Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Clarkston, MI
Considering a move to Clarkston, MI? This small city of 969 residents offers a friendly, close-knit atmosphere with strong schools and a high rate of home ownership. The median home price is about $384,000, with average rents around $1,325, and the overall cost of living is just above the national average. Clarkston features very low crime rates, good healthcare access, and a typical commute time of 29 minutes. With standout public schools, a mild midwestern climate, and easy access to regional colleges, Clarkston is ideal for families seeking suburban charm and safety.
Demographics - Clarkston, MI
Demographics - Clarkston, MI
Clarkston is a small, close-knit city with a population of 969 and a median age of 44.2 years, indicating a mature community. The area is predominantly White at 96%, with a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers. The city's compact size and moderate density offer a welcoming, small-town feel.
Population:
969
Density:
1,350 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.3%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Clarkston, MI?
Living in Clarkston comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average, driven by a median home value of $384,000 and average rents near $1,325. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are comparable to those found in similar Michigan suburbs. The area offers reasonable property taxes and living expenses, appealing to both homeowners and renters.
Median House Value:
$384,000
Gross Rent:
$1,325
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$2,525
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,900
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$660
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.0
Grocery:
98.3
Housing:
108.5
Utilities:
97.2
Transportation:
105.4
Health Care:
102.1
Miscellaneous:
101.0
Crime
Is Clarkston, MI a safe place to live?
Clarkston boasts a low crime rate, with only 76 violent crimes and 693 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe choice for families. The chances of experiencing violent crime are just 1 in 1,315, well below national averages. Residents enjoy peace of mind in this secure community.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
76
Property Crimes Per 100k:
693
Crime Index:
769
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,315
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 144
Weather
What is the weather like in Clarkston, MI year-round?
Clarkston experiences all four seasons, with chilly winters averaging lows of 16°F and warm summers reaching highs of 82°F. The city receives about 32.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. Its climate offers a classic Midwestern weather pattern, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Residents of Clarkston enjoy a strong community with a median household income of $80,500 and a low poverty rate of 3.9%. Nearly all adults have a high school diploma, and almost half hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The typical commute is under 29 minutes, reflecting convenient access to regional employment centers.
Median Income:
$42,800
Household Income:
$80,500
Family Income:
$97,200
Per Capita Income:
$44,200
Income Male:
$54,300
Income Female:
$42,100
Poverty Rate:
3.9%
Non English Speakers:
5.1%
Rent:
$1,325
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.8%
Commute Time:
28.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
97.1%
Bachelors or More:
46.8%
Education
How are the schools in Clarkston, MI?
Clarkston is served by highly regarded public schools, including Clarkston High School and Clarkston Junior High, complemented by private options like Everest Collegiate. The student-to-teacher ratios are moderate, and higher education is easily accessible with Oakland Community College just 7 miles away and Oakland University 12 miles from the city.

Public Schools
Name:
Clarkston Junior High School
Street:
6595 Waldon Rd
Phone:
248-623-5600
Students:
1,100
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
Clarkston High School
Street:
6093 Flemings Lake Rd
Phone:
248-623-3600
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
20:1

Private Schools
Name:
Everest Collegiate High School & Academy
Street:
5935 Clarkston Rd
Phone:
248-241-9066
Students:
340

Colleges
Name:
Oakland Community College - Highland Lakes
City:
Waterford
State:
MI
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
3,500
Name:
Oakland University
City:
Rochester
State:
MI
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
19,000
Healthcare
Clarkston provides residents with access to reputable healthcare facilities, including McLaren Clarkston and nearby Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital, both offering emergency services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 94% health insurance coverage, the city ensures solid medical support for its residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
McLaren Clarkston
Address:
5701 Bow Pointe Dr, Clarkston, MI 48346
Phone:
(248) 922-6600
Type:
General & Outpatient
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital
Address:
1101 W University Dr, Rochester, MI 48307
Phone:
(248) 652-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.9%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Clarkston, MI?
The local housing market features a median home price of $384,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 75%. Home values have appreciated by 6.1% over the past year, while rental options remain accessible with average two-bedroom rents at $1,325. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a stable and desirable market.
Median Home Price:
$384,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,325
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Clarkston residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Michigan Secretary of State, with the nearest office located in Lapeer. Services are accessible both in-person and online for convenience. The state DMV provides comprehensive assistance for all driver and vehicle needs.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
1041 S. Main Street, Suite 1, Lapeer, MI 48446
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.