Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Glen Arbor, MI
Thinking of relocating to Glen Arbor, MI? This charming lakeside village has a population of just 243, offering a peaceful, close-knit lifestyle with beautiful scenery. Median home values are around $490,000 and average rents for a 2-bedroom are $1,300, reflecting its popularity as a vacation and retirement spot. Crime rates are very low, commutes are short (about 22 minutes), and the area boasts excellent educational attainment and access to outdoor activities. With four distinct seasons, mild summers, and reliable healthcare nearby, Glen Arbor is a delightful place to call home.
Demographics - Glen Arbor, MI
Demographics - Glen Arbor, MI
Glen Arbor is a small, close-knit community of just 243 residents, with a median age of 61.2 indicating a largely mature population. The area is predominantly White, with minimal ethnic diversity and a nearly even gender balance. Non-English speakers make up a very small portion of the population, helping create a cohesive local culture.
Population:
243
Density:
58 per sq mi
Median Age:
61.2
Gender Ratio:
99 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.0%

Ethnic Composition
White:
97.5%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
1.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Glen Arbor, MI?
Living in Glen Arbor comes with a higher-than-average cost of living, reflected in a median home value of $490,000 and an overall cost of living index of 114. Housing and groceries are notably above national averages, while utilities and transportation remain relatively moderate. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, which may appeal to those seeking predictable expenses.
Median House Value:
$490,000
Gross Rent:
$1,300
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,800
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$635
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
114.0
Grocery:
106.5
Housing:
129.0
Utilities:
104.0
Transportation:
109.0
Health Care:
101.0
Miscellaneous:
100.0
Crime
Is Glen Arbor, MI a safe place to live?
Glen Arbor is considered a very safe community, with violent crime rates as low as 70 per 100,000 people and property crime also minimal. Residents enjoy a low chance of becoming a victim, contributing to the town’s reputation as a peaceful place to live. This safety is a significant draw for retirees and families alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
70
Property Crimes Per 100k:
650
Crime Index:
720
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,429
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 154
Weather
What is the weather like in Glen Arbor, MI year-round?
Residents in Glen Arbor experience all four seasons, with mild summers peaking at 78°F and cold winters dipping to 16°F. Annual rainfall is moderate at 33.5 inches, and the town enjoys sunshine about half the year. The climate is ideal for outdoor activities, especially during the pleasant summer and fall months.

Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
31°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
58°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
78°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
51%
Neighbors
Glen Arbor features a friendly, well-educated community with a household income around $62,000 and a per capita income of $40,000. Unemployment is low, poverty rates are modest, and nearly everyone has at least a high school diploma. Most neighbors commute about 22 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal, reflecting the area’s rural charm.
Median Income:
$38,900
Household Income:
$62,000
Family Income:
$68,000
Per Capita Income:
$40,000
Income Male:
$45,000
Income Female:
$36,000
Poverty Rate:
9.0%
Non English Speakers:
2.0%
Rent:
$1,300
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
22.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
98.1%
Bachelors or More:
47.0%
Education
How are the schools in Glen Arbor, MI?
Education in Glen Arbor is anchored by Glen Lake Community School, known for its small class sizes and supportive environment. Higher education opportunities are accessible at Northwestern Michigan College, located 27 miles away in Traverse City. The community values academic achievement, with a high rate of residents holding advanced degrees.

Public Schools
Name:
Glen Lake Community School
Street:
3375 W Burdickville Rd, Maple City, MI 49664
Phone:
231-334-3061
Students:
715
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.6

Colleges
Name:
Northwestern Michigan College
City:
Traverse City
State:
MI
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
4,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare in Glen Arbor is strong, with 93% of residents covered by health insurance and 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people. The nearby Munson Medical Center in Traverse City offers comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The area’s healthcare index signals reliable and accessible medical care for residents.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Medical Center
Address:
1105 Sixth St, Traverse City, MI 49684
Phone:
(231) 935-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.0%
Health Care Index:
78.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Glen Arbor, MI?
Glen Arbor’s housing market is robust and competitive, with median home prices at $490,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom at $1,300. Most homes are owner-occupied, and the area has seen strong appreciation rates, making it attractive for both buyers and investors. Rental vacancies are low, emphasizing the community’s desirability.
Median Home Price:
$490,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,300
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Glen Arbor residents access DMV services through the Michigan Secretary of State office in nearby Traverse City. Services include driver’s licensing, vehicle registration, and title transfers, with helpful resources available online or by phone. The local branch is conveniently located for Glen Arbor’s small population.
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.