Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Skidway Lake, MI
Considering a move to Skidway Lake, MI? This small community of about 3,400 residents offers affordable living, with median home prices around $78,000 and rents averaging $740. The area enjoys a low population density, peaceful lake surroundings, and a typical commute time of 26 minutes. Crime rates are below national averages, and while educational attainment is modest, you'll find friendly neighbors and access to essential amenities. Skidway Lake’s four-season climate and low cost of living make it a practical choice for those seeking a quiet, rural Michigan lifestyle.
Demographics - Skidway Lake, MI
Demographics - Skidway Lake, MI
Skidway Lake is a close-knit community with a population of around 3,400, where most residents are older adults with a median age of 54.2. The area is predominantly White, and non-English speakers make up a small portion of the population, contributing to a stable and familiar environment.
Population:
3,392
Density:
260 per sq mi
Median Age:
54.2
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
95.6%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.3%
Others:
3.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Skidway Lake, MI?
Living in Skidway Lake is highly affordable, with median home values at just $78,000 and average rents around $740. The overall cost of living index is well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals and families.
Median House Value:
$78,000
Gross Rent:
$740
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,200
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$890
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$325
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.4
Grocery:
95.1
Housing:
58.3
Utilities:
98.2
Transportation:
92.7
Health Care:
91.6
Miscellaneous:
94.0
Crime
Is Skidway Lake, MI a safe place to live?
Skidway Lake offers a relatively safe environment, with violent crime rates lower than many areas—about 219 incidents per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 456 chance of being affected. Property crime is also moderate, providing peace of mind for residents.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
219
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,340
Crime Index:
1,559
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 456
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 75
Weather
What is the weather like in Skidway Lake, MI year-round?
Residents experience all four seasons, from cold, snowy winters with lows near 13°F to warm, pleasant summers reaching 80°F. The area enjoys about 49% sunny days each year and moderate annual rainfall, supporting a variety of outdoor activities.

Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
32°F

Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
60°F

Summer
Min:
55°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
31.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
The community has modest incomes, with a median household income of $33,100 and a higher-than-average poverty rate. Most residents commute about 26 minutes to work, and public transportation isn’t commonly used, reflecting the rural character of the area.
Median Income:
$25,400
Household Income:
$33,100
Family Income:
$42,600
Per Capita Income:
$17,800
Income Male:
$28,000
Income Female:
$22,200
Poverty Rate:
25.3%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$740
Unemployment Rate:
7.1%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
26.2 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
76.8%
Bachelors or More:
9.2%
Education
How are the schools in Skidway Lake, MI?
The area is served by local public schools with moderate class sizes, and high school graduation rates are typical for similar communities. For higher education, Kirtland Community College is located just 26 miles away, expanding educational opportunities for residents.

Public Schools
Name:
Whittemore-Prescott Elementary School
Street:
8878 Prescott Rd
Phone:
989-756-2500
Students:
345
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Whittemore-Prescott Jr/Sr High School
Street:
6001 Mills Rd
Phone:
989-756-2501
Students:
350
Student Teacher Ratio:
21.2

Colleges
Name:
Kirtland Community College
City:
Roscommon
State:
MI
Distance:
26 miles
Students:
1,600
Healthcare
Skidway Lake residents have access to nearby hospitals such as Ascension St. Joseph and MidMichigan Medical Center, both offering emergency services. Most locals have health insurance coverage, and there are about 1.1 physicians per 1,000 people, ensuring essential healthcare is within reach.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Ascension St. Joseph Hospital
Address:
200 Hemlock St, Tawas City, MI 48763
Phone:
(989) 362-3411
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
MidMichigan 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:
1.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
68.7
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Skidway Lake, MI?
The housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $78,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of over 84%. Home values have seen steady appreciation, and rental options are available with a vacancy rate of nearly 10%.
Median Home Price:
$78,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$740
Owner Occupied Rate:
84.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can manage vehicle and licensing needs through the Michigan Secretary of State office in West Branch, with convenient access to services both in-person and online.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
301 W. Preston St., West Branch, MI 48661
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.