Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Lake, MI
Considering a move to Lake, MI? With a population of just 850, Lake offers small-town charm, affordable living, and scenic Midwestern surroundings. Median home prices are around $115,000, with average rents near $730, and the overall cost of living is well below national averages. Crime rates are low, commutes are short, and while educational attainment is modest, residents enjoy a peaceful, rural lifestyle with access to local healthcare and friendly communities. If you value quiet living and budget-friendly housing, Lake might be your perfect fit.
Demographics - Lake, MI
Lake, MI is a close-knit community of about 850 residents, with a median age of 51.2 and a population density of 430 people per square mile. The town is predominantly White, and the small percentage of non-English speakers contributes to a cohesive local culture. Its balanced gender ratio and older population make it a peaceful choice for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
850
Density:
430 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.2
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.4%
Black:
0.5%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Lake, MI?
Living in Lake is highly affordable, with median home values at $115,000 and average rents around $730 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, making essentials like groceries, utilities, and healthcare more budget-friendly. Low state taxes and moderate owner costs further enhance the area's financial appeal for new residents.
Median House Value:
$115,000
Gross Rent:
$730
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
62.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
92.0
Health Care:
91.0
Miscellaneous:
89.0
Crime
Is Lake, MI a safe place to live?
Lake experiences relatively low crime, with a violent crime rate of 230 per 100,000 and property crime at 1,430 per 100,000 residents. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is about 1 in 435, lending peace of mind to those seeking a safe, rural environment. Property crime is somewhat higher, but overall, the town offers a secure setting for families and retirees.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
230
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,430
Crime Index:
1,660
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 435
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 70
Weather
What is the weather like in Lake, MI year-round?
Lake features four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm summers reaching highs around 81°F. The area receives about 32.6 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 47% of the year. This climate offers residents a classic Michigan experience with vibrant seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
37°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
The community in Lake is friendly and modest, with a median household income of $41,200 and a poverty rate of 19.2%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and commutes average just under 30 minutes. The area is quiet, with minimal public transit use and a laid-back, rural lifestyle.
Median Income:
$25,000
Household Income:
$41,200
Family Income:
$50,500
Per Capita Income:
$22,800
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$21,400
Poverty Rate:
19.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$730
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
28.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.1%
Bachelors or More:
10.8%
Education
How are the schools in Lake, MI?
Local students attend Farwell Area Schools, which serve about 1,050 students with a student-teacher ratio of 17.3, ensuring personalized attention. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is available nearby at Mid Michigan College, just 16 miles away. The area supports a solid foundation for K-12 and accessible options for continuing education.

Public Schools
Name:
Farwell Area Schools
Street:
399 E. Michigan St, Farwell, MI 48622
Phone:
989-588-9917
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.3

Colleges
Name:
Mid Michigan College
City:
Harrison
State:
MI
Distance:
16 miles
Students:
3,500
Healthcare
Lake residents have access to MidMichigan Medical Center in nearby Clare, providing general and surgical services with emergency care. The area has about one physician per 1,000 people, and over 91% of locals have health insurance. Healthcare is accessible and affordable, supported by a solid health care index.

Major Hospitals
Name:
MidMichigan Medical Center – Clare
Address:
703 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617
Phone:
(989) 802-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
63.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Lake, MI?
Lake's housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $115,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $730. Most homes are owner-occupied, and the market sees a steady appreciation rate of 6.3% annually. Rental vacancies are moderate, and foreclosure rates remain low, making it appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$115,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$730
Owner Occupied Rate:
77.3%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.3%
New Construction Rate:
0.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents manage vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State, with the main office located in Lansing and a comprehensive website for online services. The department offers assistance by phone and provides easy access to all DMV-related resources. Processes are streamlined for convenience and efficiency.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
202 S. Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933
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.