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Spring Lake

Spring Lake

Located in Ottawa County

$427,348 Average Value
$278 Average Price per Sq Ft
12 Homes For Sale

A small village surrounded by water

The peninsula village of Spring Lake is located just minutes from the coast of Lake Michigan. With a population of just over 2,500 people, Spring Lake is like a smaller version of the next-door city of Grand Haven. "We are blessed with being surrounded by water and the recreational opportunities that come with that," says Brady Selner, the Spring Lake village manager. "And we have a vibrant downtown." Though Spring Lake can get its fair share of tourists flocking to the water in the summer, there's also a sense of year-round community.

Spring Lake is a village surrounded by water.
Spring Lake is a village surrounded by water.
Spring Lake has a small, but vibrant downtown.
Spring Lake has a small, but vibrant downtown.
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Summer homes and full-time residents

Spring Lake's median home price is $375,000, which is on par with the Ottawa County average. Smaller ranch homes can start as low as $200,000, and waterside properties range from $700,000 to over $1 million. "There is a mix of summer homes and full-time residences," says Sandi Gentry, a lifelong resident and a Re/Max Realtor with over 30 years of experience in West Michigan. "All the water makes it such a desirable spot." Every home is less than a mile from the water's edge, and some have private docks. Two new developments are estimated to add upwards of 100 rentable units and townhomes, as well as draw in new retail.

Larger homes in Spring Lake can be found along the water.
Larger homes in Spring Lake can be found along the water.
Older bungalows and Victorians can be found around the center of Spring Lake.
Older bungalows and Victorians can be found around the center of Spring Lake.
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Breathing in "Pure Michigan" air in Spring Lake

Located on the banks of the namesake Spring Lake and the Grand River and just 3 miles from Lake Michigan, the village's main outdoor attraction is the water. "You can really appreciate the state slogan, 'Pure Michigan,' by breathing in the fresh air here," Gentry says. "It's a beautiful spot with four seasons and something to do all year round." Spring Lake has sandy beaches, several marinas and kayak rental locations on all three sides of the village. Plus, the waterside parks tend to be less crowded with summer tourists than next-door Grand Haven. The village is also known for its network of paved trails, which run along the waterfront and out into rural Ottawa County.

The village government takes great care with their park space, working hard to maintain waterside amphitheaters, children's playgrounds and the seasonal floating docks that allow visitors to visit via boat. Tanglefoot Park was renovated in 2023 to add a community center, fireplaces and splash pad. Mill Park was redone after it suffered flooding damage, and Central Park is next in line for a refresh. "Parks are so instrumental in creating a sense of community and place," Selner says. "People really, really appreciate and get excited about these updates."

Visitors and locals alike can explore several beaches surrounding Spring Lake.
Visitors and locals alike can explore several beaches surrounding Spring Lake.
Recreation is a big part of Spring Lake's appeal, with several kayak rental hubs to explore.
Recreation is a big part of Spring Lake's appeal, with several kayak rental hubs to explore.
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A small downtown with local bars, boutiques and restaurants

Though downtown Spring Lake spans less than a mile, it's filled with cafes, bars and boutiques, all lit in the evening by twinkling string lights. Restaurants range from classic American diners to an upscale steakhouse and speakeasy. "If you are a local or grew up here, you know Stan's Bar,” Selner says. They have a lot of history and play an instrumental role in the community." Downtown is also a designated social district, which means alcoholic beverages can be enjoyed outside.

There aren't many grocery options in Spring Lake, so locals must cross the river into Grand Haven for big-brand grocery stores, a drive that can get backed up by traffic.

Fuel Bar + Refuge is a popular bar in downtown Spring Lake.
Fuel Bar + Refuge is a popular bar in downtown Spring Lake.
Residents in Spring Lake must travel across the river to Grand Haven for larger big-brand grocery options.
Residents in Spring Lake must travel across the river to Grand Haven for larger big-brand grocery options.
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Spring Lakes schools earn an "A" on Niche

Spring Lake Public Schools gets an overall A rating from Niche and is ranked as the second-best district in Ottawa County. There are two elementary schools which go up to fourth grade. Both elementary schools were named National Blue Ribbon Schools in 2018. The rest of the district comprises one intermediate school for grades fifth and sixth, one middle and one high school. The village is also home to St. Mary's Catholic School, a private option for elementary-aged children.

Macatawa Bay Middle School is apart of West Ottawa Public Schools, just outside of the Spring lake neighborhood.
Macatawa Bay Middle School is apart of West Ottawa Public Schools, just outside of the Spring lake neighborhood.
Sheldon Woods Elementary School provides many options and programs for all K-5th grade students in the West Ottawa School District.
Sheldon Woods Elementary School provides many options and programs for all K-5th grade students in the West Ottawa School District.
Students at West Ottawa High School in the West Ottawa School District have the opportunity to select from over 200 courses.
Students at West Ottawa High School in the West Ottawa School District have the opportunity to select from over 200 courses.
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Holiday events, farmers markets and the annual Heritage Festival

Spring Lake holds events all year round, including a village-wide Easter egg hunt and a cozy Christmas tree lighting. One of the village's largest events is the Spring Lake Heritage Festival, a week-long celebration of the history, local artisans and live music. From June to October, locals also enjoy a weekly farmers market. "We have a very large agricultural industry, so the market is a great way for locals to show their support of our farmers," says Mark Allen, the president of the Chamber of Commerce for Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg. "And it provides the community access to fresh fruit and veggies, including individuals on food assistance programs."

