Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Michigan City, IN
Considering a move to Michigan City, IN? With a population of 31,015, Michigan City offers affordable housing (median home price of $120,300 and average rent of $930), plus a cost of living well below the national average. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 20.4 minutes, access to Lake Michigan beaches, and a variety of public and private school options. While property crime rates are above average, the city features friendly neighborhoods, nearby higher education, and a pleasant Midwest climate with 53% sunny days each year.
Demographics - Michigan City, IN
Demographics - Michigan City, IN
Michigan City, home to 31,015 residents, has a diverse community with a median age of 38.9 and a population density of about 1,220 people per square mile. The city features a blend of ethnic backgrounds, with a majority identifying as White and a significant Black community, contributing to its vibrant local culture. A small percentage of residents speak languages other than English, reflecting a modest multicultural presence.
Population:
31,015
Density:
1,220 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.9
Gender Ratio:
94 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
65.9%
Black:
24.9%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
8.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Michigan City, IN?
Living in Michigan City is notably affordable, with a median home value of $120,300 and an average rent of $930. The overall cost of living index stands at 82.4, which is well below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. Residents also benefit from reasonable utility and transportation costs, keeping day-to-day expenses manageable.
Median House Value:
$120,300
Gross Rent:
$930
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,150
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,080
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$405
State Taxes:
Low:
3.15%
|
High:
5.75%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.4
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
54.8
Utilities:
104.2
Transportation:
92.7
Health Care:
98.6
Miscellaneous:
96.5
Crime
Is Michigan City, IN a safe place to live?
While Michigan City offers a welcoming environment, it does experience higher property crime rates, with a chance of 1 in 30, and a violent crime risk of 1 in 172. The city’s overall crime index indicates that safety is an important consideration for newcomers. Community initiatives and local law enforcement work actively to address these challenges and promote safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
582
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,351
Crime Index:
3,933
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 172
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 30
Weather
What is the weather like in Michigan City, IN year-round?
Michigan City enjoys the full range of Midwest seasons, with warm summers averaging highs around 82°F and cold winters dipping to lows near 19°F. The city receives about 38 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year, offering residents a pleasant mix of weather and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Proximity to Lake Michigan also influences local climate, bringing cool breezes and scenic waterfront views.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
64°F

Summer
Min:
63°F
Max:
82°F

Fall
Min:
41°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
Neighborhoods in Michigan City have a median household income of $44,300, with a poverty rate of 20.8%. Most residents have at least a high school education, and the average commute time is a convenient 20.4 minutes. The community is known for its friendly atmosphere, modest living costs, and accessible local amenities.
Median Income:
$30,900
Household Income:
$44,300
Family Income:
$54,500
Per Capita Income:
$23,100
Income Male:
$41,200
Income Female:
$33,500
Poverty Rate:
20.8%
Non English Speakers:
6.2%
Rent:
$930
Unemployment Rate:
5.9%
Public Transport Usage:
1.0%
Commute Time:
20.4 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
84.6%
Bachelors or More:
15.7%
Education
How are the schools in Michigan City, IN?
Michigan City features a variety of educational opportunities, including public schools like Michigan City High School and Barker Middle School, as well as private options such as Queen of All Saints School. The city is also located just 8 miles from Purdue University Northwest’s Westville campus, providing access to higher education. With reasonable student-teacher ratios and both K-12 and college options nearby, families have several quality choices.

Public Schools
Name:
Michigan City High School
Street:
8466 W Pahs Rd
Phone:
219-873-2044
Students:
1,600
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7
Name:
Barker Middle School
Street:
319 Barker Rd
Phone:
219-873-2050
Students:
550
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.2

Private Schools
Name:
Queen of All Saints School
Street:
1715 E Barker Ave
Phone:
219-872-4420
Students:
210

Colleges
Name:
Purdue University Northwest – Westville Campus
City:
Westville
State:
IN
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
3,800
Healthcare
Michigan City provides reliable healthcare access through facilities like Franciscan Health Michigan City, which offers emergency and general medical services. With 91.2% of residents having health insurance and 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people, the city ensures quality medical care is within easy reach. The healthcare index reflects solid service levels for a city of its size.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Franciscan Health Michigan City
Address:
3500 Franciscan Way, Michigan City, IN 46360
Phone:
(219) 879-8511
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.2%
Health Care Index:
66.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Michigan City, IN?
The housing market in Michigan City is affordable, with a median home price of $120,300 and an owner-occupied rate of 58.1%. Renters will find average two-bedroom rents around $930, while homeowners benefit from a 7.2% home appreciation rate over the past year. The city offers a range of options for both buyers and renters, with a moderate vacancy rate and limited new construction.
Median Home Price:
$120,300
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$930
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.6%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Michigan City residents are served by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles located conveniently on US Highway 20. The local DMV handles driver licensing, vehicle registration, and related services, making it easy for newcomers to settle their transportation needs. Helpful staff and accessible online resources further simplify the process for residents.
State:
Indiana
Department:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
Address:
302 W US Highway 20, Michigan City, IN 46360
Phone:
888-692-6841
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.