Michigan’s Saginaw Bay narrows and feeds into a river of the same name, around which Bay City residents enjoy suburban living and waterfront parks. The city is known for its locally owned restaurants and breweries, along with some of the most affordably priced homes in the state. Combine all that with a short commute no matter the suburb, and Bay City might just be what new home buyers are looking for.
Bay City has cottages, foursquare and ranch styles with a touch of Midwest influence.
Bay City is known for its locally owned restaurants and breweries, like W.H. Ales Brewpub.
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Home prices fit for first-time buyers
Homes in Bay City cling to the Saginaw River and the surrounding suburbs. Neatly gridded residential streets allow for many homes to be grouped along the riverside on lots of a tenth- to eighth-acre. Some 1,000 homes sold in Bay City in 2024, making the city quite popular. Despite the apparent demand, home prices remain comparatively low: the median price hovers around $145,000. Local styles such as cottages, foursquares and ranch-styles have a touch of Midwest influence.
Four Square is another standard style found in Bay City.
Cottage homes dot the landscape in and around Bay City.
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Spending a day near the Saginaw River
Residents have access to some of the best recreational spaces around, such as Veterans Memorial Park on the river’s west bank. This park offers baseball diamonds, tennis courts and an expansive playground for kids to explore. Boaters can also make use of the launch areas for a day on the water, either the Saginaw River, Saginaw Bay or Lake Huron itself. Other smaller green spaces include Wenonah Park, recognizable for its outdoor amphitheater.
In Bay City, Veterans Memorial Park is home to the Vietnam Veterans Monument.
Wenonah Park in Bay City is known for its amphitheater and arts performances.
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Summertime brings all sorts of events to downtown
Summers in Downtown Bay City are packed with events. Residents can catch live music at Wenonah Park thanks to the Wednesdays in the Park Summer Concert Series. Folks can also get active with free interval trainin and yoga sessions alongside their neighbors. Local businesses also participate, like Riverfront Grille’s Party on the Patio for multiple nights every August.
Bistros, breweries and more
Bistros and grills are easy to find throughout Bay City. Washington Avenue is home to several of these locally owned joints, most just a few blocks away from the river. Small pubs and taverns are also popular downtown, as are local breweries. Residents might spend a Saturday exploring the various flavors at Tri-City Brewing Company or the W. H. Ales Brewpub. On the upscale side, there’s the Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie and the Real Seafood Company. More than one dozen grocery stores lie scatted across the city, making them easily accessible.
Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie is a local favorite in Bay City that serves food and drinks.
Bay City residents enjoy a view of the Saginaw River while at Real Seafood Company.
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Commutes are short and swift in Bay City
Bay City is approximately 5 miles from its northernmost point to its southernmost, so commuting downtown is relatively fast and easy. With good traffic, residents can drive from one end of the city to the other in 15 minutes. Those living in the city’s outlying suburbs can either drive the 4-mile, 10-minute commute or catch one of the Bay Metro Transportation Authority’s 11 routes. The McLaren Bay Region General Hospital is 1 mile east of downtown. Residents can drive 11 miles southwest to reach the MBS International Airport, served by two airlines to a pair of hubs.
Attending class in the Bay City School District
The Bay City School District earns a B-minus overall from Niche and enrolls some 6,000 students across 12 schools. The student-to-teacher ratio of 18-to-1 is slightly higher than that of the national average. For higher education, students can apply to local institutions like Delta College and Saginaw Valley State University.
Bay City Central High School has an all-encompassing curriculum to empower young minds.
Bay City locals can attend Delta College for higher education after High School.
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Crime and water quality in Bay City
The rate of violent crime in Bay City, as reported by the FBI, remains consistently higher than both the state and national averages year over year, though rates of reported property crimes trend lower. Land along the Saginaw River and Saginaw Bay has been acquired, reclaimed and repurposed during an environment cleanup program that concluded in 2005 following decades of pollution.
