Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Bay City, MI
Considering a move to Bay City, MI? This friendly city of 32,661 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $109,000 and average rents near $825. Commute times are short—just 19 minutes on average—and residents enjoy a low cost of living. While crime rates are a bit above national averages, Bay City boasts a charming waterfront, access to healthcare, and strong community schools. With four seasons, 50% sunny days, and plenty of local amenities, Bay City is a welcoming spot for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Bay City, MI
Demographics - Bay City, MI
Bay City, Michigan, is home to about 32,661 residents with a median age of 41, creating a balanced mix of families and retirees. The city is predominantly White (88%), with a small percentage of other ethnic groups, and about 6% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density fosters a close-knit community feel.
Population:
32,661
Density:
3,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.1
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
88.0%
Black:
2.4%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
9.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Bay City, MI?
Living in Bay City is budget-friendly, with a cost of living index well below the national average and median home values around $109,000. Renters also benefit from affordable average rents near $825 per month, and daily expenses like groceries and utilities are comparably low. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, making Bay City a practical choice for those seeking value.
Median House Value:
$109,000
Gross Rent:
$825
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.0
Grocery:
93.0
Housing:
58.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
94.5
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Bay City, MI a safe place to live?
Bay City experiences slightly higher crime rates than the national average, with about 315 violent crimes and 2,200 property crimes per 100,000 residents. While the chance of being a victim of violent crime is roughly 1 in 317, most neighborhoods remain safe and community-oriented. Local law enforcement works to maintain a welcoming environment for families and newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
315
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,200
Crime Index:
2,515
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 317
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 45
Weather
What is the weather like in Bay City, MI year-round?
Residents of Bay City enjoy all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 17°F and warm summers reaching highs of 82°F. The area receives about 31 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine roughly 50% of the year. This varied climate offers opportunities for both winter and summer outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
50%
Neighbors
Bay City neighborhoods are known for their sense of community and modest income levels, with a typical household income around $48,300. The poverty rate is somewhat higher than average at 19%, but most residents have at least a high school diploma. Commutes are short, averaging under 20 minutes, and public transportation usage is minimal.
Median Income:
$28,000
Household Income:
$48,300
Family Income:
$61,900
Per Capita Income:
$25,000
Income Male:
$36,500
Income Female:
$29,000
Poverty Rate:
19.3%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$825
Unemployment Rate:
6.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
18.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.9%
Bachelors or More:
17.3%
Education
How are the schools in Bay City, MI?
Bay City offers a variety of educational options, including strong public schools like Bay City Western and Bay City Central High, as well as private institutions such as All Saints Central. With over 90% of adults holding at least a high school diploma and nearby colleges like Delta College and Saginaw Valley State University, residents have ample opportunities for lifelong learning and advancement.
Public Schools
Name:
Bay City Western High School
Street:
500 W Midland Rd
Phone:
989-662-4481
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.2
Name:
Bay City Central High School
Street:
1624 Columbus Ave
Phone:
989-893-9541
Students:
1,200
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Private Schools
Name:
All Saints Central High School
Street:
217 S Monroe St
Phone:
989-892-2533
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Delta College
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
8,000
Name:
Saginaw Valley State University
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
8,300
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Bay City is strong, with major hospitals like McLaren Bay Region and Covenant HealthCare nearby. About 92% of residents have health insurance, and physician availability is slightly above the national average. This ensures that both routine care and emergency services are readily accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
McLaren Bay Region
Address:
1900 Columbus Ave, Bay City, MI 48708
Phone:
(989) 894-3000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Covenant HealthCare
Address:
1447 N Harrison St, Saginaw, MI 48602
Phone:
(989) 583-0000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
67.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Bay City, MI?
Bay City's housing market is affordable, with median home prices around $109,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 66%. Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is about $825, and the market has seen steady appreciation of 4.5% in the last year. Rental vacancies and foreclosure rates remain low, providing stability for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$109,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$825
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Bay City are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State office located on Washington Ave. Residents can access essential DMV services locally or online through the state portal. The office is convenient for both new arrivals and long-time locals.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
1001 Washington Ave, Bay City, MI 48708
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.