Average Rent in Hillsdale County, MI↓ Rents falling 2.0% YoY🔻 4th cheapest in MI
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 45,658
Market Overview
Hillsdale County, MI has rental prices ranging from $707/month to $1,237/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $711/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $60,869/year, spending $711/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Hillsdale County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $933/month, Hillsdale County ranks #77 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Michigan — more affordable than 60% of all US cities in our data.
The Hillsdale County Rental Market
The Hillsdale County, MI area has a population of about 45,658 and 19% 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 Hillsdale County, MI have fallen by $19/month (2.0%) over the past year, from $952 to $933. This slight decline is consistent with broader market corrections seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Hillsdale County, MI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,440. The local median household income of $60,869 exceeds that threshold by $32,429, making Hillsdale County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Hillsdale County, MI has an unemployment rate of 4.8%, 0.9 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 Hillsdale 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 Hillsdale County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Hillsdale County data
Renting appears to be the better financial choice for this scenario.
Living in Hillsdale 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 Hillsdale CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MISee how Hillsdale County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Hillsdale CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MI Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections