Living in and Moving to Muskegon, Michigan

Cost to Move to Muskegon, Michigan

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Cost of living in Muskegon, Michigan

Housing Costs

The median home price in Muskegon, Michigan, as of 2023, is approximately $192,000, which is significantly lower than the national median of $416,100, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing. Renters can expect to pay around $900 to $1,200 per month for a two-bedroom apartment, depending on the neighborhood. The affordability of housing in Muskegon has led to a homeownership rate of about 68%, which is higher than the national average. This combination of low home prices and reasonable rent costs makes Muskegon an appealing choice for those looking to live comfortably without breaking the bank.
(SOURCE)

Utilities

Utility costs in Muskegon are generally in line with the national average, with residents paying an average of $170 per month for electricity, water, and gas. Internet services typically add an additional $60-$100 per month, depending on the provider and speed required. Michigan’s cold winters can drive heating costs higher during the colder months, so budgeting for an increase during that period is advisable.
(SOURCE)

Groceries/Food

The average cost of groceries in Muskegon is about 4% lower than the national average. A gallon of milk is priced around $2.10, while a loaf of bread costs roughly $2.85. Eating out is also affordable, with a meal at a mid-range restaurant typically costing $12 to $15 per person. Monthly grocery bills for a family of four are estimated to be between $700 and $850, depending on dietary preferences and shopping habits.
(SOURCE)

Transportation

The average cost of transportation in Muskegon is relatively low compared to larger metro areas. Gasoline prices hover around $3.60 per gallon as of 2023. Public transportation options are limited, but the Muskegon Area Transit System (MATS) provides bus services at a cost of $1.25 per ride, or $45 for a monthly pass. Most residents rely on personal vehicles, with average monthly car insurance premiums at $115.
(SOURCE)

Healthcare

Healthcare costs in Muskegon are slightly below the national average. A routine doctor’s visit costs approximately $115 without insurance, while a dental check-up averages $95. Health insurance premiums for a family of four typically range from $1,200 to $1,600 per month, depending on the plan and coverage options. Prescription drug costs are also lower, with generic medications averaging about $10 for a standard supply.
(SOURCE)

Childcare and Education

Childcare in Muskegon can be a significant expense for families. The average cost of full-time daycare for one child is about $800 to $1,000 per month. For those with older children, public schools are free, but private school tuition in the area averages $4,500 to $8,000 per year, depending on the institution. Additionally, college tuition for in-state residents at nearby Muskegon Community College is around $6,000 per year.
(SOURCE)

Taxes

Muskegon residents benefit from Michigan’s relatively low income tax rate of 4.25%. Property taxes in Muskegon are around 1.6% of the home’s assessed value, which is slightly above the national average. Sales tax is fixed at 6%, which is comparable to other states in the Midwest.
(SOURCE)

Insurance

Homeowners insurance in Muskegon averages around $950 annually, depending on the property and coverage level. Renters insurance is more affordable, typically costing $150 to $200 per year. Car insurance, as mentioned earlier, averages about $115 per month, though rates can fluctuate based on driving history and vehicle type.
(SOURCE)

Recreation and Entertainment

Muskegon offers plenty of affordable recreation options. A gym membership averages $35 to $45 per month, while admission to local attractions like the Muskegon Museum of Art or Michigan’s Adventure amusement park ranges from $10 to $45. Families can also enjoy the numerous free outdoor activities, including parks, beaches, and hiking trails along Lake Michigan.
(SOURCE)

Clothing

Clothing expenses in Muskegon are fairly typical, with a pair of jeans costing about $45, and a new pair of athletic shoes averaging around $70. Local boutiques and large retailers offer a range of options, from affordable to high-end, giving residents flexibility in their shopping choices.
(SOURCE)

Personal Care

Haircuts, spa services, and other personal care treatments in Muskegon are reasonably priced. A standard haircut for men costs around $18, while women can expect to pay between $30 and $50 for a basic cut. Other services such as manicures, facials, and massages are competitively priced, making self-care accessible without overspending.
(SOURCE)

Miscellaneous Expenses

Additional expenses like cell phone bills, entertainment subscriptions, and dining out can vary, but on average, residents spend about $150 to $250 per month on these types of activities. These costs can be adjusted depending on lifestyle choices, with many affordable and free entertainment options available in the area.
(SOURCE)

Is Muskegon, Michigan a safe place to live – Crime Rates?

