Average Rent in Mason County, MI

Mason County, MI has rental prices ranging from $674/month to $1,298/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $749/month — 46% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $62,296/year, spending $749/month on a 1-bedroom represents 14% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Mason County Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $962/month, Mason County ranks #36 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Michigan — pricier than 58% of all US cities in our data.

The Mason County Rental Market

The Mason County, MI area has a population of about 29,177 and 22% 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 Mason County, MI have fallen by $3/month (0.3%) over the past year, from $965 to $962. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Mason County, MI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $29,960. The local median household income of $62,296 exceeds that threshold by $32,336, making Mason County relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Economy & Jobs

Mason County, MI has an unemployment rate of 5.7%, 1.8 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.

Neighborhoods

Home values — and by extension rent levels — vary significantly across Mason County's neighborhoods. Among the highest-value areas are Pere Marquette ($353,888 median home value). Renters on a tighter budget may find better value in less central neighborhoods or in adjacent metros with lower overall rent levels.

Is Mason County, MI Affordable?

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

Rent or Buy in Mason County?

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

Living in Mason County

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