$203,572Average Value$114Average Price per Sq Ft5Homes For Sale
A nature-based community on the banks of Lake Huron
Alpena rests on the shores of Lake Huron, built around a river and a wildlife preserve. “We are a nature-based community with a slower pace of life, freedom of movement and fresher air,” says President of the Alpena Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Mary Beth Stutzman. “But we still have all the modern conveniences of city living.” Although the population remains steady at around 10,000, Alpena is the largest commercial hub in northeast Michigan. Though tourism is a significant part of the economy, the largest employer is the Alpena Regional Medical Center.
Explore the NOAA center which covers the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Alpena.
Alpena is home to Besser and several other large concrete manufacturing companies.
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Older homes with a high demand
The median home price in Alpena is $170,000, well below the state and national median. Homes along the lakeshore can be $500,000 or more. “There is a large demand, but inventory can be limited,” says Bill Houston, a Realtor with Re/Max New Horizons who has worked in the city for over 45 years. “So, we often see multiple offers on homes.” It's common to see bungalows from the 1920s and ranch-style houses from the 1950s to the 1990s. “Like many northern Michigan cities, we are lagging behind in terms of new construction,” Houston says. Because of all the surrounding waterways, many homes are at risk of flooding and may require additional insurance.
Large lakefront homes can be found in small quantities in and around Alpena.
Historic bungalow, ranch, and national style homes are found throughout Alpena.
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Shipwrecks, stargazing, fossil hunting and more outdoor attractions
Rockport State Recreation Area is a 300-acre limestone quarry and designated dark sky zone, meaning it has some of the lowest light pollution on the Great Lakes. Visitors can watch meteor showers and glimpse the northern lights, and the rocky beaches are popular for fossil hunting. “You literally trip over the fossils because there are so many,” Stutzman says. Alpena's coastline is also home to over 200 shipwrecks, preserved in the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The wrecks can be viewed via glass-bottom boat tours and scuba diving expeditions.More traditional outdoor recreation is almost at every corner. “We are surrounded by water and every kind of outdoor recreation,” Houston says. “Hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, snowmobiling — you name it, we’ve got it.” During chilly winters, the city has a large athletic center and an indoor hockey rink.
Observe the night sky unimpeded by light pollution at Rockport State Recreation Area.
Cross country skiers flock to Thunder Bay River State Forest for its well-groomed trails.
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Alpena Public Schools teaches environmental stewardship
Alpena Public Schools gets a C rating from Niche. “Our district has a lot of unique programs about environmental celebration and preservation,” Stutzman says. “Kids get to watch salmon grow from eggs or take field trips to clean up the riverside.” Alpena High offers Career & Technical Education courses. A dual credit program with the local Alpena Community College allows students to graduate with an associate degree.
Alpena High School has 1,101 students and earned a B- rating in 2025 according to Niche.com.
Alpena Community College is home to Kaiser Paul, a Paul Bunyan statute made from car parts.
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Home-grown businesses bring local flair
Alpena’s riverside downtown district is the city’s hub for shopping and dining. “Downtown is truly the heart of the community for people who live here,” says Anne Gentry, executive director of the downtown development authority. “It’s where they go to meet up with friends for dinner or a drink, or to peruse locally owned stores and galleries.”
“We have a lot of local home-grown businesses that bring their special passion to Alpena,” Stutzman says. “Whether that’s a cider tasting room, an authentic Polish restaurant, or a comic bookstore serving gourmet hot dogs.” Although the Alpena Mall closed in 2022, the city still has brand-name grocers.
Downtown Alpena is home to several locally owned breweries, like Presque Isle Farm Cider.
Gather with friends after work for craft cocktails at Red Brick Tap & Barrel in Alpena.
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Festivals center around the arts and the outdoors
The city hosts the annual Brown Trout Festival, the longest-running fishing tournament in the Great Lakes. During the Alpena Flower Festival, local businesses decorate with elaborate floral displays. More than 30 ice sculptures are set up around town for the Alpena Ice Festival. The Besser Planetarium showcases the stars and Thunder Bay Theater hosts year-round performances.
Religion also plays an important role in the community. There are more than 20 houses of worship in the Alpena area, most of them Christian denominations. The city also has one of the only synagogues in northern Michigan.
Alpena’s airport has flights to Detroit
Unlike most northern Michigan cities, Alpena has its own commercial airport, but the Alpena County Regional Airport only offers flights to Detroit. The city is at the intersection of U.S. Route 23, which runs along the coast of Lake Huron, and Michigan Route 32. A few bus services run through Alpena, connecting south Detroit and north to the Canadian border.
Important to know
According to Michigan State Police, both violent and property crime rates in Alpena are below the state average.
Summers are warm, and winters can be long and cold. According to the National Weather Service, the city's average annual snowfall is more than 6 feet.
