Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Sault Sainte Marie, MI
Considering a move to Sault Sainte Marie, MI? This charming Upper Peninsula city of 13,337 offers affordable living, with median homes at just $117,000 and rents around $780. Residents enjoy short average commutes of 12.7 minutes and access to local schools and Lake Superior State University. Violent crime is moderate, while property crime is slightly above average for the region. Experience four true seasons, striking lake views, and a welcoming small-town vibe perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike.
Demographics - Sault Sainte Marie, MI
Demographics - Sault Sainte Marie, MI
Sault Sainte Marie is home to about 13,300 residents, with a median age of 37.9 and a population density of 1,220 people per square mile. The community is predominantly White, but also has a significant Native American presence, contributing to its unique cultural atmosphere.
Population:
13,337
Density:
1,220 per sq mi
Median Age:
37.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.2%

Ethnic Composition
White:
75.2%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
7.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Sault Sainte Marie, MI?
The cost of living in Sault Sainte Marie is notably affordable, with a median home value of $117,000 and average rents around $780 per month. Overall living expenses are below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and individuals.
Median House Value:
$117,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$2,120
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.8
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
52.6
Utilities:
97.0
Transportation:
92.4
Health Care:
91.8
Miscellaneous:
90.2
Crime
Is Sault Sainte Marie, MI a safe place to live?
Residents of Sault Sainte Marie experience a moderate rate of violent crime, with a chance of 1 in 290, while property crime occurs more frequently, at a rate of 1 in 48. While safety is generally good, it's advisable to stay aware of property security.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
345
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,100
Crime Index:
2,445
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 290
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Sault Sainte Marie, MI year-round?
The city enjoys all four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers reaching up to 77°F. Annual rainfall averages 32.6 inches, and about 42% of days are sunny, offering a mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter
Min:
9°F
Max:
25°F

Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
57°F

Summer
Min:
53°F
Max:
77°F

Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
61°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
42%
Neighbors
Households in Sault Sainte Marie have a median income of $47,300, though about 19% of residents live below the poverty line. The community features short commutes averaging 12.7 minutes and a strong high school graduation rate, creating a friendly, close-knit environment.
Median Income:
$41,800
Household Income:
$47,300
Family Income:
$60,400
Per Capita Income:
$24,600
Income Male:
$34,100
Income Female:
$28,300
Poverty Rate:
19.1%
Non English Speakers:
4.2%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
5.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.9%
Commute Time:
12.7 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
89.8%
Bachelors or More:
19.4%
Education
How are the schools in Sault Sainte Marie, MI?
Sault Sainte Marie supports quality education through its public schools, such as Sault Area High School and Lincoln Elementary, and offers private schooling options. Higher education is easily accessible with Lake Superior State University located within the city, serving nearly 2,000 students.

Public Schools
Name:
Sault Area High School
Street:
904 Marquette Ave
Phone:
906-635-3839
Students:
730
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.3
Name:
Lincoln Elementary School
Street:
606 E Lincoln Ave
Phone:
906-635-6626
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2

Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary’s Catholic School
Street:
377 Maple St
Phone:
906-632-3529
Students:
120

Colleges
Name:
Lake Superior State University
City:
Sault Sainte Marie
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
1,920
Healthcare
Sault Sainte Marie provides access to comprehensive healthcare, including War Memorial Hospital offering emergency services. The city has solid coverage, with 93.7% of residents insured and a physician availability of 1.6 per 1,000 people.

Major Hospitals
Name:
War Memorial Hospital
Address:
500 Osborn Blvd, Sault Sainte Marie, MI 49783
Phone:
(906) 635-4460
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.7%
Health Care Index:
74.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Sault Sainte Marie, MI?
The housing market is affordable, with a median home price of $117,000 and most residents owning their homes. Rental options are available, with a moderate vacancy rate and average two-bedroom rents around $820, making it accessible for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$117,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$820
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
The Michigan Secretary of State office in Sault Sainte Marie offers convenient DMV services, including licensing and vehicle registration. Residents can visit the local branch on I-75 Business Spur or access many services online through the state website.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
4528 I-75 Business Spur, Sault Sainte Marie, MI 49783
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.