Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Michiana, MI
Considering a move to Michiana, MI? With a small-town population of just 185, Michiana offers a peaceful, close-knit community feel along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Home prices hover around $310,000 and rents average $1,150, while the cost of living stays below national averages. Residents benefit from low crime rates, quick 23-minute commutes, and easy access to healthcare and top-rated schools nearby. Enjoy all four seasons and a relaxed, neighborly lifestyle perfect for those seeking a quiet Michigan retreat.
Demographics - Michiana, MI
Demographics - Michiana, MI
Michiana is a small, close-knit community with 185 residents and a median age of 54.2, reflecting its appeal to retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The population is predominantly White, with a nearly balanced gender ratio and a very low percentage of non-English speakers.
Population:
185
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.8%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
1.5%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Michiana, MI?
Living in Michiana is affordable, with a cost of living index below the national average and a median home value of $310,000. Housing and utility costs are reasonable, making it an attractive option for those seeking value without sacrificing quality of life.
Median House Value:
$310,000
Gross Rent:
$1,150
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,600
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$500
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
94.8
Grocery:
96.5
Housing:
89.2
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
92.3
Health Care:
95.7
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Michiana, MI a safe place to live?
Michiana enjoys a low crime rate, with only 118 violent crimes per 100,000 people, offering residents a safe and secure environment. The risk of property crime is also well below national averages, contributing to the area's peace of mind.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
118
Property Crimes Per 100k:
850
Crime Index:
968
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 850
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 118
Weather
What is the weather like in Michiana, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, with warm summers reaching up to 81°F and cold winters dipping to 18°F. The area receives about 40 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine just over half the year, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.

Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The typical Michiana household earns around $64,700, while the poverty rate remains low at 7.8%. Most residents are well-educated, with over 93% holding a high school diploma, and enjoy short commutes averaging 23.5 minutes.
Median Income:
$42,000
Household Income:
$64,700
Family Income:
$74,200
Per Capita Income:
$39,500
Income Male:
$46,100
Income Female:
$38,400
Poverty Rate:
7.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.8%
Rent:
$1,150
Unemployment Rate:
4.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
23.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
93.1%
Bachelors or More:
34.6%
Education
How are the schools in Michiana, MI?
Families benefit from quality education options, including New Buffalo Elementary School with a favorable student-teacher ratio, and proximity to higher education like Lake Michigan College just 28 miles away and Indiana University South Bend 13 miles away.

Public Schools
Name:
New Buffalo Elementary School
Street:
12291 Lubke Rd
Phone:
269-469-2301
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5

Colleges
Name:
Lake Michigan College
City:
Benton Harbor
State:
MI
Distance:
28 miles
Students:
3,500
Name:
Indiana University South Bend
City:
South Bend
State:
IN
Distance:
13 miles
Students:
4,800
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong in Michiana, with 92.4% of residents insured and a local hospital offering general and emergency services. There are about 2.1 physicians per 1,000 residents, ensuring quality medical care is nearby.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Spectrum Health Lakeland Niles Hospital
Address:
31 N St Joseph Ave, Niles, MI 49120
Phone:
(269) 683-5510
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.4%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Michiana, MI?
The local housing market is stable, with a median home price of $310,000 and an 80% owner-occupancy rate. Home values have appreciated by 7.5% in the past year, indicating healthy demand in this desirable lakeside community.
Median Home Price:
$310,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,150
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.5%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can conveniently access Michigan Secretary of State services at the Niles branch for driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and other motor vehicle needs, either in person or online.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
2690 S 11th St, Niles, MI 49120
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.