Sterling Heights, MI
Population 133,473 · Michigan
About Sterling Heights, MI
Sterling Heights is a major city located in Michigan with a population of 133,473 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $78,429 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.5 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Sterling Heights features a median home value of $260,700, which is 6% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Sterling Heights in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,267, 9% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 53,255 total housing units, 76% are owner-occupied (39,252 units) and 24% are renter-occupied (12,155 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Sterling Heights shows an unemployment rate of 6.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 10.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Sterling Heights have an average one-way commute time of 25.3 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.2% of Sterling Heights 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 1.5% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 27.4% of the population being foreign-born.
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.
Compare Sterling Heights With Other Cities
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 US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Sterling Heights?
The median household income in Sterling Heights, MI is $78,429 per year, which is 4% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Sterling Heights?
The median home value in Sterling Heights, MI is $260,700, which is 6% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Sterling Heights?
The median monthly rent in Sterling Heights, MI is $1,267, which is 9% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Sterling Heights?
The unemployment rate in Sterling Heights, MI is 6.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Sterling Heights, MI a good place to live?
Sterling Heights offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 133,473 and a median age of 41.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Sterling Heights, MI?
31.2% of residents in Sterling Heights 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 Sterling Heights?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Sterling Heights, MI: median home value is $260,700 (6% above national), median rent is $1,267/month, and median household income is $78,429. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Sterling Heights?
The poverty rate in Sterling Heights, MI is 10.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Sterling Heights, MI?
Sterling Heights's population is 1.5% White, 0.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 6.5% two or more races. 27.4% of residents are foreign-born.