Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Berrien Center, MI
Considering a move to Berrien Center, MI? With a cozy population of about 1,500, Berrien Center offers a quiet rural lifestyle with affordable housing (median home price $185,000, average rent $950) and a low cost of living. The area enjoys moderate crime rates, a quick 24-minute average commute, and easy access to reputable schools and healthcare. Enjoy all four seasons, friendly neighborhoods, and the peace of country living just a short drive from Lake Michigan.
Demographics - Berrien Center, MI
Demographics - Berrien Center, MI
Berrien Center, MI is a small rural community of about 1,500 residents, with a median age of 44.2 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White (85%), with small Black, Asian, and other minority communities. Most residents speak English, and the area offers a peaceful, close-knit environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
1,500
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.0%
Black:
7.5%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Berrien Center, MI?
Berrien Center boasts a low cost of living, with a cost of living index of 83.2 and a median home value around $185,000. Rent averages $950 per month, and daily expenses such as groceries and utilities remain affordable compared to national averages. The area's modest state tax rate and low housing costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers.
Median House Value:
$185,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$115
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.2
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
64.4
Utilities:
96.5
Transportation:
87.8
Health Care:
94.6
Miscellaneous:
91.2
Crime
Is Berrien Center, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Berrien Center are moderate, with a violent crime rate of 175 per 100,000 residents and a property crime risk of 1 in 72. These rates suggest a relatively safe environment for families, especially compared to larger urban areas. Residents enjoy peace of mind while still taking typical safety precautions.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
175
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,380
Crime Index:
1,555
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 570
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 72
Weather
What is the weather like in Berrien Center, MI year-round?
Berrien Center experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 83°F and cold winters dipping to 17°F. The area sees about 54% sunny days and nearly 38 inches of annual rainfall, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities and seasonal changes. Residents enjoy a classic Midwest weather pattern with distinct seasonal beauty.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
63°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
37.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
The median household income in Berrien Center is $63,200, and the area enjoys a high rate of high school graduates (over 90%). Unemployment is relatively low at 5.8%, and average commute times are around 24 minutes. The community is friendly and family-oriented, with most residents owning their homes and enjoying a comfortable standard of living.
Median Income:
$31,000
Household Income:
$63,200
Family Income:
$72,000
Per Capita Income:
$29,500
Income Male:
$38,000
Income Female:
$31,500
Poverty Rate:
12.6%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
90.4%
Bachelors or More:
19.8%
Education
How are the schools in Berrien Center, MI?
Families in Berrien Center benefit from reputable public schools like Berrien Springs High School and Mars Elementary, as well as private options such as Andrews Academy. The area is also close to higher education institutions, including Andrews University just 6 miles away. These options make Berrien Center a practical choice for students of all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Berrien Springs High School
Street:
201 Sylvester Ave
Phone:
269-473-0556
Students:
680
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.4
Name:
Mars Elementary School
Street:
1 Sylvester Ave
Phone:
269-473-0620
Students:
540
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
Andrews Academy
Street:
8833 Garland Ave
Phone:
269-471-3138
Students:
300
Colleges
Name:
Andrews University
City:
Berrien Springs
State:
MI
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
3,300
Name:
Lake Michigan College
City:
Benton Harbor
State:
MI
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, including Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital and Watervliet Hospital, both offering comprehensive services and emergency care. With nearly 2 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage, Berrien Center ensures that medical needs are well met. The local healthcare index reflects reliable access and services for all ages.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital
Address:
1234 Napier Ave, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone:
(269) 983-8300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Watervliet Hospital
Address:
400 Medical Park Dr, Watervliet, MI 49098
Phone:
(269) 463-3111
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
71.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Berrien Center, MI?
The housing market in Berrien Center is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $185,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 76%. Rent for a two-bedroom averages $950, while home values have appreciated by 4.1% over the past year. The area offers a range of options for buyers and renters seeking a rural, small-town feel.
Median Home Price:
$185,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Berrien Center residents can access DMV services through the Michigan Secretary of State office in nearby Niles. Conveniently located and accessible, this office provides driver’s licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services. More information and online services are available through the state's official website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
701 S Front St, Niles, MI 49120
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.