Alpena County Public RecordsMichigan

Alpena County, MI, has approximately 19 public schools serving K-12, including Alpena High School. About 88% of adults have a high school diploma, while 17% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average student proficiency scores in reading and math are around 45% and 39%, respectively. The Alpena Public Schools offer Advanced Placement courses, career and technical education, and special education programs. School safety initiatives include liaison officers and secure entry systems. Adult education opportunities are provided through Alpena Community College, supporting GED and skills development programs for local residents.

As of 2022, Alpena County, MI had an employment rate of approximately 54.2%. The largest industries are Health Care & Social Assistance (21.5%), Manufacturing (15.7%), and Retail Trade (14.1%). Most common occupations include Production (13.6%), Sales & Retail (12.3%), and Office/Admin (11.9%). Around 82% of residents commute alone by car, with a mean travel time of 17.5 minutes. While most work within the county, about 12% commute to neighboring counties, particularly Montmorency and Presque Isle.

Alpena County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 79%, with median home values around $130,000 in 2024. Median rent is approximately $800 per month. The housing market has seen gradual appreciation, with values up about 6% year-over-year. Most homes are single-family, with some multi-family and seasonal cottages, especially near Long Lake and Thunder Bay. Notable neighborhoods include Downtown Alpena and the lakeside areas. Property tax rates average 1.6%, amounting to about $2,080 annually for median-value homes. The area offers affordable living compared to Michigan state averages.

Alpena County, MI, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported a violent crime rate of 186 per 100,000 residents in 2022, which is below Michigan's average of 478. Property crime was higher, at roughly 1,400 per 100,000, but it remains under state and national rates. Law enforcement agencies encourage prompt crime reporting, resulting in a case closure rate of over 55%. Overall, Alpena County is considered safer than many urban Michigan areas, with ongoing efforts to further improve community safety.

As of 2020, Alpena County, MI, had a population of approximately 28,900. The median age is 47.6 years, with 22% aged 65 or older. Females make up about 51% of the population. Racially, the county is predominantly White (95.6%), with small representations of Native American (1.1%), African American (0.5%), Asian (0.3%), and Hispanic or Latino residents (1.6%).

Alpena County, MI had 22,356 registered voters in the 2020 general election. The county conducts elections for local offices, state, and federal positions, as well as ballot issues. In 2020, 59% voted for the Republican presidential candidate; 39% for the Democrat. There are 18 polling locations across 16 townships and the City of Alpena. Issues on recent ballots included school funding and township millages. Election administration is managed by the County Clerk’s office. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active, with voter turnout reaching approximately 68% in major elections.