Arenac County Public RecordsMichigan

Arenac County, MI, reports a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the county saw a total crime rate of 1,125 incidents per 100,000 residents, with property crime accounting for 874 and violent crime for 251 per 100,000. Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting, leading to a high clearance rate, with over 60% of violent crimes solved. The county’s ongoing safety initiatives and strong community-police engagement contribute to its stable and secure environment.

As of 2023, Arenac County, MI, has an estimated population of 14,000. Approximately 51% are female and 49% male. The median age is about 48 years, reflecting an older demographic. Racially, the county is 94% White, 1.4% Native American, 0.5% African American, and 2.5% identifying as two or more races; 1.5% are Hispanic or Latino. The population has seen a slow decline in recent years.

Arenac County, MI, had 12,430 registered voters in 2022. Elections held include federal, state, county, local, and school board races. In the 2020 presidential election, 63% voted Republican and 35% Democrat. The county has 17 polling locations across 14 townships and 3 cities. Key issues include infrastructure, water quality, and education funding. Elections are administered by the County Clerk’s office, ensuring compliance with state law. Major political parties are Republican and Democratic. In-person, absentee, and early voting options are available to boost civic participation.

Arenac County, MI, is served by several public schools, including Arenac Eastern and Standish-Sterling Community Schools, with about 6 public schools in total. The county’s high school graduation rate is approximately 85%, while only about 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. GreatSchools ratings for local schools average around 5/10. Educational programs include vocational training and dual-enrollment options. School safety incidents are low, with few reported cases annually, and adult education programs are available through local community resources. Overall, the county faces educational challenges but provides diverse learning opportunities.

As of 2022, Arenac County, MI had an employment rate of approximately 51.9%. Major employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance (18%), Retail Trade (15%), and Manufacturing (13%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13%) and Sales-related roles (11%). Around 89% of workers commute by car, with 32% working outside the county, primarily traveling to Bay and Saginaw counties. The average commute time is 27.5 minutes.

Arenac County, Michigan, has a homeownership rate of about 83%, with a median home value near $130,000 in 2023, reflecting moderate appreciation in recent years. Median gross rent is approximately $770 monthly. The housing stock is largely single-family homes, with some seasonal/vacation properties, especially near Lake Huron. Key neighborhoods include Standish and Au Gres. Property tax rates average 1.45%, yielding annual taxes of roughly $1,885 on a median-value home. The market remains affordable compared to state and national averages, attracting retirees and families seeking rural or lakeside living.