Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fife Lake, MI
Considering a move to Fife Lake, MI? This charming village of 438 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $129,000 and average rents at $820. The area enjoys a low crime rate, relaxed rural atmosphere, and reasonable 28-minute commutes. While education options are limited locally, public schools feature small class sizes, and you'll find year-round outdoor recreation amid Michigan’s four-season climate. Explore Fife Lake’s friendly pace, practical cost of living, and scenic surroundings as you plan your next move.
Demographics - Fife Lake, MI
Demographics - Fife Lake, MI
Fife Lake is a small, close-knit community with a population of 438, where the median age is just over 41 and the vast majority of residents are White. The area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, offering a quiet and familiar environment for newcomers.
Population:
438
Density:
370 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.2%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
5.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fife Lake, MI?
Fife Lake stands out for its affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $129,000 and average monthly rent of $820. Utility costs and state taxes are moderate, making this village an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$129,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,025
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$385
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.3
Grocery:
91.5
Housing:
63.8
Utilities:
93.2
Transportation:
92.4
Health Care:
89.6
Miscellaneous:
87.0
Crime
Is Fife Lake, MI a safe place to live?
Fife Lake experiences low rates of violent crime, with only 120 incidents per 100,000 residents, and property crime remains well below national averages. This safe environment contributes to the village's relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
980
Crime Index:
1,100
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 830
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 102
Weather
What is the weather like in Fife Lake, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 80°F and snowy winters dipping to around 15°F. The village receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and has sunshine nearly half the year, ideal for those who appreciate changing weather and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
Fife Lake’s households have a median income of $47,300, and most residents commute about 28 minutes for work. The village has a relatively high rate of high school graduates and a friendly, small-town feel, though a modest poverty rate and limited public transportation reflect its rural character.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$47,300
Family Income:
$58,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,200
Income Male:
$30,500
Income Female:
$24,700
Poverty Rate:
16.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
27.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.9%
Bachelors or More:
18.5%
Education
How are the schools in Fife Lake, MI?
Local education is anchored by Fife Lake Elementary, which offers small class sizes and a supportive learning environment. For higher education, Northwestern Michigan College is located 30 miles away in Traverse City, expanding opportunities for continuing education.
Public Schools
Name:
Fife Lake Elementary School
Street:
10397 Cody Street
Phone:
231-369-2884
Students:
170
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Colleges
Name:
Northwestern Michigan College
City:
Traverse City
State:
MI
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is reliable, with a general hospital nearby and over 91% of residents having health insurance coverage. There are 1.2 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring basic medical needs are met within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Healthcare Kalkaska Memorial Hospital
Address:
419 S Coral St, Kalkaska, MI 49646
Phone:
(231) 258-7500
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
68.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fife Lake, MI?
The housing market in Fife Lake is affordable and stable, featuring a median home price of $129,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 69%. Rental options are available with average rents at $820, and the area experiences modest home appreciation annually.
Median Home Price:
$129,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Michigan residents in Fife Lake can access DMV services through the Michigan Secretary of State office in nearby Traverse City. Essential vehicle and licensing services are conveniently available both online and in person.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
701 S. Elmwood Ave, Traverse City, MI 49684
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.