Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Houghton Lake Heights, MI
Considering a move to Houghton Lake Heights, MI? This lakeside community of around 1,200 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices near $105,000 and average rents at $780. Crime rates are low, and the average commute is just under 24 minutes. While the area is quieter and older than most, it boasts outdoor recreation, a relaxed lifestyle, and easy access to healthcare and schools. With cool summers, snowy winters, and a friendly small-town feel, it’s a welcoming spot for those seeking value and tranquility.
Demographics - Houghton Lake Heights, MI
Demographics - Houghton Lake Heights, MI
Houghton Lake Heights is a small, close-knit community of 1,200 people, with a median age of 54.2, reflecting its popularity among retirees and older adults. The population is predominantly White, and the area maintains a balanced gender ratio and a quiet, residential atmosphere.
Population:
1,200
Density:
450 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.1%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Houghton Lake Heights, MI?
Living in Houghton Lake Heights is especially affordable, with a median home value of $105,000 and average rent around $780 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$105,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,235
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$340
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.0
Grocery:
95.6
Housing:
62.3
Utilities:
94.1
Transportation:
88.4
Health Care:
101.2
Miscellaneous:
92.7
Crime
Is Houghton Lake Heights, MI a safe place to live?
Residents enjoy a low crime rate, with violent crimes occurring at 185 per 100,000 people and property crime at 1,650 per 100,000. The community provides a safe environment, adding peace of mind for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,650
Crime Index:
1,835
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 61
Weather
What is the weather like in Houghton Lake Heights, MI year-round?
The area experiences cold, snowy winters with average lows around 12°F, while summers are pleasantly mild, reaching up to 80°F. There are about 49% sunny days each year, and the region sees moderate rainfall, making it ideal for those who appreciate four distinct seasons.

Winter
Min:
12°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
Households in Houghton Lake Heights tend to have modest incomes, with a median of $37,600 and a poverty rate of 18.4%. Most residents commute about 24 minutes to work, and public transportation usage is low, emphasizing the area's relaxed, rural lifestyle.
Median Income:
$28,300
Household Income:
$37,600
Family Income:
$49,200
Per Capita Income:
$22,800
Income Male:
$29,000
Income Female:
$25,300
Poverty Rate:
18.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
23.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
85.5%
Bachelors or More:
12.2%
Education
How are the schools in Houghton Lake Heights, MI?
Houghton Lake Heights is served by local public schools with manageable student-teacher ratios, and Kirtland Community College is just 28 miles away for higher education opportunities. The area supports educational needs from elementary through college for families and individuals.

Public Schools
Name:
Houghton Lake Community Schools
Street:
4433 W. Houghton Lake Dr
Phone:
989-366-2031
Students:
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Collins Elementary School
Street:
3450 W Houghton Lake Dr
Phone:
989-366-2544
Students:
460
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.9

Colleges
Name:
Kirtland Community College
City:
Grayling
State:
MI
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
1,200
Healthcare
Residents have access to general and surgical hospitals within a short drive, and healthcare coverage is strong with over 91% insured. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people, basic medical needs are well-supported for this small community.

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:
MidMichigan Medical Center - Clare
Address:
703 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617
Phone:
(989) 802-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
70.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Houghton Lake Heights, MI?
The housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $105,000 and high owner-occupancy at 79.3%. Both renters and buyers benefit from reasonable prices and low vacancy and foreclosure rates.
Median Home Price:
$105,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
79.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.4%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State, with a convenient branch office located in nearby Lake City. Residents can access services online or by phone for added convenience.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
211 N. Canal St, Lake City, MI 49651
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.