What Should I Know Before Moving to Elk Rapids?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in Elk Rapids. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for Elk Rapids climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in Elk Rapids?

Moving within Elk Rapids usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to Elk Rapids?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in Elk Rapids. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in Elk Rapids Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in Elk Rapids offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from Elk Rapids, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from Elk Rapids at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to Elk Rapids, MI | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Elk Rapids, MI

Considering a move to Elk Rapids, MI? This friendly lakeside village of 1,627 offers affordable living with a median home price around $308,000 and average rent of $1,060. Residents enjoy low crime rates (just 81 violent crimes per 100K), a short 21-minute average commute, and access to quality schools. With beautiful summers, four distinct seasons, and easy access to healthcare and recreation, Elk Rapids is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, community-focused lifestyle in northern Michigan.

Demographics - Elk Rapids, MI

Elk Rapids is a close-knit village of 1,627 residents, characterized by a predominantly White population and a median age of 53.8, reflecting a mature and settled community. The area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a modest proportion of non-English speakers, fostering a stable and welcoming atmosphere.

Population:

1,627

Density:

900 per sq mi

Median Age:

53.8

Gender Ratio:

93 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

3.4%

Ethnic Composition

White:

96.4%

Black:

0.2%

Asian:

0.5%

Others:

2.9%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Elk Rapids, MI?

The cost of living in Elk Rapids is slightly below the national average, with a median home value of $308,000 and average rent at $1,060, making it an affordable option for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and healthcare costs are on par with or just above state averages, and Michigan’s flat income tax rate of 4.25% helps keep expenses predictable.

Median House Value:

$308,000

Gross Rent:

$1,060

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$120

Auto Insurance:

$1,260

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,480

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$530

State Taxes:

Low:

4.25%

High:

4.25%

Cost Of Living Index:

98.2

Grocery:

96.0

Housing:

94.5

Utilities:

104.1

Transportation:

98.5

Health Care:

97.2

Miscellaneous:

95.0

Crime

Is Elk Rapids, MI a safe place to live?

Elk Rapids enjoys a notably low crime rate, with only 81 violent crimes and 1,210 property crimes per 100,000 residents, making it a safe place to settle. The chance of experiencing violent crime is about 1 in 1,235, offering peace of mind to families and retirees alike.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,210

Crime Index:

1,291

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 1,235

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 83

Weather

What is the weather like in Elk Rapids, MI year-round?

Residents experience all four seasons in Elk Rapids, with warm summers reaching up to 79°F and cold winters dipping to 16°F. The area receives about 32.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year, creating an inviting climate for outdoor activities.

Winter

Min:

16°F

Max:

29°F

Spring

Min:

36°F

Max:

59°F

Summer

Min:

56°F

Max:

79°F

Fall

Min:

41°F

Max:

61°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

32.5 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

48%

Neighbors

Households in Elk Rapids benefit from a median income of $64,400 and a relatively low poverty rate of 8.9%. The community is well-educated, with 97% of adults holding at least a high school diploma, and residents enjoy an average commute of just under 21 minutes.

Median Income:

$38,000

Household Income:

$64,400

Family Income:

$76,200

Per Capita Income:

$38,200

Income Male:

$45,000

Income Female:

$34,000

Poverty Rate:

8.9%

Non English Speakers:

3.4%

Rent:

$1,060

Unemployment Rate:

4.3%

Public Transport Usage:

0.2%

Commute Time:

20.7 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

97.0%

Bachelors or More:

35.7%

Education

How are the schools in Elk Rapids, MI?

Elk Rapids is served by quality public schools, including Elk Rapids High School and Lakeland Elementary, both known for supportive learning environments. Families also have access to private schooling options and are within easy reach of Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, providing a range of educational opportunities from elementary through college.

Public Schools

Name:

Elk Rapids High School

Street:

308 Meguzee Point Rd

Phone:

231-264-9181

Students:

400

Student Teacher Ratio:

19:1

Name:

Lakeland Elementary School

Street:

6870 U.S. 31 N

Phone:

231-264-8289

Students:

350

Student Teacher Ratio:

16:1

Private Schools

Name:

St. Mary School

Street:

321 E. Third St, Charlevoix

Phone:

231-547-9441

Students:

150

Colleges

Name:

Northwestern Michigan College

City:

Traverse City

State:

Distance:

17 miles

Students:

3,600

Healthcare

Elk Rapids offers access to quality healthcare, including a local clinic and nearby Munson Medical Center for emergency services. With about 1.7 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 94% health insurance coverage, residents can expect dependable medical care close to home.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Munson Healthcare Elk Rapids Clinic

Address:

516 Bridge St, Elk Rapids, MI 49629

Phone:

(231) 264-8132

Type:

Family Medicine & Primary Care

Emergency Services:

Name:

Munson Medical Center

Address:

1105 6th St, Traverse City, MI 49684

Phone:

(231) 935-5000

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

1.7

Health Insurance Coverage:

93.8%

Health Care Index:

77.5

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Elk Rapids, MI?

The housing market in Elk Rapids features a median home price of $308,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 68.3%. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% in the past year, indicating a stable and gradually growing real estate market.

Median Home Price:

$308,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$1,080

Owner Occupied Rate:

68.3%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

7.1%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

4.9%

New Construction Rate:

1.1%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.7%

DMV Information

Residents can access driver and vehicle services through the Michigan Secretary of State office in nearby Traverse City, with convenient options for in-person visits or online transactions. The office provides a full range of DMV services to support both new arrivals and long-term residents.

State:

Michigan

Department:

Michigan Secretary of State

Address:

701 S. Elmwood Ave, Traverse City, MI 49684

Phone:

1-888-767-6424

Website:

https://www.michigan.gov/sos

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.