Everything You Should Know Before Moving to New Buffalo, MI
Considering a move to New Buffalo, MI? This lakeside city of 1,650 residents features a relaxed pace, with a median home price around $340,000 and average rents near $1,050. Enjoy a mild commute of 19 minutes, low violent crime rates, and access to solid public schools. With its charming small-town feel, proximity to Lake Michigan, and four-season climate, New Buffalo offers an inviting option for those seeking scenic living at a manageable cost.
Demographics - New Buffalo, MI
Demographics - New Buffalo, MI
New Buffalo is a small, close-knit city with a population of 1,650 and a median age of 52, reflecting a mature community. The city is predominantly White at 94%, and nearly 4% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Residents enjoy a suburban density with a gender balance and a welcoming, peaceful atmosphere.
Population:
1,650
Density:
653 per sq mi
Median Age:
52.3
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.9%
Ethnic Composition
White:
94.2%
Black:
1.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
3.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in New Buffalo, MI?
The cost of living in New Buffalo is slightly below the national average, with a cost index of 97.6. Median home values are around $340,000, and typical rents for a two-bedroom are approximately $1,050, making it accessible for both homeowners and renters. Essential expenses such as groceries and utilities also remain affordable for most residents.
Median House Value:
$340,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,450
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
97.6
Grocery:
94.2
Housing:
91.8
Utilities:
103.5
Transportation:
98.1
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
95.2
Crime
Is New Buffalo, MI a safe place to live?
New Buffalo boasts a low crime rate, with violent crimes at just 162 per 100,000 residents, giving newcomers peace of mind. The chance of encountering a violent crime is 1 in 617, while property crimes are also lower than many urban areas. Residents benefit from a generally safe and secure environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
162
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,326
Crime Index:
1,488
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 617
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in New Buffalo, MI year-round?
New Buffalo experiences all four seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 81°F and chilly winters dipping to 18°F. The city enjoys about 52% sunny days annually and receives roughly 39.5 inches of rainfall, making it appealing for those who appreciate varied Midwest weather. Residents can look forward to pleasant springs and colorful autumns.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
33°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
81°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
39.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The community features a median household income of $59,200 and a per capita income of nearly $39,000. Residents have a moderate average commute of 19 minutes, a low unemployment rate of 4.8%, and a well-educated population, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma. The area maintains a friendly, active lifestyle with a small-town feel.
Median Income:
$37,800
Household Income:
$59,200
Family Income:
$73,300
Per Capita Income:
$38,950
Income Male:
$45,100
Income Female:
$36,200
Poverty Rate:
10.6%
Non English Speakers:
3.9%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
18.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.3%
Bachelors or More:
34.8%
Education
How are the schools in New Buffalo, MI?
New Buffalo offers strong educational opportunities, featuring public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, such as New Buffalo Elementary and Middle/High School. For higher education, nearby Lake Michigan College and Indiana University Northwest provide accessible college options within a short drive. Families can expect quality primary and secondary education within a supportive community.
Public Schools
Name:
New Buffalo Elementary School
Street:
12291 Lubke Rd
Phone:
269-469-1011
Students:
290
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Name:
New Buffalo Middle/High School
Street:
1112 Clay St
Phone:
269-469-1100
Students:
320
Student Teacher Ratio:
14:1
Colleges
Name:
Lake Michigan College
City:
Benton Harbor
State:
MI
Distance:
27 miles
Students:
3,400
Name:
Indiana University Northwest
City:
Gary
State:
IN
Distance:
54 miles
Students:
3,600
Healthcare
New Buffalo residents have convenient access to quality healthcare, including major hospitals like Spectrum Health Lakeland and Franciscan Health nearby. The city has 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people, and over 91% of residents are covered by health insurance. Emergency and general medical care are readily available within a short drive.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Spectrum Health Lakeland Hospital - Niles
Address:
31 N St Joseph Ave, Niles, MI 49120
Phone:
(269) 683-5510
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
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:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.6%
Health Care Index:
72.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in New Buffalo, MI?
The housing market in New Buffalo is stable, with a median home price of $340,000 and a healthy owner-occupancy rate of 67%. Home values have appreciated by over 4% in the past year, and rental options remain accessible with average rents at $1,050. The area experiences low foreclosure and vacancy rates, reflecting a steady demand.
Median Home Price:
$340,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
67.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.3%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Michigan Secretary of State, with the nearest office located in Holland. Comprehensive DMV services are available both in-person and online, ensuring convenient access for all local drivers.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
870 Chicago Dr, Holland, MI 49423
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.