Wellston, MI
Population 425 · Michigan
About Wellston, MI
Wellston is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 425 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,125 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.4 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 Wellston features a median home value of $109,800, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Wellston one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $642, 45% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 251 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (101 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (16 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Wellston shows an unemployment rate of 20.0%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.2%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Wellston have an average one-way commute time of 16.3 minutes, one of the shorter commutes in the region.
Education & Demographics
2.5% of Wellston 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 0.0% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Wellston, MI
Compared to national averages, Wellston has a median household income of $48,125 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $109,800, which is 55% below the national median. Monthly rent at $642 is 45% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Wellston's income is 27% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 40% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Wellston, MI?
Wellston offers affordable housing with a median home value of $109,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $642/month, and a low poverty rate of 9.2%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 16.3 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,125) that falls below the national average. However, Wellston’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Wellston has a population of 425 with a median age of 34.4 years. Compare Wellston with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Wellston
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hubbardston | 418 | $61,667 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Carsonville | 433 | $55,313 | $99,000 | Compare |
| Mesick | 416 | $31,250 | $77,900 | Compare |
| Hanover | 413 | $68,333 | $142,700 | Compare |
| Millburg | 437 | $62,708 | $100,800 | Compare |
| Northport | 413 | $71,250 | $243,100 | Compare |
| Sterling | 439 | $58,750 | $84,700 | Compare |
| Ashley | 440 | $53,750 | $105,000 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Wellston
What is the population of Wellston, MI?
The population of Wellston, MI is 425 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 Wellston?
The median household income in Wellston, MI is $48,125 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Wellston?
The median home value in Wellston, MI is $109,800, which is 55% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Wellston?
The median monthly rent in Wellston, MI is $642, which is 45% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Wellston?
The unemployment rate in Wellston, MI is 20.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Wellston, MI a good place to live?
Wellston offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 425 and a median age of 34.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Wellston, MI?
2.5% of residents in Wellston 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 Wellston?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Wellston, MI: median home value is $109,800 (55% below national), median rent is $642/month, and median household income is $48,125. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.3x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Wellston?
The poverty rate in Wellston, MI is 9.2%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Wellston, MI?
Wellston's population is 0.0% White, 1.6% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 5.4% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.