Swartz Creek, MI
Population 5,856 · Michigan
About Swartz Creek, MI
Swartz Creek is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 5,856 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $73,862 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 45.8 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 Swartz Creek features a median home value of $168,900, which is 31% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Swartz Creek in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $995, 14% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,774 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (1,805 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (791 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Swartz Creek shows an unemployment rate of 1.7%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 8.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Swartz Creek have an average one-way commute time of 25.8 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.5% of Swartz Creek residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 2.3% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 1.6% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Swartz Creek, MI
Compared to national averages, Swartz Creek has a median household income of $73,862 (2% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $168,900, which is 31% below the national median. Monthly rent at $995 is 14% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Swartz Creek's income is 12% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 8% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Swartz Creek, MI?
Swartz Creek offers affordable housing with a median home value of $168,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $995/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.7%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 8.6%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($73,862) that falls below the national average. However, Swartz Creek’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Swartz Creek has a population of 5,856 with a median age of 45.8 years. Compare Swartz Creek with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Swartz Creek
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petoskey | 5,851 | $71,783 | $319,300 | Compare |
| Richmond | 5,839 | $61,715 | $228,000 | Compare |
| Buena Vista | 5,904 | $38,835 | $51,800 | Compare |
| Belding | 5,949 | $55,895 | $152,700 | Compare |
| Houghton Lake | 5,761 | $50,861 | $122,800 | Compare |
| Holly | 5,971 | $61,221 | $174,900 | Compare |
| Zeeland | 5,691 | $49,367 | $248,100 | Compare |
| Dowagiac | 5,677 | $38,433 | $110,300 | 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 Swartz Creek With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Swartz Creek
What is the population of Swartz Creek, MI?
The population of Swartz Creek, MI is 5,856 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 Swartz Creek?
The median household income in Swartz Creek, MI is $73,862 per year, which is 2% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Swartz Creek?
The median home value in Swartz Creek, MI is $168,900, which is 31% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Swartz Creek?
The median monthly rent in Swartz Creek, MI is $995, which is 14% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Swartz Creek?
The unemployment rate in Swartz Creek, MI is 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Swartz Creek, MI a good place to live?
Swartz Creek offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 5,856 and a median age of 45.8, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Swartz Creek, MI?
21.5% of residents in Swartz Creek 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 Swartz Creek?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Swartz Creek, MI: median home value is $168,900 (31% below national), median rent is $995/month, and median household income is $73,862. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Swartz Creek?
The poverty rate in Swartz Creek, MI is 8.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Swartz Creek, MI?
Swartz Creek's population is 2.3% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 0.7% two or more races. 1.6% of residents are foreign-born.