Crime Rate

The overall crime rate in Muskegon, Michigan, is higher than the national average. As of the most recent data from 2023, the city has a crime rate of 45 per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 23 per 1,000. While the city has taken steps to improve safety, this statistic suggests that residents should remain vigilant, particularly in higher-crime areas. Property crimes, including burglary and vehicle theft, make up the majority of reported incidents.
(SOURCE)

Violent Crime Rate

Muskegon has a violent crime rate of 9.35 per 1,000 residents, which is significantly above the national average of 4.0 per 1,000. The most commonly reported violent crimes include aggravated assault and robbery. However, it’s important to note that violent crimes are often concentrated in specific neighborhoods, and many areas of the city are safer than these statistics may suggest.
(SOURCE)

Property Crime Rate

The property crime rate in Muskegon is notably higher than the national average, standing at approximately 35 per 1,000 residents. Property crimes such as burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft are the most common, but rates have been gradually declining over the past few years due to increased law enforcement efforts and community involvement.
(SOURCE)

Police Presence

Muskegon has a robust police presence with the Muskegon Police Department actively working to reduce crime and improve safety. The department employs around 75 officers, which translates to about 2.2 officers per 1,000 residents, a rate close to the national average. The department has implemented several community policing initiatives, including neighborhood patrols and public safety partnerships, aimed at reducing crime and fostering a sense of security.
(SOURCE)

Safety Rankings

According to the most recent safety rankings from 2023, Muskegon ranks in the lower 20% of cities in the United States in terms of safety. However, it ranks slightly better than some other nearby Michigan cities with similar population sizes. It’s important to assess individual neighborhoods within Muskegon as safety levels can vary significantly depending on location.
(SOURCE)

Trend Data

While Muskegon historically had higher crime rates, recent trends suggest a gradual decline in both violent and property crimes. Since 2019, violent crime rates have decreased by nearly 10%, and property crimes have also seen a small but steady drop of about 5% over the same period. This decline can be attributed to increased law enforcement efforts, improved community engagement, and new safety programs.
(SOURCE)

School Safety

School safety in Muskegon has improved in recent years, with several initiatives aimed at enhancing security measures in public schools. Schools have implemented security cameras, controlled access points, and regular safety drills. Additionally, school resource officers are present in many of the area’s public schools to ensure the safety of students and staff. These measures have contributed to a safer learning environment for children.
(SOURCE)

What are the demographics of Muskegon, Michigan?

White

As of the most recent data from 2022, the majority of Muskegon’s population is White, making up approximately 55.6% of the city’s total population. This is a slight decline from previous years, reflecting increased diversity in the area. The White population in Muskegon is predominantly non-Hispanic, although there is a small percentage of residents who identify as Hispanic within this group.

Black or African American

The Black or African American population in Muskegon accounts for 30.3% of the city’s total residents. This is significantly higher than the national average, reflecting Muskegon’s historical African American communities and ongoing migration trends into the city. The Black population has grown steadily in recent years, with many neighborhoods being culturally diverse.

Hispanic or Latino

Hispanic or Latino residents represent approximately 8.3% of Muskegon’s population. This group includes people of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, and other Latin American backgrounds. The Hispanic population has been gradually increasing as more families move into the area for employment and educational opportunities.

Two or More Races

Around 5.3% of Muskegon’s population identifies as being of two or more races. This category has been expanding over the last decade, as the city has become more diverse and individuals with mixed heritage are increasingly common. This trend is particularly noticeable among younger generations.

Asian

Muskegon’s Asian population remains relatively small, making up about 0.9% of the total population. Most Asian residents in the city are of East or Southeast Asian descent, with some families having lived in the region for several generations. The local Asian community is primarily concentrated in certain neighborhoods within the city.

