Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mackinaw City, MI
Considering a move to Mackinaw City, MI? This small lakeside community of about 800 residents offers affordable living with median home prices at $172,000 and average rents around $830. Commutes are short at just over 15 minutes, crime rates are low, and the pace is relaxed. Residents enjoy crisp northern Michigan seasons, a close-knit atmosphere, and access to scenic outdoor attractions. With solid public schools and reasonable healthcare access, Mackinaw City is ideal for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle near the Straits of Mackinac.
Demographics - Mackinaw City, MI
Demographics - Mackinaw City, MI
Mackinaw City is a small, close-knit community of 806 residents, with a median age of 53, reflecting a mature population. The area is predominantly White, with over 89% of residents, and has a modest population density that offers a peaceful, uncrowded living environment. A low percentage of non-English speakers and a balanced gender ratio contribute to its welcoming, accessible atmosphere.
Population:
806
Density:
425 per sq mi
Median Age:
53.1
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
89.5%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
9.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mackinaw City, MI?
The cost of living in Mackinaw City is notably affordable, with a median home value of $172,000 and average rents around $830 per month. Utility and transportation costs are below the national average, and overall living expenses are budget-friendly. State taxes are moderate, making this a practical choice for families and retirees alike.
Median House Value:
$172,000
Gross Rent:
$830
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,360
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,110
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.5
Grocery:
92.3
Housing:
69.6
Utilities:
93.1
Transportation:
93.0
Health Care:
94.7
Miscellaneous:
90.1
Crime
Is Mackinaw City, MI a safe place to live?
Mackinaw City boasts low crime rates, with violent offenses occurring at only 180 cases per 100,000 people and property crimes at 1,350 per 100,000. Residents enjoy a sense of safety, with the odds of being involved in a violent crime at just 1 in 555. This secure environment is ideal for those prioritizing peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,350
Crime Index:
1,530
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 74
Weather
What is the weather like in Mackinaw City, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with winters averaging lows around 14°F and summers reaching comfortable highs of 75°F. The city receives about 29 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunny weather nearly half the year. These conditions make it attractive for those who appreciate a classic northern Michigan climate and outdoor recreation.
Winter
Min:
14°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
55°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
75°F
Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
29.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
The typical household in Mackinaw City earns about $42,900, with a poverty rate of 16.8% and an unemployment rate below 5%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commute times are short at just over 15 minutes. The community is quiet and car-dependent, with no public transportation usage reported.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$42,900
Family Income:
$51,200
Per Capita Income:
$23,900
Income Male:
$32,100
Income Female:
$26,400
Poverty Rate:
16.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$830
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0%
Commute Time:
15.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
91.1%
Bachelors or More:
18.2%
Education
How are the schools in Mackinaw City, MI?
Education in Mackinaw City is anchored by a well-rated K-12 public school with a favorable 12:1 student-teacher ratio, supporting a personalized learning environment. While private school options are not available locally, North Central Michigan College is within a reasonable 37-mile drive for those seeking higher education. The community values education, with over 91% of adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Mackinaw City K-12 School
Street:
609 W Central Ave
Phone:
231-436-8211
Students:
160
Student Teacher Ratio:
12:1
Colleges
Name:
North Central Michigan College
City:
Petoskey
State:
MI
Distance:
37 miles
Students:
2,700
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Mackinaw City is reliable, with over 91% of residents covered by insurance and two major hospitals located within driving distance. The area offers a physician rate of 1.7 per 1,000 residents and a solid healthcare index, ensuring essential medical services are readily available. Emergency care is accessible for both routine and urgent needs.
Major Hospitals
Name:
McLaren Northern Michigan Hospital
Address:
416 Connable Ave, Petoskey, MI 49770
Phone:
(800) 248-6777
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Munson Healthcare Otsego Memorial Hospital
Address:
825 N Center Ave, Gaylord, MI 49735
Phone:
(989) 731-2100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mackinaw City, MI?
The local housing market offers affordability, with a median home price of $172,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $830. A majority of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees steady appreciation at nearly 6% annually. The rental market is accessible, with a moderate vacancy rate and limited new construction.
Median Home Price:
$172,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$830
Owner Occupied Rate:
63.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.8%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Mackinaw City are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State, with the nearest office located in Saint Helen. Residents can access services in person or online for convenience. State-level support ensures efficient handling of all DMV needs.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
1221 S. Saint Helen Road, Saint Helen, MI 48656
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.