Average Rent in Montcalm County, MI↑ Rents rising 6.2% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 67,174
Market Overview
Montcalm County, MI has rental prices ranging from $740/month to $1,403/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $883/month — 37% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $64,892/year, spending $883/month on a 1-bedroom represents 16% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How Montcalm County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,058/month, Montcalm County ranks #21 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Michigan — pricier than 72% of all US cities in our data.
The Montcalm County Rental Market
The Montcalm County, MI area has a population of about 67,174 and 18% 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 Montcalm County, MI have risen by $62/month (6.2%) over the past year, from $996 to $1,058. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Montcalm County, MI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $35,320. The local median household income of $64,892 exceeds that threshold by $29,572, making Montcalm County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
Montcalm County, MI has an unemployment rate of 4.7%, 0.8 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.
Fair Market Rents
HUD FY2025Is Montcalm 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 Montcalm County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real Montcalm County data
Buying breaks even after 3 years — worth it if you stay 3+ years.
Living in Montcalm 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 Montcalm CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MISee how Montcalm County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare Montcalm CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MI Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections