Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Mears, MI
Considering a move to Mears, MI? This small lakeshore community of around 200 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices at $165,000 and average rents near $850. Enjoy a peaceful, close-knit lifestyle with low violent crime, average commutes of just 22 minutes, and easy access to beautiful Lake Michigan beaches. While education options are modest and incomes are below the national average, Mears stands out for its relaxed pace, friendly atmosphere, and scenic natural surroundings.
Demographics - Mears, MI
Mears, Michigan is a small community with about 200 residents, a median age of 47.3, and a close gender balance. The population is predominantly White, with a modest diversity and 3.5% of residents speaking a language other than English at home. This low-density area offers a quiet, neighborly environment ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Population:
200
Density:
180 per sq mi
Median Age:
47.3
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
90.2%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
8.3%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Mears, MI?
The cost of living in Mears is below the national average, with a median home value of $165,000 and typical rents around $850 per month. Daily expenses, including groceries and utilities, are affordable, making Mears attractive for budget-conscious individuals or families. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, contributing to manageable overall living costs.
Median House Value:
$165,000
Gross Rent:
$850
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
90.2
Housing:
70.4
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
89.0
Health Care:
94.1
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Mears, MI a safe place to live?
Mears experiences low crime rates, with violent crime notably rare—there is about a 1 in 555 chance of being affected. Property crime is also infrequent for a community of its size, offering residents peace of mind and a safe, welcoming atmosphere. The overall crime index remains well below urban averages, making safety a highlight of life in Mears.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,100
Crime Index:
1,280
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 91
Weather
What is the weather like in Mears, MI year-round?
Mears enjoys a classic Midwest climate, with warm summers reaching up to 81°F and cold winters that can dip to 18°F. The area receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine nearly half the year, offering four distinct seasons and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents can expect moderate transitions between mild springs and crisp autumns.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
56°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34.0 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Households in Mears typically earn around $52,000, with a family income of $60,000 and a per capita income of $26,500. The poverty rate is 13.2%, and the unemployment rate is moderate at 5.8%, reflecting a small but stable workforce. Most residents commute about 22 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal, highlighting the town's rural character.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$52,000
Family Income:
$60,000
Per Capita Income:
$26,500
Income Male:
$35,000
Income Female:
$27,000
Poverty Rate:
13.2%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$850
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
22.0 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.0%
Bachelors or More:
15.2%
Education
How are the schools in Mears, MI?
Educational opportunities in Mears include public schools like Shelby High School and Shelby Middle School, both offering modest class sizes and a supportive learning environment. The area also has access to private education at New Era Christian School and higher education at West Shore Community College, located about 20 miles away. While options are limited compared to urban centers, families benefit from a close-knit, community-focused approach to education.
Public Schools
Name:
Shelby High School
Street:
525 N State St
Phone:
231-861-4452
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.0
Name:
Shelby Middle School
Street:
525 N State St
Phone:
231-861-4521
Students:
300
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Private Schools
Name:
New Era Christian School
Street:
1901 Oak Ave, New Era
Phone:
231-861-5450
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
West Shore Community College
City:
Scottville
State:
MI
Distance:
20 miles
Students:
1,400
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Mears is supported by nearby facilities like Mercy Health Lakeshore Campus and Lakeshore Medical Shelby, ensuring essential medical and emergency services are within reach. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and a high health insurance coverage rate of 92.1%, residents benefit from reliable basic healthcare. The local healthcare index reflects a reasonable standard of care for a rural area.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Mercy Health Lakeshore Campus
Address:
72 S State St, Shelby, MI 49455
Phone:
(231) 861-2156
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Lakeshore Medical Shelby
Address:
71 Bevier St, Shelby, MI 49455
Phone:
(231) 861-6246
Type:
Medical Clinic
Emergency Services:
No
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
68.9
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Mears, MI?
The housing market in Mears is affordable, with a median home price of $165,000 and owner-occupied homes comprising 82% of properties. Average rent for a two-bedroom is $850, and vacancy rates are moderate, making it feasible for both buyers and renters to find options. Home values have appreciated by 5.2% in the past year, indicating steady growth.
Median Home Price:
$165,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$850
Owner Occupied Rate:
82.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents of Mears are served by the Michigan Secretary of State office in Ludington for all DMV needs, including licensing and vehicle registration. The office is easily accessible, and additional information is available through the state website or by phone. This ensures essential motor vehicle services are convenient for local residents.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
3070 W US-10, Ludington, MI 49431
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.