Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Johannesburg, MI
Thinking of relocating to Johannesburg, MI? With a population of just 335, this friendly rural community offers affordable living, with median home prices at $175,000 and average rents around $950. Crime rates are low compared to urban areas, and the average commute is a quick 21.5 minutes. Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle, access to well-rated local schools, and crisp northern Michigan summers—making Johannesburg a great choice for those seeking small-town charm and natural beauty.
Demographics - Johannesburg, MI
Demographics - Johannesburg, MI
Johannesburg, MI is a small rural community of 335 residents, known for its spacious feel and close-knit atmosphere. The population is predominantly White, with a median age of nearly 49, suggesting a mature community. Most households speak English at home, and the gender balance is fairly even.
Population:
335
Density:
20 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.7
Gender Ratio:
102 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.3%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Johannesburg, MI?
Living in Johannesburg is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $175,000 and average rents of $950, well below national averages. Utility and healthcare costs are close to the U.S. average, while housing is particularly affordable. Local taxes are stable at 4.25%, making this a cost-effective place to settle down.
Median House Value:
$175,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,330
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,160
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.0
Grocery:
94.5
Housing:
70.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
90.1
Health Care:
98.5
Miscellaneous:
93.5
Crime
Is Johannesburg, MI a safe place to live?
Johannesburg experiences notably low crime, with a violent crime rate of just 140 incidents per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 950 per 100,000. Residents enjoy a high sense of safety, with the chance of violent crime at only 1 in 715. This peaceful environment is ideal for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
140
Property Crimes Per 100k:
950
Crime Index:
1,090
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 715
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 105
Weather
What is the weather like in Johannesburg, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs near 79°F and snowy winters dipping to 10°F. The area receives about 31 inches of rainfall annually and has 46% sunny days, offering ample opportunities to enjoy Michigan’s natural beauty year-round.

Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
28°F

Spring
Min:
31°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
52°F
Max:
79°F

Fall
Min:
32°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Johannesburg’s community features a median household income of $51,200 and a poverty rate of 13.1%. Most residents commute under 22 minutes, and public transportation is not commonly used. The area boasts a high high school graduation rate and a welcoming, neighborly vibe.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$51,200
Family Income:
$59,000
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
13.1%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
21.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
90.5%
Bachelors or More:
22.0%
Education
How are the schools in Johannesburg, MI?
Local students attend Johannesburg-Lewiston schools, which offer favorable student-to-teacher ratios and a supportive learning environment. Higher education opportunities are available at North Central Michigan College, located 44 miles away in Petoskey. The high school graduation rate in the area is above 90%, reflecting the community’s commitment to education.

Public Schools
Name:
Johannesburg-Lewiston High School
Street:
10854 M-32, Johannesburg, MI 49751
Phone:
989-732-1773
Students:
315
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Johannesburg-Lewiston Elementary School
Street:
10854 M-32, Johannesburg, MI 49751
Phone:
989-732-1773
Students:
210
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5

Colleges
Name:
North Central Michigan College
City:
Petoskey
State:
MI
Distance:
44 miles
Students:
2,600
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with over 91% of residents insured and local facilities like Otsego Memorial Hospital nearby. There are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, and the area is supported by a solid healthcare index. Emergency services are available, contributing to residents’ peace of mind.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Otsego Memorial Hospital
Address:
825 N Center Ave, Gaylord, MI 49735
Phone:
(989) 731-2100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Johannesburg, MI?
The housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $175,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 83%. Rental options are available, and the area has seen home values appreciate by over 5% in the past year. Low vacancy and foreclosure rates reflect a healthy local market.
Median Home Price:
$175,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services are provided by the Michigan Secretary of State, conveniently located in nearby Gaylord. Residents can access a range of DMV services both in person and online through the state website. The office is a short drive from Johannesburg, making vehicle registration and licensing straightforward.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
833 S Otsego Ave, Gaylord, MI 49735
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.