Vandalia, MI
Population 369 · Michigan
About Vandalia, MI
Vandalia is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 369 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $65,000 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 27.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Vandalia features a median home value of $64,200, which is 74% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Vandalia one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,168, 0% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 140 total housing units, 70% are owner-occupied (85 units) and 30% are renter-occupied (37 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vandalia shows an unemployment rate of 7.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 5.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Vandalia have an average one-way commute time of 28.7 minutes.
Education & Demographics
6.5% of Vandalia 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 7.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 4.1% of the population being foreign-born.
How Vandalia Ranks in Michigan
Cost of Living in Vandalia, MI
Compared to national averages, Vandalia has a median household income of $65,000 (14% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $64,200, which is 74% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,168 is 0% above the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Vandalia's income is 2% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 65% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Vandalia, MI?
Vandalia offers affordable housing with a median home value of $64,200, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 5.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($65,000) that falls below the national average. However, Vandalia’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Vandalia has a population of 369 with a median age of 27.2 years. Compare Vandalia with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Vandalia
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eastport | 369 | $54,457 | $506,900 | Compare |
| Grand Beach | 368 | $115,000 | $1,081,700 | Compare |
| Powers | 370 | $35,417 | $92,900 | Compare |
| Advance | 372 | $93,438 | $549,600 | Compare |
| Manistee Lake | 364 | $52,917 | $153,600 | Compare |
| Luther | 375 | $58,125 | $107,100 | Compare |
| Rothbury | 377 | $46,250 | $114,500 | Compare |
| Brimley | 379 | $72,885 | $166,500 | 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 Vandalia With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vandalia
What is the population of Vandalia, MI?
The population of Vandalia, MI is 369 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 Vandalia?
The median household income in Vandalia, MI is $65,000 per year, which is 14% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vandalia?
The median home value in Vandalia, MI is $64,200, which is 74% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Vandalia?
The median monthly rent in Vandalia, MI is $1,168, which is 0% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vandalia?
The unemployment rate in Vandalia, MI is 7.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Vandalia, MI a good place to live?
Vandalia offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 369 and a median age of 27.2, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Vandalia, MI?
6.5% of residents in Vandalia 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 Vandalia?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vandalia, MI: median home value is $64,200 (74% below national), median rent is $1,168/month, and median household income is $65,000. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.0x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Vandalia?
The poverty rate in Vandalia, MI is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Vandalia, MI?
Vandalia's population is 7.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 15.7% two or more races. 4.1% of residents are foreign-born.