West Branch, MI
Population 2,177 · Michigan
About West Branch, MI
West Branch is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 2,177 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $40,078 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 39.4 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Branch features a median home value of $114,300, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Branch one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $847, 27% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,134 total housing units, 38% are owner-occupied (375 units) and 63% are renter-occupied (625 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Branch shows an unemployment rate of 7.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Branch have an average one-way commute time of 25.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
21.5% of West Branch 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 2.8% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 6.4% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Branch, MI
Compared to national averages, West Branch has a median household income of $40,078 (47% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $114,300, which is 53% below the national median. Monthly rent at $847 is 27% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, West Branch's income is 39% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 38% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in West Branch, MI?
West Branch offers affordable housing with a median home value of $114,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $847/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($40,078) that falls below the national average. However, West Branch’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Branch has a population of 2,177 with a median age of 39.4 years. Compare West Branch with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near West Branch
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Odessa | 2,174 | $71,157 | $150,300 | Compare |
| Bronson | 2,183 | $46,607 | $93,900 | Compare |
| Leslie | 2,167 | $67,355 | $124,100 | Compare |
| Cass City | 2,189 | $55,500 | $102,300 | Compare |
| Clio | 2,165 | $50,678 | $119,100 | Compare |
| Constantine | 2,196 | $71,929 | $110,600 | Compare |
| Yale | 2,157 | $50,673 | $112,100 | Compare |
| Perry | 2,198 | $73,468 | $144,400 | 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 West Branch With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Branch
What is the population of West Branch, MI?
The population of West Branch, MI is 2,177 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 West Branch?
The median household income in West Branch, MI is $40,078 per year, which is 47% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Branch?
The median home value in West Branch, MI is $114,300, which is 53% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in West Branch?
The median monthly rent in West Branch, MI is $847, which is 27% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Branch?
The unemployment rate in West Branch, MI is 7.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Branch, MI a good place to live?
West Branch offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,177 and a median age of 39.4, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Branch, MI?
21.5% of residents in West Branch 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 West Branch?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Branch, MI: median home value is $114,300 (53% below national), median rent is $847/month, and median household income is $40,078. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Branch?
The poverty rate in West Branch, MI is 24.2%, 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 West Branch, MI?
West Branch's population is 2.8% White, 2.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 1.7% two or more races. 6.4% of residents are foreign-born.