Average Rent in Emmet County, MI↓ Rents falling 2.4% YoY🔺 11th priciest in MI
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 34,159
Market Overview
Emmet County, MI has rental prices ranging from $808/month to $1,535/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $880/month — 37% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $73,724/year, spending $880/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Emmet County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,154/month, Emmet County ranks #11 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Michigan — pricier than 79% of all US cities in our data.
The Emmet County Rental Market
The Emmet County, MI area has a population of about 34,159 and 23% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.
Rent Trends
2-bedroom rents in Emmet County, MI have fallen by $28/month (2.4%) over the past year, from $1,182 to $1,154. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Emmet County, MI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $35,200. The local median household income of $73,724 exceeds that threshold by $38,524, making Emmet County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Emmet County, MI has an unemployment rate of 4.1%, 0.2 percentage points above the national average of 3.9%. A higher unemployment rate can moderate rental demand over time, which may help keep rent growth in check compared to tighter job markets.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Emmet County, MI Affordable?
Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.
Affordability Index(30% income rule)
Nearby Cities in MIlargest metros in the state
| City | Studio | 1BR | 2BR | 3BR | Home Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit | $991 | $1,090 | $1,378 | $1,688 | — |
| Livingston County | $968 | $1,216 | $1,411 | $1,972 | — |
| Ionia County | $806 | $896 | $1,175 | $1,429 | — |
| Holland | $953 | $1,197 | $1,363 | $1,750 | — |
| Grand Rapids | $1,163 | $1,209 | $1,443 | $1,880 | — |
| Shiawassee County | $714 | $719 | $943 | $1,264 | — |
Rent or Buy in Emmet County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Emmet County data
Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.
Living in Emmet County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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💵Rent Affordability in Emmet CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MISee how Emmet County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Emmet CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MI Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections