Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Alma, MI
Considering a move to Alma, MI? This small city of 8,890 residents offers affordable living, with a median home price around $122,000 and average rent at $770. Commute times are short (about 19 minutes), crime rates are moderate, and Alma features a welcoming community with good access to healthcare and education, including Alma College. Experience four true seasons, a friendly small-town feel, and a lower cost of living, making Alma a solid choice for families and professionals seeking value and community.
Demographics - Alma, MI
Alma, MI is home to about 8,890 residents, featuring a predominantly White population and a median age of 35.6 years. The city maintains a balanced gender ratio and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, creating a close-knit, diverse small-town atmosphere.
Population:
8,890
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.2%
Black:
1.7%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
9.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Alma, MI?
Alma offers an affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living index of 81.4—well below the national average. Housing is especially budget-friendly, as median home values hover around $122,000 and average rents are just $770 per month.
Median House Value:
$122,000
Gross Rent:
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,120
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
94.8
Housing:
56.5
Utilities:
95.2
Transportation:
85.2
Health Care:
97.1
Miscellaneous:
92.2
Crime
Is Alma, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Alma are moderate for its size, with a 1 in 415 chance of experiencing violent crime and a 1 in 59 chance for property crime. Residents generally find the city to be a reasonably safe place to live, especially when taking common precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
241
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,687
Crime Index:
1,928
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 415
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 59
Weather
What is the weather like in Alma, MI year-round?
Alma experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 16°F and warm summers reaching up to 82°F. Residents enjoy about 47% sunny days each year and receive nearly 33 inches of rainfall, making for a balanced Midwestern climate.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
30°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
Alma’s community has a median household income of about $46,400 and a poverty rate of 20.5%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are under 19 minutes, reflecting a family-oriented, accessible community.
Median Income:
$24,700
Household Income:
$46,400
Family Income:
$60,800
Per Capita Income:
$21,200
Income Male:
$31,800
Income Female:
$25,200
Poverty Rate:
20.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.5%
Rent:
$770
Unemployment Rate:
5.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
18.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Alma, MI?
Alma offers quality education through public schools like Alma High School and Alma Middle School, and is home to the well-regarded Alma College. Families also benefit from nearby higher education options and private schools, making it a supportive environment for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Alma High School
Street:
1500 N Pine Ave
Phone:
989-463-2112
Students:
740
Student Teacher Ratio:
21:1
Name:
Alma Middle School
Street:
1200 Michigan Ave
Phone:
989-463-3113
Students:
580
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary School
Street:
220 W Downie St
Phone:
989-463-4579
Students:
110
Colleges
Name:
Alma College
City:
Alma
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,350
Name:
Central Michigan University
City:
Mount Pleasant
State:
MI
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
21,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Alma is strong, anchored by MyMichigan Medical Center – Gratiot and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 94.7%. The city supports residents with good physician availability and a solid healthcare infrastructure for a city of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MyMichigan Medical Center – Gratiot
Address:
300 E Warwick Dr, Alma, MI 48801
Phone:
(989) 463-1101
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.7%
Health Care Index:
71.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Alma, MI?
The housing market in Alma is highly accessible, with a median home price of $122,000 and most homes owner-occupied. Rental options are available, and the local market has shown steady appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$122,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$770
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Alma residents can handle vehicle and licensing needs at the Michigan Secretary of State office located centrally in the city. Services are well-supported by both in-person and online resources, ensuring convenient access for drivers and new residents.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
301 N. Main St, Alma, MI 48801
Phone:
1-888-767-6424
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.