Everything You Should Know Before Moving to East Lansing, MI
Considering a move to East Lansing, MI? Home to Michigan State University, the city offers youthful energy, affordable housing with a median home price of $274,300, and average rents around $1,130. East Lansing features a low violent crime rate, short average commutes (18 minutes), and excellent educational opportunities, including top-rated public schools and MSU. Enjoy four distinct seasons and a vibrant, diverse community—perfect for students, families, and professionals alike.
Demographics - East Lansing, MI
Demographics - East Lansing, MI
East Lansing is a lively college town with a population of about 47,000 and a notably young median age of 21.6, reflecting its large student presence. The city is diverse, with significant White, Asian, and Black communities, and over 11% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its relatively high population density fosters a vibrant, active atmosphere.
Population:
47,427
Density:
3,700 per sq mi
Median Age:
21.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
11.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
72.4%
Black:
7.6%
Asian:
12.0%
Others:
8.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in East Lansing, MI?
East Lansing offers a cost of living slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $274,300 and average rent around $1,130 per month. Utilities and groceries are generally affordable, while transportation costs run a bit higher than average. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, making budgeting straightforward for residents.
Median House Value:
$274,300
Gross Rent:
$1,130
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$112
Auto Insurance:
$2,140
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,570
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$545
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
98.2
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
87.4
Utilities:
101.5
Transportation:
104.2
Health Care:
95.6
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is East Lansing, MI a safe place to live?
East Lansing experiences a low rate of violent crime, with just 261 incidents per 100,000 people, and a moderate property crime rate. Residents have a 1 in 383 chance of being affected by violent crime, contributing to a generally safe environment. The city’s overall crime index suggests it is a secure choice for families and students.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
261
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,186
Crime Index:
1,447
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 383
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 84
Weather
What is the weather like in East Lansing, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers reaching highs in the low 80s. The city receives about 33 inches of rain annually and has sunshine nearly half the year. These seasonal changes offer opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
66°F
Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
East Lansing’s neighborhoods are shaped by its student and academic population, with a median income of $19,500 and a family income near $90,000. Education levels are high, with over 62% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher, and the average commute is a quick 18 minutes. The area’s diversity and walkability make it appealing for young professionals and families alike.
Median Income:
$19,500
Household Income:
$46,691
Family Income:
$90,110
Per Capita Income:
$25,504
Income Male:
$27,000
Income Female:
$23,800
Poverty Rate:
30.6%
Non English Speakers:
11.5%
Rent:
$1,130
Unemployment Rate:
4.2%
Public Transport Usage:
7.9%
Commute Time:
18.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
62.0%
Education
How are the schools in East Lansing, MI?
East Lansing is known for its excellent educational resources, anchored by Michigan State University and supported by strong public and private schools. The public high school and middle school have favorable student-teacher ratios and robust academic programs. The city’s proximity to higher education institutions makes it ideal for students and families seeking academic opportunities.
Public Schools
Name:
East Lansing High School
Street:
509 Burcham Dr
Phone:
517-333-7500
Students:
1,110
Student Teacher Ratio:
19:1
Name:
MacDonald Middle School
Street:
1601 Burcham Dr
Phone:
517-333-7600
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1
Private Schools
Name:
St. Thomas Aquinas Parish School
Street:
915 Alton Rd
Phone:
517-332-0813
Students:
325
Colleges
Name:
Michigan State University
City:
East Lansing
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
50,000
Name:
Lansing Community College
City:
Lansing
State:
MI
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
13,500
Healthcare
East Lansing offers quality healthcare with two major hospitals nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 94%. The area maintains a solid physician-to-population ratio, ensuring residents have access to medical care. The healthcare system is reliable for both students and long-term residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sparrow Hospital
Address:
1215 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
Phone:
(517) 364-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
McLaren Greater Lansing Hospital
Address:
2900 Collins Rd, Lansing, MI 48910
Phone:
(517) 975-6000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.1%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in East Lansing, MI?
The local housing market features a median home price of $274,300 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,130. With only about 35% of homes owner-occupied and a healthy rental vacancy rate, there are options for both buyers and renters. Home values have shown steady appreciation in recent years, making it a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$274,300
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,130
Owner Occupied Rate:
34.7%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.5%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Vehicle services in East Lansing are handled by the Michigan Secretary of State, with the nearest office located in Mason. Residents can access services like licensing and registration online or in-person, with clear guidance available on the official Michigan SOS website. The process is straightforward and convenient for new arrivals.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
706 Curtis St, Mason, MI 48854
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.