Berrien County Public RecordsMichigan

Berrien County, MI, reported a total crime rate of 2,750 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2022, slightly above the Michigan average. Violent crime, including assaults and robberies, accounted for 420 per 100,000, while property crimes such as burglary and theft stood at 2,330 per 100,000. The local sheriff’s office routinely updates crime statistics and encourages community reporting through online and phone systems. Overall, Berrien County’s safety ratings show moderate risk, with law enforcement focusing on proactive patrols and community policing to reduce crime rates.

Berrien County, MI, has 29 public high schools and several private schools, with a high school graduation rate of around 89%. About 27% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county has two community colleges, including Lake Michigan College, offering adult education and workforce programs. School safety measures comply with state standards, and many schools participate in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Average standardized test scores rank close to the Michigan state average. Innovative programs in STEM and career tech education are available, preparing students for both college and careers.

As of 2023, Berrien County, MI, has an employment rate of approximately 59.8%. Major industries include manufacturing (20.6%), health care and social assistance (15.2%), and retail trade (11.7%). The predominant occupation types are production (13.1%), office and administrative support (11.5%), and management (10.5%). About 84.6% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 22.3 minutes. Top employment locations include Benton Harbor, Niles, and St. Joseph, with around 40% of residents working outside their home municipality.

Berrien County, MI, has a homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with median home values around $190,000 in 2024. The median gross rent is about $970 per month. Housing types range from historic single-family homes to lakeside condos, with popular neighborhoods including St. Joseph, Niles, and Benton Harbor. Recent market trends show modest annual price increases of 4–5%. Property taxes average 1.7% of assessed value, varying by township. The area features both rural and suburban communities, attracting buyers seeking affordability and access to Lake Michigan.

Berrien County, MI, had approximately 121,000 registered voters in 2022. The county administers major elections, including primaries, general, local, and special elections, overseen by the County Clerk’s office. In the 2020 presidential election, about 68% of registered voters cast ballots, with 50.1% voting Republican and 48% Democrat. Berrien County features over 70 polling locations. Recent ballot issues included millage renewals and school bonds. Local election administration is nonpartisan, but both major parties, Republican and Democratic, are active. Voter registration is available online, by mail, and in-person at several county offices.

As of 2023, Berrien County, MI has a population of approximately 153,000. The median age is around 43 years. About 50.9% are female and 49.1% male. Racially, the county is 75% White, 15% Black or African American, 6% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, and 2% other races or multiracial. This demographic mix contributes to the county's diverse cultural landscape.