Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Hale, MI
Thinking about making Hale, MI your new home? With a population of around 3,800, Hale offers small-town charm, affordable living, and a relaxed pace of life. The median home price is a budget-friendly $120,000, and average rents are just $780. Residents enjoy low violent crime rates (155 per 100k), an average commute of 25 minutes, and local schools with small class sizes. With four distinct seasons and a strong sense of community, Hale is ideal for those seeking peaceful rural living in northern Michigan.
Demographics - Hale, MI
Hale, Michigan is a close-knit community of about 3,800 residents, with a median age of 51.2 years, indicating a mature population. The area is predominantly White, and the population density is low, offering a quiet, spacious environment for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
3,800
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.1%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
3.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Hale, MI?
Living in Hale is notably affordable, with a median home value of just $120,000 and average rent around $780 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it a budget-friendly choice for families, retirees, and those seeking value without sacrificing comfort.
Median House Value:
$120,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$380
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.5
Grocery:
89.0
Housing:
68.2
Utilities:
95.1
Transportation:
91.7
Health Care:
90.4
Miscellaneous:
92.3
Crime
Is Hale, MI a safe place to live?
Hale experiences low levels of violent crime, with only 155 incidents per 100,000 residents, and a moderate property crime rate, providing a generally safe environment. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to a low chance of violent crime and a strong sense of community vigilance.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
155
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,125
Crime Index:
1,280
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 645
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Hale, MI year-round?
Residents of Hale experience all four seasons, with cold winters reaching lows of 13°F and warm summers with highs up to 80°F. The area receives about 31 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied weather.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
The typical household income in Hale is around $42,300, with a per capita income of $23,200 and a poverty rate of 15.7%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute time is just over 25 minutes, reflecting the town's rural and relaxed lifestyle.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$42,300
Family Income:
$52,600
Per Capita Income:
$23,200
Income Male:
$30,100
Income Female:
$25,800
Poverty Rate:
15.7%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
6.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
25.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
86.5%
Bachelors or More:
13.2%
Education
How are the schools in Hale, MI?
Hale offers small public schools with low student-to-teacher ratios, providing individualized attention to students. For higher education, Alpena Community College is located within an hour’s drive, supporting ongoing learning and career development opportunities.

Public Schools
Name:
Hale Elementary School
Street:
311 N Washington St
Phone:
989-728-3551
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Hale High School
Street:
311 N Washington St
Phone:
989-728-3551
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.0

Colleges
Name:
Alpena Community College
City:
Alpena
State:
MI
Distance:
47 miles
Students:
1,300
Healthcare
Hale residents have access to general and emergency medical services nearby, including Ascension St. Joseph Hospital in Tawas City. With 91.6% health insurance coverage and a ratio of 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people, the community offers essential healthcare resources for its population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension St. Joseph Hospital
Address:
200 Hemlock St, Tawas City, MI 48763
Phone:
(989) 362-3411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
68.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Hale, MI?
The housing market in Hale is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $120,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 74.5%. Home values have seen steady appreciation, while rental options remain accessible, making the area attractive for both homeowners and renters.
Median Home Price:
$120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Local vehicle and licensing services are provided by the Michigan Secretary of State office conveniently located in Hale. Residents can easily access driver and vehicle services with friendly support and up-to-date resources.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
202 E. Michigan Ave, Hale, MI 48739
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.