World-class resort living on the beautiful Lake Michigan coast.
95,757 people live in Grand Traverse, where the median age is 43.1 and the average individual income is $43,501. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
Nestled on the crystalline shores of Grand Traverse Bay, this region combines Northern Michigan’s serene natural beauty—rolling hills, multiple lakes, and lush orchards—with a vibrant cultural spirit and growing real estate appeal. The area’s agricultural heritage, particularly in cherries and viticulture, supports a thriving tourism economy. Traverse City, the county seat, anchors a dynamic community featuring acclaimed arts institutions, top-tier education, and top-notch healthcare facilities—delivering both lifestyle and long-term value in a picturesque setting.
Grand Traverse County is the most populous in Northern Michigan and part of the broader Traverse City metropolitan area. It offers balanced living with strong local industries—agriculture, healthcare, education, and tourism—set amidst a landscape defined by Grand Traverse Bay, sandy coastline, and forested ridges. With accessible highways and a growing real estate market that blends charming historic homes and scenic new developments, it's a region that cultivates quality of life and economic opportunity in equal measure.
| Key Facts about Grand Traverse County, MI | |
|---|---|
| Area (Total / Land / Water) | ~601 sq mi total — ~464 sq mi land, ~137 sq mi water (≈23 %) |
| Founded / Organized | Created 1840 (as Omeena County), organized/renamed 1851 |
| Population (2020 / Estimate 2024) | 95,238 (2020 census) → ~96,625 (2024 est.) |
| County Seat & Largest City | Traverse City (~15,678 residents in 2020) |
| Metro Population | ~153,448 (2020, Traverse City MSA encompassing Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau); Grand Traverse holds ~62 % of that |
| Main Transportation Routes | US-31, M-22, M-72 (runs through Traverse City along Grandview Parkway) |
From its deep roots as a historic agricultural hub and rich indigenous heritage to its reputation as a premier vacation destination and wine-growing region, Grand Traverse offers an unmatched fusion of small-town charm and modern sophistication. Homebuyers, investors, and families can enjoy a region celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and a real estate market grounded in lasting value.
Grand Traverse offers a quintessential Northern Michigan lifestyle—sparkling bays, sandy beaches, vineyard-draped hillsides, and lively small-town culture anchored by Traverse City. Neighborhoods range from quiet peninsula roads and wooded lake communities to walkable in-town districts. Residents enjoy easy access to parks and trails, award-winning dining, respected schools, and year-round recreation on the water and in the woods.
What truly sets Grand Traverse apart is its coastal feel and long-term livability. With excellent healthcare, bustling farmers’ markets, a thriving arts scene, and proximity to wineries and nature preserves, the region suits full-time residents, second-home owners, and investors alike. Steady demand and limited shoreline inventory underpin enduring value across a range of property types.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Community Type | Coastal-lake region with in-town neighborhoods, rural-residential areas, vineyard country, and waterfront corridors |
| Popular For | Boating & beach life, wine & culinary scene, outdoor recreation, festivals, second homes & retreats |
| Main Housing Types | Bayfront & inland-lake cottages, luxury bayfront estates, single-family homes, modern condos, townhomes, vineyard/orchard homes, wooded acreage homesites, and select STR-eligible properties (location/HOA dependent) |
| Parks & Outdoor Areas | Old Mission Point Park & Lighthouse, Traverse City State Park, Boardman Lake & TART Trails, Clinch Park Beach, nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore |
| Shopping & Dining | Downtown Traverse City: Boutiques, cafés, farm-to-table dining, markets The Village at Grand Traverse Commons: Shops, eateries, trails & events |
| Health & Wellness | Munson Medical Center & specialty clinics, yoga & fitness studios, lakeside paths, farmers’ markets, water-sports outfitters |
| Schools & Universities | Traverse City Area Public Schools; private & charter options; Northwestern Michigan College nearby |
| Transportation | US-31, M-37 & M-72 corridors; Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA); Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) with regional connections |
Whether you’re relocating, investing, or searching for a waterfront retreat, Grand Traverse delivers coastal calm, vibrant culture, and a resilient real estate market shaped by lifestyle demand and limited shoreline supply.
