$661,880Average Value$359Average Price per Sq Ft56Homes For Sale
A lakeside Michigan Mitten town
Incorporated as a city in 1902, South Haven is a midwestern port city resting on the banks of Lake Michigan. The city’s busy lumber and farming industries contributed to its growth, and the city eventually provided lumber to larger metropolises like Chicago and became known for its more than 300 blueberry farms. The city was once a regional tourist destination thanks to its lakeside beaches and opportunities for recreation on the water, but the city is now home to nearly 4,600 permanent residents. However, major festivals and events can significantly increase the population in the summer. “It can ramp up to 20,000 people easily,” says Kathy Wagaman, director of the South Haven Chamber of Commerce. “Especially during major festivals like our Ice Breaker Festival in February and our National Blueberry Festival in August."
Downtown South Haven is home to a collection of thriving, locally loved shops and restaurants. Just downriver from the Dyckman Avenue bridge, the banks of the Black River hold a narrow alley of small businesses known as Old Harbor Village. Less than a tenth of a mile south of Old Harbor Village, the intersection of Center Street and Phoenix Street serves as the central hub of South Haven’s commercial activity. Here, residents can peruse boutique clothing and specialty shops, as well as local restaurants, breweries and wineries.
Homes in South Haven typically sell after spending 36 days on the market, slightly less than the national average of 44 days. Housing style range from small, ranch-style homes with less than 1,000 square feet to modern lakeside villas boasting more than 5,000 square feet. Homes tucked away from the water sell between $200,000 and $900,000, while homes along the shores of Lake Michigan can sell for $1 million and up. The median home price is $452,500, up 9% from the previous year.
Phoenix St. is South Haven's main retail center, with shops and restaurants to enjoy.
The South Haven Lighthouse welcomes nautical visitors to the town of South Haven.
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Lake Michigan, a Pure Michigan Trail Town and a small collection of museums
The biggest natural draw to South Haven is Lake Michigan, where residents can kayak, join a fishing charter or sail the Lake’s cool blue waters. The city is also designated as a Pure Michigan Trail Town, highlighting its offering of scenic biking and hiking trails.
South Haven residents also have plenty of entertainment options in the colder months. The city has a small but vibrant art and history scene, kept alive by sites like the Michigan Maritime Museum and the South Haven Center for the Arts. For more family-focused fun, the Mitten Children’s Museum and the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum offer hands-on exhibits for all ages.
Bathers and kayakers enjoy a day at South Beach in South Haven.
The South Haven Center for the Arts hosts exhibits and programs throughout the year.
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South Haven Public Schools District
South Haven Public Schools earns an overall B-minus grade from Niche. With 1,798 students, the district maintains a 15:1 student-teacher ratio and an average graduation rate of 77%. Students are spread across three elementary schools, one middle school and two high schools. According to the district’s website, its strategic plan has four focus areas: improving communications, expanding student achievement, closing the achievement gap and improving conditions that impact student enrollment. South Haven’s only option for post-secondary education is Lake Michigan College. Offering more than 80 programs, the college hosts four campuses across the southwestern region of Michigan, including its South Haven Campus.
Bronson South Haven Medical System and other major employers
Bronson South Haven Hospital, one of the city’s largest employers, provides emergency medical services, and the city’s physicians’ offices are mainly concentrated around the hospital. Certified as a Level IV Trauma Center, Bronson can provide advanced trauma life support before transferring patients to a Level V Trauma Center—the highest level of the Trauma Center scale—if necessary. Other major employers in the city include South Haven Public Schools and the Holtec Palisades nuclear power plant.
The Holtec Palisades nuclear power plant is one of South Haven's top employers.
Bronson South Haven Hospital, a Level IV Trauma Center, is the city's largest employer.
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Interstate 196 and the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport
Public transportation is limited to an on-demand ride service. Running through the east side of town, Interstate 196 connects residents with Grand Rapids 57 miles north. Following the interstate south, drivers can reach Interstate 94, which puts downtown Chicago 123 miles from South Haven. The South Haven Regional Airport is 5.3 miles south of the city, but the airport is limited to private and charter flights. For connections to destination flights, travelers will have to head 43 miles east to the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport.
South Haven Crime Rates
According to crime data from the FBI, the 2023 violent crime rate in South Haven was 274.93 per 100,000 people. The rate for property crime was 399.9 per 100,000. In comparison, the US violent crime rate was 120.98, and the property crime rate was 179.63.
Snowy South Haven Winters and Environmental Risks
The weather tends to be mild in the spring, summer and fall. The Lake Effect often brings snow to the city, says Jonathan Stowers, Realtor with Shores of South Haven, but winters have become more mild over the years. “You get some winters with excessive snow,” says Stowers, who grew up in the area. “But over time, the Michigan winters have become a lot less severe than they used to be.”
Roughly 25% of properties in South Haven are at risk of being impacted by flooding over the next 30 years. Commercial and residential property risks are minor, but infrastructure, roads and social properties like schools are at moderate risk. Fire and wind risks are minimal, though data indicates the city’s air quality is worse than 99% of other cities in Michigan.
The Future of South Haven
The 2108 South Haven Master Plan indicates that the city’s development plan focuses on preserving historical sites, increasing mixed-use properties that integrate commercial and residential properties and identifying a site for a central community gathering venue to host concerts and other events. According to information from the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, updates to the master plan will focus on coastal resiliency, housing needs and the environment.
There is an emphasis in South Haven on preserving historical sites.
South Haven, as a Pure Michigan town has much to be proud of.
