Vassar, MI
Population 2,704 · Michigan
About Vassar, MI
Vassar is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 2,704 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $61,827 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 36.3 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Vassar features a median home value of $134,600, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Vassar one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $726, 38% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,169 total housing units, 64% are owner-occupied (702 units) and 36% are renter-occupied (389 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Vassar shows an unemployment rate of 10.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 14.3%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Vassar have an average one-way commute time of 26 minutes.
Education & Demographics
15.5% of Vassar 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 11.6% White, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.3% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Vassar, MI
Compared to national averages, Vassar has a median household income of $61,827 (18% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $134,600, which is 45% below the national median. Monthly rent at $726 is 38% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Vassar's income is 6% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 27% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Vassar, MI?
Vassar offers affordable housing with a median home value of $134,600, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $726/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($61,827) that falls below the national average. However, Vassar’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Vassar has a population of 2,704 with a median age of 36.3 years. Compare Vassar with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Vassar
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian Lakes | 2,701 | $69,069 | $258,900 | Compare |
| West Ishpeming | 2,714 | $80,500 | $166,100 | Compare |
| Sandusky | 2,692 | $60,625 | $112,300 | Compare |
| East Tawas | 2,686 | $41,619 | $114,400 | Compare |
| Beechwood | 2,736 | $68,484 | $231,500 | Compare |
| Croswell | 2,667 | $55,101 | $136,500 | Compare |
| Keego Harbor | 2,747 | $70,185 | $246,300 | Compare |
| West Monroe | 2,753 | $50,099 | $94,000 | 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 Vassar With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Vassar
What is the population of Vassar, MI?
The population of Vassar, MI is 2,704 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 Vassar?
The median household income in Vassar, MI is $61,827 per year, which is 18% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Vassar?
The median home value in Vassar, MI is $134,600, which is 45% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Vassar?
The median monthly rent in Vassar, MI is $726, which is 38% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Vassar?
The unemployment rate in Vassar, MI is 10.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Vassar, MI a good place to live?
Vassar offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,704 and a median age of 36.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Vassar, MI?
15.5% of residents in Vassar 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 Vassar?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Vassar, MI: median home value is $134,600 (45% below national), median rent is $726/month, and median household income is $61,827. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Vassar?
The poverty rate in Vassar, MI is 14.3%, 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 Vassar, MI?
Vassar's population is 11.6% White, 4.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, and 2.4% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.