Grand Traverse features a lifestyle-driven market influenced by limited shoreline inventory, vineyard country living, and quick access to downtown Traverse City. From bay-view condos at the peninsula base to legacy bayfront estates and vineyard/orchard homes, buyers will find a refined mix of waterfront, view, and in-town options suited to primary, second-home, and investment needs.
| Property Type | Median Price (USD) | Price per Sq.Ft (USD) | Average Rent (USD/year) | Rental Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR Bay-View Condo (peninsula base) | $365,000 | $475 | $24,000 | 6.6% |
| 2BR Townhome / Condo (near shoreline corridors) | $525,000 | $395 | $33,600 | 6.4% |
| 3BR Single-Family (non-waterfront, peninsula/in-town) | $725,000 | $380 | $42,000 | 5.8% |
| Waterfront Cottage (2–3BR, private frontage) | $1,250,000 | $650 | $78,000 | 6.2% |
| Luxury Bayfront Estate (4BR+) | $2,450,000 | $780 | $132,000 | 5.4% |
| Vineyard / Orchard Estate Home | $1,650,000 | $520 | $96,000 | 5.8% |
Note: Figures are illustrative snapshots for Grand Traverse and vary by micro-location, frontage, view orientation, HOA/STR rules, and renovation level. For current comps, verify with Northern Great Lakes REALTORS® MLS and recent closed sales.
Grand Traverse (centered on Traverse City and the surrounding bays and peninsulas) offers stay options that mirror the region’s property mix—waterfront resorts, boutique winery inns, family-friendly suites, and private vacation homes. It’s ideal for buyers previewing neighborhoods and lifestyles, from bayfront living to vineyard-view retreats.
Choose lodging along East or West Grand Traverse Bay for beach access, up the Old Mission Peninsula for vineyard vistas, or near downtown for walkable dining and culture. Accommodation types align with local real estate—bayfront cottages, luxury estates, modern condos & townhomes, and vineyard/orchard homes.
Grand Traverse blends sparkling bays, dunes, forests, and vineyard country with a lively cultural core in Traverse City. From lighthouse walks on Old Mission Peninsula to beach days at Clinch Park and wine trails along M-37, there’s something for every season. The region’s experiences pair naturally with its real estate options—bayfront cottages and estates, vineyard-view homes, modern condos & townhomes, and wooded acreage retreats.
Explore below for a curated look at favorite destinations and experiences, perfect for weekend visitors, new residents, and second-home seekers discovering neighborhoods and property types throughout Grand Traverse.
As you explore Grand Traverse activities, you’ll also see the region’s distinct property types up close—bayfront cottages and estates, modern condos & townhomes, vineyard-view homes, and wooded acreage retreats—making it easy to match lifestyle with the perfect home base.
Grand Traverse offers families access to well-regarded public schools, specialized programs, and private options—plus nearby arts-focused and college pathways. Many neighborhoods are close to beaches, parks, and trail systems, making school-day routines and extracurriculars convenient.
Education here pairs naturally with local property types, from in-town single-family homes near campuses to bay-view condos and townhomes, vineyard- and orchard-adjacent homes on the peninsulas, and larger acreage estates in rural-residential zones.
| School / Nursery | Type | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traverse City Central High School | Public / College Prep (TCAPS) | Downtown Traverse City / East Side |
AP & honors coursework, strong athletics & arts; convenient to in-town single-family homes and bay-view condos.
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| Traverse City West Senior High | Public (TCAPS) | West Side / Long Lake area |
Comprehensive academics, robust extracurriculars; neighborhoods include wooded subdivisions and lake-access properties.
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| Eastern Elementary & Westwoods Elementary | Public Elementary (TCAPS) | 10–20 min drives, depending on neighborhood |
STEM and literacy focus, active PTOs; close to family-friendly single-family homes and townhomes.