Written By
Malcolm Longerbeam
Photography Contributed By
Scottie Davison
Video By
Matthew Bloch
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jackie Stratton,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Bay City, MI sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Bay City, MI over the last 12 months is $155,500, up 9% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Enjoy the best of country living at 388 N Callahan Rd in Bay City, where space, comfort, and convenience come together. Situated on a large lot, this quad-level home offers room to breathe-inside and out. The updated eat-in kitchen features granite countertops and newer appliances. The upper level includes 3 bedrooms and a full bath, while the lower level offers a family room with a wood-burning
This newly built 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home blends clean, modern design with everyday convenience. From the moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by an open floor plan that maximizes natural light and creates a sense of spaciousness. The kitchen is thoughtfully designed with contemporary finishes, making it both stylish and functional for daily living or entertaining. The primary bedroom
Remarkable on Ryan. Built in 2022 and thoughtfully maintained, this 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch offers 1,625 square feet of modern, open-concept living on a spacious 0.35-acre lot in Frankenlust Township within the Bay City School District. The main living area features cathedral ceilings, abundant natural light, and durable LVP flooring throughout. The kitchen is designed for both everyday use and
Nearly 3 Acres of Wooded Serenity – City Water Access & Prime Location Discover the perfect blend of privacy and convenience with this beautifully wooded lot spanning almost 3 acres. Nestled in a peaceful setting, this property offers a rare opportunity to build your dream home surrounded by nature—while staying close to everything that matters. City Water Available at the Road – Ready for your
Owner uses garage (24x24) as additional rec room with kitchen. Very nice home. Home is well built. Big yard with shed for storage. Newer roof. Brick with vinyl siding.
Enjoy the best of country living at 388 N Callahan Rd in Bay City, where space, comfort, and convenience come together. Situated on a large lot, this quad-level home offers room to breathe-inside and out. The updated eat-in kitchen features granite countertops and newer appliances. The upper level includes 3 bedrooms and a full bath, while the lower level offers a family room with a wood-burning
This is A CASH ONLY, Investment property. There is no source of heat currently in the house. It is recommended to show during the day as there are no utilities currently hooked up. You build to your specifications. Could be a multi-family investment. New windows. There is a fireplace and new wiring, but condition unknown. Main, upper & basement level are been gutted down to the studs. The
ProVisions, LLC is proud to offer this exceptional 6.52-acre development site, strategically located at 1515 N Johnson in Bay City, Michigan. Boasting 950 feet of frontage, with cleared, development-ready land. This property presents a rare opportunity for investors and developers seeking a built-to-suit opportunity This expansive parcel is a blank canvas. Zoned for M2 General Industrial, this
Affordable on Stanton — A Smart Move for Any Stage of Life Whether you're searching for a welcoming starter home or looking to simplify your lifestyle, this charming 2-bed, 1-bath property delivers comfort, convenience, and opportunity. An open-concept layout creates an easy flow for everyday living, and with a little sweat equity, you can build real value while making the space your own. Located
Build Your Dream Home on This Peaceful Country Lot – Just Minutes from Town! Discover the perfect blend of rural charm and urban convenience with this spacious vacant lot spanning over half an acre. Currently being farmed, this fertile land offers a blank canvas for your future home, garden, or hobby farm. Utilities Ready – Water and natural gas available at the road Prime Location – Only 5
Modern Glam Masterpiece on 1.77 Acres – Dual Suites, 5–6 Bedrooms & Fully Remodeled Luxury Discover a striking Modern Glam retreat where bold design, elegant finishes, and thoughtful updates come together seamlessly. Completely remodeled from top to bottom, this 4,500 sq ft home delivers designer-level style with exceptional functionality. A refined black-and-white palette, custom wallpaper
Prime Development Opportunity – 30.25 Acres in Monitor Township Don’t miss this exceptional opportunity to develop 30.25 acres of flat, high-quality land in thriving Monitor Township. With four access points — including Fisher Road, two on Kasemeyer Road, and Grande Road — this property offers outstanding flexibility and connectivity for future development. Located in a growing residential area
