Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Prudenville, MI
Considering a move to Prudenville, MI? This cozy town of 1,643 residents offers affordable housing with a median home price of $120,000 and average rent around $820, making it an attractive option for budget-minded movers. Crime rates are low, commutes are easy at just 22 minutes on average, and the tranquil setting near Houghton Lake brings plenty of outdoor recreation. While the community is older and education levels are modest, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace, all four seasons, and excellent access to lakes and nature.
Demographics - Prudenville, MI
Demographics - Prudenville, MI
Prudenville is a small, close-knit community with a population of 1,643 and a notably older median age of 59.2 years, reflecting its appeal for retirees and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. The area is predominantly White, with over 96% of residents, and a balanced gender ratio. With a low percentage of non-English speakers, newcomers will find a primarily English-speaking environment.
Population:
1,643
Density:
444 per sq mi
Median Age:
59.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
96.7%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.4%
Others:
2.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Prudenville, MI?
Living in Prudenville is budget-friendly, with a median home value of $120,000 and the cost of living index well below the national average at 81.5. Groceries, housing, and utilities are all affordable, making it an attractive choice for those looking to maximize their dollar. State income taxes are a flat 4.25%, keeping overall expenses manageable.
Median House Value:
$120,000
Gross Rent:
$820
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,020
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.5
Grocery:
89.5
Housing:
68.0
Utilities:
96.2
Transportation:
98.3
Health Care:
93.8
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Prudenville, MI a safe place to live?
Prudenville offers a safe environment, with violent crime rates significantly lower than national averages and property crime remaining relatively infrequent. Residents face a 1 in 568 chance of experiencing violent crime, contributing to the town’s relaxed, secure atmosphere. This makes Prudenville a reassuring option for families and retirees alike.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
176
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,240
Crime Index:
1,416
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 568
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 81
Weather
What is the weather like in Prudenville, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy all four seasons, with warm summers averaging highs near 80°F and cold winters dipping to around 13°F. The area sees about 32 inches of annual rainfall and 48% sunny days, offering a balance of outdoor opportunities throughout the year. Seasonal variation makes Prudenville ideal for those who appreciate both summer recreation and winter activities.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
29°F

Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
59°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
The median household income in Prudenville is modest at $38,200, and about 15% of residents live below the poverty line, reflecting the area’s affordability but also its economic challenges. Most neighbors have completed high school, with a smaller percentage holding bachelor’s degrees. The community enjoys short average commutes of just over 22 minutes, and public transportation use is minimal.
Median Income:
$29,600
Household Income:
$38,200
Family Income:
$47,800
Per Capita Income:
$22,000
Income Male:
$28,400
Income Female:
$23,900
Poverty Rate:
15.4%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$820
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
22.1 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.7%
Bachelors or More:
13.5%
Education
How are the schools in Prudenville, MI?
Prudenville is served by local public schools, including Houghton Lake High School and Collins Elementary, with manageable student-teacher ratios for personalized attention. While there are no private schools, Kirtland Community College is just 15 miles away, offering accessible higher education options. The area’s educational attainment reflects a strong high school graduation rate, though bachelor’s degree attainment is lower than average.

Public Schools
Name:
Houghton Lake High School
Street:
4433 W Houghton Lake Dr
Phone:
989-366-2005
Students:
380
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.4
Name:
Collins Elementary School
Street:
4192 W Houghton Lake Dr
Phone:
989-366-2910
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.7

Colleges
Name:
Kirtland Community College
City:
Roscommon
State:
MI
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
1,000
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is strong, with two major hospitals nearby and over 92% of residents having health insurance coverage. Prudenville’s healthcare index of 69.4 and a physician ratio of 1.8 per 1,000 residents ensure essential medical needs are well met. Quality emergency and general care services are readily available within a short drive.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Healthcare Grayling Hospital
Address:
1100 E Michigan Ave, Grayling, MI 49738
Phone:
(989) 348-5461
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch
Address:
2463 S M-30, West Branch, MI 48661
Phone:
(989) 345-3660
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.8
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.1%
Health Care Index:
69.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Prudenville, MI?
Prudenville’s housing market is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $120,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 83%. Rental options are accessible, with average rents for a two-bedroom unit around $820 and a vacancy rate of 7.2%. Home values have appreciated modestly, making the area appealing for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents can access local DMV services at the Michigan Secretary of State Office located right in Prudenville. The office provides convenient options for driver’s licenses, vehicle registration, and other essential services, with detailed information available on the state’s official website. For assistance, residents can call the statewide help line.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State Office
Address:
401 W Houghton Lake Dr, Prudenville, MI 48651
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.