Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Harbor Springs, MI
Considering Harbor Springs, MI for your next home? With a close-knit population of 1,208, this picturesque lakeside town offers a median home price of $352,000 and affordable rents around $1,180. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 15 minutes, low violent crime rates (82 per 100K), and access to highly rated public schools. The area boasts beautiful northern Michigan seasons, a strong sense of community, and easy access to healthcare and outdoor recreation—making it a charming spot for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Harbor Springs, MI
Demographics - Harbor Springs, MI
Harbor Springs is a small and predominantly White community of 1,208 residents, with a median age of nearly 55, reflecting its appeal to retirees and older adults. The population density is moderate at 755 people per square mile, and the town maintains a balanced gender ratio with a small proportion of non-English speakers. This demographic profile contributes to a quiet, welcoming atmosphere ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle.
Population:
1,208
Density:
755 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.9
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.9%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
5.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Harbor Springs, MI?
The cost of living in Harbor Springs is slightly below the national average, with a cost of living index of 97.2. Median home values stand at $352,000, and typical rent for a two-bedroom apartment is about $1,180 per month, offering reasonable options for both homeowners and renters. Utilities and transportation costs are moderate, and state income tax is a flat 4.25%, making living here affordable for many.
Median House Value:
$352,000
Gross Rent:
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,630
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$555
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
97.2
Grocery:
94.1
Housing:
102.3
Utilities:
98.7
Transportation:
94.5
Health Care:
96.8
Miscellaneous:
95.2
Crime
Is Harbor Springs, MI a safe place to live?
Harbor Springs is a safe community with very low violent crime—only 82 incidents per 100,000 people—making it an attractive choice for families and retirees. Property crime is also relatively low, with a 1 in 139 chance, contributing to the town's reputation for safety. Residents enjoy peace of mind thanks to the area's strong sense of security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
82
Property Crimes Per 100k:
720
Crime Index:
802
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,220
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 139
Weather
What is the weather like in Harbor Springs, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 15°F and pleasant summers reaching highs of 77°F. Harbor Springs receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 48% of the year. This climate is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities and the changing beauty of northern Michigan.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community enjoys a median household income of $66,200 and a low poverty rate of 8.1%, contributing to a stable, middle-class environment. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly half hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commutes are short, averaging just over 15 minutes, adding to the town's relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$35,500
Household Income:
$66,200
Family Income:
$75,800
Per Capita Income:
$37,400
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$29,900
Poverty Rate:
8.1%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$1,180
Unemployment Rate:
4.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.3%
Bachelors or More:
43.1%
Education
How are the schools in Harbor Springs, MI?
Education is a highlight in Harbor Springs, with highly rated public schools like Harbor Springs High School and Middle School offering favorable student-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private options such as Harbor Light Christian School, and higher education is close by at North Central Michigan College in Petoskey. The community values learning, reflected in high levels of educational attainment.
Public Schools
Name:
Harbor Springs High School
Street:
500 Spring Street
Phone:
231-526-4855
Students:
257
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Name:
Harbor Springs Middle School
Street:
800 State Road
Phone:
231-526-4760
Students:
175
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.8
Private Schools
Name:
Harbor Light Christian School
Street:
8333 Clayton Rd
Phone:
231-347-7859
Students:
180
Colleges
Name:
North Central Michigan College
City:
Petoskey
State:
MI
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
2,900
Healthcare
Harbor Springs residents benefit from strong healthcare access, with nearly 95% insured and 2.1 physicians per 1,000 people. The nearby McLaren Northern Michigan hospital in Petoskey provides comprehensive medical and emergency services. The area’s healthcare index of 77.5 indicates reliable and accessible medical care for locals.
Major Hospitals
Name:
McLaren Northern Michigan
Address:
416 Connable Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770
Phone:
(800) 248-6777
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
77.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Harbor Springs, MI?
The local housing market features a median home price of $352,000 and home values have appreciated by 7.1% over the past year. Owner-occupied housing is common, with nearly 75% of homes occupied by their owners, and rental vacancies remain low. These trends point to a stable and desirable market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$352,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
74.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.9%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Harbor Springs residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Michigan Secretary of State office in nearby Petoskey. Essential DMV services are conveniently located just a short drive away, and information is easily accessible via the state website or by phone. This ensures straightforward access for new and existing residents.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
200 Division St, Petoskey, MI 49770
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.