Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Muskegon, MI
Considering a move to Muskegon, MI? With a friendly population of about 38,000, Muskegon offers an affordable cost of living—median home prices are just $117,000 and average rent is $910. Commutes are short, averaging 18 minutes, and you'll enjoy all four seasons on the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline. Public schools, local colleges, and access to major healthcare facilities add to the city’s appeal, though crime rates are higher than average. Muskegon is a great option for budget-minded movers seeking lakeside living and community amenities.
Demographics - Muskegon, MI
Demographics - Muskegon, MI
Muskegon is home to around 38,000 residents, with a median age of 35.7 and a diverse community that is primarily White (58.4%) and Black (27.4%). The city has a moderate population density and a modest percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming place for various backgrounds.
Population:
38,318
Density:
2,950 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.7
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
58.4%
Black:
27.4%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
13.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Muskegon, MI?
The cost of living in Muskegon is notably affordable, with a median home value of $117,000 and average rent at $910 per month. Residents benefit from a cost of living index below the national average, which helps stretch household budgets further.
Median House Value:
$117,000
Gross Rent:
$910
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,435
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$410
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
48.6
Utilities:
97.9
Transportation:
88.2
Health Care:
94.3
Miscellaneous:
91.7
Crime
Is Muskegon, MI a safe place to live?
Muskegon experiences higher-than-average crime rates, with residents facing a 1 in 111 chance of becoming a victim of violent crime. Property crime is also a concern, so newcomers should consider safety when choosing neighborhoods.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
901
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,334
Crime Index:
4,235
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 111
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 30
Weather
What is the weather like in Muskegon, MI year-round?
Muskegon enjoys all four seasons, with mild summers reaching highs in the low 80s and cold winters dipping to the upper teens. The city receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine roughly 48% of the year, ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety.
Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
60°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
63°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.7 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Local households have a median income of $42,300 and an average commute time of just 18 minutes, though the poverty rate is higher than average at 27.3%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, fostering a community focused on education and accessibility.
Median Income:
$21,800
Household Income:
$42,300
Family Income:
$52,100
Per Capita Income:
$21,800
Income Male:
$28,400
Income Female:
$23,300
Poverty Rate:
27.3%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$910
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.4%
Commute Time:
18.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.9%
Bachelors or More:
14.1%
Education
How are the schools in Muskegon, MI?
Muskegon offers a variety of public and private schools, including Muskegon High School and Muskegon Catholic Central, as well as higher education options like Muskegon Community College. With a student-friendly environment and accessible institutions, families and students are well supported.
Public Schools
Name:
Muskegon High School
Street:
80 W Southern Ave
Phone:
231-720-2800
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Name:
Nelson Elementary School
Street:
550 W Grand Ave
Phone:
231-720-2200
Students:
390
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.4
Private Schools
Name:
Muskegon Catholic Central
Street:
1145 W Laketon Ave
Phone:
231-755-2201
Students:
470
Colleges
Name:
Muskegon Community College
City:
Muskegon
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
4,000
Name:
Baker College of Muskegon
City:
Muskegon
State:
MI
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
2,500
Healthcare
Muskegon is served by major hospitals like Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital, offering a range of general and emergency services. With 91.4% health insurance coverage and nearly two physicians per 1,000 residents, access to healthcare is reliable and convenient.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital
Address:
1700 Clinton St, Muskegon, MI 49442
Phone:
(231) 728-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Mercy Health Hackley Campus
Address:
1700 Clinton St, Muskegon, MI 49442
Phone:
(231) 728-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
72.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Muskegon, MI?
The Muskegon housing market is accessible, with a median home price of just $117,000 and an ownership rate above 54%. Home values have appreciated by nearly 9% in the past year, making it an attractive market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$117,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$910
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
8.6%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Muskegon residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office, conveniently located on E. Apple Ave. The office provides essential DMV services and resources both in person and online.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
2700 E. Apple Ave, Muskegon, MI 49442
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.