Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Higgins Lake, MI
Considering a move to Higgins Lake, MI? This small lakeside community of around 450 residents offers peaceful living, affordable home prices near $235,000, and low average rents. With a low crime rate of 118 violent crimes per 100K, scenic surroundings, and easy access to outdoor recreation, it’s great for those seeking tranquility. Commutes are short (about 24 minutes), schools are well-rated, and the cost of living is well below the national average—with four-season beauty and plenty of sunshine.
Demographics - Higgins Lake, MI
Demographics - Higgins Lake, MI
Higgins Lake is a small, close-knit community of about 450 residents with a predominantly White population and a median age of 58.2, reflecting a mature and peaceful environment. The population density is low at 120 people per square mile, and the area is primarily English-speaking, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet, friendly Midwest lifestyle.
Population:
450
Density:
120 per sq mi
Median Age:
58.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.7%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Higgins Lake, MI?
The cost of living in Higgins Lake is notably affordable, with a median home value around $235,000 and an overall cost of living index well below the national average. Monthly expenses, including rent and utilities, are reasonable, making this lakeside town attractive for retirees and families alike.
Median House Value:
$235,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,280
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$460
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.3
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
72.5
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
88.2
Health Care:
89.3
Miscellaneous:
90.5
Crime
Is Higgins Lake, MI a safe place to live?
Higgins Lake boasts a low crime rate, with only 118 violent crimes per 100,000 residents and a high sense of safety in the community. Property crime is also infrequent, offering residents peace of mind and a secure environment to call home.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
118
Property Crimes Per 100k:
870
Crime Index:
988
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 847
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 115
Weather
What is the weather like in Higgins Lake, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy all four seasons in Higgins Lake, with warm summers reaching highs near 79°F and crisp winters with lows around 13°F. The area receives about 32 inches of annual rainfall and experiences 56% sunny days, making it ideal for outdoor activities year-round.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Neighbors in Higgins Lake are friendly and community-oriented, with a median household income of $54,200 and a poverty rate of 13.8%. Most residents own their homes, and local education levels are strong, with over 93% of adults holding a high school diploma or higher.
Median Income:
$27,500
Household Income:
$54,200
Family Income:
$61,000
Per Capita Income:
$30,800
Income Male:
$34,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
13.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
23.9 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.5%
Bachelors or More:
24.7%
Education
How are the schools in Higgins Lake, MI?
Higgins Lake families benefit from several well-rated public and private schools in the area, as well as proximity to Kirtland Community College just eight miles away. The local education system offers favorable student-teacher ratios and a range of academic options for children and adults alike.

Public Schools
Name:
Roscommon Elementary School
Street:
175 Magnolia Rd
Phone:
989-275-6610
Students:
425
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.3
Name:
Roscommon Middle School
Street:
299 W Sunset Dr
Phone:
989-275-6612
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.1

Private Schools
Name:
Charlton Heston Academy
Street:
1350 N St Helen Rd
Phone:
989-632-3390
Students:
750

Colleges
Name:
Kirtland Community College
City:
Roscommon
State:
MI
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is reliable in Higgins Lake, with two major hospitals nearby and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92.8%. The area is served by 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring quality medical care for the small population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital
Address:
1100 E Michigan Ave, Grayling, MI 49738
Phone:
(989) 348-5461
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
McLaren Northern Michigan – Roscommon
Address:
1350 Lake St, Roscommon, MI 48653
Phone:
(989) 275-2100
Type:
Primary & Urgent Care
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.8%
Health Care Index:
69.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Higgins Lake, MI?
The housing market in Higgins Lake is stable, featuring a median home price of $235,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 88%. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, and rental options remain available with average two-bedroom rents around $950.
Median Home Price:
$235,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
88.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Michigan Secretary of State office in Cadillac, conveniently located nearby. Services are accessible both in person and online, making DMV tasks straightforward for Higgins Lake locals.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
102 N. Mitchell St, Cadillac, MI 49601
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.