Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Crawford County, MI, had a population of 12,988. The median age was 48.4 years, with 21.3% under 18 and 22.5% aged 65 or older. The gender distribution was nearly equal: 50.7% male and 49.3% female. Racially, the county was 95.1% White, 0.7% Black or African American, 1.3% Native American, 0.3% Asian, 0.3% other races, and 2.3% two or more races; 2.4% identified as Hispanic or Latino.

Education, Employment and Housing

Crawford County, MI, is served primarily by Crawford AuSable School District, which includes Grayling High School. According to the U.S. Census (2020), about 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while roughly 17% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county has four public schools. GreatSchools scores average around 5/10. School safety initiatives and adult education programs, such as GED and vocational training, are available through local partnerships. Educational programs focus on STEM, arts, and career prep, supporting over 1,500 K-12 students countywide.

As of 2022, Crawford County, MI had an employment rate of approximately 55.3%. Major industries include health care & social assistance (17.6%), retail trade (15.7%), and accommodation & food services (12.4%). Most workers are employed in office & administrative support (12%), sales (11%), and food preparation (9%). The average commute time is 23.5 minutes, with 83% driving alone; only 14% work outside the county. Key employment hubs are Grayling and nearby counties like Otsego and Roscommon.

Crawford County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with median home values near $135,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is around $800 monthly. The housing market has seen property values rise by approximately 8% over the past year. Most housing comprises single-family homes, with some cabins and manufactured homes, especially near Grayling and Lake Margrethe—two key neighborhoods. Property taxes average 1.5% of a home’s value, making taxes relatively affordable compared to the state average. Rental vacancy rates remain high, offering options for both renters and buyers.

Elections

Crawford County, MI, had 10,592 registered voters in 2022. Elections include local, state, and federal races; voter turnout in the 2020 general election was 67%. Major parties are Republican and Democrat, with the GOP prevailing in recent elections—Trump received 63% to Biden’s 35%. Five main polling locations serve precincts like Grayling and Frederic Township. Key issues include public safety and natural resources. The county clerk administers elections, ensuring accessibility and compliance. Third-party candidates typically earn under 3% of the vote.

County Crime & Safety

Crawford County, MI, reports a relatively low overall crime rate compared to state averages. According to the latest data, the violent crime rate is about 2.7 per 1,000 residents, and property crime stands at around 8.5 per 1,000 residents annually. The county sheriff’s department provides regular updates and encourages community-based reporting. While certain areas see occasional spikes, Crawford County remains safer than 63% of U.S. counties. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to maintain community safety.