Baraga County Public RecordsMichigan

As of the 2020 Census, Baraga County, MI, had a population of 8,158. The median age was about 44 years. Women comprised 49.5% and men 50.5% of residents. The racial composition was 74.2% White, 13.1% American Indian and Alaska Native, 7.4% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, and 3.8% of two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals made up 1.7% of the population.

Baraga County, MI, had approximately 6,400 registered voters in 2020. The county holds federal, state, and local elections, including primaries and general elections; in the 2020 presidential election, about 62% voted Republican and 36% Democrat. Polling locations include the county courthouse and township halls. Main issues have included natural resources and economic development. Elections are managed by the county clerk in coordination with local officials. The main parties are Republican and Democrat, with the GOP typically holding a majority. Voter turnout in the 2020 general election was roughly 65%.

Baraga County, MI, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 96 incidents per 100,000 residents, significantly below the Michigan state average of 478. Property crimes are also low, with about 405 incidents per 100,000 people. The most common offenses include theft and minor assaults. The Baraga County Sheriff’s Office actively encourages community crime reporting and engagement, contributing to swift response times and effective resolution. Overall, Baraga County is considered a safe area with strong law enforcement presence and community support.

Baraga County, MI, has about 6 public schools, including 1 high school, serving around 1,100 students. Approximately 85% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 13% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are moderate, with no major incidents reported recently. The county offers adult education and vocational programs, and student proficiency scores in math and reading are slightly below the Michigan state average. Educational programming is supplemented by partnerships with local organizations, though opportunities for advanced coursework are limited due to the county's small size and rural setting.

As of 2023, Baraga County, MI, had an unemployment rate of approximately 6%, higher than Michigan’s average. Key employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance (19%), manufacturing (13%), and public administration (12%). The most common occupations are production (21%) and office/administrative support (13%). About 77% of residents drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 20 minutes. Nearly 74% of employed residents work within the county, while others commute to nearby Houghton or Marquette counties.

Baraga County, MI, boasts a homeownership rate of approximately 83%, considerably higher than the national average, with median home values around $115,000 as of 2023. Rental units are limited, with median rents near $650 monthly. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with some multi-family properties. Popular neighborhoods include L’Anse and Baraga village. Property values have seen modest growth, increasing about 6% year-over-year. Property taxes average 1.5% of assessed value. The area remains attractive for affordable rural living, though housing inventory is often tight.