Everything You Should Know Before Moving to University Center, MI
Considering a move to University Center, MI? With a population around 4,400 and a median home price of $143,000, this college-focused community offers affordable living and short 20-minute average commutes. The area features two major universities, reasonable rents, and crime rates below larger metro averages. While winters are cold, you'll enjoy friendly neighborhoods, accessible healthcare, and a welcoming atmosphere ideal for students and families alike.
Demographics - University Center, MI
Demographics - University Center, MI
University Center is a small, youthful community of approximately 4,400 people, with a median age of 23.5 reflecting its college-town character. Most residents identify as White, with smaller Black, Asian, and other minority populations, and just under 6% speak a language other than English at home. The gender ratio is fairly balanced, making it a diverse and inclusive environment for newcomers.
Population:
4,400
Density:
900 per sq mi
Median Age:
23.5
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
5.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.0%
Black:
7.0%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
9.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in University Center, MI?
Living in University Center is affordable, with a median home value of $143,000 and average rent around $900 per month. The cost of living index is notably lower than the national average, particularly in housing, making it an attractive option for students and families. Utilities and groceries remain reasonably priced, and state taxes are moderate, helping residents manage budgets effectively.
Median House Value:
$143,000
Gross Rent:
$900
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,280
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,060
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$390
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
6.00%
Cost Of Living Index:
85.5
Grocery:
93.2
Housing:
68.4
Utilities:
99.1
Transportation:
89.7
Health Care:
97.8
Miscellaneous:
92.3
Crime
Is University Center, MI a safe place to live?
University Center experiences lower crime rates compared to larger cities, with about 235 violent crimes and 1,750 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Residents have a 1 in 425 chance of being affected by violent crime, highlighting a generally safe environment. This safety makes it a reassuring choice for students and families considering relocation.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
235
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,750
Crime Index:
1,985
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 425
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 57
Weather
What is the weather like in University Center, MI year-round?
The area experiences diverse seasons, with cold winters where temperatures can dip to 16°F and mild summers reaching up to 82°F. Residents enjoy about 48% sunny days each year and an average annual rainfall of 32.5 inches. The distinct seasons allow for a variety of outdoor activities throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
16°F
Max:
32°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
82°F
Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
48%
Neighbors
Residents of University Center have a median household income of about $53,700, with a per capita income of $21,600 and a poverty rate of 16.5%. Most adults have completed high school, and a quarter hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commutes average just under 20 minutes, and public transit use is limited, reflecting the area's small-town feel.
Median Income:
$31,200
Household Income:
$53,700
Family Income:
$65,800
Per Capita Income:
$21,600
Income Male:
$34,000
Income Female:
$28,800
Poverty Rate:
16.5%
Non English Speakers:
5.8%
Rent:
$900
Unemployment Rate:
5.3%
Public Transport Usage:
1.5%
Commute Time:
19.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
88.6%
Bachelors or More:
25.2%
Education
How are the schools in University Center, MI?
University Center boasts strong educational opportunities, including reputable public and private schools with manageable student-teacher ratios. The presence of Saginaw Valley State University and Delta College, both located in town, provides higher education access to nearly 16,000 students combined. This academic focus enhances the community’s vibrant, youthful atmosphere.
Public Schools
Name:
Floyd Elementary School
Street:
131 S Garfield Ave
Phone:
989-684-2547
Students:
420
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Central High School
Street:
1600 S Euclid Ave
Phone:
989-684-6030
Students:
930
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.3
Private Schools
Name:
All Saints Central Catholic Schools
Street:
217 S Monroe St
Phone:
989-892-2533
Students:
360
Colleges
Name:
Saginaw Valley State University
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
7,800
Name:
Delta College
City:
University Center
State:
MI
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
8,200
Healthcare
Healthcare is highly accessible, with major hospitals like Covenant HealthCare and Ascension St. Mary's Hospital nearby, both offering emergency services. The area has a solid ratio of physicians (2.1 per 1,000 residents), and over 91% of the population has health insurance. These resources ensure quality care for residents of all ages.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Covenant HealthCare
Address:
1447 N Harrison St, Saginaw, MI 48602
Phone:
(989) 583-0000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Ascension St. Mary's Hospital
Address:
800 S Washington Ave, Saginaw, MI 48601
Phone:
(989) 907-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.1
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.4%
Health Care Index:
68.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in University Center, MI?
The housing market in University Center is stable and affordable, with a median home price of $143,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom unit at $900. About 63% of homes are owner-occupied, and the area sees a healthy appreciation rate of 4.2% annually. Rental vacancies are moderate, making it relatively easy to find housing for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$143,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$900
Owner Occupied Rate:
62.8%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.9%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can handle vehicle registration, licensing, and other motor vehicle services at the Michigan Secretary of State office located in nearby Saginaw. The office provides comprehensive DMV services, and more information is available on the Michigan Secretary of State website. This convenient location helps streamline essential tasks for new arrivals and locals alike.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
111 S. Michigan Ave, Saginaw, MI 48602
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.