Tower, MI
Population 271 · Michigan
About Tower, MI
Tower is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 271 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $42,167 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 55.3 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 Tower features a median home value of $91,500, which is 63% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Tower one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $917, 21% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 176 total housing units, 63% are owner-occupied (62 units) and 37% are renter-occupied (36 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Tower shows an unemployment rate of 11.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 23.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Tower have an average one-way commute time of 25.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
11.4% of Tower 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 8.1% White, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Tower, MI
Compared to national averages, Tower has a median household income of $42,167 (44% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $91,500, which is 63% below the national median. Monthly rent at $917 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Tower's income is 36% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 50% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Tower, MI?
Tower offers affordable housing with a median home value of $91,500, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $917/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($42,167) that falls below the national average. However, Tower’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Tower has a population of 271 with a median age of 55.3 years. Compare Tower with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Tower
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snover | 273 | $46,667 | $95,000 | Compare |
| Watersmeet | 273 | $60,708 | $68,500 | Compare |
| Wedgewood | 273 | $133,125 | $300,000 | Compare |
| Bruce Crossing | 266 | $70,417 | $105,100 | Compare |
| Bear Lake | 265 | $54,886 | $126,400 | Compare |
| Lake Angelus | 277 | $212,368 | $1,150,000 | Compare |
| Copemish | 279 | $48,333 | $78,500 | Compare |
| Jennings | 263 | $41,055 | $88,800 | 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 Tower With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Tower
What is the population of Tower, MI?
The population of Tower, MI is 271 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Tower?
The median household income in Tower, MI is $42,167 per year, which is 44% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Tower?
The median home value in Tower, MI is $91,500, which is 63% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Tower?
The median monthly rent in Tower, MI is $917, which is 21% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Tower?
The unemployment rate in Tower, MI is 11.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Tower, MI a good place to live?
Tower offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 271 and a median age of 55.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Tower, MI?
11.4% of residents in Tower 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 Tower?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Tower, MI: median home value is $91,500 (63% below national), median rent is $917/month, and median household income is $42,167. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Tower?
The poverty rate in Tower, MI is 23.2%, 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 Tower, MI?
Tower's population is 8.1% White, 4.8% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.