Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Grand Haven, MI
Thinking of moving to Grand Haven, MI? With a friendly population of 10,972 and a median home price around $275,000, Grand Haven offers lakeside living at a cost of living below the national average. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (98 per 100K), short commutes (20.5 minutes), and strong public schools, all in a charming, walkable community with beautiful Lake Michigan views. With plenty of sunny days and accessible healthcare, Grand Haven is a welcoming place to call home.
Demographics - Grand Haven, MI
Demographics - Grand Haven, MI
Grand Haven is home to about 11,000 residents, with a median age of 45 that reflects its appeal to both families and retirees. The city is predominantly White (93%), and has a balanced gender ratio, with a small but notable 5.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. Its community-oriented atmosphere and moderate population density make it a welcoming place for newcomers.
Population:
10,972
Density:
2,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
45.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.2%
Black:
1.3%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Grand Haven, MI?
Grand Haven offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $275,000 and average rents around $1,130, both below the national average. Monthly expenses such as utilities and auto insurance are moderate, and the overall cost of living index is 93.4, making the city budget-friendly for families and individuals alike. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, further supporting affordability.
Median House Value:
$275,000
Gross Rent:
$1,130
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,540
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,550
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$565
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.4
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
86.7
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
91.3
Health Care:
95.2
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Grand Haven, MI a safe place to live?
Grand Haven enjoys a low crime environment, with violent crime rates at just 98 per 100,000 people and property crime rates well below many U.S. cities. Residents have a 1 in 1,020 chance of experiencing a violent crime, helping foster a strong sense of safety. This safe atmosphere makes it an attractive choice for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
98
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,140
Crime Index:
1,238
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,020
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 88
Weather
What is the weather like in Grand Haven, MI year-round?
Grand Haven experiences all four seasons, with mild summers reaching up to 80°F and cold winters that dip to about 20°F. The city receives around 34.5 inches of rain annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities along Lake Michigan. Residents can expect distinct seasonal changes and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
33°F

Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Grand Haven residents benefit from a median household income of $59,300 and a low unemployment rate of 4.0%. The area boasts a highly educated population, with over 95% holding a high school diploma and nearly 39% having a bachelor's degree or higher. Commutes are short at just over 20 minutes, and the poverty rate remains moderate at 9.1%.
Median Income:
$32,700
Household Income:
$59,300
Family Income:
$77,600
Per Capita Income:
$34,500
Income Male:
$45,600
Income Female:
$34,900
Poverty Rate:
9.1%
Non English Speakers:
5.5%
Rent:
$1,130
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
20.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
95.4%
Bachelors or More:
38.8%
Education
How are the schools in Grand Haven, MI?
Grand Haven offers quality education options, including well-regarded public schools like Grand Haven High School and White Pines Intermediate, as well as private alternatives such as St. Mary's School. Nearby higher education institutions include Muskegon Community College and Grand Valley State University, both within a short drive. The city is known for its strong educational attainment, with high graduation and college attendance rates.

Public Schools
Name:
Grand Haven High School
Street:
17001 Ferris St
Phone:
616-850-6000
Students:
1,650
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.5
Name:
White Pines Intermediate School
Street:
1400 S Griffin St
Phone:
616-850-6300
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.7

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary's School
Street:
421 E Exchange St
Phone:
616-842-1282
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Muskegon Community College
City:
Muskegon
State:
MI
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
4,000
Name:
Grand Valley State University
City:
Allendale
State:
MI
Distance:
30 miles
Students:
22,000
Healthcare
Healthcare in Grand Haven is accessible, with 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and a major hospital, North Ottawa Community Health System, providing emergency services locally. Nearly 96% of residents have health insurance, ensuring wide access to care. The area’s strong healthcare infrastructure supports both preventative and emergency medical needs.

Major Hospitals
Name:
North Ottawa Community Health System
Address:
1309 Sheldon Rd, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Phone:
(616) 842-3600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
95.8%
Health Care Index:
79.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Grand Haven, MI?
The housing market in Grand Haven is stable, with a median home price of $275,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 69%. Rent for a two-bedroom averages $1,130, and the city has seen home values appreciate by 6.2% in the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates contribute to a healthy and competitive housing environment.
Median Home Price:
$275,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,130
Owner Occupied Rate:
69.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Grand Haven residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office located conveniently in town. The local DMV provides standard services such as driver’s licenses, registrations, and title transfers. Appointments and further information are available through the official Michigan Secretary of State website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
1117 S Beechtree St, Grand Haven, MI 49417
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.