Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Watton, MI
Watton, MI is a small rural community with a population of about 110, offering affordable living with median home prices around $98,000 and average rent at $630. Residents enjoy a quiet lifestyle, low crime rates, and short average commutes of 25 minutes. With a strong owner-occupied housing rate, access to nearby schools, and abundant outdoor recreation, Watton is ideal for those seeking peace, low costs, and beautiful Upper Peninsula seasons.
Demographics - Watton, MI
Demographics - Watton, MI
Watton, MI is a small rural community with just 110 residents, a median age of 48, and a predominantly White population. The area has a slightly higher number of males than females and a very low percentage of non-English speakers, making it a close-knit and homogeneous place. With a sparse population density of 5 people per square mile, Watton offers a tranquil and spacious environment.
Population:
110
Density:
5 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.0
Gender Ratio:
105 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
92.0%
Black:
1.0%
Asian:
0.5%
Others:
6.5%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Watton, MI?
Living in Watton is highly affordable, with median home values around $98,000 and average rents at $630 per month. The cost of living index is well below the national average, and everyday expenses such as groceries and utilities are also comparatively low. Residents benefit from modest state taxes, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.
Median House Value:
$98,000
Gross Rent:
$630
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$850
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$330
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.0
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
56.0
Utilities:
95.0
Transportation:
85.0
Health Care:
92.0
Miscellaneous:
92.0
Crime
Is Watton, MI a safe place to live?
Watton experiences low crime rates, with only 120 violent crimes per 100,000 people and a relatively low chance of encountering property crime. Residents enjoy a safe and peaceful environment, contributing to the town's appeal for families and retirees. The community’s low crime index highlights its reputation as a secure place to live.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
920
Crime Index:
1,040
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 830
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 110
Weather
What is the weather like in Watton, MI year-round?
Watton’s climate features cold, snowy winters with lows around 2°F and mild, pleasant summers with highs reaching 76°F. The area receives about 32.5 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys 45% sunny days, providing a mix of seasonal beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Residents should be prepared for significant seasonal changes typical of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Winter
Min:
2°F
Max:
25°F
Spring
Min:
30°F
Max:
58°F
Summer
Min:
51°F
Max:
76°F
Fall
Min:
33°F
Max:
60°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
32.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
45%
Neighbors
Watton’s neighbors typically have a median household income of $39,500, with about 17.5% living below the poverty line. Most residents have at least a high school education, commute about 25 minutes to work, and there is minimal use of public transit. The community’s modest income levels and friendly, close-knit atmosphere make it welcoming for newcomers seeking a simple lifestyle.
Median Income:
$32,500
Household Income:
$39,500
Family Income:
$48,000
Per Capita Income:
$19,800
Income Male:
$27,600
Income Female:
$22,200
Poverty Rate:
17.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$630
Unemployment Rate:
5.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
25.5 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
89.0%
Bachelors or More:
12.5%
Education
How are the schools in Watton, MI?
Watton is served by L'Anse Area Schools, providing quality public education with a favorable student-teacher ratio of 13.5. While there are no private schools in town, higher education is accessible at nearby Finlandia University and Michigan Technological University, located 36 and 48 miles away, respectively. The town’s educational resources support both families and lifelong learners.
Public Schools
Name:
L'Anse Area Schools
Street:
201 N 4th St
Phone:
906-524-6000
Students:
600
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.5
Colleges
Name:
Finlandia University
City:
Hancock
State:
MI
Distance:
36 miles
Students:
400
Name:
Michigan Technological University
City:
Houghton
State:
MI
Distance:
48 miles
Students:
7,000
Healthcare
Residents have access to Baraga County Memorial Hospital just a short drive away, offering general and emergency services. With 1.4 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 90% of locals covered by health insurance, essential healthcare needs are well met. The healthcare index suggests services are accessible, though specialized care may require travel to larger cities.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Baraga County Memorial Hospital
Address:
18341 U.S. Hwy 41, L'Anse, MI 49946
Phone:
(906) 524-3300
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.4
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.3%
Health Care Index:
66.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Watton, MI?
Watton’s housing market is highly affordable, with a median home price of $98,000 and most homes owner-occupied. The market is stable, showing a modest appreciation rate and low foreclosure levels, making it a great place for buyers seeking value and long-term investment. Rental options are available but limited, contributing to a small-town feel.
Median Home Price:
$98,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$630
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.0%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Vehicle registration and licensing in Watton are managed by the Michigan Secretary of State, headquartered in Lansing. Residents can access DMV services online or by calling the state’s dedicated helpline. Most routine DMV needs are efficiently handled through the state’s website or by visiting regional offices.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
301 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48933
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.