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| Old Mission Peninsula School | Public Charter (K–6) | Old Mission Peninsula |
Place-based learning with emphasis on nature and community; nearby property types include vineyard/orchard homes and bay-view residences.
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| Greenspire School | Public Charter (Middle/High) | Commons / West Bay |
Project-based, environmentally focused curriculum; convenient to condos/townhomes at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons and adjacent neighborhoods.
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| The Pathfinder School | Private (K–8) | East of Traverse City (approx. 10–15 min) |
Small class sizes, experiential learning; draws families from in-town districts and rural-residential homesites.
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| Trinity Lutheran / St. Francis / Immaculate Conception | Private / Parochial | Multiple campuses around TC |
Faith-based academics with strong community engagement; near established single-family neighborhoods.
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| Northwestern Michigan College (NMC) | Community College | Central Traverse City |
Associate degrees, University Center partnerships, maritime & aviation; close to condo living and walkable in-town homes.
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| Interlochen Center for the Arts (nearby) | Fine Arts Academy (Grades 9–12) | ~20–30 min SW of TC |
World-renowned arts education and performances; popular with families in lake-area homes and acreage properties.
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| Early Childhood & Montessori Options | Nursery / Pre-K / Montessori | Across Grand Traverse |
Multiple childcare centers and Montessori programs; options near bayfront condos, peninsula homes, and suburban neighborhoods.
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Grand Traverse connects waterfront neighborhoods, vineyard country, and in-town districts via US-31, M-37 (Old Mission Peninsula), and M-72. Whether you’re commuting to downtown Traverse City, heading up the peninsulas, or exploring nearby Leelanau and Benzie counties, major routes keep drives short and scenic.
Transit options and trail networks make everyday movement simple—from BATA buses to the TART/Boardman Lake trails. Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) adds convenient regional air service for residents and second-home owners alike. Local property types tied to these corridors include bayfront cottages and estates, peninsula single-family homes, vineyard/orchard residences, modern condos & townhomes near the city core, and wooded acreage homesites.
Major Highways |
Quick access via US-31 (bayfront corridor), M-37 (Old Mission Peninsula), and M-72 (east–west connector). Convenient for in-town condos & townhomes, peninsula single-family homes, vineyard/orchard properties, and bayfront estates. |
Public Transit |
BATA (Bay Area Transportation Authority) provides fixed routes, regional connections, and on-demand Link service—useful for commuting from suburban neighborhoods and the Village at Grand Traverse Commons area. |
Biking & Walking |
The TART Trails network, Boardman Lake Loop, and waterfront promenades make cycling and walking popular for daily errands and recreation—great near in-town single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. |
Airport |
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) is minutes from downtown and shoreline corridors, offering convenient regional flights—ideal for second-home owners and investors with bayfront cottages or luxury estates. |
Ride Sharing |
Uber and Lyft operate throughout Grand Traverse. Seasonal shuttles and marina charters supplement transport in waterfront neighborhoods and resort areas. |
Grand Traverse’s connected corridors, trails, and air access make it easy to enjoy lake life and city convenience—whether you’re based in a downtown condo, a peninsula single-family home, a vineyard-view retreat, or a legacy bayfront estate.
Grand Traverse stands out for lifestyle-driven demand and constrained shoreline supply. Limited bay and inland-lake frontage, a thriving year-round tourism and wine economy, and proximity to downtown Traverse City support resilient fundamentals. From bayfront estates and cottages to modern condos & townhomes, in-town single-family, and vineyard/orchard homes, the region offers a diverse mix for primary living, second homes, and investment.
Why Grand Traverse? Lifestyle amenities (beaches, trails, wineries), strong healthcare access, a vibrant downtown, and Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) create consistent buyer interest. Seasonal rental demand (summer and festival periods) can complement long-term appreciation—subject to township/HOA rules on short-term rentals. Investors often target walkable in-town condos, lock-and-leave townhomes, and waterfront or view-oriented homes with proven rental histories.
*Short-term rental eligibility varies by township and HOA. Always verify current regulations and analyze comps (e.g., Northern Great Lakes REALTORS® MLS) before purchasing for rental income.
