Average Rent in Isabella County, MI↑ Rents rising 1.1% YoY

Isabella County, MI has rental prices ranging from $827/month to $1,261/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $838/month — 40% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $53,759/year, spending $838/month on a 1-bedroom represents 19% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Isabella County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $951/month, Isabella County ranks #39 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Michigan — pricier than 56% of all US cities in our data.

The Isabella County Rental Market

The Isabella County, MI area has a population of about 64,475 and 39% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs above the US average of ~34%, pointing to a competitive rental market where vacancies clear quickly and rents are less negotiable.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Isabella County, MI have risen by $10/month (1.1%) over the past year, from $941 to $951. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Isabella County, MI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $33,520. The local median household income of $53,759 exceeds that threshold by $20,239, making Isabella County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Isabella County, MI has an unemployment rate of 5.3%, 1.4 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.

Is Isabella County, MI Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Rent or Buy in Isabella County?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Living in Isabella County

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.