Zilwaukee, MI
Population 1,696 · Michigan
About Zilwaukee, MI
Zilwaukee is a small town located in Michigan with a population of 1,696 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $57,449 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 50.3 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 Zilwaukee features a median home value of $87,900, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Zilwaukee one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,115, 4% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 778 total housing units, 83% are owner-occupied (641 units) and 17% are renter-occupied (135 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Zilwaukee shows an unemployment rate of 6.5%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 13.6%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Zilwaukee have an average one-way commute time of 21 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.7% of Zilwaukee 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 11.4% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 0.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Zilwaukee, MI
Compared to national averages, Zilwaukee has a median household income of $57,449 (24% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $87,900, which is 64% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,115 is 4% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Zilwaukee's income is 13% below the state average of $66,017, and home values are 52% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Zilwaukee, MI?
Zilwaukee offers affordable housing with a median home value of $87,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,115/month, and short commute times averaging just 21 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($57,449) that falls below the national average. However, Zilwaukee’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Zilwaukee has a population of 1,696 with a median age of 50.3 years. Compare Zilwaukee with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
Similar Cities Near Zilwaukee
Cities in Michigan with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wacousta | 1,686 | $126,471 | $271,200 | Compare |
| Howard City | 1,683 | $52,663 | $143,800 | Compare |
| Sylvan Lake | 1,672 | $106,806 | $356,800 | Compare |
| Crystal Falls | 1,734 | $59,712 | $79,900 | Compare |
| Tawas City | 1,654 | $46,797 | $124,000 | Compare |
| Bingham Farms | 1,652 | $218,750 | $570,900 | Compare |
| Morrice | 1,647 | $63,611 | $114,900 | Compare |
| Laingsburg | 1,640 | $75,547 | $202,600 | 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 Zilwaukee With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Zilwaukee
What is the population of Zilwaukee, MI?
The population of Zilwaukee, MI is 1,696 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 Zilwaukee?
The median household income in Zilwaukee, MI is $57,449 per year, which is 24% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Zilwaukee?
The median home value in Zilwaukee, MI is $87,900, which is 64% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Zilwaukee?
The median monthly rent in Zilwaukee, MI is $1,115, which is 4% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Zilwaukee?
The unemployment rate in Zilwaukee, MI is 6.5%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Zilwaukee, MI a good place to live?
Zilwaukee offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 1,696 and a median age of 50.3, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Zilwaukee, MI?
18.7% of residents in Zilwaukee 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 Zilwaukee?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Zilwaukee, MI: median home value is $87,900 (64% below national), median rent is $1,115/month, and median household income is $57,449. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Zilwaukee?
The poverty rate in Zilwaukee, MI is 13.6%, 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 Zilwaukee, MI?
Zilwaukee's population is 11.4% White, 3.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.9% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.8% two or more races. 0.2% of residents are foreign-born.