Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Saginaw, MI
Considering a move to Saginaw, MI? With a population of 44,202, Saginaw offers some of the most affordable housing in Michigan, with median home prices around $66,000 and average rents near $790. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 19 minutes, a low cost of living, and easy access to local healthcare and educational options. While the city faces higher crime rates and a relatively high poverty rate, its vibrant community and proximity to colleges make it a unique place for budget-minded movers.
Demographics - Saginaw, MI
Demographics - Saginaw, MI
Saginaw, MI is home to about 44,200 residents, with a median age of 35.7 and a fairly balanced gender ratio. The city features a diverse population, with nearly equal proportions of White and Black residents and almost 10% speaking languages other than English at home. Its urban density and multicultural environment contribute to a vibrant community atmosphere.
Population:
44,202
Density:
3,800 per sq mi
Median Age:
35.7
Gender Ratio:
91 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
9.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
46.5%
Black:
43.6%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
9.2%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Saginaw, MI?
Saginaw stands out for its highly affordable living costs, with a median home value of just $66,000 and average rent at $790. The overall cost of living index is 77.9, making it notably less expensive than the national average, especially for housing and daily essentials. Utilities, groceries, and transportation also remain budget-friendly for most households.
Median House Value:
$66,000
Gross Rent:
$790
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$2,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,100
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.9
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
32.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
84.0
Health Care:
95.0
Miscellaneous:
93.0
Crime
Is Saginaw, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Saginaw are higher than average, with a violent crime rate of 1,627 per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 3,834 per 100,000. This means residents face about a 1 in 61 chance of experiencing a violent crime. Those moving to the area should consider safety measures and neighborhood choices carefully.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
1,627
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,834
Crime Index:
5,461
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 61
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 26
Weather
What is the weather like in Saginaw, MI year-round?
Saginaw experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters dipping to 15°F and warm summers reaching highs of 83°F. The city gets about 33 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine roughly half the year. Residents can expect a classic Midwest climate with snowy winters and comfortable summers.
Winter
Min:
15°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
Local households in Saginaw have a median income of $32,400, and the area has a relatively high poverty rate at 35.6%. Most residents enjoy short commute times averaging under 20 minutes, and about 80% have at least a high school diploma. The community is close-knit, with modest incomes and a strong local identity.
Median Income:
$18,800
Household Income:
$32,400
Family Income:
$39,200
Per Capita Income:
$17,100
Income Male:
$25,100
Income Female:
$20,600
Poverty Rate:
35.6%
Non English Speakers:
9.5%
Rent:
$790
Unemployment Rate:
8.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
19.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.2%
Bachelors or More:
12.8%
Education
How are the schools in Saginaw, MI?
Saginaw offers a mix of public and private schools, including Saginaw High School and Arthur Hill High School, both serving several hundred students. Higher education options are easily accessible, with Saginaw Valley State University and Delta College located just eight miles away. The city's educational landscape provides a range of choices for families and students at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Saginaw High School
Street:
3100 Webber St
Phone:
989-399-6000
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.4
Name:
Arthur Hill High School
Street:
3115 Mackinaw St
Phone:
989-399-5800
Students:
800
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.8
Private Schools
Name:
Nouvel Catholic Central High School
Street:
2555 Wieneke Rd
Phone:
989-791-4330
Students:
290
Colleges
Name:
Saginaw Valley State University
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
8,000
Name:
Delta College
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
8 miles
Students:
9,500
Healthcare
Saginaw offers access to quality healthcare through major facilities like Covenant HealthCare and Ascension St. Mary's Hospital, both of which provide emergency services. With 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 93% health insurance coverage, most locals find medical care accessible. The healthcare index indicates solid, reliable services for city residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Covenant HealthCare
Address:
1447 North Harrison Street, Saginaw, MI 48602
Phone:
(989) 583-0000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Ascension St. Mary's Hospital
Address:
800 S Washington Ave, Saginaw, MI 48601
Phone:
(989) 907-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.5%
Health Care Index:
68.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Saginaw, MI?
The Saginaw housing market is highly affordable, with median home prices at $66,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment at $790. Over half of the homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees moderate home appreciation and a relatively high rental vacancy rate. This makes Saginaw attractive for both buyers and renters seeking value.
Median Home Price:
$66,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$790
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
1.1%
DMV Information
Residents manage vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office located on Towne Centre Road in Saginaw. The office provides essential DMV services, including registration and licensing, both in person and online. For more information, locals can visit the Michigan Secretary of State website or call their dedicated helpline.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
4805 Towne Centre Rd, Saginaw, MI 48604
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.