West Monroe, MI
Population 2,753 · Michigan
About West Monroe, MI
West Monroe is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 2,753 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $50,099 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 42.5 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in West Monroe features a median home value of $94,000, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. This makes West Monroe one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $957, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,266 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (1,013 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (187 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in West Monroe shows an unemployment rate of 13.3%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 28.9%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in West Monroe have an average one-way commute time of 23.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
4.9% of West Monroe 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 2.9% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 2.3% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in West Monroe, MI
Compared to national averages, West Monroe has a median household income of $50,099 (33% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $94,000, which is 62% below the national median. Monthly rent at $957 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, West Monroe's income is 24% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 49% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in West Monroe, MI?
West Monroe offers affordable housing with a median home value of $94,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $957/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.9 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,099) that falls below the national average. However, West Monroe’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
West Monroe has a population of 2,753 with a median age of 42.5 years. Compare West Monroe with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near West Monroe
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keego Harbor | 2,747 | $70,185 | $246,300 | Compare |
| Beechwood | 2,736 | $68,484 | $231,500 | Compare |
| K. I. Sawyer | 2,791 | $59,145 | $69,300 | Compare |
| West Ishpeming | 2,714 | $80,500 | $166,100 | Compare |
| Clinton | 2,795 | $78,750 | $180,400 | Compare |
| Skidway Lake | 2,800 | $34,320 | $53,700 | Compare |
| Vassar | 2,704 | $61,827 | $134,600 | Compare |
| Canadian Lakes | 2,701 | $69,069 | $258,900 | 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 Monroe With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about West Monroe
What is the population of West Monroe, MI?
The population of West Monroe, MI is 2,753 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 Monroe?
The median household income in West Monroe, MI is $50,099 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in West Monroe?
The median home value in West Monroe, MI is $94,000, which is 62% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in West Monroe?
The median monthly rent in West Monroe, MI is $957, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in West Monroe?
The unemployment rate in West Monroe, MI is 13.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is West Monroe, MI a good place to live?
West Monroe offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,753 and a median age of 42.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is West Monroe, MI?
4.9% of residents in West Monroe 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 Monroe?
Key cost-of-living indicators for West Monroe, MI: median home value is $94,000 (62% below national), median rent is $957/month, and median household income is $50,099. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in West Monroe?
The poverty rate in West Monroe, MI is 28.9%, 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 Monroe, MI?
West Monroe's population is 2.9% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 2.3% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.1% two or more races. 0.1% of residents are foreign-born.