Native American

Native Americans account for 0.8% of Muskegon’s population. This figure includes individuals who are descendants of the original Native tribes in Michigan, as well as other Native American groups who have migrated to the area. Efforts to preserve Native American heritage and culture are present in local community events and educational programs.

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander

Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander residents represent a very small portion of Muskegon’s population, constituting less than 0.1%. As a result, there is limited community representation for this group in the area.

Sources

• U.S. Census Bureau – Muskegon City QuickFacts (2022)
• U.S. Census Data – Detailed Demographic Data (2022)
• Mlive – Population Diversification in Muskegon County (2023)

Muskegon, Michigan Population by Age and Gender

Total Population by Gender

The total population of Muskegon, Michigan is approximately 37,689 as of 2022. Of this population, around 47.8% are male, and 52.2% are female. The slight majority of female residents mirrors state and national trends, where females slightly outnumber males due to factors such as life expectancy differences.

Age Distribution

The median age in Muskegon is 35.4 years, which is younger than the national median age of 38.5 years. This suggests a relatively youthful population compared to other parts of the country. The largest age group is those aged 25-44, accounting for approximately 27.8% of the population, followed by the 45-64 age group at 22.3%. Residents under 18 make up about 21.2% of the population, while those aged 65 and over represent 13.6%.

Gender Distribution within Age Groups

In Muskegon, males are slightly more represented in younger age groups, particularly among residents under 18, where they make up 51.1% of that demographic. However, among older age groups, particularly those over 65, women dominate, representing 58.9% of the population in that bracket. This trend is reflective of higher female life expectancy rates.

Dependency Ratios

Muskegon has a youth dependency ratio (the ratio of residents under 18 to those in the working-age population) of 38.6%, meaning that for every 100 working-age individuals, there are about 39 children or teens dependent on them. The elderly dependency ratio stands at 20.4%, indicating that for every 100 working-age residents, there are about 20 seniors.

Marital Status by Age and Gender

Among Muskegon’s adult population aged 18 and over, about 42.1% are married, with a higher percentage of men (44.3%) married compared to women (40.2%). Divorce rates are higher among women, with 16.3% of women aged 18 and older being divorced compared to 11.2% of men. Widowed individuals make up 7.1% of the population, with a strong gender disparity, as 9.8% of women are widowed, compared to only 3.4% of men, which aligns with longer life expectancy trends for women.

Educational Attainment by Age and Gender

For residents aged 25 and older, approximately 85.7% have completed high school or higher education. Among these, 19.4% have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. Men in this demographic have a slightly higher rate of educational attainment, with 21.3% having earned a degree compared to 17.8% of women. Educational attainment is highest among those aged 25-44, where 92.3% have at least a high school diploma.

Economic Participation by Age and Gender

The labor force participation rate in Muskegon is 62.5%, with men having a slightly higher participation rate at 66.1% compared to 59.2% for women. The highest employment rates are seen in the 25-44 age group, where 77.8% of individuals are employed or actively seeking work. Economic participation declines significantly for residents over 65, with just 17.6% remaining in the workforce.

Sources

• U.S. Census Data – Total Population (2022)
• U.S. Census Bureau – QuickFacts for Muskegon (2022)
• Muskegon Area First – Demographic Data (2023)
• American Community Survey – Demographic Profiles (2022)

Muskegon, Michigan Zip Codes

Here is a list of all the zip codes for Muskegon, Michigan:

• 49440
• 49441
• 49442
• 49443
• 49444
• 49445

These zip codes cover various parts of the Muskegon area, including both the city and surrounding neighborhoods.

What is the history of Muskegon, Michigan?

The Early Settlement of Muskegon

Muskegon, Michigan’s history traces back to the early 19th century, with indigenous peoples such as the Ottawa, Chippewa, and Potawatomi tribes initially inhabiting the area. The name “Muskegon” is derived from the Ottawa term “Mashkig” meaning “marsh” or “swamp.” European explorers first arrived in the early 1700s, but it wasn’t until 1837, when Michigan became a state, that Muskegon began to develop as a settlement.

