Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Kalkaska, MI
Thinking of moving to Kalkaska, MI? With a friendly small-town feel and a population of around 2,140, Kalkaska offers affordable living—median home prices are $153,000 and average rents are just $770. Commute times are short at about 23 minutes, and the area boasts access to beautiful northern Michigan scenery. The cost of living is low compared to national averages, crime rates are moderate, and local schools provide a welcoming environment. Kalkaska is great for anyone seeking a peaceful lifestyle, four-season climate, and tight-knit community.
Demographics - Kalkaska, MI
Demographics - Kalkaska, MI
Kalkaska is a small town of about 2,140 residents, predominantly White, with a median age of 38.7 and a balanced gender ratio. The community is close-knit, with a population density of 1,010 per square mile and a low percentage of non-English speakers, making it accessible for newcomers.
Population:
2,140
Density:
1,010 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.2%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
4.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Kalkaska, MI?
Kalkaska offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $153,000 and average rents around $770. The cost of living index is well below the national average at 84.3, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$153,000
Gross Rent:
$770
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,140
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$400
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.3
Grocery:
90.2
Housing:
64.3
Utilities:
96.5
Transportation:
97.8
Health Care:
92.4
Miscellaneous:
91.0
Crime
Is Kalkaska, MI a safe place to live?
The town experiences moderate crime, with a violent crime rate of 195 per 100,000 and property crime rates at 1,550 per 100,000 residents. Most residents feel safe, but it’s wise to stay aware of property protection best practices.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
195
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,550
Crime Index:
1,745
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 512
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 64
Weather
What is the weather like in Kalkaska, MI year-round?
Kalkaska enjoys four distinct seasons, featuring cold winters with lows around 13°F and warm summers with highs reaching 80°F. The area receives about 32 inches of rain annually and has 46% sunny days, offering a true northern Michigan climate.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
59°F
Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Typical household incomes in Kalkaska are modest, with a median of $41,200 and a poverty rate near 19%. The majority of adults have completed high school, and the average commute is a manageable 23 minutes, providing a relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$28,800
Household Income:
$41,200
Family Income:
$52,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,300
Income Male:
$32,900
Income Female:
$26,100
Poverty Rate:
18.6%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$770
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.2%
Commute Time:
23.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
14.2%
Education
How are the schools in Kalkaska, MI?
Kalkaska public schools, such as Kalkaska High School, offer a supportive learning environment with reasonable student-to-teacher ratios. For higher education, Northwestern Michigan College in nearby Traverse City is just 24 miles away, expanding educational opportunities for residents.
Public Schools
Name:
Kalkaska High School
Street:
109 N Birch St
Phone:
231-258-9167
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Cherry Street Intermediate School
Street:
525 W. Cherry St
Phone:
231-258-9146
Students:
260
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Colleges
Name:
Northwestern Michigan College
City:
Traverse City
State:
MI
Distance:
24 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Residents benefit from local care at Munson Healthcare Kalkaska Memorial Health Center, which offers emergency services and general medical care. Health insurance coverage is high at nearly 92%, ensuring most people have access to necessary services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Healthcare Kalkaska Memorial Health Center
Address:
419 S Coral St, Kalkaska, MI 49646
Phone:
(231) 258-7500
Type:
General & Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Kalkaska, MI?
Homeownership is common in Kalkaska, with 62% of residents owning their homes and a median home price of $153,000. Rental options are affordable, and the housing market shows healthy appreciation, making it a solid choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$153,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$770
Owner Occupied Rate:
61.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle and licensing services are conveniently provided by the Michigan Secretary of State office located on S. Cedar Street in Kalkaska. Residents can access essential DMV functions locally or online through the state’s official website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
702 S. Cedar St, Kalkaska, MI 49646
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.