Yale, MI
Population 2,157 · Michigan
About Yale, MI
Yale is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 2,157 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $50,673 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 Yale features a median home value of $112,100, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Yale one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $779, 33% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 941 total housing units, 68% are owner-occupied (597 units) and 32% are renter-occupied (286 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Yale shows an unemployment rate of 16.2%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Yale have an average one-way commute time of 37.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
9.6% of Yale 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 2.5% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Yale, MI
Compared to national averages, Yale has a median household income of $50,673 (33% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $112,100, which is 54% below the national median. Monthly rent at $779 is 33% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Yale's income is 23% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 39% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Yale, MI?
Yale offers affordable housing with a median home value of $112,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $779/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($50,673) that falls below the national average. However, Yale’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Yale has a population of 2,157 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare Yale with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Yale
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clio | 2,165 | $50,678 | $119,100 | Compare |
| Morenci | 2,149 | $58,438 | $93,800 | Compare |
| Leslie | 2,167 | $67,355 | $124,100 | Compare |
| South Gull Lake | 2,145 | $236,094 | $0 | Compare |
| Lake Odessa | 2,174 | $71,157 | $150,300 | Compare |
| West Branch | 2,177 | $40,078 | $114,300 | Compare |
| Bronson | 2,183 | $46,607 | $93,900 | Compare |
| Cass City | 2,189 | $55,500 | $102,300 | 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 Yale With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Yale
What is the population of Yale, MI?
The population of Yale, MI is 2,157 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 Yale?
The median household income in Yale, MI is $50,673 per year, which is 33% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Yale?
The median home value in Yale, MI is $112,100, which is 54% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Yale?
The median monthly rent in Yale, MI is $779, which is 33% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Yale?
The unemployment rate in Yale, MI is 16.2%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Yale, MI a good place to live?
Yale offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 2,157 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Yale, MI?
9.6% of residents in Yale 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 Yale?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Yale, MI: median home value is $112,100 (54% below national), median rent is $779/month, and median household income is $50,673. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Yale?
The poverty rate in Yale, MI is 21.5%, 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 Yale, MI?
Yale's population is 2.5% White, 1.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.2% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.