Everything You Should Know Before Moving to West Olive, MI
Considering a move to West Olive, MI? This lakeshore community of about 8,000 residents offers affordable Midwestern living, with median home prices around $305,000 and rents averaging $1,180. Residents enjoy relatively low crime rates, a family-friendly atmosphere, and average commutes of just 26.5 minutes. West Olive features access to strong public schools and nearby colleges, plus four distinct seasons along Lake Michigan’s coast. Explore local housing, schools, and more below to see if West Olive is your next home.
Demographics - West Olive, MI
Demographics - West Olive, MI
West Olive is a close-knit community of about 8,000 people, with a median age of 41.2 years and a nearly even gender balance. The city is predominantly White, with smaller Black, Asian, and other minority populations, and roughly 4.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its moderate population density offers a relaxed, spacious feel for families and newcomers.
Population:
8,000
Density:
190 per sq mi
Median Age:
41.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
4.5%

Ethnic Composition
White:
89.1%
Black:
1.2%
Asian:
0.9%
Others:
8.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in West Olive, MI?
Residents of West Olive benefit from a cost of living that’s below the national average, with a cost of living index of 93.2. Median home values are around $305,000 and average rents are $1,180, making housing relatively affordable. Essentials like groceries, utilities, and transportation are also budget-friendly, appealing to those seeking value in a lakeshore setting.
Median House Value:
$305,000
Gross Rent:
$1,180
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,350
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,600
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$570
State Taxes:
Low:
4.25%
|
High:
4.25%
Cost Of Living Index:
93.2
Grocery:
95.0
Housing:
80.0
Utilities:
92.0
Transportation:
95.0
Health Care:
98.0
Miscellaneous:
96.0
Crime
Is West Olive, MI a safe place to live?
West Olive is considered a safe place to live, with a violent crime rate of 120 incidents per 100,000 people and property crime rates notably lower than many urban areas. Residents have a 1 in 830 chance of experiencing violent crime, providing peace of mind for families and individuals. The overall crime index reflects a secure, community-focused environment.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
120
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,080
Crime Index:
1,200
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 830
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 93
Weather
What is the weather like in West Olive, MI year-round?
West Olive experiences all four seasons, with cold winters averaging lows of 19°F and warm summers peaking around 80°F. Annual rainfall is approximately 34 inches, and the area enjoys about 47% sunny days each year. The climate is ideal for those who appreciate seasonal variety and outdoor activities along Lake Michigan.

Winter
Min:
19°F
Max:
34°F

Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
62°F

Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
80°F

Fall
Min:
42°F
Max:
66°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
34 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
47%
Neighbors
Local households in West Olive have a median income of $78,500, and the area boasts a relatively low poverty rate of 8.9%. Most residents are well-educated, with over 92% holding at least a high school diploma, and average commute times are about 26.5 minutes. The neighborhood is family-friendly, with a strong sense of community and low unemployment.
Median Income:
$33,000
Household Income:
$78,500
Family Income:
$91,000
Per Capita Income:
$35,200
Income Male:
$48,500
Income Female:
$39,600
Poverty Rate:
8.9%
Non English Speakers:
6.3%
Rent:
$1,180
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.4%
Commute Time:
26.5 minutes

Education
High School or Higher:
92.1%
Bachelors or More:
29.4%
Education
How are the schools in West Olive, MI?
West Olive offers quality educational options, including local public and private schools with favorable student-teacher ratios. The area is also close to higher education institutions like Grand Valley State University and Hope College, both within a 15-mile radius. These resources provide families and students with strong academic opportunities from elementary through college.

Public Schools
Name:
Sheldon Woods Elementary School
Street:
1830 Sheldon Rd
Phone:
616-786-1800
Students:
340
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Lakeshore Elementary School
Street:
3765 N 168th Ave
Phone:
616-786-1600
Students:
400
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.0

Private Schools
Name:
Corpus Christi Catholic School
Street:
12100 Quincy St
Phone:
616-994-9864
Students:
190

Colleges
Name:
Grand Valley State University
City:
Allendale
State:
MI
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
22,000
Name:
Hope College
City:
Holland
State:
MI
Distance:
12 miles
Students:
3,100
Healthcare
West Olive residents have convenient access to major hospitals such as Holland Hospital and North Ottawa Community Health System, both offering emergency services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and nearly 95% health insurance coverage, the area offers solid healthcare resources. The healthcare index of 77.2 indicates reliable local medical care for families and individuals.

Major Hospitals
Name:
Holland Hospital
Address:
602 Michigan Ave, Holland, MI 49423
Phone:
(616) 392-5141
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
North Ottawa Community Health System
Address:
1309 Sheldon Rd, Grand Haven, MI 49417
Phone:
(616) 842-3600
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
94.8%
Health Care Index:
77.2
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in West Olive, MI?
The housing market in West Olive is stable, with a median home price of $305,000 and average two-bedroom rents around $1,180. A high owner-occupancy rate of 78.5% points to a strong, established community, while a low foreclosure rate ensures market stability. Home values have appreciated by 6.2% in the past year, making it attractive for both buyers and investors.
Median Home Price:
$305,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,180
Owner Occupied Rate:
78.5%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
4.5%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.6%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Residents can access DMV services through the Michigan Secretary of State office located nearby in Holland, MI. The office offers standard vehicle registration, licensing, and other essential services, with convenient contact information and an online portal for appointments. This makes handling driving and registration needs straightforward for new and existing residents.
State:
Michigan
Department:
Michigan Secretary of State
Address:
587 E. 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423
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.