County Crime & Safety

Genesee County, MI, reported a crime rate of 3,206 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2023, higher than the national average of 2,350. Violent crimes, including homicide (7.2 per 100,000) and aggravated assault (453 per 100,000), remain concerns, particularly in Flint. Property crime rates, such as burglary and theft, reached 1,841 and 2,104 per 100,000, respectively. Law enforcement agencies actively report data to the Michigan Incident Crime Reporting System, focusing on increasing community safety through outreach and recent decreases in year-over-year burglary rates of 5%.

Demographics

As of 2023, Genesee County, MI, has a population of approximately 400,000. The age distribution shows a median age of 40 years, with 22% under 18 and 17% aged 65 or older. Gender is nearly balanced at 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the county is 69% White, 20% Black or African American, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, and 6% multiracial or other.

Education, Employment and Housing

Genesee County, MI, features over 70 public schools (K–12), with a high school graduation rate of approximately 84%. Around 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Notable districts include Flint Community Schools and Grand Blanc Community Schools, with average standardized test scores below the state average. Adult education is offered via Mott Community College and various career centers. Schools implement security protocols and restorative practices to enhance safety. Educational programs include Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and career technical education across multiple high schools.

As of 2023, Genesee County, MI, has an employment rate of approximately 55.9%. The largest employment sectors are health care and social assistance (20%), manufacturing (15%), and retail trade (11%). Management, business, science, and arts occupations comprise 31.5% of the workforce. About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 24.3 minutes. While 68% of residents work within the county, 32% commute elsewhere, mainly to Oakland and Wayne counties for employment opportunities.

Genesee County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with median home values around $142,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is approximately $900 per month. Property values have risen roughly 8% year-over-year. Housing options include single-family homes, townhouses, and some apartments, concentrated in neighborhoods like Grand Blanc, Flint, and Burton. Property tax rates average 2.4%, higher than the national average. Flint offers more affordable housing, while Grand Blanc features higher-value homes and suburban amenities, making the county attractive for varied budgets and lifestyles.

Elections

Genesee County, MI, has over 270,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts primary, general, and special elections, with the 2020 presidential race showing 53% voting Democratic and 46% Republican. There are more than 80 polling locations, including schools and community centers. Issues like water quality and education funding frequently appear on ballots. The Genesee County Clerk’s office administers elections, ensuring compliance with Michigan election laws. Dominant parties are Democratic and Republican, with occasional third-party candidates. Voter turnout typically ranges from 55% to 70% in general elections.