Houghton Lake is a lively, waterside community
Houghton Lake, Michigan's largest inland lake, draws people for its lively year-round activities. "It's a well-sought area. They have an amazing amount of festivity there," says Kathryn Downing, a Realtor with Re/Max River Haven, who specializes in waterfront properties. Many residents have second homes here to enjoy both summer and winter. "It's busy most of the time. The summer it's busier, but in the winter, they have downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing and ice skating," she says. The housing market ranges from cozy cottages to upscale lakeside homes, creating price variety. Located off Michigan 55 and U.S. Route 127, Houghton Lake offers solid access to nearby communities, including downtown Roscommon. There are also plenty of shopping and dining establishments locally.
Rustic housing in the woods and luxury homes on the water
A-frame cottages and log cabins evoke a classic northern Michigan experience, while ranch-style homes and split-levels dominate residential neighborhoods. Several newer builds feature Craftsman touches with wide porches fit for summer evenings by the water. "Around the lake, the landscaping on the homes is impeccable," Downing says. The median sales price in Houghton Lake is $190,000. Comparatively, in nearby Roscommon, it's $240,000. Small entry-level houses start at $50,000, and prime lakeside properties exceed $1 million. Some homes are located along canals or on wooded lots, offering privacy beneath the trees. Downing notes that certain areas around Houghton Lake permit vacation rentals while others restrict them. Houghton Lake's CAP Index Crime Score is 2 out of 10, compared to the national average of 4.
Swimming in the summer and ice fishing come winter
Houghton Lake is an all-sports lake with diverse game and panfish species. "There are quite a few public boat launches there. It's not a private lake," Downing says, adding that various beaches and sandbars offer spots to relax and swim. Houghton Lake Heights Park has a playground and a small beach on the water's edge. Marinas on the shore offer places to store the boat. Public golf courses and a disc golf area add to the recreational scene. Houghton Lake State Forest Park is one of several places to camp. Surrounding trails support winter and summer sports. Hanson Hills Recreation Area, around 30 miles away, is a popular destination for everything from downhill skiing to hiking and biking.
Taking the polar plunge in January, dancing in July
Events in this community fill the year. A signature festivity is Tip Up Town USA, held in January around the frozen lake. The event began as an ice fishing tournament in 1951 and still features ice fishing as one of its major draws. Over the years, it has grown to include new activities, including vintage snowmobile shows and a polar plunge. A popular summertime event is the Houghton Lake Blues Festival held in July.
Lakeside restaurants and locally owned stores
Houghton Lake's shops and restaurants line Highway 55 and nearby streets. Lakeside Bar & Grill offers waterside views and an expansive menu with everything from pasta to fish tacos. Limberlost Fine Food & Spirits, open since 1933, is another casual spot for a beer and bite. Northshore Lounge hosts Friday fish fries. Uncharted Grounds Coffee Shop is a community anchor at breakfast and lunchtime. Houghton Lake also has pizzerias, ice cream shops and a few fast-food chains. Save A Lot offers groceries, while retailers such as Under The Windmill consignment store, Wild's True Value Hardware and KM Power Sports serve the community. Roscommon offers a walkable downtown setting roughly 25 miles away.
Houghton Lake schools offer student recognition events
Students attend Houghton Lake Community Schools. Houghton Lake Collins Elementary teaches prekindergarten through sixth grade and earns a C rating from Niche. Houghton Lake Junior/Senior High School, for seventh through 12th grade, also gets a C rating. The elementary school holds student of the month events to recognize its pupils.
Main routes through town and buses for regional transit
Michigan 55 runs parallel to the shoreline, and U.S. Route 127 passes through Houghton Lake's western side, serving as its primary route through northern Michigan. Roscommon County Transportation Authority provides regional transportation and connections to neighboring counties. Riders call to schedule in advance.
![Kathryn Ashworth]()
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
