Farmington Hills | 83,316 | $101,863 | $333,200 | 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 Sterling Heights
What is the population of Sterling Heights, MI?
The population of Sterling Heights, MI is 133,473 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Sterling Heights?
The median household income in Sterling Heights, MI is $78,429 per year.
What is the median home value in Sterling Heights?
The median home value in Sterling Heights, MI is $260,700.
What is the average rent in Sterling Heights?
The median monthly rent in Sterling Heights, MI is $1,267.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling Heights?
The unemployment rate in Sterling Heights, MI is 6.2%.