Door-to-door transportation and commutes to Grand Rapids

Like Grand Haven and Ferrysburg, Spring Lake is served by the Harbor Transit public transportation system. Harbor Transit functions like a taxi system, with a fleet of shuttles that take residents from wherever they are to wherever they want to go. Riders can prebook their trips in advance. In the summer, the Lakeshore Trolley runs from Spring Lake to the beaches in Grand Haven. By car, Grand Haven is about a mile away across the Beacon Boulevard Bridge. The bridge can occasionally get backed up with traffic, especially in the summer, as tourists pass through Spring Haven on their way to Grand Haven's beaches.

Grand Rapids is 30 miles away for bigger city amenities, typically a 30-minute drive along Interstate 96. State Route 104 runs through Spring Lake and connects directly to I-96. Grand Rapids is known for its large healthcare hub and is home to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, which connects nonstop to 34 destinations nationwide.

Many of the area’s largest employers, like the manufacturing companies Shape Corporation or Herman Miller, are a few miles north or south of Spring Lake. The surrounding township also has a thriving agricultural industry, especially known for its blueberry production.

The Harbor Transit offers shuttles to take Spring Lake residents around town.
The Harbor Transit offers shuttles to take Spring Lake residents around town.
The Gerald R. Ford International airport is 30 miles away from Spring Lake and offers residents nonstop flights to 34 destinations nationwide.
The Gerald R. Ford International airport is 30 miles away from Spring Lake and offers residents nonstop flights to 34 destinations nationwide.
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Important to know

The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office provides law enforcement services to Spring Lake. Since the village doesn’t have its own police department, there is no specific crime rate data. However, according to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, crime rates reported by the Ottawa County Sheriff's Office are below both the state and national average.

Spring Lake has four distinct seasons, but winter can get frigid and bring high snowfall. According to the National Weather Service, the area receives an annual average of around 70 inches of snow. Overnight parking on village streets and parking lots is prohibited during winter months to allow for snow plowing.

The city has experienced flooding in the past few years, primarily affecting the southwest side of the village. Securing federal loans for homes in designated high-risk areas may require flood insurance.

Catherine Lashley
Written By
Catherine Lashley
Christopher Shires
Photography Contributed By
Christopher Shires
Amon Parson
Video By
Amon Parson

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Schools

Source:
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. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Spring Lake Housing Trends

Housing Trends

Median List Price
$479,900
Median Sale Price
$522,900
Median Single Family Sale Price
$479,900
Median 2 Bedroom Sale Price
$390,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
2%
Last 12 months Home Sales
161
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
-4%
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$278

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes in Neighborhood
4,321
Number of Homes for Sale
12
Median Year Built
2000
Months of Supply
0.90
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
1,914
On par with the national average
1,924
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,873
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,655
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
923
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
22,433

Open Houses

  • Saturday, Aug 2
    1 - 3pm

    512 5th St, Spring Lake, MI 49456

    $325,900

    • 4 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 2,043 Sq Ft
    • 512 5th St
    • New 26 days ago

    Many New Updates! , New Paint, New Flooring, Updated Bathroom, along with some new appliances. Enjoy relaxing outside in this quiet neighborhood just minutes away from Spring Lake and Grand Haven and all they have to offer. There is a Pole Barn/ Garage plenty big for all of your storage needs along with 2 decks and a fenced in back yard.

    Veronica Parker Vylla Homes

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  • Tuesday, Jul 29
    5:30 - 7pm

    1967 Lowe Dr, Spring Lake, MI 49456

    $424,900

    • 4 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,345 Sq Ft
    • 1967 Lowe Dr

    Welcome to Deer Creek Meadows, in the Fruitport School District. Interra Homes presents The Avery. This home is one of our most popular floor plans! Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and 1952 sq ft of above ground living space. Open concept floor plan with full views of the kitchen and living room. Kitchen includes large island and walk in pantry. The primary suite includes a walk-in closet and

    Robert Blanton Kensington Realty Group Inc.

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Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

Spring Lake Has More Owners

Demographics

Total Population
2,794
Median Age
47
Population under 18
20.7%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
27.3%
Above the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$67,449
Below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$90,797

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
97.7%
Above the national average
89.1%
College Graduates
41.3%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
11.8%
% Population in Labor Force
69%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
36''
Average Winter Low Temperature
20°F
Average Summer High Temperature
81°F
Annual Snowfall
53''

Area Factors

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score®®

41 / 100

Somewhat Walkable

Walk Score®®

51 / 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score

Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

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.
Spring Lake