County Crime & Safety

Allegan County, MI, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the total crime rate was approximately 1,675 incidents per 100,000 residents, with violent crime at 195 and property crime at 1,480 per 100,000. Crime statistics are primarily reported and tracked by the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office. While overall crime has slightly decreased in recent years, property crimes (like burglary and theft) remain the most common. The county actively encourages crime reporting and community safety initiatives to enhance public security and awareness.

Education, Employment and Housing

Allegan County, MI, has 12 public high schools and several private options, serving over 6,000 high school students. About 28% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Public schools scored an average of 6/10 on GreatSchools ratings. The county offers adult education programs through Allegan Area ESA. School safety initiatives include resource officers and mental health support. Educational programs feature advanced placement (AP), vocational training, and special education services. Graduation rates average around 85%, reflecting strong support for student achievement and pathways for continued learning.

As of 2023, Allegan County, MI, has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.5%. Key employment industries include manufacturing (23%), healthcare and social assistance (15%), and retail trade (11%). Occupations are mainly production (18%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (10%). About 85% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. Over 60% of employed residents work within Allegan County, while others commute to Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo for employment.

Allegan County, MI, has a homeownership rate of approximately 83%, with median home values around $240,000 in 2024, up 6% from last year. The median monthly rent is about $1,100. Popular housing types include single-family homes and lakefront cottages, with neighborhoods like Allegan and Saugatuck offering diverse options. Property taxes average 1.4% of assessed value. The housing market is moderately competitive, with most homes selling within 25 days.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Allegan County, MI, had a population of 120,502. Approximately 49.6% were male and 50.4% female. The median age was 41.2 years. Racially, the county was 89% White, 2% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.9% Asian, and 4.8% Hispanic or Latino. About 2.8% identified as two or more races.

Elections

Allegan County, MI, had approximately 87,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential election, turnout was 73%, with Republicans typically securing 60% of county votes. There are over 30 polling locations across 28 townships and cities. Key local issues include road funding and school millages. The County Clerk’s office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state laws. Allegan County leans Republican, but Democrats maintain active party organizations, reflecting a competitive political landscape.