What Should I Know Before Moving to South Haven?

Check the cost of living, housing, traffic, and public transit in South Haven. Each neighborhood has its own vibe, so pick one that fits your lifestyle. Be prepared for South Haven climate and weather.

How Much Do Movers Charge in South Haven?

Moving within South Haven usually costs between $300 and $1,500. Moving long distances can cost anywhere from $2,000 to more than $5,000. The price may go up if you need extra services like packing or storage. Fill out Movers.com quote form to compare the quotes easily.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Move to South Haven?

While moves happen year-round, spring and fall are often more comfortable in South Haven. Booking outside of peak summer or winter seasons can save money and make scheduling easier.

Do Moving Companies in South Haven Offer Packing and Unpacking Services?

Yes! Majority of moving companies in South Haven offer full service moving, which means they will help you pack, unpack, and arrange your belongings.

When You Move from South Haven, How Far in Advance Should I Schedule My Move?

You should plan your move from South Haven at least 4 to 8 weeks in advance, especially if you're moving during the busy season (summer). You can get better availability, prices, and flexibility with your moving date if you book early. If you book at the last minute, you may have fewer choices or pay more.

Moving to South Haven, MI | Find Trusted Movers & Services

Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Haven, MI

Thinking of moving to South Haven, MI? With a friendly small-town vibe and a population of just over 4,000, South Haven offers affordable lakeside living, with median home prices around $224,000 and average rents near $1,040. Residents enjoy short commutes averaging 17 minutes, mild summers by Lake Michigan, and access to local schools and healthcare. While property crime is a bit higher than average, South Haven’s beautiful beaches, walkable downtown, and community spirit make it a charming place to call home.

Demographics - South Haven, MI

South Haven is home to just over 4,100 residents, offering a close-knit community with a median age of 48.6 years. The city is predominantly White, with a balanced gender ratio and a small percentage of non-English speakers, making it a welcoming environment for newcomers seeking a relaxed pace of life.

Population:

4,193

Density:

1,160 per sq mi

Median Age:

48.6

Gender Ratio:

90 males per 100 females

Non-English Speakers Percentage:

4.3%

Ethnic Composition

White:

82.5%

Black:

8.4%

Asian:

0.7%

Others:

8.4%

Cost Of Living

What is the average cost of living in South Haven, MI?

South Haven boasts a cost of living index below the national average, with median home values around $224,000 and average rents at $1,040 per month. Everyday expenses, including groceries and utilities, remain affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious families and retirees.

Median House Value:

$224,000

Gross Rent:

$1,040

Monthly Electricity Charges:

$120

Auto Insurance:

$1,350

House Owner Cost With Mortgage:

$1,350

House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:

$525

State Taxes:

Low:

4.25%

High:

6.0%

Cost Of Living Index:

87.2

Grocery:

93.1

Housing:

78.4

Utilities:

96.0

Transportation:

88.7

Health Care:

91.2

Miscellaneous:

89.5

Crime

Is South Haven, MI a safe place to live?

While South Haven enjoys a relatively low violent crime rate of 260 incidents per 100,000 residents, property crimes occur more frequently, with a chance of 1 in 56 for property-related incidents. Residents appreciate the overall sense of safety but remain mindful of protecting their homes and belongings.

Violent Crimes Per 100k:

260

Property Crimes Per 100k:

1,790

Crime Index:

2,050

Chance Of Violent Crime:

1 in 384

Chance Of Property Crime:

1 in 56

Weather

What is the weather like in South Haven, MI year-round?

South Haven experiences all four seasons, with mild summers reaching up to 81°F and winters that dip to lows around 19°F. The area receives about 35.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunshine on 51% of days, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and beachgoers.

Winter

Min:

19°F

Max:

33°F

Spring

Min:

39°F

Max:

61°F

Summer

Min:

62°F

Max:

81°F

Fall

Min:

42°F

Max:

64°F

Average Rainfall Inches:

35.5 inches

Sunny Days Percentage:

51%

Neighbors

Residents of South Haven typically have a median household income of $48,800, with a mix of retirees and working families. The community values education, with nearly 90% holding at least a high school diploma, and enjoys short average commutes of just over 17 minutes.

Median Income:

$28,400

Household Income:

$48,800

Family Income:

$62,000

Per Capita Income:

$28,400

Income Male:

$36,700

Income Female:

$30,400

Poverty Rate:

17.4%

Non English Speakers:

4.3%

Rent:

$1,040

Unemployment Rate:

5.9%

Public Transport Usage:

0.6%

Commute Time:

17.1 minutes

Education

High School or Higher:

89.8%

Bachelors or More:

24.2%

Education

How are the schools in South Haven, MI?

South Haven provides quality education through its public schools, including South Haven High School and Maple Grove Elementary, both known for supportive learning environments. Families also have access to St. Basil Catholic School and nearby Lake Michigan College, offering options from early education through higher learning.

Public Schools

Name:

South Haven High School

Street:

600 Elkenburg St

Phone:

269-637-0500

Students:

600

Student Teacher Ratio:

18.1

Name:

Maple Grove Elementary School

Street:

72399 12th Ave

Phone:

269-637-0540

Students:

400

Student Teacher Ratio:

16.4

Private Schools

Name:

St. Basil Catholic School

Street:

94 Superior St

Phone:

269-637-3529

Students:

Colleges

Name:

Lake Michigan College – South Haven Campus

City:

South Haven

State:

Distance:

2 miles

Students:

700

Healthcare

South Haven is served by Bronson South Haven Hospital, providing comprehensive general and emergency care close to home. With 91% of residents having health insurance and access to 1.8 physicians per 1,000 people, healthcare services are accessible and reliable.

Major Hospitals

Name:

Bronson South Haven Hospital

Address:

955 S Bailey Ave, South Haven, MI 49090

Phone:

(269) 637-5271

Type:

General & Surgical

Emergency Services:

Yes

Physicians Per 1000:

1.8

Health Insurance Coverage:

91.2%

Health Care Index:

65.0

Housing Market

What is the housing market like in South Haven, MI?

The housing market in South Haven is competitive yet accessible, with a median home price of $224,000 and average two-bedroom rents at $1,040. Over half of residents own their homes, and property values have appreciated by 7.6% in the past year, reflecting steady local demand.

Median Home Price:

$224,000

Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:

$1,040

Owner Occupied Rate:

57.1%

Rental Vacancy Rate:

7.2%

Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):

7.6%

New Construction Rate:

1.3%

Foreclosure Rate:

0.8%

DMV Information

South Haven residents can conveniently handle vehicle registration and licensing at the Michigan Secretary of State office located on M-140. The local DMV offers standard services and can be reached online or by phone for appointment scheduling and information.

State:

Michigan

Department:

Michigan Secretary of State

Address:

08337 M-140, South Haven, MI 49090

Phone:

1-888-767-6424

Website:

https://www.michigan.gov/sos

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.