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Moving to Houghton Lake, MI

Thinking of making a move to Houghton Lake, MI? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Houghton Lake, MI

Considering a move to Houghton Lake, MI? This welcoming community of 5,800 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $112,000 and average rents near $770. Commute times average 19 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (47% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Houghton Lake's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Houghton Lake, MI

Houghton Lake has a population of 5,800 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 51 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 96% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 2% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

Population
5,800
Density
400 per sq mi
Median Age
51.2
Gender Ratio
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage
2.4%

Ethnic Composition

White
96.1%
Black
0.7%
Asian
0.6%
Others
2.6%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in Houghton Lake, MI?

The cost of living in Houghton Lake is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 82.5. Median home values are around $112,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $770. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

Median House Value
$112,000
Gross Rent
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges
$110
Auto Insurance
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage
$980
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage
$390
State Taxes
Low: 4.25%| High: 4.25%
Cost Of Living Index
82.5
Grocery
89.4
Housing
62.3
Utilities
97.1
Transportation
86.7
Health Care
89.9
Miscellaneous
90.5

Crime

Is Houghton Lake, MI a safe place to live?

Houghton Lake is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 219 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 52. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Michigan.

Violent Crimes Per 100k
219
Property Crimes Per 100k
1,940
Crime Index
2,159
Chance Of Violent Crime
1 in 456
Chance Of Property Crime
1 in 52

Weather

What is the weather like in Houghton Lake, MI year-round?

Houghton Lake experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 79°F and cold winters dipping to 10°F. The area receives about 32 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 47% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
10°F
Max
29°F

Summer

Min
54°F
Max
79°F

Spring

Min
34°F
Max
57°F

Fall

Min
36°F
Max
58°F
Average Rainfall Inches
31.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
47%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $38,600 and a low poverty rate of 20.6%. Over 86% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 14% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 19 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

Median Income
$25,500
Household Income
$38,600
Family Income
$48,200
Per Capita Income
$23,800
Income Male
$29,400
Income Female
$23,200
Poverty Rate
20.6%
Non English Speakers
2.4%
Rent
$770
Unemployment Rate
6.8%
Public Transport Usage
0.5%
Commute Time
18.7 minutes

Education

High School or Higher
85.8%
Bachelors or More
14.2%

Education

How are the schools in Houghton Lake, MI?

Houghton Lake offers quality education options, with public schools like Houghton Lake High School and Collins Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Kirtland Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

Public Schools

Name
Houghton Lake High School
Street
4433 W Houghton Lake Dr
Phone
989-366-2005
Students
432
Student Teacher Ratio
19.4
Name
Collins Elementary School
Street
419 Lake St
Phone
989-366-2031
Students
286
Student Teacher Ratio
17.1

Colleges

Name
Kirtland Community College
City
Roscommon
State
MI
Distance
15 miles
Students
1,400

Healthcare

Houghton Lake residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like MidMichigan Medical Center – Houghton Lake and Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.6 per 1,000 people and 89.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
MidMichigan Medical Center – Houghton Lake
Address
9249 W Lake City Rd, Houghton Lake, MI 48629
Phone
(989) 422-5122
Type
General & Urgent Care
Emergency Services
Yes
Name
Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital
Address
1100 E Michigan Ave, Grayling, MI 49738
Phone
(989) 348-5461
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

Physicians Per 1000
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage
89.8%
Health Care Index
69.1

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in Houghton Lake, MI?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $112,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 79%. The market has seen a 4.1% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.5%. Houghton Lake offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

Median Home Price
$112,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom
$770
Owner Occupied Rate
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr)
4.1%
New Construction Rate
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate
0.9%

DMV Information

Residents of Houghton Lake handle vehicle services through the Michigan Secretary of State, conveniently located in Grayling. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Michigan
Department
Michigan Secretary of State
Address
105 N James St, Grayling, MI 49738
Phone
1-888-767-6424

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.

FAQs About Moving to Houghton Lake, MI

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Houghton Lake, review the core fields on this page: population 5,800, median home value $112,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $770, commute time 18.7 minutes, and sunny days percentage 47%.

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