Whether you’re focused on upscale rentals or long-term holds, Grand Traverse offers a compelling blend of lifestyle utility and durable demand across multiple property types.
Choosing where to live or invest around Grand Traverse depends on your priorities—water frontage, walkability, vineyard-country living, school zones, or long-term growth. Traverse City anchors the market with strong demand and amenities, while nearby areas such as Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau, and Benzie offer compelling lifestyle plays. Property types across the region include bayfront cottages & estates, modern condos & townhomes, in-town single-family homes, vineyard/orchard residences, and wooded acreage homesites.
| Area | Median Home Price | Avg. Annual Appreciation | Main Appeal / Property Types |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traverse City (In-Town) | $520,000 | 4–7% | Walkability, dining, culture; modern condos & townhomes, historic single-family, some bay-view units |
| Old Mission Peninsula (Grand Traverse) | $900,000 | 5–8% | Shoreline & vineyard living; bayfront estates & cottages, custom single-family, vineyard/orchard homes |
| Leelanau Peninsula (Suttons Bay / Glen Arbor) | $650,000 | 4–6% | Coastal villages & wineries; waterfront cottages, village condos, wooded acreage retreats |
| Benzie County (Frankfort / Crystal Lake) | $450,000 | 3–5% | Dunes & clear-water lakes; inland-lake cottages, small-town single-family, seasonal rentals |
| Acme / Williamsburg (East Bay Corridor) | $500,000 | 4–6% | Resort access & trail links; newer single-family, townhomes/condos, bay-view homes |
| Elk Rapids (Antrim, just NE) | $575,000 | 4–6% | Harbor town & beaches; village homes, waterfront on Elk/Torch Lake, cottage infill |
| Interlochen Area (SW of TC) | $400,000 | 3–5% | Arts & lakes; single-family near schools, acreage homesites, cabin/second-home mix |
Key Takeaways: Traverse City offers the best blend of convenience and year-round amenities, while Old Mission commands premiums for bay frontage and vineyard settings. Leelanau balances coastal village life and wineries, and Benzie offers value near dunes and clear-water lakes. Investors should align goals with area-specific dynamics and property types—downtown condos/townhomes, bayfront cottages & estates, single-family homes, vineyard/orchard residences, and wooded acreage retreats.
Figures are illustrative market snapshots and vary by frontage, view orientation, renovation level, and HOA/STR rules. Always verify with current MLS comps.
Grand Traverse, MI blends sparkling bay shoreline, vineyard-covered hills, and a lively small-city core in Traverse City. With year-round recreation, celebrated dining, respected schools, and convenient access via Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), it’s no surprise so many are choosing to call the region home—full-time or seasonally.
Whether you’re relocating for lifestyle, work, or a second-home retreat, Grand Traverse offers property types for every plan: bayfront cottages & estates, modern condos & townhomes (great lock-and-leave options), in-town single-family homes near schools and parks, vineyard/orchard residences on the peninsulas, and wooded acreage homesites for privacy.
Ready to map your move? Explore neighborhoods, commute corridors, schools, and buying tips in our full Grand Traverse relocation guide.
Read the Complete Grand Traverse Relocation Guide →Grand Traverse has 39,596 households, with an average household size of 2.37. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Grand Traverse do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 95,757 people call Grand Traverse home. The population density is 206.22 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Grand Traverse, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including The Daily Grind Coffee Drive Thru, Firebird Pizza, and Cracked.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 3.94 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 3.26 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.67 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 3.3 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.5 miles | 26 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 4.81 miles | 8 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Dining · $$ | 3.88 miles | 20 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 2.4 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 4.69 miles | 18 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.66 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 4.03 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.87 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.44 miles | 35 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 4.8 miles | 11 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
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Molly is known for listening and problem-solving, often putting her own real-life buying, selling, and renovating experience to use for her clients. Her construction industry connections also give her clients an extra sense of trust, especially if they are looking to add value to a property with a remodel.
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