Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Brimley, MI
Thinking of moving to Brimley, MI? This small lakeside community of about 500 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $112,000 and average rents of $750. Brimley boasts a low violent crime rate, short 22.5-minute average commutes, and a friendly, diverse community—nearly a third of residents are Native American. With Lake Superior nearby, four distinct seasons, and local public schools, Brimley is ideal for those seeking a quiet, tight-knit lifestyle in Michigan’s scenic Upper Peninsula.
Demographics - Brimley, MI
Demographics - Brimley, MI
Brimley is a small, close-knit community with around 500 residents and a population density of 350 people per square mile. The median age is 47.2, and the town has a diverse cultural makeup, with approximately 28% of residents identifying as Native American. This mix creates a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers seeking a friendly, multi-generational environment.
Population:
504
Density:
350 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
65.0%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.2%
Others:
6.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Brimley, MI?
Living in Brimley is quite affordable, with a median home value of $112,000 and average rents at $750 per month. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals and families. Utilities and daily expenses remain manageable, contributing to a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$112,000
Gross Rent:
$750
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,230
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
79.2
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
65.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is Brimley, MI a safe place to live?
Brimley enjoys a low violent crime rate, with residents facing a 1 in 725 chance of experiencing such incidents. Property crime is more common but still moderate for a small town, with a 1 in 96 chance. Overall, the community offers a safe environment for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
138
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,040
Crime Index:
1,178
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 725
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 96
Weather
What is the weather like in Brimley, MI year-round?
Brimley experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 8°F and pleasant summers reaching highs of 75°F. The town receives about 32.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine about 52% of the year. Residents appreciate the natural beauty and changing seasons typical of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Winter
Min:
8°F
Max:
26°F

Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
55°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
75°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
57°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The median household income in Brimley is around $42,100, with a family income of $48,900 and a poverty rate of 16.8%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute time is a reasonable 22.5 minutes. The community is known for its strong local ties and a slower pace of life.
Median Income:
$31,200
Household Income:
$42,100
Family Income:
$48,900
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$32,400
Income Female:
$26,300
Poverty Rate:
16.8%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$750
Unemployment Rate:
7.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
22.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.2%
Bachelors or More:
14.8%
Education
How are the schools in Brimley, MI?
Brimley Area Schools serve local students with a student-teacher ratio of 15.7, fostering a personalized learning environment. While there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are available nearby, with Lake Superior State University just 16 miles away. The community values education and supports student success from elementary through college.

Public Schools
Name:
Brimley Area Schools
Street:
7134 S M-221
Phone:
906-248-3219
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7

Colleges
Name:
Lake Superior State University
City:
Sault Ste. Marie
State:
MI
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
2,000
Healthcare
Brimley residents have access to quality healthcare, with War Memorial Hospital in nearby Sault Ste. Marie offering general and emergency services. Health insurance coverage is high at over 91%, and there are 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people. The local healthcare index indicates reliable, accessible medical services for the community.

Major Hospitals
Name:
War Memorial Hospital
Address:
500 Osborn Blvd, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783
Phone:
(906) 635-4460
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.1%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Brimley, MI?
The Brimley housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $112,000 and an average rent of $750 for a two-bedroom property. Homeownership is high at 74%, and the area sees steady appreciation, with a 6.2% increase in home values over the past year. Rental vacancies are moderate, providing options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$112,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$750
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Brimley residents are served by the Michigan Secretary of State office located in Escanaba, providing essential DMV services such as licensing and vehicle registration. The office is easily accessible and offers support via phone or the state's official website. Michigan's DMV system is known for its straightforward processes and helpful staff.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
2700 College Ave, Escanaba, MI 49829
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.