In the early 1830s, European settlers recognized Muskegon’s abundant natural resources, especially its vast forests. The first European settler, Edward Fitzgerald, arrived in 1837, and Muskegon quickly became a center for the lumber industry. The area’s vast white pine forests made it a perfect location for sawmills, and the Muskegon River provided a vital transportation route for logs to the shores of Lake Michigan, where they could be shipped to other parts of the country.

The Lumber Boom and Muskegon’s Growth

The 1850s and 1860s marked a period of tremendous growth for Muskegon, fueled by the booming lumber industry. By the 1870s, Muskegon was home to more than 50 sawmills, and it became one of the largest lumber-producing regions in the world. The city was incorporated in 1869, and its economy flourished as workers flocked to the area for jobs in the mills and on the docks.

Muskegon’s wealth grew during this time, as did its population. This influx of residents led to the construction of churches, schools, and public buildings, many of which are still standing today. The lumber barons who made their fortunes in Muskegon contributed to the development of cultural institutions, including the Hackley Public Library and the Muskegon Museum of Art, which continue to play a vital role in the community.

The Decline of Lumber and Economic Transition

By the late 19th century, the white pine forests surrounding Muskegon were nearly depleted, and the lumber industry began to decline. However, the city adapted by diversifying its economy. In the early 20th century, Muskegon became a hub for manufacturing, particularly in the automotive and foundry industries. Companies like Continental Motors Corporation and the Shaw-Walker Furniture Company were among the major employers in the area, contributing to the city’s economic stability.

During World War II, Muskegon played a significant role in the war effort, with local factories producing engines and parts for military vehicles. The post-war years saw continued industrial growth, though the city also faced challenges as deindustrialization impacted the region.

Revitalization and the Modern Era

In the latter half of the 20th century, Muskegon experienced economic challenges as many manufacturing jobs disappeared. However, the city has worked hard to revitalize itself in recent decades, focusing on tourism, healthcare, and education. The downtown area has undergone significant redevelopment, and the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline has become a major draw for tourists and residents alike.

Cultural and recreational offerings, such as the Muskegon Museum of Art, the Lakeshore Museum Center, and the Michigan’s Adventure amusement park, have helped revitalize the city’s economy. Today, Muskegon is known for its rich history, diverse economy, and its role as a recreational hub on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Sources

• City of Muskegon – History
• Muskegon Heritage Museum – History of Muskegon
• Hackley Public Library – History of Muskegon
• MLive – Muskegon History Built on Lumber

Muskegon, Michigan Weather

Average Temperature by Month

Muskegon, Michigan experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year due to its location in the Great Lakes region.

– **January:** Average low of 19°F (-7°C) and high of 31°F (-1°C)
– **July:** Average low of 60°F (16°C) and high of 80°F (27°C)
– **December:** Average low of 23°F (-5°C) and high of 34°F (1°C)

Overall, Muskegon’s winters are cold with heavy lake-effect snow, while summers are warm and mild.

Precipitation Patterns

Muskegon receives an average annual precipitation of **34.55 inches (878 mm)**, with rain being fairly distributed across the months. However, the summer months experience slightly more rainfall.

– **June:** 3.46 inches (88 mm)
– **August:** 3.96 inches (100 mm)

The city also experiences **average snowfall of 77 inches (195 cm)** annually, mainly occurring from November to March due to lake-effect snow.

Extreme Weather Events

Muskegon is located in a region that is occasionally affected by lake-effect snowstorms, especially in winter. These can bring heavy snowfall and lead to hazardous travel conditions. In summer, thunderstorms and high winds can occasionally occur, but severe weather, such as tornadoes, is relatively rare compared to other parts of Michigan.

Humidity Levels

Muskegon has a relatively humid climate, particularly during the summer months. The average annual relative humidity is **72%**, with July and August being the most humid months, with an average humidity of **80%**.

Sunlight

Muskegon receives an average of **2,340 hours of sunlight per year**. The winter months, particularly December and January, are the cloudiest, while the summer months see more sunshine, especially in July, which averages **296 hours of sunlight**.

Wind Patterns

Muskegon experiences moderate winds throughout the year, with stronger gusts during the winter months. The average wind speed is **10.5 mph (17 km/h)**, with the highest speeds typically occurring in March and November. The predominant wind direction is from the west, influenced by its proximity to Lake Michigan.