Written By
Catherine Lashley
Photography Contributed By
Owen Kaufman
Video By
Derek Fowler
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Eric Arnoldi,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Alpena, MI sell after 26 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Alpena, MI over the last 12 months is $185,000, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Prime 30-acre parcel in Ossineke Township, located at the northwest corner of Hubbard Lake Rd (M-65) and Schultz Rd. This square-shaped property measures approximately 993x1333x991x1331, offering level, usable ground with agricultural zoning. Ideal for a private homestead, hobby farm, or hunting retreat, with ample space for barns, pastures, or crops. Just a short drive to Hubbard Lake for
This home is truly move-in ready, reflecting the pride of meticulous ownership. It's packed with all the bells and whistles a new roof, new windows, a 99.9% energy-efficient furnace, and a brand-new hot water heater-all expertly maintained and upgraded to the highest standards. Owned by someone with an eye for detail, everything is impeccably finished and done to perfection. Just bring your
Exceptional investment opportunity! This two-unit ranch duplex features a spacious three-bedroom, one-bathroom unit, and a comfortable oversized two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit. Both units are handicap accessible and the property is centrally located, offering convenient covered parking. Each unit includes separate utilities, a main floor laundry/mudroom, and accessible bathrooms, making them
One level living! You will enjoy the open spaces in this rambling ranch. Large living room with wood burning fireplace which also adjoins the dining and kitchen area. Plenty of cabinets for all your kitchen gadgets. Main floor laundry with 1/2 bath adjoining. 3 nice sized bedrooms featuring parquet flooring and another bath with walk in shower. Air conditioning and a corner lot and an attached
OVERSIZED RESIDENTIAL LOT NEAR THUNDER BAY! GREAT SPOT FOR A CABIN OR WEEKEND RETREAT! ABOUT THE PARCEL: ACCESS: GERONIMO RD ALPENA, MI County: ALPENA Parcel#: 043-107-000-502-00 Acres: 0.37 X/Y Coordinates (STREETVIEW):Center: 45.080456, -83.520638NE: 45.080754, -83.520742NW: 45.080601, -83.520977SE: 45.080443,
Charming and move-in ready, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home offers comfort and convenience in a welcoming setting. The bright kitchen is equipped with a newer stove and refrigerator, making meal prep easy and enjoyable. Natural light fills the living spaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout. A two-car garage provides plenty of space for vehicles, storage, or hobbies. The property
Welcome to 1117 Ford Ave, a solid home in the heart of Alpena with great potential. This property could benefit from a bit of TLC, but it offers good bones and a strong foundation for someone looking to add their own touches. The home features a functional layout with bright living spaces, and the major mechanical improvements have already been taken care of - including a new boiler and water
Welcome to this charming 1955 home located in Alpena, MI! This property features 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, and offers 1,570 square feet of living space. Nestled on a generous .344-acre lot. DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that the city previously planned to demolish this property. However, the city has paused demolition plans and has indicated a willingness to collaborate with a new buyer intending
Modern Riverfront Living on the Thunder Bay River Tucked into a natural wooded setting where eagles soar overhead and the river moves at an unhurried pace, this contemporary riverfront retreat offers a rare blend of modern design, comfort, and immersive outdoor living. The main level is thoughtfully designed for complete, easy living and entertaining, featuring a private primary en suite plus two
Now this is the last vacant 2 acres of the Thunder Bay River inside the city!You now can develop this wonderful and rare piece of property as a nursing home, office building and any other usage you can dream of. There are 8 lots to enjoy and seller is including them all! Call today for your map and more information! Over 480 feet of river frontage for viewing, fishing, kayaking and much
Few places in the world rival your own Lake Huron waterfront peninsula. With 710 acres, 3.5 miles of shoreline and 15 miles of drivable trails and roads. SUNUP Lodge is just that retreat. Come indulge in the beauty of a custom crafted hunting lodge in Alpena, MI. A rare opportunity exists for someone who wants seclusion & privacy that seamlessly blends functionality & artistry with a newer custom
Donna BarlowSignature Sotheby's International Realty Bham
Charming 3-Bedroom Ranch Just Outside City Limits! Discover comfort and convenience in this beautifully updated 3-bedroom, 1-bath ranch-style home located in a quiet neighborhood just outside the city limits. Move-in ready with modern touches throughout, this home features new roof, siding, windows, and LifeProof flooring in every room. Fresh interior paint adds a bright, clean feel you'll love
Thunder Bay Estates is located in the down town area of Alpena, In walking distance to the beautiful Lake Huron. If your looking for that ability to be close to shopping centers and wonderful walking areas this is your place. No need to worry about maintaining your own yard as we are here to do that.
Welcome to down home living in the growing community of Lakeshore Estates. Lakeshore Estates is one of the areas finest mobile home community in the Alpena area. If you enjoy friendly faces and the convenience of town just minutes away but set in a country surrounding. Then call Lakeshore Estates your new home!
Property Id: 2235366Ready Jan 1st. $690.00 plus $690.00 security deposit. Electric, internet, and Snow Removal are not included. Everything else is included. No pets, No drugs and No smoking/vaping. 1-bedroom clean UPSTAIRS apartment. You must pass a background check and fill out the application. Every Adult must fill out an application. No showings until full app and background are
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