Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Howard City, MI
Considering a move to Howard City, MI? With a cozy population of about 1,795, this friendly community offers affordable living—median home prices are around $147,000 and rents average $850. Crime rates are low, with just 187 violent crimes per 100,000 and a property crime chance of 1 in 89. Residents enjoy a typical Michigan climate with four seasons, plenty of sunny days, and a moderate commute time of about 27 minutes. Solid public schools, a peaceful small-town vibe, and proximity to area hospitals make Howard City a practical and welcoming place to call home.
Demographics - Howard City, MI
Demographics - Howard City, MI
Howard City is a close-knit community of about 1,795 residents, with a median age of 36.8 years and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White, and the town maintains a family-friendly, small-town feel with a moderate population density.
Population:
1,795
Density:
1,095 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.8
Gender Ratio:
95 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.4%
Black:
0.8%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Howard City, MI?
Living in Howard City is affordable, with a median home value of $147,000 and average rent around $850. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$147,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.2
Grocery:
91.1
Housing:
69.0
Utilities:
91.3
Transportation:
82.5
Health Care:
90.8
Miscellaneous:
88.0
Crime
Is Howard City, MI a safe place to live?
Howard City boasts a low crime rate, with only 187 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a property crime chance of 1 in 89. Residents enjoy a sense of safety that adds to the town's welcoming atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
187
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,120
Crime Index:
1,307
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 535
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 89
Weather
What is the weather like in Howard City, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 81°F and cold winters dipping to 15°F. The area sees about 32.8 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 52% of the year, creating a classic Michigan climate.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The median household income in Howard City is $47,200, and most residents commute about 27 minutes to work. With a poverty rate of 15.5% and a high school graduation rate near 88%, the community reflects a blend of working families and local professionals.
Median Income:
$33,800
Household Income:
$47,200
Family Income:
$58,000
Per Capita Income:
$22,200
Income Male:
$37,900
Income Female:
$29,200
Poverty Rate:
15.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
27.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.9%
Bachelors or More:
12.4%
Education
How are the schools in Howard City, MI?
Howard City is served by Tri County Area Schools, offering strong student-to-teacher ratios and a supportive learning environment. Nearby colleges like Montcalm Community College and Ferris State University provide accessible higher education options within a short drive.
Public Schools
Name:
Tri County Area High School
Street:
21338 Kendaville Rd
Phone:
231-937-4338
Students:
580
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.1
Name:
Tri County Middle School
Street:
21350 Kendaville Rd
Phone:
231-937-4318
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.4
Colleges
Name:
Montcalm Community College
City:
Sidney
State:
MI
Distance:
19 miles
Students:
2,400
Name:
Ferris State University
City:
Big Rapids
State:
MI
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
10,300
Healthcare
Howard City residents have access to quality healthcare, with 1.7 physicians per 1,000 people and major hospitals nearby in Greenville and Big Rapids. Over 91% of the population is insured, ensuring families can access medical care when needed.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Spectrum Health United Hospital
Address:
615 S Bower St, Greenville, MI 48838
Phone:
(616) 754-4691
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital
Address:
605 Oak St, Big Rapids, MI 49307
Phone:
(231) 796-8691
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Howard City, MI?
The housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $147,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 72%. Home values have appreciated by over 6% in the past year, making it a practical location for homeowners and renters alike.
Median Home Price:
$147,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
71.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
1.0%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Local residents handle motor vehicle services through the Michigan Secretary of State Office in Fremont, just a short drive away. Comprehensive information and online services are easily accessible via the state’s official website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State Office
Address:
609 W Main St, Fremont, MI 49412
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.