Everything You Should Know Before Moving to St Joseph, MI
Considering St Joseph, MI for your next move? This friendly Lake Michigan city has a population of about 7,700, offering affordable living with median home prices near $232,000 and average two-bedroom rent at $1,050. Residents enjoy short 16-minute commutes, strong public schools, and beautiful summers with 52% sunny days each year. Crime rates are moderate for the region, and you'll find easy access to healthcare and local amenities—all making St Joseph a great place to settle in Southwest Michigan.
Demographics - St Joseph, MI
Demographics - St Joseph, MI
St Joseph, MI is home to around 7,700 residents, with a median age of just over 41, reflecting a balanced mix of families and professionals. The city is predominantly White at 86%, but also includes a blend of other ethnic backgrounds and nearly 5% non-English speakers, contributing to its warm, welcoming atmosphere. With a population density of 2,000 per square mile, the community offers a close-knit yet comfortable environment.
Population:
7,700
Density:
2,000 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.4
Gender Ratio:
90 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.9%
Ethnic Composition
White:
86.4%
Black:
5.9%
Asian:
2.3%
Others:
5.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in St Joseph, MI?
St Joseph offers affordable living with a median home value of $232,000 and an average rent of $1,050 for a two-bedroom apartment. The cost of living index is below the national average, making everyday expenses like groceries and utilities manageable for most budgets. State income tax is a flat 4.25%, helping residents keep more of their earnings.
Median House Value:
$232,000
Gross Rent:
$1,050
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,360
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$530
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.2
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
77.0
Utilities:
94.5
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
94.2
Miscellaneous:
93.5
Crime
Is St Joseph, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in St Joseph are moderate for the region, with about 217 violent crimes and 2,173 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The chance of experiencing a property crime is roughly 1 in 46, making it important to be mindful of security, though many find the city to be a safe and friendly place overall. Local law enforcement works to maintain a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
217
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,173
Crime Index:
2,390
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 460
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 46
Weather
What is the weather like in St Joseph, MI year-round?
St Joseph experiences all four seasons, with warm, pleasant summers reaching highs around 82°F and chilly winters dipping to about 20°F at night. The city enjoys 52% sunny days each year and receives approximately 38.5 inches of rainfall, creating lush landscapes and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Residents appreciate the changing seasons and lakeside breezes.
Winter
Min:
20°F
Max:
34°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
45°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
38.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
52%
Neighbors
The typical St Joseph household earns about $62,800, with a family median income of $76,500 and a poverty rate of 12.3%. Most residents are highly educated, with over 96% holding at least a high school diploma, and commute times average just 16.5 minutes. The community is known for its friendly neighbors and strong sense of local pride.
Median Income:
$38,700
Household Income:
$62,800
Family Income:
$76,500
Per Capita Income:
$38,900
Income Male:
$47,200
Income Female:
$32,300
Poverty Rate:
12.3%
Non English Speakers:
4.9%
Rent:
$1,050
Unemployment Rate:
4.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.6%
Commute Time:
16.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
96.3%
Bachelors or More:
44.1%
Education
How are the schools in St Joseph, MI?
St Joseph boasts strong public schools, including St. Joseph High School and Lincoln Elementary, both known for supportive faculty and favorable student-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private options like Our Lady of the Lake Catholic School, and higher education is available just five miles away at Lake Michigan College. The city’s commitment to education is reflected in its high graduation rates and engaged community.
Public Schools
Name:
St. Joseph High School
Street:
2521 Stadium Dr
Phone:
269-926-3200
Students:
950
Student Teacher Ratio:
18:1
Name:
Lincoln Elementary School
Street:
1425 Lincoln Ave
Phone:
269-926-3700
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
16:1
Private Schools
Name:
Our Lady of the Lake Catholic School
Street:
220 Church St
Phone:
269-983-5225
Students:
230
Colleges
Name:
Lake Michigan College
City:
Benton Harbor
State:
MI
Distance:
5 miles
Students:
3,100
Healthcare
Access to healthcare is excellent in St Joseph, with 93.8% of residents covered by insurance and a robust network of local physicians. Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital provides comprehensive care and emergency services right in town, ensuring peace of mind for families. The area’s healthcare index of 76.1 reflects reliable and affordable medical services.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Corewell Health Lakeland Hospital
Address:
1234 Napier Ave, St Joseph, MI 49085
Phone:
(269) 983-8300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.3
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
76.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in St Joseph, MI?
St Joseph’s housing market is stable and attractive, with a median home price of $232,000 and a high owner-occupancy rate of nearly 69%. Home values appreciated by 5.2% last year, and the rental vacancy rate remains healthy at 6.1%, offering options for both buyers and renters. The market suits those seeking affordable, long-term investment in a lakeside community.
Median Home Price:
$232,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,050
Owner Occupied Rate:
68.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
5.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Local DMV services are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State, with an office conveniently located in nearby Benton Harbor. Residents can access vehicle registration, licensing, and other essential services both in person and through the state’s online portal. For more information, the Michigan SOS website provides up-to-date resources and contact details.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
1960 Mall Dr, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
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.