Average Rent in St. Joseph County, MI↑ Rents rising 2.1% YoY
HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 60,870
Market Overview
St. Joseph County, MI has rental prices ranging from $661/month to $1,399/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $719/month — 49% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $64,707/year, spending $719/month on a 1-bedroom represents 13% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.
How St. Joseph County Compares
With an average 2-bedroom rent of $943/month, St. Joseph County ranks #42 most expensive of the 80 cities tracked in Michigan — pricier than 54% of all US cities in our data.
The St. Joseph County Rental Market
The St. Joseph County, MI area has a population of about 60,870 and 25% 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 St. Joseph County, MI have risen by $19/month (2.1%) over the past year, from $924 to $943. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.
Affordability
To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in St. Joseph County, MI without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $28,760. The local median household income of $64,707 exceeds that threshold by $35,947, making St. Joseph County relatively accessible compared to local wages.
Economy & Jobs
St. Joseph County, MI has an unemployment rate of 5.5%, 1.6 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 St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph County?
Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.
Should I Rent or Buy?
Break-even analysis using real St. Joseph County data
Buying breaks even after 5 years — worth it if you stay 5+ years.
Living in St. Joseph County
Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood
💵Rent Affordability in St. Joseph CountySalary needed to afford rent here
🗺️All Cities in MISee how St. Joseph County ranks statewide
⚖️Compare St. Joseph CountySide-by-side rent & cost of living with any city
📋MI Tenant RightsDeposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections