2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Shelby, NC vs Houghton Lake, MI

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Houghton Lake older or younger than people in Shelby?
- The Median Age in Houghton Lake is 6.6 years older than in Shelby.

Are housing costs cheaper in Houghton Lake or Shelby?
- Houghton Lake housing costs are 4.8% more expensive than Shelby housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Houghton Lake or Shelby?
- The average commute for residents of Houghton Lake is 2.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Shelby.

Things to do in Shelby?
Shelby, NC is a pleasant village south of Kings Mountain featuring several spectacular spots such as Lake Wylie perfect for exploring or Crowders Mountain ideal for recreational activities; locals gather yearly at the remarkable FallFest celebrating local culture with music and art.

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.

 Shelby, NCHoughton Lake, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock5,734329,725,481
 Median Income$41,565  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock52.438.4
 Avg. Home Price$156,900  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time20.33  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Shelby    1 Reviews

Over 19 years ago

Not likely you'll settle here out of chance, a job will likely bring you here. I have lived in the Shelby area for the past ten years and have seen an explosion of  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Shelby

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Houghton Lake


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.