Well-maintained West-side 4-bedroom home offering space, updates, and room to make it your own. This 1.5-bath property with a full basement features a practical and versatile layout, ideal for families or investors alike. The main floor includes two bedrooms, a half bath, formal dining room, kitchen, and living room, while the second floor offers two generously sized bedrooms and a newly finished
BEAUTIFUL COPPER CREEK LOT IN MEADOW LAKE SUBDIVISION IN FRANKENLUST TWP. USE YOUR OWN BUILDER or Build To Suit! MASTER DEED AND BY LAW ARE AVAILABLE AND THE HOA FEE IS ONLY $150.00 PER YEAR. Minimum sq ft is 2,000 for a ranch style home and 2,500 for a 2 story home, sq ft does shall not include the garage or any unfinished areas in the basement. All construction must be completed with in a 12
Welcome to Lux off Washington, the brand new apartment community located in the heart of downtown Bay City, MI. Situated just a short walk away from the picturesque Saginaw River, our apartments offer the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. With onsite management and maintenance, you can rest easy knowing that your needs will be taken care of promptly. Say goodbye to the hassle of paper
Discover upscale living in our newly renovated apartment building, perfectly located near downtown Bay City. Each unit boasts high-end features and fixtures, including solid surface countertops and luxury vinyl flooring. Enjoy the convenience of modern amenities and the charm of a prime location. Multiple units are available.
BAY VALLEY HARBOR APARTMENTS is a premier living community surrounded by great views of lakes and nature. It is situated in the finest and safest location in the three county area and is adjacent to the BAY VALLEY INN where fine dining and an excellent golf course are open to tenants. The units have every amenity one could wish for with reasonable rates and flexible terms.Water fee charge $50
Charming 2-bedroom ranch in the heart of Bay City! Conveniently located near the highway and just minutes from downtown amenities, this home offers a spacious living room, full basement, and detached garage. Clean, comfortable, and move-in ready. Perfect for anyone seeking a well-kept home in a great location.
Welcome home to this charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom main floor apartment conveniently located close to downtown Bay City. Enjoy the convenience of easy access to local shops and restaurants.
Come visit us at Garfield Manor Senior Apartments, located near Downtown Bay City, Mi. We offer 1 bedroom apartment homes with all utilities included (exception of wifi and cable), and we are conveniently located near multiple shopping, dining, and entertainment options for your convenience.
Welcome home to this charming 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom main floor apartment conveniently located close to downtown Bay City. Enjoy the convenience of easy access to local shops and restaurants.
Welcome to Country Meadows. Enjoy city living and the comfort of taking a step away from it all in this breathtaking community for persons 55 and older.Our spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartment homes are thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind and are appointed with the premium materials and finishes you deserve such as spacious closets and gorgeous views.In addition to our
Receive half off your first month's rent, if you sign a one year lease by December 1st!!! Charming and full of character, this 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment is located in one of Bay City’s beautiful historic buildings just minutes from the heart of downtown. Step inside to find soaring ceilings and large windows that fill the space with natural light. Enjoy your own private entrance with a cozy
Act Now! February Move-in Special!Move in now and enjoy a limited time rent incentive available this month only. Apply by February 17th to qualify. Ask us for details today! Restrictions may apply. Welcome to this 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home for rent in Bay City featuring inviting living areas ready for your personal touch. The kitchen is equipped with an oven range and large
Receive half off your first month's rent, if you sign a one year lease by December 1st!!! Experience the best of urban living at 509 N. Grant St in Bay City, MI. This charming multi-unit property offers a range of living options, from cozy one bedrooms and spacious two-bedroom apartments, ensuring there's a perfect home for everyone. Each unit is thoughtfully designed with comfort and convenience
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