Traverse City

Welcome to Traverse City

Discover the dynamic blend of urban vibrancy and natural beauty in Northern Michigan’s most celebrated city.
 
Traverse City, set against the backdrop of stunning Grand Traverse Bay, is a premier destination for those looking to blend urban amenities with the tranquility of lakeside living. Known for its social community, Traverse City offers a diverse range of housing options that cater to various lifestyles and budgets, making it an attractive location for families, young professionals, and retirees alike. Its proximity to Cherry Capital Airport and a myriad of shopping, dining, and entertainment options ensures that residents enjoy a high quality of life with all the conveniences of city living.
 
The strong demand for homes in Traverse City, combined with high property appreciation rates and competitive pricing, makes it a hot spot for real estate investment. The city’s cultural vibrancy and scenic beauty contribute to its status as one of the most sought-after places to live in Northern Michigan.
 

What to Love

  • Community Atmosphere: A welcoming environment where security and friendliness are at the core.
  • Urban Amenities: A wealth of shopping, dining, and cultural opportunities right at your doorstep.
  • Natural Beauty: Proximity to Grand Traverse Bay and numerous parks and trails, including the popular Tart Trail.

Local Lifestyle

Traverse City offers a lifestyle that balances urban convenience with natural beauty. The city is bustling with activity, from its vibrant downtown filled with shops and cafes to the scenic waterfront areas that are perfect for a day of relaxation or recreation. Residents can enjoy cycling or walking along Tart Trail Lane, boating on Grand Traverse Bay, or exploring the local farmers markets. The community is deeply engaged with the arts and culture, frequently hosting festivals, live music events, and art shows that draw crowds from across the region.
 

Dining and Shopping

Traverse City is a haven for foodies, featuring an impressive array of dining options from farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine. The city's culinary scene is bolstered by its status as a major cherry-producing area, with local specialties often featuring the fruit.
 
Shopping in Traverse City is equally varied, with options ranging from boutique stores in the downtown area to larger shopping centers. Local artisans and craftsmen contribute to a unique shopping experience, offering goods ranging from handmade jewelry to custom furniture.
 

Things to Do and Entertainment

Cultural enrichment is plentiful in Traverse City. Northwestern Michigan College often hosts educational and cultural events that are open to the public, while the Dennos Museum Center features rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection that includes a renowned assembly of Inuit art. The Grand Traverse County Civic Center serves as a hub for community sports and events, adding to the city’s vibrant social scene.
 
For outdoor enthusiasts, Grand Traverse Bay offers endless opportunities for water sports, and the surrounding areas are ideal for hiking, fishing, and camping. Traverse City's active lifestyle is complemented by its beautiful natural surroundings, making it a perfect place for those who love to explore the outdoors.
 
 
 

Overview for Traverse City, MI

15,263 people live in Traverse City, where the median age is 40.4 and the average individual income is $41,461. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

15,263

Total Population

40.4 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$41,461

Average individual Income

Around Traverse City, MI

There's plenty to do around Traverse City, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

66
Somewhat Walkable
Walking Score
81
Very Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Chubby Unicorn, Slabtown Cookies, and Cracked.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 0.85 miles 12 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.02 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 1.02 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 1.17 miles 7 reviews 4.9/5 stars
Dining · $$ 1.73 miles 12 reviews 4.8/5 stars
Dining 0.45 miles 6 reviews 4.8/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Traverse City, MI

Traverse City has 6,844 households, with an average household size of 2.14. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Traverse City do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 15,263 people call Traverse City home. The population density is 1,844.26 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

15,263

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

40.4

Median Age

47.77 / 52.23%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
6,844

Total Households

2.14

Average Household Size

$41,461

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Traverse City, MI

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Traverse City. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
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