Save This c.1896 Michigan Fixer Upper Under $70K

Save This c.1896 Michigan Fixer Upper. This home needs quite a bit of work, but it has some beautiful woodwork and detail. Located in a quaint Northern Michigan town along Lake Huron.

1019 Mackinaw Ave, Cheboygan, MI 49721    $69,900

• Contact Realtor: Sheila Hyde
• Google Map
• Niche

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Pros & Cons of Living in Cheboygan, MI

Pros

1. Affordable Cost of Living & Housing

• Overall cost of living is significantly below average—about 16 – 17% lower than the U.S. average, and 9% lower than Michigan’s average

• Median home prices range from $81,300 to $113,000, depending on the source—well below state and national norms

• Rent is also affordable, with two-bedroom units around $745–$900/month

2. Beautiful Natural Surroundings & Recreation

• Located on Lake Huron at the Cheboygan River’s mouth, offering scenic views and shoreline access

• Proximity to parks and trails, including Cheboygan State Park (1,250 acres with beach, camping, boating, hiking) and Aloha State Park with lakefront activities

• The area includes over 400 miles of trails and is recognized for its trail systems

3. Tight‑Knit, Community‑Oriented Lifestyle

• Small-town feel where residents appreciate friendliness and community spirit

• Steady homeownership, clean environment, and local resilience foster a sense of belonging and revitalization

4. Health, Safety & Services

• Strong health and safety infrastructure, including hospitals, clinics, and emergency services

• Niche grades: Crime & Safety at B–, Housing B, Cost of Living A–, indicative of solid quality

5. Walkability & Manageable Commute

• Commute times are reasonable—around 18 minutes on average

• Good walkability and public transport access for a small town—rated A for Public Transit and A for Walkability

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Cons

1. Limited Job Market & Lower Income

• Job opportunities, especially in specialized fields, are scarce; reliance on retail, healthcare, tourism, and manufacturing sectors

• Median household income is lower than state and national averages—around $34,964 to $43,500

• Unemployment and poverty challenges persist in the area

2. Crime Profile Varies

• While some sources report crime rates lower than Michigan averages overall, data is mixed:

  • AreaVibes cites total crime 19% lower than the state average

  • NeighborhoodScout states Cheboygan’s crime rate is higher than 80% of Michigan communities of similar size, with violent crime rate at 1 in 220 and property crime at 1 in 78 chance of victimization

3. Harsh Winters & Seasonal Challenges

• The climate brings heavy snowfall (roughly 100 inches annually) and long, severe winters

• Weather comfort is rated lower—less favorable temperature ranges, higher winds, and humidity levels

4. Healthcare & Economic Statistics Picture Mixed Health Outcomes

• Cheboygan County is “average” in overall community health, but residents note economic fluctuations and challenges in retail and job retention

• Some data indicate elevated cancer incidence and mortality rates in the region (county-level data)

5. Lack of Diversity & Limited Amenities

• Demographically, the area is predominantly White (~90%), and somewhat less diverse

• Fewer entertainment, cultural, or shopping amenities—though downtown revitalization is underway, some storefronts still linger empty

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