What to know when moving to Jackson, MI
TL;DR: Jackson at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 73.9% of residents own their homes and the median household income is $71,714.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent stands at $945, making it more affordable than many nearby areas.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 0.5% of residents use public transit, making it a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 21.5 inches of annual precipitation, which translates to about 89 rainy days a year.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Jackson has a population of 49,114 with a median household income of $71,714. The area is characterized by a relatively low renter percentage of 26.1%, suggesting a stable community of homeowners. The education level is moderate, with 23.3% of residents holding at least a bachelor's degree. With only 0.5% of the population commuting via public transit, car ownership is essential for getting around.
Probably not your spot if you prefer a vibrant public transportation system or live in an area with a higher rental population.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $945, while the median owner-occupied home value is $202,900.
- 23.3% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to the area's educated workforce.
- The poverty rate sits at 11.5%, indicating some economic diversity within the community.
- Only 0.5% of residents utilize public transit, reflecting a heavy reliance on cars for commuting.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Michigan, the crime rates reflect a mix of property and violent crime statistics. The property crime rate is approximately 1,284 incidents per 100,000 residents, which is 17% lower than the national average. Violent crime is notably higher, with a rate of 423 incidents per 100,000, marking a 30% increase compared to national figures.
- Violent crime: 423 per 100,000 vs. 325.3 nationally, with a decrease of 10.2% from 2022.
- Property crime: 1,284 per 100,000 vs. 1,546.9 nationally, with a 19.3% decrease from 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have decreased by 35.5% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Michigan).
Schools & Higher Ed
Jackson has access to several educational institutions, reflecting a commitment to higher education in the area.
- Postsecondary institutions: 3
- Schools with College Scorecard data: 3
- Institutions include: Baker College of Jackson, Jackson College, and Spring Arbor University.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Jackson County experiences an average annual high temperature of 60°F and a low of 39°F. The area receives about 21.5 inches of precipitation yearly, with spring being the wettest season. Residents enjoy outdoor spaces like Ella Sharp Park and Cascades Park, both popular for their amenities and scenic views.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Ella Sharp Park - 4.7 stars (1,550 reviews)
- Cascades Park - 4.6 stars (1,358 reviews)
- James J. Keeley Park - 4.2 stars (822 reviews)
- Lost Railway Museum - 4.8 stars (174 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.