Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Branch, MI
Thinking of moving to West Branch, MI? This small community of just over 2,000 offers affordable living, with a median home price of $114,000 and average rents around $720. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 18 minutes and access to a local hospital. While the cost of living is low and the area is safe compared to national averages, educational attainment and income levels are modest. West Branch features four distinct seasons and a friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Demographics - West Branch, MI
Demographics - West Branch, MI
West Branch, MI is a small, close-knit community with a population of just over 2,000 residents. The city is predominantly White, with a median age of 46.7, reflecting a mature community and a slightly higher number of females than males. Most residents speak English at home, contributing to a welcoming and familiar environment for newcomers.
Population:
2,026
Density:
1,130 per sq mi
Median Age:
46.7
Gender Ratio:
85 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
2.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
96.0%
Black:
0.7%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
2.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Branch, MI?
Living in West Branch is highly affordable, with a cost of living index well below the national average. The median home value is $114,000, and average gross rent is around $720, making it an attractive spot for budget-conscious movers. Utilities and everyday expenses also remain reasonable, supporting a comfortable lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$114,000
Gross Rent:
$720
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,050
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$430
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
6.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.5
Grocery:
92.0
Housing:
56.0
Utilities:
96.0
Transportation:
88.0
Health Care:
84.0
Miscellaneous:
80.0
Crime
Is West Branch, MI a safe place to live?
West Branch experiences a moderate crime rate, with residents having a 1 in 305 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 54 chance for property crime. Overall, the city offers a sense of safety comparable to similar-sized communities. Families and individuals alike find peace of mind in this low-key environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
327
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,850
Crime Index:
2,177
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 305
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 54
Weather
What is the weather like in West Branch, MI year-round?
Residents of West Branch enjoy four distinct seasons, with cold, snowy winters averaging lows of 13°F and warm, pleasant summers peaking near 80°F. The area receives about 30.6 inches of rainfall annually and sees sunshine 49% of the year. This climate is ideal for those who appreciate a traditional northern Michigan weather pattern.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
29°F
Spring
Min:
33°F
Max:
61°F
Summer
Min:
54°F
Max:
80°F
Fall
Min:
36°F
Max:
62°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
30.6 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
49%
Neighbors
The community in West Branch is friendly and tight-knit, with a median household income of $36,400 and a poverty rate of 21.5%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is a quick 18 minutes. The town's modest income levels and low unemployment contribute to its relaxed pace of life.
Median Income:
$27,400
Household Income:
$36,400
Family Income:
$49,800
Per Capita Income:
$21,500
Income Male:
$30,600
Income Female:
$23,400
Poverty Rate:
21.5%
Non English Speakers:
2.5%
Rent:
$720
Unemployment Rate:
6.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
17.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
87.2%
Bachelors or More:
13.8%
Education
How are the schools in West Branch, MI?
West Branch is served by several public schools such as Surline Elementary, Surline Middle, and Ogemaw Heights High School, all offering reasonable student-teacher ratios. While there are no private schools in town, higher education options are available nearby at Kirtland Community College, located just 32 miles away. The region supports students from early education through college, making it suitable for families.
Public Schools
Name:
Surline Elementary School
Street:
147 State St
Phone:
989-343-2190
Students:
480
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.0
Name:
Surline Middle School
Street:
147 State St
Phone:
989-343-2250
Students:
410
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Ogemaw Heights High School
Street:
960 S M-33
Phone:
989-343-2000
Students:
580
Student Teacher Ratio:
20.0
Colleges
Name:
Kirtland Community College
City:
Grayling
State:
MI
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
1,500
Healthcare
Healthcare in West Branch is anchored by MyMichigan Medical Center, offering general and emergency services within the city. With 1.6 physicians per 1,000 residents and 94.5% health insurance coverage, most locals have access to essential medical care. The city’s healthcare index reflects adequate resources for a community of its size.
Major Hospitals
Name:
MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch
Address:
2463 S M-30, West Branch, MI 48661
Phone:
(989) 345-3660
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.5%
Health Care Index:
69.0
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Branch, MI?
West Branch features an accessible housing market, with a median home price of $114,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $800. Over half of residents own their homes, and the market has seen slight appreciation in recent years. Rental vacancies and foreclosure rates remain low, ensuring stability for both renters and buyers.
Median Home Price:
$114,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$800
Owner Occupied Rate:
58.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.2%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.8%
DMV Information
Residents handle motor vehicle services through the Michigan Secretary of State office located conveniently on E. Houghton Ave. The office provides essential DMV services, including licensing and registration. For more information or to schedule appointments, the state’s official website offers helpful resources.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
333 E. Houghton Ave, West Branch, MI 48661
Phone:
(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.