Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bark River, MI
Considering a move to Bark River, MI? This friendly rural community of around 1,600 residents features affordable living, with median home prices near $168,000 and average rents at $780. Enjoy low crime rates, short 21-minute commutes, and easy access to quality public schools and healthcare in nearby Escanaba. With four distinct seasons and plenty of outdoor recreation, Bark River offers a peaceful, close-knit lifestyle in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula.
Demographics - Bark River, MI
Demographics - Bark River, MI
Bark River is a small, close-knit community of about 1,600 residents, with a median age of 44 and a population density of 40 people per square mile. The area is predominantly White, and nearly everyone speaks English, making it a welcoming place for families and newcomers seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle.
Population:
1,600
Density:
40 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
7.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bark River, MI?
Living in Bark River is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $168,000 and average rent around $780. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, meaning daily expenses like groceries, utilities, and healthcare are generally more affordable here.
Median House Value:
$168,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.6
Grocery:
90.2
Housing:
70.1
Utilities:
93.0
Transportation:
93.7
Health Care:
92.6
Miscellaneous:
89.5
Crime
Is Bark River, MI a safe place to live?
Bark River enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crimes at just 120 per 100,000 residents and property crimes at 980 per 100,000. Residents benefit from a safe environment, with the chance of experiencing a violent crime being very low.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
980
Crime Index:
1,100
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 833
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 102
Weather
What is the weather like in Bark River, MI year-round?
The climate in Bark River features four distinct seasons, from cold winters with lows around 8°F to mild summers peaking at 77°F. The area receives about 31 inches of annual rainfall and 47% of the days are sunny, offering a mix of weather ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
25°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
Neighbors in Bark River typically have a household income of $58,500, with a poverty rate of 11.9%. Most residents are well-educated, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma, and enjoy manageable 21-minute commutes.
Median Income:
$34,200
Household Income:
$58,500
Family Income:
$65,500
Per Capita Income:
$26,500
Income Male:
$36,000
Income Female:
$28,000
Poverty Rate:
11.9%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
5.3%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
21.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.3%
Bachelors or More:
17.5%
Education
How are the schools in Bark River, MI?
Bark River offers quality public education through its elementary and high schools, both known for small class sizes and attentive staff. For higher education, Bay College in Escanaba is just 11 miles away, providing accessible options for continued learning.
Public Schools
Name:
Bark River-Harris Elementary School
Street:
1110 Bark River-Harris Rd
Phone:
906-466-5334
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Name:
Bark River-Harris High School
Street:
1110 Bark River-Harris Rd
Phone:
906-466-5334
Students:
240
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.1
Colleges
Name:
Bay College
City:
Escanaba
State:
MI
Distance:
11 miles
Students:
1,800
Healthcare
Healthcare needs are well served by facilities in nearby Escanaba, including OSF St. Francis Hospital, and over 91% of residents have health insurance. With 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people, the community enjoys reliable access to medical care.
Major Hospitals
Name:
OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group
Address:
3401 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829
Phone:
(906) 786-5707
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bark River, MI?
The housing market in Bark River is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $168,000 and owner-occupied homes making up 85% of properties. Home values have seen modest appreciation, and rental options are available with a vacancy rate of 8.6%.
Median Home Price:
$168,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
85.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
DMV services for Bark River residents are provided by the Michigan Secretary of State office in nearby Escanaba, offering easy access for vehicle registration and licensing needs. Residents can visit the local branch or use the state website for convenient online services.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
305 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829
Phone:
(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.