Alger County Public RecordsMichigan

As of the 2020 Census, Alger County, MI, had a population of 8,323. The median age is 49.5 years, with 51% male and 49% female residents. About 84.6% are White, 7.5% Native American, 0.6% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 6.2% identify as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprise 1.6% of the population.

Alger County, MI, serves around 1,000 K-12 students across 4 public schools, including Munising High School. The high school graduation rate stands at approximately 90%. Roughly 18% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below Michigan's state average. Schools report average test scores near the state median. Educational programs include career tech and dual-enrollment opportunities. School safety measures are in place, with minimal incidents reported annually. Limited adult education options exist through regional partnerships aimed at GED completion and workforce skills.

As of 2022, Alger County, MI, had an employment rate of about 53% (labor force participation). Leading industries included health care and social assistance (19.2%), accommodation and food services (14.9%), and retail trade (11.4%). Major occupation categories were service (22.4%), management/business/science/arts (31.6%), and sales/office (19.7%). Most employed residents (83.2%) worked within the county, with an average commuter travel time of 17.5 minutes. The unemployment rate hovered around 5.6%.

Alger County, MI, features a homeownership rate of about 82%, with a median home value of $142,100 and median gross rent around $720 (US Census, 2022). Housing stock is primarily single-family homes and seasonal cabins, especially near Munising and Grand Marais. Property values have increased about 6% in recent years, driven by demand for vacation properties and access to Pictured Rocks. Neighborhoods vary from rural to lakeside communities. Property tax rates average 1.38%, lower than the state average, making the area attractive to buyers seeking affordable, scenic living in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Alger County, MI, generally experiences lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 97 crimes, including 18 violent crimes (such as 2 robberies and 1 homicide) and 79 property crimes. The overall crime rate is about 15.1 per 1,000 residents, with the majority of incidents involving theft or burglary. Law enforcement presence is robust, and crime reporting is managed by the Alger County Sheriff's Office. Residents regard the area as relatively safe, with crime rates declining over the past five years.

Alger County, MI, has approximately 6,600 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 54% voted Republican and 45% Democratic. Polling locations include municipal halls in Munising, Chatham, and Grand Marais. Issues often focus on tourism, natural resources, and local taxes. Elections are overseen by the Alger County Clerk, complying with Michigan’s laws. The area historically leans Republican, but both major parties maintain active organizations. Early voting and absentee ballots have increased, with over 1,500 absentee ballots cast in 2022.