Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Michigan Center, MI
Considering a move to Michigan Center, MI? This small, welcoming community of about 4,555 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $163,000 and average rents near $950. Residents enjoy relatively low commute times (22 minutes), a modest crime rate, and access to reputable local schools. With its mix of tranquil neighborhoods, close-knit feel, and easy access to Jackson amenities, Michigan Center is a great choice for those seeking value and a slower pace in south-central Michigan.
Demographics - Michigan Center, MI
Demographics - Michigan Center, MI
Michigan Center is a small, close-knit community with a population of 4,555 and a median age of 44.7, reflecting a balanced mix of families and retirees. The area is predominantly White, with a modest presence of other ethnic groups, and has a nearly equal gender ratio. With a population density of 1,250 per square mile and a low percentage of non-English speakers, newcomers can expect a friendly and familiar Midwest atmosphere.
Population:
4,555
Density:
1,250 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.7
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
93.2%
Black:
2.1%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
4.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Michigan Center, MI?
Living in Michigan Center is quite affordable, with a median home value of $163,000 and average rents around $950, making it attractive for both homebuyers and renters. The overall cost of living index is 84.5, well below the national average, and essential expenses like utilities and transportation remain reasonable. Low state income tax rates (4.25%) further enhance the area's budget-friendly appeal.
Median House Value:
$163,000
Gross Rent:
$950
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,260
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,150
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
84.5
Grocery:
92.5
Housing:
77.0
Utilities:
94.0
Transportation:
95.0
Health Care:
95.1
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Michigan Center, MI a safe place to live?
Michigan Center experiences a moderate crime rate, with 255 violent crimes and 1,720 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 392, and property crimes are somewhat more common at 1 in 58. Overall, residents enjoy a generally safe environment, particularly compared to larger urban areas.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
255
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,720
Crime Index:
1,975
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 392
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 58
Weather
What is the weather like in Michigan Center, MI year-round?
Residents in Michigan Center enjoy four distinct seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 17°F and warm summers reaching up to 81°F. The area receives about 33 inches of rainfall annually and experiences sunshine around 48% of the year. Spring and fall are mild, providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
35°F
Max:
61°F

Summer
Min:
59°F
Max:
81°F

Fall
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $56,750 and a family income of $66,000, with a poverty rate of 11.8%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and average commute times are manageable at just over 22 minutes. Public transportation use is low, emphasizing the area's suburban character and reliance on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$34,800
Household Income:
$56,750
Family Income:
$66,000
Per Capita Income:
$28,600
Income Male:
$40,000
Income Female:
$32,000
Poverty Rate:
11.8%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$950
Unemployment Rate:
5.6%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.5%
Bachelors or More:
14.2%
Education
How are the schools in Michigan Center, MI?
Michigan Center offers quality educational opportunities with public schools such as Michigan Center Jr/Sr High School and Arnold Elementary, both known for supportive environments and favorable student-teacher ratios. The area is also close to Jackson College, providing accessible higher education just 7 miles away. Families benefit from reliable public schooling and convenient pathways to college.

Public Schools
Name:
Michigan Center Jr/Sr High School
Street:
400 S State St
Phone:
517-764-1440
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.5
Name:
Arnold Elementary School
Street:
4064 Page Ave
Phone:
517-764-5700
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.2

Colleges
Name:
Jackson College
City:
Jackson
State:
MI
Distance:
7 miles
Students:
5,000
Healthcare
Michigan Center residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, with major facilities like Henry Ford Jackson Hospital nearby. The community benefits from a solid ratio of 2.3 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are comprehensive, supporting a healthy and well-cared-for population.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Henry Ford Jackson Hospital
Address:
205 N East Ave, Jackson, MI 49201
Phone:
(517) 205-4800
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
70.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Michigan Center, MI?
The housing market in Michigan Center is stable, with a median home price of $163,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $950. A high owner-occupancy rate of 75% indicates a strong sense of community investment, and a 4.7% annual home appreciation rate suggests steady growth. Rental vacancies are moderate, offering options for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$163,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$950
Owner Occupied Rate:
75.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.7%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents of Michigan Center can access all vehicle and licensing services through the Michigan Secretary of State office located in nearby Jackson. The DMV provides comprehensive support, including driver’s licenses, registration, and title services, accessible by phone or online. This ensures convenient and efficient access to essential state services.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
301 E. Louis Glick Hwy, Jackson, MI 49201
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.