Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ionia, MI
Considering a move to Ionia, MI? This close-knit city of 11,280 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $134,000 and average rents at $870. Residents enjoy a short 24-minute average commute, access to local schools, and the services of Sparrow Ionia Hospital. While crime rates are a bit higher than the national average, Ionia features a friendly community, four-season weather, and a cost of living well below the U.S. average—making it an attractive option for families and those seeking value.
Demographics - Ionia, MI
Ionia, Michigan is home to about 11,280 residents with a median age of 36.4, offering a youthful yet family-friendly atmosphere. The city is predominantly White, with Black and other minority communities adding to its diversity, and has a slightly higher male-to-female ratio than average. With a moderate population density, Ionia provides a balance between small-town charm and urban accessibility.
Population:
11,280
Density:
1,600 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.4
Gender Ratio:
114 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.8%
Black:
11.0%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
6.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ionia, MI?
Ionia offers an affordable cost of living, with median home values around $134,000 and average rents at $870, making it budget-friendly compared to national averages. The overall cost of living index is notably low at 78.5, and utilities and groceries are also relatively inexpensive. Residents benefit from reasonable state income tax rates and modest homeowner costs.
Median House Value:
$134,000
Gross Rent:
$870
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,290
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$405
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.5
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
56.0
Utilities:
99.8
Transportation:
93.2
Health Care:
89.7
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Ionia, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Ionia are higher than the national average, with a chance of property crime at 1 in 47 and violent crime at 1 in 354. While safety is a consideration, these figures are typical for cities of similar size and provide important context for newcomers. Staying informed and taking standard precautions can help residents feel secure.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
283
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,120
Crime Index:
2,403
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 354
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 47
Weather
What is the weather like in Ionia, MI year-round?
Ionia experiences all four seasons, with chilly winters dipping to 17°F and warm summers reaching up to 83°F. The city receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. Residents can expect distinct seasonal changes, making it ideal for those who appreciate varied weather.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The typical household income in Ionia is $52,900, with a median individual income of $28,300 and a poverty rate of 17.2%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commutes average just under 24 minutes. The community is close-knit, with a low rate of public transit use and a modest unemployment rate.
Median Income:
$28,300
Household Income:
$52,900
Family Income:
$65,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,600
Income Male:
$32,800
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
17.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$870
Unemployment Rate:
5.4%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.7%
Bachelors or More:
14.4%
Education
How are the schools in Ionia, MI?
Ionia offers a range of educational opportunities, from local public and private schools to nearby community college options. Ionia High School and Jefferson Elementary serve the majority of students, while St. Patrick School provides a private alternative. Higher education is available at Montcalm Community College's Ionia Center, with additional options in nearby Grand Rapids.
Public Schools
Name:
Ionia High School
Street:
250 E Tuttle Rd
Phone:
616-527-0600
Students:
835
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.0
Name:
Jefferson Elementary School
Street:
203 N Jefferson St
Phone:
616-527-2740
Students:
290
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
St. Patrick School
Street:
122 West St
Phone:
616-527-3561
Students:
115
Colleges
Name:
Montcalm Community College - Ionia Center
City:
Ionia
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
450
Name:
Grand Rapids Community College
City:
Grand Rapids
State:
MI
Distance:
34 miles
Students:
12,500
Healthcare
Ionia is served by Sparrow Ionia Hospital, which provides general and emergency services to the community. With about 1.9 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 91% health insurance coverage, healthcare access is solid for a city of this size. The area offers essential medical resources for individuals and families alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Sparrow Ionia Hospital
Address:
3565 S State Rd, Ionia, MI 48846
Phone:
(616) 523-1400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ionia, MI?
The housing market in Ionia is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $134,000 and a healthy owner-occupied rate of 64.3%. Rental options are accessible, with average two-bedroom rents at $870 and a moderate vacancy rate. Home values have appreciated by nearly 5% over the past year, reflecting steady local growth.
Median Home Price:
$134,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$870
Owner Occupied Rate:
64.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents manage their vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office, conveniently located in Ionia. Services are accessible both in-person at the Adams Street location and online via the state website. The DMV provides comprehensive support for all registration and licensing requirements.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
603 W Adams St, Ionia, MI 48846
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.