County Crime & Safety

Gogebic County, MI, reports a crime rate lower than the national average, with a violent crime rate of 2.1 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 9.4 per 1,000 residents (2023 FBI data). In 2022, the sheriff’s office recorded 35 violent crimes and 157 property crimes. The county emphasizes community policing and encourages reporting through local hotlines. Overall, Gogebic County is considered relatively safe, though residents are advised to remain vigilant, especially regarding property-related offenses.

Elections

Gogebic County, MI, has around 12,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, with about 55% turnout in the 2020 presidential election. In 2020, Republicans received 55% of votes while Democrats garnered 44%. The county operates 13 polling locations. Election issues include mail-in ballot access and voter ID requirements. The Gogebic County Clerk’s Office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state laws. Local party organizations, such as Gogebic County GOP and Democratic Committee, are active participants in voter engagement and candidate support.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Gogebic County, Michigan, had a population of 14,380. The median age was 49.9 years, reflecting an older demographic. Gender distribution was approximately 51% male and 49% female. The racial composition was predominantly White (90.9%), with smaller percentages of Native American (3.6%), Black or African American (2%), and other races. Hispanic or Latino residents comprised about 1.4% of the total population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Gogebic County, MI has 13 public schools, including 2 high schools. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 15% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school test scores are below the Michigan state average, with district scores around 50%. Adult education is offered through local community colleges. School safety incidents are relatively low, with reported incidents per 1,000 students below the state median. Educational programs include vocational training and early college options, supporting diverse student needs.

As of 2022, Gogebic County, MI, had an employment rate of about 51.7%. The leading industries were health care & social assistance (20.3%), retail trade (13.4%), and accommodation & food services (11.7%). Most workers were employed in office & administrative support (13.7%) and sales roles (11.2%). The average commute time was 15.6 minutes, with 82% of residents working within Gogebic County, though some commute to neighboring Ironwood, MI, and Hurley, WI.

Gogebic County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 77%, with a median home value near $99,000 as of 2022. Median monthly rent is around $600. The area features a mix of single-family homes, historic houses, and seasonal cabins, primarily in neighborhoods like Ironwood and Bessemer. Property values have seen moderate growth, increasing by roughly 5-7% annually since 2020. Property tax rates average 1.6%, typically $1,600 yearly for a median-priced home. Rental vacancies are higher than the national average, reflecting the county’s rural, affordable housing market.