Watervliet, MI
Population 1,879 · Michigan
About Watervliet, MI
Watervliet is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,879 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,477 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 29.9 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 Watervliet features a median home value of $130,000, which is 47% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Watervliet one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $838, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 707 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (444 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (227 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Watervliet shows an unemployment rate of 5.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 18.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Watervliet have an average one-way commute time of 19.8 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
10.4% of Watervliet 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 18.7% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, and 1.8% Asian residents, with 3.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Watervliet, MI
Compared to national averages, Watervliet has a median household income of $57,477 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $130,000, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $838 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Watervliet's income is 13% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 29% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Watervliet, MI?
Watervliet offers affordable housing with a median home value of $130,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $838/month, and short commute times averaging just 19.8 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,477) that falls below the national average. However, Watervliet’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Watervliet has a population of 1,879 with a median age of 29.9 years. Compare Watervliet with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Watervliet
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fennville | 1,880 | $65,268 | $128,900 | Compare |
| Armada | 1,876 | $110,345 | $249,600 | Compare |
| South Rockwood | 1,891 | $78,063 | $217,800 | Compare |
| St. Charles | 1,857 | $49,816 | $106,300 | Compare |
| Capac | 1,903 | $61,000 | $141,300 | Compare |
| Munising | 1,907 | $54,375 | $112,300 | Compare |
| L'Anse | 1,916 | $55,042 | $100,100 | Compare |
| Pinckney | 1,920 | $92,159 | $251,700 | 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 Watervliet With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Watervliet
What is the population of Watervliet, MI?
The population of Watervliet, MI is 1,879 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 Watervliet?
The median household income in Watervliet, MI is $57,477 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Watervliet?
The median home value in Watervliet, MI is $130,000, which is 47% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Watervliet?
The median monthly rent in Watervliet, MI is $838, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Watervliet?
The unemployment rate in Watervliet, MI is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Watervliet, MI a good place to live?
Watervliet offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,879 and a median age of 29.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Watervliet, MI?
10.4% of residents in Watervliet 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 Watervliet?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Watervliet, MI: median home value is $130,000 (47% below national), median rent is $838/month, and median household income is $57,477. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Watervliet?
The poverty rate in Watervliet, MI is 18.2%, 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 Watervliet, MI?
Watervliet's population is 18.7% White, 3.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.7% Black or African American, 1.8% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 3.4% of residents are foreign-born.