Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Barlow Branch, MI
Considering a move to Barlow Branch, MI? This quiet rural community of 1,250 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $185,000 and average rents at $895. Residents enjoy a low crime rate (180 violent crimes per 100k), manageable commutes of about 23 minutes, and access to local schools and healthcare. With a peaceful climate of four distinct seasons and strong homeownership, Barlow Branch is perfect for those seeking small-town charm and value.
Demographics - Barlow Branch, MI
Demographics - Barlow Branch, MI
Barlow Branch is a small, close-knit community of about 1,250 residents, with a median age of 44.2 years and a population density of 45 people per square mile. The area is predominantly White, and the gender ratio is balanced, making it a welcoming place for families and retirees alike.
Population:
1,250
Density:
45 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
90.5%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
6.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Barlow Branch, MI?
The cost of living in Barlow Branch is below the national average, with a median home value of $185,000 and average rents of $895. Monthly expenses, including utilities and insurance, remain affordable, making the city attractive for both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$895
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,330
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,220
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$405
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.6
Grocery:
96.2
Housing:
78.1
Utilities:
92.4
Transportation:
89.3
Health Care:
91.7
Miscellaneous:
93.6
Crime
Is Barlow Branch, MI a safe place to live?
Barlow Branch experiences a relatively low crime rate, with only 180 violent crimes and 1,220 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 555 chance of encountering violent crime, offering peace of mind for families seeking a safe environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,220
Crime Index:
1,400
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 82
Weather
What is the weather like in Barlow Branch, MI year-round?
Barlow Branch features four distinct seasons, with winters seeing lows around 15°F and summers reaching up to 80°F. The city receives about 34.8 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year, ideal for those who appreciate a variety of weather.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
Local households typically have an income around $51,400, with a median individual income of $31,000 and a poverty rate of 12.1%. The majority of adults have at least a high school diploma, and commutes average just over 23 minutes, reflecting the area’s relaxed, small-town lifestyle.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$51,400
Family Income:
$64,200
Per Capita Income:
$26,300
Income Male:
$34,800
Income Female:
$27,900
Poverty Rate:
12.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$895
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
88.7%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Barlow Branch, MI?
Families in Barlow Branch have access to public and private schools, such as Manistee Area Public Schools and Manistee Catholic Central School, with reasonable student-teacher ratios. Higher education is also nearby, with West Shore Community College just 18 miles away, supporting lifelong learning.

Public Schools
Name:
Manistee Area Public Schools
Street:
425 Twelfth St
Phone:
231-723-3521
Students:
1,450
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2

Private Schools
Name:
Manistee Catholic Central School
Street:
1200 US-31
Phone:
231-723-2529
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
West Shore Community College
City:
Scottville
State:
MI
Distance:
18 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Residents benefit from access to Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital and a solid healthcare infrastructure, with 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people. Over 91% of locals have health insurance, ensuring reliable care for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital
Address:
1465 E Parkdale Ave, Manistee, MI 49660
Phone:
(231) 398-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Barlow Branch, MI?
The housing market in Barlow Branch is stable, with an 80.6% homeownership rate and a median home price of $185,000. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates, along with modest home appreciation, make it a sound choice for buyers seeking long-term value.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$895
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State, offering convenient access for vehicle registration, licensing, and other needs through the Ionia location or the state’s online portal.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
7061 E Bluewater Hwy, Ionia, MI 48846
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.