Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Traverse City, MI
Thinking about relocating to Traverse City, MI? With a welcoming population of 15,718, this lakeside city offers a median home price around $360,000 and typical rents near $1,250. Residents enjoy short 16-minute commutes, low unemployment, and excellent access to outdoor recreation. Crime rates are moderate, education levels are high, and the city boasts a walkable downtown, quality public schools, and the beauty of all four seasons on Lake Michigan. Explore the lifestyle, housing, and community highlights to see if Traverse City is your next home.
Demographics - Traverse City, MI
Demographics - Traverse City, MI
Traverse City is home to 15,718 residents, with a population density that offers a lively yet manageable urban feel. The median age of 41.4 suggests a community with a balanced mix of young families and older adults, and the city is predominantly White, with over 93% of residents identifying as such. A low percentage of non-English speakers and a nearly even gender ratio contribute to a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere.
Population:
15,718
Density:
1,825 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.4
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
93.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
1.2%
Others:
4.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Traverse City, MI?
Living in Traverse City comes with a cost of living index slightly above the national average at 104.7, primarily driven by higher housing costs. The median home value is $360,000, and typical rents hover around $1,250, making housing the biggest expense for most residents. Utilities, groceries, and other essentials remain relatively affordable, and Michigan's flat state income tax of 4.25% helps keep overall expenses in check.
Median House Value:
$360,000
Gross Rent:
$1,250
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,420
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,780
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
104.7
Grocery:
98.6
Housing:
114.2
Utilities:
102.4
Transportation:
103.5
Health Care:
99.8
Miscellaneous:
97.2
Crime
Is Traverse City, MI a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Traverse City are moderate, with a violent crime rate of 202 per 100,000 people and a property crime rate of 2,010 per 100,000. The chance of experiencing a violent crime is about 1 in 495, while property crimes are more common at 1 in 50. Residents generally feel secure, but it's wise to stay vigilant, especially regarding property safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
202
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,010
Crime Index:
2,212
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 495
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 50
Weather
What is the weather like in Traverse City, MI year-round?
Traverse City experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 17°F and warm, pleasant summers reaching up to 80°F. The city receives about 33.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 53% of the year, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Residents can expect vibrant fall foliage and refreshing springs, adding to the area's scenic charm.
Winter
Min:
17°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
37°F
Max:
62°F
Summer
Min:
57°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
43°F
Max:
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
53%
Neighbors
The community in Traverse City enjoys a median household income of $66,500 and a low unemployment rate of 3.8%. Over 94% of adults have at least a high school diploma, and 44% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The city maintains a modest poverty rate of 11.2% and offers short average commutes of just over 16 minutes, reflecting a convenient and well-connected lifestyle.
Median Income:
$36,700
Household Income:
$66,500
Family Income:
$78,600
Per Capita Income:
$37,100
Income Male:
$43,000
Income Female:
$33,500
Poverty Rate:
11.2%
Non English Speakers:
4.5%
Rent:
$1,250
Unemployment Rate:
3.8%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
16.3 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
94.6%
Bachelors or More:
44.1%
Education
How are the schools in Traverse City, MI?
Traverse City offers strong educational opportunities, including well-regarded public schools like Traverse City Central High School and several private institutions. The presence of Northwestern Michigan College provides local higher education options, with over 3,600 students enrolled. High educational attainment rates and diverse school choices make the city appealing for families.
Public Schools
Name:
Traverse City Central High School
Street:
1150 Milliken Dr
Phone:
231-933-6500
Students:
1,350
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.6
Name:
Eastern Elementary School
Street:
1600 Eastern Ave
Phone:
231-933-5600
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.8
Private Schools
Name:
St. Francis High School
Street:
123 E 11th St
Phone:
231-946-8038
Students:
450
Colleges
Name:
Northwestern Michigan College
City:
Traverse City
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,600
Healthcare
Traverse City offers quality healthcare anchored by Munson Medical Center, a major hospital with comprehensive emergency services. With 2.5 physicians per 1,000 residents and nearly 94% health insurance coverage, access to medical care is strong. The city’s healthcare index of 77.2 suggests reliable and efficient health services for families and individuals alike.
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:
2.5
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.8%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Traverse City, MI?
Traverse City's housing market features a median home price of $360,000 and average two-bedroom rents of $1,250. With nearly 58% of homes owner-occupied and a 7.4% rental vacancy rate, both buyers and renters have options. Home values have appreciated by 7.2% in the last year, reflecting a stable and growing real estate market.
Median Home Price:
$360,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,250
Owner Occupied Rate:
57.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.2%
New Construction Rate:
2.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
DMV services in Traverse City are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State office, conveniently located on Barlow Street. Residents can handle licensing, registration, and other motor vehicle needs both in-person and online. The office serves as the central point for all state-related vehicle and identification services.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
1755 Barlow St, Traverse City, MI 49686
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.