Everything You Should Know Before Moving to East Tawas, MI
Considering a move to East Tawas, MI? This charming lakeside town of 2,760 residents offers a relaxed, small-town lifestyle with affordable housing—median home prices are just $148,000 and average rents around $805. Crime rates are low, and the average commute is just 17 minutes. With a friendly community, scenic Lake Huron views, and easy access to healthcare and schools, East Tawas is ideal for those seeking a peaceful pace of life and natural beauty in northern Michigan.
Demographics - East Tawas, MI
Demographics - East Tawas, MI
East Tawas is a close-knit community of 2,760 residents, with a population density of 950 per square mile and a median age of 54.2, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The city is predominantly White, with a small percentage of residents speaking a language other than English at home.
Population:
2,760
Density:
950 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.6%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in East Tawas, MI?
Living in East Tawas is notably affordable, with a median home value of $148,000 and an average rent of $805, well below the national average. The cost of living index is 81.5, making everyday expenses and utilities budget-friendly for residents.
Median House Value:
$148,000
Gross Rent:
$805
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
92.2
Housing:
68.7
Utilities:
93.8
Transportation:
87.5
Health Care:
91.4
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is East Tawas, MI a safe place to live?
East Tawas maintains a low crime rate, with just 154 violent crimes and 1,090 property crimes per 100,000 people, offering residents a strong sense of safety. The chance of experiencing violent crime is just 1 in 649, making it a reassuring place for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
154
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,090
Crime Index:
1,244
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 649
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 92
Weather
What is the weather like in East Tawas, MI year-round?
East Tawas experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers averaging highs near 78°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. Residents enjoy about 48% sunny days each year and moderate annual rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate a classic Michigan climate.

Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
30°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
59°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $39,200 and a poverty rate of 17.3%, with most residents enjoying short 17-minute commutes. Education levels are solid, with over 91% having completed high school, and the area is known for its friendly, laid-back lifestyle.
Median Income:
$28,900
Household Income:
$39,200
Family Income:
$49,700
Per Capita Income:
$24,100
Income Male:
$30,200
Income Female:
$22,900
Poverty Rate:
17.3%
Non English Speakers:
3.8%
Rent:
$805
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.1%
Commute Time:
17.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.4%
Bachelors or More:
20.1%
Education
How are the schools in East Tawas, MI?
East Tawas offers quality education options, with public schools like Tawas Area High School and Clara Bolen Elementary serving the community, and private options such as Holy Family School. For higher education, Alpena Community College’s Oscoda campus is just 14 miles away, making continuing education accessible.

Public Schools
Name:
Tawas Area High School
Street:
255 W M-55
Phone:
989-984-2100
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Clara Bolen Elementary School
Street:
211 Lincoln St
Phone:
989-984-2200
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2

Private Schools
Name:
Holy Family School
Street:
411 Wilkinson St
Phone:
989-362-5651
Students:
90

Colleges
Name:
Alpena Community College (Oscoda Campus)
City:
Oscoda
State:
MI
Distance:
14 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
East Tawas provides reliable healthcare options, anchored by Ascension St. Joseph Hospital, a full-service facility with emergency care. With 91% of residents covered by health insurance and a physician ratio of 1 per 1,000 people, healthcare access is convenient for most locals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension St. Joseph Hospital
Address:
200 Hemlock St, Tawas City, MI 48763
Phone:
(989) 362-3411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in East Tawas, MI?
The housing market in East Tawas is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $148,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 71.8%. Home appreciation has grown by 4.3% in the past year, making it an attractive spot for buyers and long-term residents alike.
Median Home Price:
$148,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$805
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are provided by the Michigan Secretary of State office at 2145 E Huron Rd, where residents can handle driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and other motor vehicle needs conveniently in town.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
2145 E Huron Rd, East Tawas, MI 48730
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.