Comparison with State and National Averages

When compared to the average weather in Michigan, Muskegon tends to be colder in the winter due to its lake-effect snow, while summer temperatures are close to the state average. Muskegon receives more snowfall than the state average, as the average snowfall in Michigan is around **64 inches (162 cm)** annually, compared to Muskegon’s **77 inches (195 cm)**.

In comparison to the national average:
– Muskegon is significantly colder in the winter than the U.S. average, which is around **33°F (0.5°C)** for the coldest months.
– The city experiences more snow than the national average of **28 inches (71 cm)**.
– Humidity in Muskegon is above the national average, with most U.S. cities averaging between **50-60%** relative humidity.

Sources

• Weather-US: Muskegon Climate
• US Climate Data: Muskegon
• BestPlaces: Muskegon Climate
• Current Results: Muskegon Weather Averages

Average Income in Muskegon, Michigan

Average Annual Salary

The average annual salary in Muskegon, Michigan, is approximately **$43,000**. This is lower than both the state average for Michigan, which is around **$57,000**, and the national average, which is **$56,000**. Muskegon’s economy is heavily influenced by manufacturing and healthcare sectors, contributing to the lower average salaries compared to more diversified economies.

Average Hourly Wage

The average hourly wage for workers in Muskegon is approximately **$20.67**. This is slightly lower than the state average of **$27.50** per hour and the national average of **$28.01**.

Median Salary Range

The median household income in Muskegon is approximately **$38,000**. This is significantly lower than Michigan’s median household income of **$59,000** and the U.S. median household income, which stands at **$70,784**.

Most Popular Jobs/Careers

The most popular occupations in Muskegon include:
– **Production and Manufacturing Workers**
– **Registered Nurses**
– **Retail Salespersons**
– **Construction Laborers**
– **Maintenance and Repair Workers**

The concentration of jobs in manufacturing and healthcare influences both the median income and the range of salaries in Muskegon.

Highest Paid Jobs Popular to the Area

The highest-paid jobs in Muskegon are generally in healthcare and managerial roles, including:
– **Physicians and Surgeons** with an average salary of over **$230,000**.
– **Pharmacists** with an average salary of **$123,000**.
– **Nurse Practitioners** earning approximately **$115,000**.
– **Manufacturing Managers** with salaries around **$90,000**.

Comparison with State and National Averages

Compared to Michigan and national income statistics, Muskegon has a lower average salary, median household income, and hourly wage. The statewide average salary in Michigan is **$57,000**, and the national average is **$56,000**. In contrast, Muskegon’s average salary of **$43,000** is approximately **24.6%** lower than the national average.

Sources

• ZipRecruiter: Average Salary in Muskegon
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics Muskegon
• U.S. Census Bureau: Muskegon QuickFacts

Taxes in Muskegon, Michigan

Property Taxes

The property tax rate in Muskegon, Michigan, is based on the assessed value of the property. As of 2023, the average effective property tax rate in Muskegon County is approximately **1.68%**. This means that for a home assessed at $100,000, the annual property tax would be around **$1,680**. The rate is slightly higher than Michigan’s statewide average of **1.54%**, but it remains competitive compared to national property tax rates, where the average is around **1.07%**.

Sales Taxes

Muskegon follows Michigan’s statewide sales tax rate of **6%**, which applies to most retail goods and services. Michigan does not have local sales tax, so the sales tax rate remains uniform across the state. The state’s rate is lower than the national median of **7.25%**, making purchases in Muskegon slightly more affordable compared to higher-tax states like California or Texas.

Income Taxes

Michigan has a flat income tax rate of **4.25%** for all residents, including those living in Muskegon. This flat rate applies to most personal income, including wages, salaries, and investment income. There are no local or city income taxes for Muskegon residents, unlike in some other Michigan cities such as Detroit. The state income tax rate is lower than the national average, where state income tax rates vary widely from 0% (states like Florida and Texas) to over 13% (in states like California).