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Written By
Konrad Solberg
Photography Contributed By
Christopher Shires
Video By
Andrew Perrius
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Bob MacKenzie,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in South Haven, MI sell after 49 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in South Haven, MI over the last 12 months is $427,000, down 8% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
The much loved tiny hamlet of Glenn is renowned for being the Pancake Town. Ideally located between Saugatuck and South Haven, this location is sought after for its charm and close proximity to Glenn Beach. Now there is a new home built with attention to detail at the location of the old Glenn Post Office sellers donated to the community. Now along Glenn Creek sits a brand new compact 3 bed, 2
Discover the perfect blend of beach living and small-town South Haven charm at Trailside, minutes from Lake Michigan's sandy beaches, parks, trails and marina. These expertly designed townhomes feature 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, offering high-end finishes that prioritize comfort and efficiency, with a coveted 5-Star Energy Rating. This unit features Interra Homes' curated ''Artistic
PRICE IMPROVEMENT! Don't miss this charming, move-in-ready ranch home in desirable South Haven Township! Conveniently located just a short drive from downtown South Haven and the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, this inviting home offers 2 main-floor bedrooms, an updated bathroom, and a versatile bonus room above the garage—perfect for a home office, rec room, guest space, or hobby room. Step
Rare opportunity to build in one of South Haven's most coveted locations! This exceptional oversized parcel (75x100) sits at the end of Michigan Ave, perched above South Beach with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Enjoy convenient access to nearby stairs leading directly to South Beach and the Black River, offering the best of both beach and boating lifestyles. Located next to 88 Michigan
Welcome to 60 Gabriel Drive, South Haven, This 5 bedroom home sits in the heart of it all with a short walk to the South Beach Blue Stairs for your beach days and sunset evenings. Nice large modern kitchen is perfectly situated next to the dining room and direct access to the larger back deck over looking a beautifully manicured back yard to allow for extended outdoor living on in the spring,
Expansive 44.75-acre parcel located in Geneva Township with incredible potential for development, farming, recreation, or a private homestead retreat. Currently used as tillable land, the property offers rolling grass fields, light timber coverage toward the rear, and a scenic creek winding through the northeastern portion of the parcel. The ravine and creek area create a completely different
Opportunities in this exceptional neighborhood are becoming increasingly rare. This beautiful wooded 0.8-acre lot in the gated community of Wood Crest offers the perfect setting to build the home you've always envisioned.Surrounded by nature and thoughtfully designed for privacy and exclusivity, the community features modern utilities along protection of long-term value through exclusion of
Main level living on 4+ sprawling acres, this beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch home delivers the ultimate combination of country privacy and unbeatable shoreline convenience. Located less than 2 minutes from downtown South Haven, you are just moments away from vibrant local shopping, dining, and the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. Designed for effortless, single-level living,
Rare opportunity to own 20 acres in desirable South Haven Township offering endless potential for development, recreation, or your future homestead. Currently utilized as tillable land, this parcel features wide open grass fields stretching across the property with a touch of timber coverage toward the back for added privacy and character. The versatile zoning possibilities create excellent
Welcome to 08630 M-140 in South Haven! Tucked away at the end of a wooded drive, this charming 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers 950 sq ft of comfortable living space on a .47-acre lot. Inside, you'll find wood floors throughout and appliances included. Enjoy a peaceful setting while staying close to everything South Haven has to offer. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate being less than a mile from
This Lake Michigan retreat offers breathtaking panoramic views and unbelievable sunsets. The relaxing sounds of crashing waves create a perfect vacation atmosphere, with a path to the association beach just steps away. It is a rare find for those seeking a tranquil escape with easy access to the sandy shore. Please note the lakeside bluff requires a new revetment system for long-term stability.
Completely renovated luxury condo with high end finishings, Wolf freezer, Sub Zero fridge, Holiday kitchen Cabinets, Toto Toilets, hardwood floors, tiled bathroom, 2 Murphy beds. The bedroom has a Murphy bed that when up turns into a work desk. Living room has a Murphy bed that has a wall mounted TV and bed settings to watch while laying down and a TV mounted when the Murphy bed is up as a wall
The possibilities are endless at 1395 Blue Star Highway! This property is zoned commercial but classified residential and lends itself to a myriad of future uses. It is perfectly set up for a main floor office, store front, or studio space, with second floor living. Each floor has a separate hot water heater, HVAC, kitchen, full bathroom, and bedroom. The second-floor space has a private entrance
Nestled on a scenic meadow in a prime location in South Haven's Harbor Club, this turnkey luxury family home offers everything you need for effortless resort-style vacations and strong investment potential. Built in 2018 on a premium lot this fully furnished, this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath was thoughtfully designed for ultimate family entertaining. An open-concept design featuring a spacious great room
Exceptional opportunity to own approximately 64.75 acres spanning both South Haven Township and Geneva Township. Together, these parcels offer a unique combination of open tillable acreage, scenic grass fields, pockets of timber coverage, and a picturesque creek with ravine terrain that creates a peaceful, secluded atmosphere unlike anything else in the area. With multiple zoning possibilities,
The advertised rate of $6,824/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 5, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $6,780/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 3, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
These fully remodeled apartments are located in beautiful downtown South Haven. This prime location puts you within walking distance of your favorite spots and many available apartments offer views of Lake Michigan and the Black River. Don't miss out on your opportunity to live in downtown South Haven!
The advertised rate of $33,510/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 5, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $9,362/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 4, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $7,794/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 29, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $11,160/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) and 2 day(s) stay with a move-in date of February 7, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed
The advertised rate of $7,810/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) and 2 day(s) stay with a move-in date of February 15, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed
The advertised rate of $7,205/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) and 2 day(s) stay with a move-in date of February 11, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed
The advertised rate of $19,202/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) and 2 day(s) stay with a move-in date of February 20, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed
The advertised rate of $14,617/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 10, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
The advertised rate of $6,953/month is the lowest available price, based on a 30 day(s) stay with a move-in date of January 2, 2027. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
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Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
