Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Iron River, MI
Considering a move to Iron River, MI? This friendly Upper Peninsula city has a population of 2,766 and features very affordable housing, with median home prices around $74,000 and average rents near $640. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 14.5 minutes, low violent crime rates, and access to local schools and healthcare. While winters are cold and snowy, the cost of living is well below the national average, making Iron River an attractive option for those seeking small-town living and great value.
Demographics - Iron River, MI
Demographics - Iron River, MI
Iron River is a close-knit community of 2,766 residents, with a predominantly White population and a median age of 51.6, reflecting its appeal for those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The city has a balanced gender ratio and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it welcoming and accessible for newcomers.
Population:
2,766
Density:
655 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.2%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.1%
Black:
0.6%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
1.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Iron River, MI?
Iron River offers a highly affordable cost of living, with a median home value of $74,000 and average rents around $640. Essential expenses like utilities and groceries are below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious residents.
Median House Value:
$74,000
Gross Rent:
$640
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,080
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.5
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
47.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
80.2
Health Care:
88.5
Miscellaneous:
95.0
Crime
Is Iron River, MI a safe place to live?
The city experiences a low violent crime rate, with only 124 incidents per 100,000 people, offering a sense of security for families and individuals. Property crime is also relatively modest, making Iron River a safe small-town environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
124
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,190
Crime Index:
1,314
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 806
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 84
Weather
What is the weather like in Iron River, MI year-round?
Iron River has cold, snowy winters with average lows around 4°F, while summers remain mild, peaking at 77°F. With 46% sunny days and about 29 inches of annual rainfall, the climate is ideal for those who appreciate distinct seasons and outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
4°F
Max:
25°F
Spring
Min:
28°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
29°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with a median household income of $39,320 and a typical commute of just 14.5 minutes. The community places value on education and has a modest poverty rate, contributing to its welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Median Income:
$30,400
Household Income:
$39,320
Family Income:
$49,300
Per Capita Income:
$22,500
Income Male:
$29,900
Income Female:
$25,100
Poverty Rate:
17.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.2%
Rent:
$640
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
14.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.9%
Bachelors or More:
15.4%
Education
How are the schools in Iron River, MI?
Iron River is home to public schools such as West Iron County High School and Stambaugh Elementary, both known for their supportive student-teacher ratios. For higher education, residents are just a short drive from Bay College West Campus in Iron Mountain.
Public Schools
Name:
West Iron County High School
Street:
701 Garfield Ave
Phone:
906-265-5184
Students:
330
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Name:
Stambaugh Elementary School
Street:
700 Washington Ave
Phone:
906-265-6141
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2
Colleges
Name:
Bay College West Campus
City:
Iron Mountain
State:
MI
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Iron River is served by Aspirus Iron River Hospital, providing general and emergency care, and boasts a high health insurance coverage rate of 92.7%. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, essential healthcare services are conveniently accessible.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Aspirus Iron River Hospital
Address:
1400 W Ice Lake Rd, Iron River, MI 49935
Phone:
(906) 265-6121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.7%
Health Care Index:
68.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Iron River, MI?
The housing market in Iron River is very affordable, with a median home price of $74,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 77.5%. Low vacancy and steady home appreciation make it a stable choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$74,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$650
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Local driver and vehicle services are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State office, conveniently located in Iron River. Residents can access services in person, by phone, or online through the state's official website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
801 W Adams St, Iron River, MI 49935
Phone:
(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.