Utility Taxes

Michigan does not impose specific utility taxes, but utilities like electricity, gas, and telecommunication services may include standard taxes and fees. In Muskegon, residents typically pay **6%** sales tax on utility services, in line with the state’s sales tax rate.

Hotel Occupancy Tax

Muskegon charges a **5%** hotel occupancy tax, which applies to guests staying in hotels, motels, and other lodging accommodations within the city. This tax contributes to local tourism funding and is in addition to the **6%** statewide sales tax applied to lodging.

Entertainment Taxes

There are no specific entertainment taxes levied in Muskegon. However, general sales tax applies to entertainment purchases such as movie tickets and concerts, at the standard **6%** rate.

Tax Payment Schedule

Property taxes in Muskegon are typically due twice a year, in **July** and **December**. Late payments are subject to penalties, which increase over time if taxes remain unpaid.

Penalties for Late Payment

A penalty of **1%** per month is charged on unpaid property taxes in Muskegon. If property taxes remain unpaid for an extended period, the property may be subject to foreclosure under Michigan’s tax foreclosure laws.

Where to Pay

Property taxes can be paid in person at the **Muskegon County Treasurer’s Office**, online through the county’s tax payment portal, or by mail. Residents can also pay at participating local banks.

Contact Information

For questions related to taxes, residents can contact the **Muskegon County Treasurer’s Office** at:

**Phone**: (231) 724-6261
**Address**: 173 E Apple Ave, Suite 104, Muskegon, MI 49442
**Website**: Muskegon County Treasurer’s Office

Sources

• Tax Rates: Muskegon County Property Tax
• Michigan Department of Treasury
• Sales Tax in Michigan
• Muskegon County: Property Tax Payment Options

Is Muskegon, Michigan a Good Place to Live for Singles?

Events and Activities

Muskegon offers a variety of events and activities for singles to enjoy, making it an attractive place for social engagement. The city’s vibrant arts scene is highlighted by events like the **Muskegon Summer Celebration**, which features live music, food vendors, and entertainment. Additionally, the **Muskegon Farmers Market** provides a weekly gathering spot for locals to socialize and shop for fresh produce. For ongoing community events, the **Muskegon Community Events Calendar** is an excellent resource for finding local happenings throughout the year. Check it out [here](https://www.muskegonmi.gov/portal/City-of-Muskegon-Community-Calendar) for upcoming events.

Gyms

For fitness enthusiasts, Muskegon has several gyms and fitness centers that cater to singles looking to stay active and meet new people. A comprehensive list of gyms in Muskegon can be found through this [Yahoo search for gyms in Muskegon](https://local.yahoo.com/results?fr=hp-srch-svcs&va=gyms&csz=Muskegon%2C+MI).

Housing

The housing market in Muskegon presents various rental options suitable for singles. Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around **$950** per month, with availability in various neighborhoods, offering both affordability and convenience. Websites like [Apartments.com](https://www.apartments.com/muskegon-mi/) provide listings for apartments and houses available for rent, allowing potential residents to explore their options.

Percentage of Single Residents

In Muskegon, approximately **50.3%** of the adult population is unmarried, which includes those who are single, divorced, or widowed. This statistic aligns closely with the broader state average, where about **50.7%** of Michigan’s adult population falls into the same category. Nationally, the percentage of unmarried adults is around **49.2%**. For further details, you can find more statistics [here](https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/muskegoncitymichigan/PST045221).

Comparison of Single Statistics

In Muskegon, the percentage of single residents is consistent with the average for Michigan, where approximately **50.7%** of adults are unmarried. Comparatively, the national average for single adults stands at **49.2%**, indicating that Muskegon has a slightly higher proportion of singles than the national average, making it a potentially appealing environment for individuals seeking social connections.

Sources

• Muskegon Community Events Calendar
• Yahoo Search for Gyms in Muskegon
• Apartments.com – Muskegon Rentals
• U.S. Census QuickFacts – Muskegon

Is Muskegon, Michigan Good for Families?

Muskegon offers a mixed experience for families. The area has a relatively high crime rate compared to other cities in Michigan, with a total of 36 crimes per 1,000 residents in 2022. Property crimes are more common, while the violent crime rate stands at 8.84 per 1,000 people. Housing is affordable, with various family-friendly options available. The local economy provides employment opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism, but overall job growth has been slow.

