West Ishpeming, MI
Population 2,714 · Michigan
About West Ishpeming, MI
West Ishpeming is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 2,714 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $80,500 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 41.1 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Ishpeming features a median home value of $166,100, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. This positions West Ishpeming in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,048, 10% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,123 total housing units, 89% are owner-occupied (939 units) and 11% are renter-occupied (121 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Ishpeming shows an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 5.6%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in West Ishpeming have an average one-way commute time of 22.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.2% of West Ishpeming residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 5.2% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Ishpeming, MI
Compared to national averages, West Ishpeming has a median household income of $80,500 (7% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $166,100, which is 32% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,048 is 10% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, West Ishpeming's income is 22% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 9% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in West Ishpeming, MI?
West Ishpeming offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $80,500, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $166,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,048/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 5.6%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.1 minutes.
West Ishpeming has a population of 2,714 with a median age of 41.1 years. Compare West Ishpeming with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near West Ishpeming
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vassar | 2,704 | $61,827 | $134,600 | Compare |
| Canadian Lakes | 2,701 | $69,069 | $258,900 | Compare |
| Beechwood | 2,736 | $68,484 | $231,500 | Compare |
| Sandusky | 2,692 | $60,625 | $112,300 | Compare |
| East Tawas | 2,686 | $41,619 | $114,400 | Compare |
| Keego Harbor | 2,747 | $70,185 | $246,300 | Compare |
| West Monroe | 2,753 | $50,099 | $94,000 | Compare |
| Croswell | 2,667 | $55,101 | $136,500 | 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 West Ishpeming With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Ishpeming
What is the population of West Ishpeming, MI?
The population of West Ishpeming, MI is 2,714 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 Ishpeming?
The median household income in West Ishpeming, MI is $80,500 per year, which is 7% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Ishpeming?
The median home value in West Ishpeming, MI is $166,100, which is 32% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Ishpeming?
The median monthly rent in West Ishpeming, MI is $1,048, which is 10% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Ishpeming?
The unemployment rate in West Ishpeming, MI is 4.7%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Ishpeming, MI a good place to live?
West Ishpeming offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,714 and a median age of 41.1, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Ishpeming, MI?
25.2% of residents in West Ishpeming 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 Ishpeming?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Ishpeming, MI: median home value is $166,100 (32% below national), median rent is $1,048/month, and median household income is $80,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Ishpeming?
The poverty rate in West Ishpeming, MI is 5.6%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is West Ishpeming, MI?
West Ishpeming's population is 0.1% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 5.2% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.