Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rapid River, MI
Considering a move to Rapid River, MI? With a population of about 3,000, this small Upper Peninsula community offers affordable living, with median home prices around $140,000 and average rents near $780. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 21.5 minutes, low violent crime rates, and abundant natural beauty. Local schools serve the community well, and the climate brings snowy winters and pleasant summers—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the tranquil lifestyle, low cost of living, and friendly atmosphere that makes Rapid River a welcoming place to call home.
Demographics - Rapid River, MI
Demographics - Rapid River, MI
Rapid River is a close-knit community of about 3,000 residents with a median age of 46.2, reflecting a mature and settled population. The area is predominantly White at over 93%, and most residents are English speakers. The gender ratio is balanced, creating a welcoming and stable environment for new arrivals.
Population:
3,000
Density:
250 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.2
Gender Ratio:
101 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.2%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
5.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rapid River, MI?
Living in Rapid River is affordable, with a cost of living index of 89.0 and median home values around $140,000. Rent for a typical apartment averages $780, and utilities and daily expenses remain below national averages, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious movers. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, contributing to the area's overall affordability.
Median House Value:
$140,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,110
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,000
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.0
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
66.7
Utilities:
98.1
Transportation:
91.0
Health Care:
94.5
Miscellaneous:
93.8
Crime
Is Rapid River, MI a safe place to live?
Rapid River experiences low crime rates, with only 164 violent crimes and 1,210 property crimes per 100,000 residents annually. The chance of being a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 610, offering residents peace of mind and a strong sense of community safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
164
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,210
Crime Index:
1,374
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 610
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 83
Weather
What is the weather like in Rapid River, MI year-round?
Residents enjoy four distinct seasons, with snowy winters averaging lows around 10°F and pleasant summers reaching highs of 78°F. The area receives about 32 inches of rainfall annually and benefits from sunshine 54% of the year. This climate is ideal for those who appreciate seasonal outdoor activities and scenic natural beauty.
Winter
Min:
10°F
Max:
28°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
55°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
56°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Households in Rapid River typically earn a median income of $51,200, with a poverty rate of 12.2% and an unemployment rate of 5.5%. Most residents have at least a high school diploma, and commutes average just over 21 minutes, contributing to a relaxed and community-focused lifestyle. Public transport use is very low, reflecting the town’s rural character.
Median Income:
$30,600
Household Income:
$51,200
Family Income:
$63,500
Per Capita Income:
$24,700
Income Male:
$34,200
Income Female:
$26,100
Poverty Rate:
12.2%
Non English Speakers:
2.3%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
5.5%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
21.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.4%
Bachelors or More:
17.6%
Education
How are the schools in Rapid River, MI?
Education in Rapid River is anchored by Rapid River Public Schools, which serves approximately 370 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 14:1. While private school options are limited, nearby Bay College in Escanaba offers higher education opportunities within a short 15-mile drive. Overall, students benefit from small class sizes and community support.
Public Schools
Name:
Rapid River Public Schools
Street:
10070 US Highway 2
Phone:
906-474-6411
Students:
370
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.0
Colleges
Name:
Bay College
City:
Escanaba
State:
MI
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
1,900
Healthcare
Rapid River residents have access to essential healthcare services nearby, including the OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group in Escanaba. With 1.5 physicians per 1,000 people and over 91% of residents covered by health insurance, basic medical needs are readily met. The area’s healthcare index of 78.4 indicates reliable care for a small community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group
Address:
3401 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829
Phone:
(906) 786-5707
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
78.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rapid River, MI?
The housing market in Rapid River is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $140,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of 83.5%. Rental options are available, with average two-bedroom rents at $780, and the vacancy and foreclosure rates remain low, making it an appealing option for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$140,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
83.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office located in nearby Escanaba. The office is easily accessible and provides all standard DMV services required for Michigan drivers. More information and resources are available on the state’s official website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
305 Ludington St, Escanaba, MI 49829
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.