Everything You Should Know Before Moving to South Manitou, MI
Considering a move to South Manitou, MI? This unique Lake Michigan island is home to fewer than 10 year-round residents (mainly seasonal staff) and is part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Housing costs reflect Leelanau County’s median of $300,000, with a low crime rate and tranquil, natural surroundings. While amenities and schools are on the mainland, the area offers a peaceful climate with cool summers, 49% sunny days, and access to healthcare in nearby Traverse City. Ideal for those seeking remote, scenic living and outdoor adventure.
Demographics - South Manitou, MI
Demographics - South Manitou, MI
South Manitou is an extremely sparsely populated island with fewer than 10 permanent residents, mainly seasonal staff, and a population density of less than one person per square mile. The area reflects Leelanau County’s demographics, with a median age around 45 and a predominantly White population. Its isolated nature offers a close-knit, tranquil community experience.
Population:
Fewer than 10 (seasonal staff only)
Density:
Less than 1 per sq mi
Median Age:
Approx. 45 (Leelanau County median)
Gender Ratio:
100 males per 100 females (estimate)
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
95.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
1.0%
Others:
3.0%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in South Manitou, MI?
Cost of living on South Manitou Island is similar to Leelanau County, with median home values around $300,000 and average rents near $1,200. Utility and insurance costs are moderate, and the overall cost of living index is slightly above the national average. Residents can expect typical Michigan state tax rates and reasonable grocery and utility expenses.
Median House Value:
$300,000 (Leelanau County median)
Gross Rent:
$1,200 (Leelanau County median)
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,600
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$520
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
105.0
Grocery:
101.0
Housing:
108.0
Utilities:
100.0
Transportation:
107.0
Health Care:
97.0
Miscellaneous:
98.0
Crime
Is South Manitou, MI a safe place to live?
South Manitou Island benefits from the very low crime rates of Leelanau County, with only about 60 violent crimes and 550 property crimes per 100,000 people annually. The chance of experiencing violent crime is extremely rare, estimated at 1 in 1,667. This makes the island an exceptionally safe and peaceful place to live or visit.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
60 (Leelanau County average)
Property Crimes Per 100k:
550 (Leelanau County average)
Crime Index:
610
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 1,667
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 182
Weather
What is the weather like in South Manitou, MI year-round?
South Manitou experiences classic northern Michigan weather with cold winters averaging lows of 17°F and pleasant summers reaching highs of 77°F. The island receives about 32 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine nearly half the year. Residents can expect cool breezes and a climate ideal for outdoor activities.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
30°F
Spring
Min:
34°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
58°F
Max:
77°F
Fall
Min:
39°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
The surrounding Leelanau County community is moderately affluent, with a median household income of $75,000 and a poverty rate under 8%. Most residents commute about 30 minutes (including ferry travel), and educational attainment is high, with over 94% holding a high school diploma. The area is characterized by low unemployment and a strong sense of community.
Median Income:
$38,000
Household Income:
$75,000
Family Income:
$90,000
Per Capita Income:
$41,000
Income Male:
$45,000
Income Female:
$37,000
Poverty Rate:
7.9%
Non English Speakers:
3.0%
Rent:
$1,200
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
30.0 minutes (to mainland if resident)
Education
High School or Higher:
94.2%
Bachelors or More:
37.5%
Education
How are the schools in South Manitou, MI?
Educational options for South Manitou residents are based on the mainland, with public schooling available at Leland Public School, known for its small class sizes and strong academic programs. Higher education is accessible via Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, about 31 miles away. While no schools are located directly on the island, quality educational resources are within reach for families willing to commute.
Public Schools
Name:
Leland Public School
Street:
200 N Grand Ave
Phone:
231-256-9857
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
13:1
Colleges
Name:
Northwestern Michigan College
City:
Traverse City
State:
MI
Distance:
31 miles (plus ferry)
Students:
3,400
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is provided by nearby facilities such as Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, which offers comprehensive emergency and surgical services. The region maintains about two physicians per 1,000 residents and a high rate of health insurance coverage at 92%. While on-island services are limited, quality care is available on the mainland.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Munson Medical Center
Address:
1105 Sixth St, Traverse City, MI 49684
Phone:
(231) 935-5000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
92.0%
Health Care Index:
73.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in South Manitou, MI?
The housing market reflects Leelanau County trends, with median home prices around $300,000 and high owner-occupancy rates at 80%. Rental options are limited but reasonably priced, with two-bedroom units averaging $1,200 per month. Home values have seen steady appreciation, making the area attractive for long-term investment.
Median Home Price:
$300,000 (Leelanau County median)
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,200
Owner Occupied Rate:
80.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.0%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents handle vehicle registration and licensing through the Michigan Secretary of State office in Leland, located at 701 S. Main St. Services can also be accessed online, making DMV transactions convenient despite the island’s remote location. Michigan’s DMV provides comprehensive support for all standard vehicle and licensing needs.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
701 S. Main St, Leland, MI 49654
Phone:
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.