Michigan / County

Moving to Traverse City, MI

Thinking of making a move to Traverse City, MI? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Traverse City, MI

Considering a move to Traverse City, MI? This welcoming community of 15,718 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $360,000 and average rents near $1,250. Commute times average 16 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (53% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Traverse City's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Traverse City, MI

Traverse City has a population of 15,718 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 41 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 93% White, 1% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 5% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban 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?

The cost of living in Traverse City is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 104.7. Median home values are around $360,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $1,250. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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?

Traverse City is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 202 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 50. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Michigan.

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 four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 80°F and cold winters dipping to 17°F. The area receives about 34 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 53% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
17°F
Max
31°F

Summer

Min
57°F
Max
80°F

Spring

Min
37°F
Max
62°F

Fall

Min
43°F
Max
67°F
Average Rainfall Inches
33.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
53%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $66,500 and a low poverty rate of 11.2%. Over 95% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 44% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 16 minutes, and almost 1% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like Traverse City Central High School and Eastern Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Northwestern Michigan College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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 residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like Munson Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 2.5 per 1,000 people and 93.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

Major Hospitals

Name
Munson Medical Center
Address
1105 Sixth St, Traverse City, MI 49684
Phone
(231) 935-5000
Type
General & Surgical
Emergency Services
Yes

Healthcare Access

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?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $360,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 58%. The market has seen a 7.2% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 7.4%. Traverse City offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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

Residents of Traverse City handle vehicle services through the Michigan Secretary of State, conveniently located in Traverse City. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Michigan
Department
Michigan Secretary of State
Address
1755 Barlow St, Traverse City, MI 49686
Phone
1-888-767-6424

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.

FAQs About Moving to Traverse City, MI

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Traverse City, review the core fields on this page: population 15,718, median home value $360,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $1,250, commute time 16.3 minutes, and sunny days percentage 53%.

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