Parks and Family Activities

Muskegon offers a variety of outdoor activities, from the popular Muskegon State Park to the scenic Pere Marquette Beach. For a list of local events and activities, visit Visit Muskegon.

Restaurants

Families in Muskegon can enjoy a diverse range of dining options:

• Italian Restaurants – Choose from cozy eateries offering pizza, pasta, and more.
• Mexican Restaurants – Enjoy authentic tacos and Mexican dishes at local favorites.
• BBQ Restaurants – Find great BBQ spots offering ribs, brisket, and smoked meats.
• American Restaurants – Classic American diners and grill spots are available for family-friendly dining.

Housing

Muskegon provides affordable housing options, making it ideal for families looking to purchase homes. The average home price is well below the national average, and neighborhoods such as Norton Shores offer quiet, family-oriented living. For current listings, visit Zillow’s Muskegon listings.

Percentage of Family Residents

Muskegon has a 44.7% marriage rate, which is below Michigan’s average of 49.6% but close to the national average of 48.2%. For more details on local demographics, check the Census data.

How are the schools in Muskegon, Michigan?

Overview of Schools in Muskegon, Michigan

The schools in Muskegon offer a variety of educational options for families, from public to charter institutions. Muskegon Public Schools, the largest district, serves over 3,600 students with a per-pupil expenditure averaging $17,000, primarily sourced from state and federal funds. However, the district has faced challenges with test scores, placing in lower percentiles statewide. While some schools show promise in student support, academic achievement lags behind state averages. Parents should carefully consider both academic performance and extracurricular opportunities when selecting a school.

Pre-K and Kindergarten Schools

Wesley School serves students in Pre-K through 12th grade with specialized programs for alternative education. The school has a small enrollment of 112 students, emphasizing personalized learning for those with unique needs, including a student-to-teacher ratio of approximately 8:1.
More details here.

Elementary Schools

Marquette Elementary School offers PK through 5th grade and serves 474 students. The school faces high poverty rates, with over 90% of students eligible for free or reduced lunch. Despite financial investment, its state ranking is low, placing it in the bottom 2.6% of public elementary schools statewide. The average student-teacher ratio is 13.6.
View more details.

Middle Schools

Muskegon Middle School has a student population of around 700 students, focusing on grades 6 through 8. Although the school is Title I eligible, standardized test scores in subjects like math and reading are below state averages. Student-to-teacher ratios remain high, impacting individualized attention.
Find out more.

High Schools

Muskegon High School serves over 1,000 students in grades 9-12. The school is a key institution in the community but has struggled with both test scores and graduation rates. Its average SAT math score is below the state benchmark. With a per-pupil expenditure of nearly $20,000, there are significant efforts to improve outcomes through funding initiatives.
Explore more information.

Colleges and Universities

Muskegon Community College (MCC) offers a range of associate degree programs and serves over 4,000 students. It ranks competitively in the state for community colleges and provides accessible tuition rates with strong transfer agreements to four-year universities. MCC is a solid choice for local students seeking affordable higher education options.
Learn more about MCC.

Churches in Muskegon, Michigan

• Central United Methodist Church – Visit Website
• First Congregational Church of Muskegon – Visit Website
• Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church – Visit Website
• St. Francis de Sales Church – Visit Website
• Calvary Church of Muskegon – Visit Website
• Lakeside Baptist Church – Visit Website
• Forest Park Covenant Church – Visit Website
• St. Paul’s Episcopal Church –

Conclusion: Why you should consider moving to Muskegon, Michigan

Muskegon, Michigan offers a welcoming blend of natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and a tight-knit community feel. From its affordable housing market to its excellent school options, Muskegon is a place where families can thrive. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of parks and recreational activities, while its charming downtown provides dining and cultural attractions. With steady job opportunities and a growing local economy, Muskegon presents a balanced lifestyle that offers both tranquility and convenience. For anyone seeking a fresh start in a picturesque lakeside town, Muskegon is a great choice.