Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Watersmeet, MI
Thinking about relocating to Watersmeet, MI? This small Upper Peninsula community of 408 offers affordable living with a median home price of $110,000 and average rents around $700. Residents enjoy a peaceful, low-density lifestyle with short 19-minute commutes, low crime rates, and easy access to nature. The area features a strong Native American heritage, a tight-knit school community, and a classic Northwoods climate—expect cold winters, mild summers, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
Demographics - Watersmeet, MI
Demographics - Watersmeet, MI
Watersmeet is a small, close-knit community of 408 people, with a median age of 51.9 and a population density of just 8 residents per square mile. The town reflects a strong Native American heritage, making up nearly 29% of the population, alongside a majority White demographic. The area is predominantly English-speaking, with a small percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its welcoming, rural character.
Population:
408
Density:
8 per sq mi
Median Age:
51.9
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
66.4%
Black:
0.4%
Asian:
0.0%
Others:
4.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Watersmeet, MI?
The cost of living in Watersmeet is notably affordable, with a cost of living index of 83.0 and a median house value of $110,000. Monthly rent averages $700, and utility costs remain reasonable, making it attractive for those seeking budget-friendly living in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. State taxes are flat at 4.25%, and essential expenses like groceries and healthcare are below national averages.
Median House Value:
$110,000
Gross Rent:
$700
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$105
Auto Insurance:
$1,300
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.0
Grocery:
90.1
Housing:
55.2
Utilities:
97.9
Transportation:
82.7
Health Care:
90.4
Miscellaneous:
84.6
Crime
Is Watersmeet, MI a safe place to live?
Watersmeet experiences low crime rates for both violent and property offenses, with a 1 in 555 chance of violent crime and a 1 in 97 chance of property crime annually. The community's rural setting contributes to its overall sense of safety and security. Residents can feel comfortable knowing that both violent and property crime rates are well below many national averages.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
180
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,030
Crime Index:
1,210
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 555
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 97
Weather
What is the weather like in Watersmeet, MI year-round?
Watersmeet has a classic Northwoods climate, featuring long, cold winters with lows near 2°F and mild summers peaking around 78°F. The area receives about 32 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine 46% of the year, offering a true four-season outdoor experience. Residents should be prepared for snowy winters and crisp, pleasant summers—ideal for nature lovers.
Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
23°F
Spring
Min:
32°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
78°F
Fall
Min:
34°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.4 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
46%
Neighbors
Residents of Watersmeet enjoy a median household income of $36,500, with a poverty rate of 18.2% and an unemployment rate of 6.8%. Most neighbors have completed high school, and commute times are short, averaging under 20 minutes. The community values a relaxed pace of life, with little reliance on public transportation and strong local ties.
Median Income:
$30,000
Household Income:
$36,500
Family Income:
$43,000
Per Capita Income:
$21,700
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$25,000
Poverty Rate:
18.2%
Non English Speakers:
7.5%
Rent:
$700
Unemployment Rate:
6.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.0%
Commute Time:
19.2 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
82.4%
Bachelors or More:
13.8%
Education
How are the schools in Watersmeet, MI?
Education in Watersmeet centers around the Watersmeet Township School, which serves about 180 students with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 9.5. While there are no private school options, higher education is available at Gogebic Community College, located 41 miles away. The town fosters a supportive educational environment with a strong sense of community.
Public Schools
Name:
Watersmeet Township School
Street:
4720N Hwy 45
Phone:
906-358-4504
Students:
180
Student Teacher Ratio:
9.5
Colleges
Name:
Gogebic Community College
City:
Ironwood
State:
MI
Distance:
41 miles
Students:
1,100
Healthcare
Healthcare coverage is robust, with nearly 92% of residents insured and access to facilities like Aspirus Iron River Hospital nearby. There are 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents, providing essential care for the small population. The healthcare index of 66.2 reflects quality basic services within reach of the community.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Aspirus Iron River Hospital
Address:
1400 W Ice Lake Rd, Iron River, MI 49935
Phone:
(906) 265-6121
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.8%
Health Care Index:
66.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Watersmeet, MI?
The Watersmeet housing market is accessible, with a median home price of $110,000 and a high owner-occupied rate of 73.5%. Rental vacancies are moderate, and the area has seen a healthy home appreciation rate of 6.1% over the past year. This makes the town appealing for those seeking affordable homeownership or rental options in a rural setting.
Median Home Price:
$110,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$700
Owner Occupied Rate:
73.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.1%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Watersmeet residents are served by the Michigan Secretary of State's office, with the nearest branch located at 301 W. Baraga Ave in Marquette. The DMV provides standard vehicle registration, licensing, and related services, and can be reached at 1-888-767-6424 or online at michigan.gov/sos. Access to DMV services is straightforward for local needs.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
301 W. Baraga Ave, Marquette, MI 49855
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.