Ellsworth, located in Antrim County, Michigan, is a small and charming village surrounded by stunning lakes, forests, and agricultural landscapes. Known for its tranquil environment, friendly community, and outdoor recreational opportunities, Ellsworth is perfect for families, retirees, and anyone seeking a peaceful lifestyle. This article explores the best residential areas to live in Ellsworth, detailing their unique characteristics, housing options, and average prices.
Table of Contents
Downtown Ellsworth

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Downtown Ellsworth serves as the hub of community life with local shops, restaurants, and essential services. The area is ideal for those who want to be in the center of activities, enjoying the convenience of walking to amenities.
Characteristics of the Downtown Ellsworth
* Culture: Rich agricultural heritage and community festivals
* Transportation: Walking-friendly and easy access to major roads
* Services: Grocery stores, cafes, community center, and parks
* Environment: Friendly and vibrant
Housing Options in the Downtown Ellsworth
Single-family homes, Condominiums
Average Home Prices in the Downtown Ellsworth
* Buying: $180,000 – $250,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,600/month
Ellsworth Lake Area

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The Ellsworth Lake Area is perfect for those who love water activities and nature. This residential neighborhood offers beautiful views of the lake and is close to public access for boating and fishing.
Characteristics of the Ellsworth Lake Area
* Culture: Strong fishing and boating community
* Transportation: Car necessary, minimal public transport
* Services: Lake access, local boat rentals, nature trails
* Environment: Calm and scenic
Housing Options in the Ellsworth Lake Area
Lakefront homes, Cabins
Average Home Prices in the Ellsworth Lake Area
* Buying: $200,000 – $300,000
* Renting: $1,500 – $2,200/month
Antrim County Rural Area

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Surrounding the village, the Antrim County Rural Area offers a more secluded lifestyle with expansive properties and beautiful farmland. It's ideal for those who enjoy privacy and nature.
Characteristics of the Antrim County Rural Area
* Culture: Agricultural and rustic lifestyle
* Transportation: Car essential, rural roads
* Services: Limited retail, focus on farm markets and local goods
* Environment: Quiet and spacious
Housing Options in the Antrim County Rural Area
Single-family homes on large lots, Farmstead properties
Average Home Prices in the Antrim County Rural Area
* Buying: $150,000 – $250,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,500/month
Emerald Lake Area

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Emerald Lake Area features stunning natural beauty combined with residential comfort. This quiet community is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Characteristics of the Emerald Lake Area
* Culture: Nature-oriented with a focus on outdoor living
* Transportation: Car necessary, very few public transport options
* Services: Access to lakes and nature trails, limited shopping
* Environment: Serene and picturesque
Housing Options in the Emerald Lake Area
Cottages, Single-family homes
Average Home Prices in the Emerald Lake Area
* Buying: $180,000 – $270,000
* Renting: $1,200 – $1,700/month
Kalkaska Township

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Just a short drive from Ellsworth, Kalkaska Township is popular among those seeking larger properties and a mix of wooded areas and open fields. It's great for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Characteristics of the Kalkaska Township
* Culture: Community-oriented with seasonal events and markets
* Transportation: Car essential, easy access to main roads
* Services: Local shops, schools, parks, and recreational areas
* Environment: Community-focused and active
Housing Options in the Kalkaska Township
Single-family homes, Modular homes
Average Home Prices in the Kalkaska Township
* Buying: $160,000 – $240,000
* Renting: $1,000 – $1,400/month
Jordan River Valley

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The Jordan River Valley area is known for its beautiful river views and attractive natural landscape. It is ideal for those who love river activities like kayaking and fishing while being close to rural living.
Characteristics of the Jordan River Valley
* Culture: Outdoor recreation with a focus on river-related activities
* Transportation: Car necessary, local roads
* Services: Parks and nature access, local convenience stores
* Environment: Natural and relaxed
Housing Options in the Jordan River Valley
Riverside homes, Cottages, Farmhouses
Average Home Prices in the Jordan River Valley
* Buying: $220,000 – $320,000
* Renting: $1,300 – $1,800/month
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Residential Areas in Ellsworth:
The best residential areas in Ellsworth include Downtown Ellsworth, Ellsworth Lake Area, Antrim County Rural Area, Emerald Lake Area, Kalkaska Township, and Jordan River Valley.
Downtown Ellsworth and Kalkaska Township are very family-friendly, offering community services, parks, and schools.
The Ellsworth Lake Area and Emerald Lake Area are prime locations for lakefront properties.
The average home prices in Ellsworth range from $150,000 to $320,000, depending on the area and property type.
Residents can enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and various community events throughout the year.
Public transportation is limited; therefore, having a car is essential for accessing services and amenities.
Downtown Ellsworth is known for its vibrant community life, with local events and friendly neighbors.
Ellsworth is located about 20-30 minutes away from larger towns such as Kalkaska and Charlevoix.
The Antrim County Rural Area offers a peaceful, serene lifestyle with a focus on nature and agricultural living.
Emerald Lake Area and the Ellsworth Lake Area are popular among retirees due to their peaceful ambiance and recreational opportunities.
Conclusion on the Best Residential Areas in Ellsworth:
Ellsworth, Michigan, boasts a variety of residential areas, each with unique attributes appealing to diverse lifestyles. From the vibrant community life of Downtown Ellsworth to the serene lakefront properties ideal for nature lovers, the village appeals to families, retirees, and those seeking tranquility. Finding the right area will depend on individual preferences regarding proximity to services, outdoor activities, and the desired atmosphere. With its stunning natural surroundings and charming community spirit, Ellsworth offers a fulfilling living experience amidst Michigan's beautiful landscapes.
About the Author

Published by:Eribert De Oliveira
Mechatronics Engineer and founder of Mi Inmueble Online, with a background in real estate. I combine technology and analysis to help you find the best areas to live.