2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Sanford, MI vs Houghton Lake, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Houghton Lake older or younger than people in Sanford?
- The Median Age in Houghton Lake is 7.6 years older than in Sanford.

Are housing costs cheaper in Houghton Lake or Sanford?
- Houghton Lake housing costs are 2.6% more expensive than Sanford housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Houghton Lake or Sanford?
- The average commute for residents of Houghton Lake is 0.2 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sanford.

Things to do in Sanford?
Living in Sanford, MI is a great experience! The town is small, but it has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The people are very kind and supportive of one another. The area has plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy such as camping, fishing, rafting, and hiking. There are also plenty of local restaurants and shops that offer unique items as well as classic favorites. The town is close to larger cities like Midland and Saginaw which provide additional entertainment options. Overall, Sanford offers a quiet, calm atmosphere with plenty of opportunities for entertainment and recreation.

Things to do in Houghton Lake?
Living in Houghton Lake, MI is a pleasant experience. The area offers natural beauty, with its many lakes and nearby forests providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the area, allowing for a variety of activities. The community has a strong sense of pride, with many residents actively participating in local events and organizations. Despite its small population size, there is still plenty to do and see throughout the year. From summertime swimming, fishing and boating on the lake to winter sports such as skiing and snowmobiling, Houghton Lake provides a great place to live no matter what time of year it is.

 Sanford, MIHoughton Lake, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock5,734329,725,481
 Median Income$59,167  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock52.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$160,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time22.25  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Sanford    0 Reviews

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Reviews for Houghton Lake    3 Reviews

This is a rural resort area. You must be able to embrace the rural lifestyle. There's no real shopping opportunities other than Walmart, Kmart, Peebles, Dunhams, Tractor  More

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Over 17 years ago

The quality of life here for most depends on how you look at it. If your looking for a medium to high paying job there realy are none, and there's hardly any jobs that  More

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The climate here is...well..cold... seems like most of the time and one does get cabin fever when March rolls around, if not sooner. Can't wait for summer! If you love  More

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