Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ontonagon, MI
Considering a move to Ontonagon, MI? This small lakeside town has a population of 1,260 and offers affordable living with a median home price around $70,500 and average rent near $540. Residents enjoy low crime rates, an average commute of just 13 minutes, and abundant outdoor recreation along Lake Superior. While the area is quiet and best suited to those seeking a slower pace, Ontonagon boasts strong owner-occupancy, a welcoming community, and a safe environment, making it ideal for retirees and those seeking an affordable lifestyle.
Demographics - Ontonagon, MI
Demographics - Ontonagon, MI
Ontonagon is a small, close-knit community of about 1,260 residents, with a higher median age of 54.8 years and a population that is predominantly White. The town offers a relaxed, slower pace of life, making it especially appealing to retirees and those seeking a peaceful setting.
Population:
1,260
Density:
520 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.8
Gender Ratio:
89 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.1%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.5%
Black:
0.2%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ontonagon, MI?
Living in Ontonagon is highly affordable, with a median home value of $70,500 and average monthly rent around $540. The cost of living index is well below the national average, and residents benefit from low housing and utility costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$70,500
Gross Rent:
$540
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$840
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$345
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
78.0
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
45.0
Utilities:
88.0
Transportation:
82.5
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Ontonagon, MI a safe place to live?
Ontonagon enjoys a low crime rate, with only 133 violent crimes and 880 property crimes per 100,000 people, giving residents a strong sense of safety. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is just 1 in 750, making it a secure place for families and individuals alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
133
Property Crimes Per 100k:
880
Crime Index:
1,013
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 750
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 114
Weather
What is the weather like in Ontonagon, MI year-round?
Ontonagon experiences four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers that reach highs in the upper 70s. The area sees about 35 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys 44% sunny days, providing a mix of weather ideal for those who appreciate seasonal changes.

Winter
Min:
7°F
Max:
26°F

Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
56°F

Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
35°F
Max:
59°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
35.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
44%
Neighbors
Residents of Ontonagon typically have a median household income of $37,200 and a poverty rate of 16.2%. Most people enjoy short 13-minute commutes and a strong sense of community, with over 91% holding at least a high school diploma.
Median Income:
$33,900
Household Income:
$37,200
Family Income:
$48,900
Per Capita Income:
$23,400
Income Male:
$27,800
Income Female:
$22,100
Poverty Rate:
16.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.1%
Rent:
$540
Unemployment Rate:
6.7%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
13.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
91.1%
Bachelors or More:
15.5%
Education
How are the schools in Ontonagon, MI?
Education in Ontonagon is centered around its public school, Ontonagon Area School, which offers small class sizes with a student-teacher ratio of 11.5. While there are no private schools in town, higher education opportunities are available nearby, including Finlandia University just under an hour’s drive away.

Public Schools
Name:
Ontonagon Area School
Street:
701 Parker Ave
Phone:
906-813-0614
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.5

Colleges
Name:
Finlandia University
City:
Hancock
State:
MI
Distance:
59 miles
Students:
400
Healthcare
Ontonagon is served by the Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital, offering general and emergency care, with a physician rate of 1.4 per 1,000 residents. The community enjoys a high health insurance coverage rate of 93.6%, supporting access to essential medical services.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Aspirus Ontonagon Hospital
Address:
601 S. Seventh St, Ontonagon, MI 49953
Phone:
(906) 884-8000
Type:
General & Critical Access
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.6%
Health Care Index:
71.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ontonagon, MI?
The local housing market is very affordable, with a median home price of $70,500 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 80%. Home values have seen modest appreciation, and rental options are available, highlighting Ontonagon as a budget-friendly place to buy or rent.
Median Home Price:
$70,500
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$540
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
11.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Local residents can access DMV services through the Michigan Secretary of State office located in town, offering convenient support for all vehicle and licensing needs. The office is easily accessible and provides the full range of state motor vehicle services.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
408 Copper St, Ontonagon, MI 49953
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.