Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Gaastra, MI
Considering a move to Gaastra, MI? With a small population of just 316, this friendly Upper Peninsula town offers very affordable housing (median home price $56,500, average rent $650) and an easygoing lifestyle. Crime rates are low, and average commutes take just 19 minutes. While education options are limited locally, residents enjoy a peaceful, close-knit atmosphere, access to nearby schools, and the beauty of Michigan’s four distinct seasons. Ideal for those seeking affordability, quiet living, and a tight community feel.
Demographics - Gaastra, MI
Demographics - Gaastra, MI
Gaastra, MI is a small community of 316 residents, with a median age of nearly 50, reflecting a mature population. The city is predominantly White, and the population density is comfortable at 233 people per square mile, creating a close-knit yet spacious environment.
Population:
316
Density:
233 per sq mi
Median Age:
49.3
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Gaastra, MI?
Living in Gaastra is highly affordable, with a median home value of just $56,500 and average rent around $650. The overall cost of living index is notably low compared to the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals or families.
Median House Value:
$56,500
Gross Rent:
$650
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,010
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$840
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$350
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.2
Grocery:
93.7
Housing:
44.1
Utilities:
104.2
Transportation:
82.3
Health Care:
95.8
Miscellaneous:
90.5
Crime
Is Gaastra, MI a safe place to live?
Gaastra enjoys a low crime rate, with violent crime occurring at a rate of 192 incidents per 100,000 residents and property crime at 1,270 per 100,000. The odds of experiencing violent crime are low, offering peace of mind to residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
192
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,270
Crime Index:
1,462
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 520
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 79
Weather
What is the weather like in Gaastra, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows around 3°F and pleasant summers reaching highs near 77°F. The area receives about 30 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine roughly 43% of the year, offering a true taste of Michigan’s varied climate.

Winter
Min:
3°F
Max:
23°F

Spring
Min:
29°F
Max:
57°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
58°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.9 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
43%
Neighbors
Locals benefit from a median household income of $34,000 and a strong sense of community, with most residents owning their homes. The poverty rate is higher than average at 18.5%, but commutes are short and public transport usage is minimal, reflecting the town’s rural character.
Median Income:
$30,900
Household Income:
$34,000
Family Income:
$42,000
Per Capita Income:
$20,100
Income Male:
$25,900
Income Female:
$21,600
Poverty Rate:
18.5%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$650
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.2%
Bachelors or More:
11.4%
Education
How are the schools in Gaastra, MI?
Educational opportunities in Gaastra include local public elementary and high schools with reasonable student-teacher ratios, as well as access to Bay College West just 27 miles away. While private schools are not present, the local schools serve the community’s needs.

Public Schools
Name:
West Iron County Elementary School
Street:
601 N. 4th Ave
Phone:
906-265-9218
Students:
430
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
West Iron County High School
Street:
701 Garfield Ave
Phone:
906-265-5184
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2

Colleges
Name:
Bay College West
City:
Iron Mountain
State:
MI
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
600
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is reliable, with the nearby Aspirus Iron River Hospital providing general and emergency services, and about 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents. Over 91% of the population has health insurance, supporting community well-being.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Aspirus Iron River Hospital
Address:
1400 W Ice Lake Rd, Iron River, MI 49935
Phone:
(906) 265-6121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.7%
Health Care Index:
68.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Gaastra, MI?
Gaastra’s housing market is highly accessible, featuring a median home price of $56,500 and an owner-occupied rate of 84%. Home values have been appreciating modestly, and rental options remain available with a vacancy rate under 10%.
Median Home Price:
$56,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle licensing and vehicle registrations through the Michigan Secretary of State office, with the nearest location in Lake Linden and full details available on the state website. The process is straightforward and typical for Michigan communities.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
111 N. Canal St., Lake Linden, MI 49945
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.