Isabella County Public RecordsMichigan

Isabella County, MI, serves over 6,800 K-12 students in public schools, featuring 2 main high schools. The high school graduation rate is about 85%, while 26% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools in the county average a 6/10 rating on GreatSchools. Central Michigan University, located in Mount Pleasant, offers advanced degree programs, supporting adult education. The area prioritizes school safety and provides various educational programs, including STEM and career tech initiatives.

As of 2022, Isabella County, MI, had an employment rate of approximately 57.7%, with the largest industries being educational services (21.8%), health care (16.1%), and retail trade (10.6%). The most common occupation types were office/administrative support (13.4%), sales (10.3%), and food preparation/serving (9.4%). The average commute time was about 18.8 minutes, with 78% of workers driving alone. Many residents work locally, especially in Mount Pleasant, while some commute to Midland or Gratiot counties for employment opportunities.

Isabella County, MI features a homeownership rate of approximately 55%, with median home values near $165,000 in 2023—a rise of over 5% year-over-year. The median rent is around $865 monthly. Housing stock ranges from single-family homes to student rentals, with a concentration of apartments near Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant. Family-friendly neighborhoods include Union Township and Deerfield. The county’s property tax rate averages 1.5% of assessed value, making it relatively affordable compared to state averages. The market shows moderate appreciation and steady demand, driven by university and local employment.

Isabella County, MI reported a crime rate of approximately 1,875 offenses per 100,000 residents in 2022. The area saw 387 violent crimes and 1,420 property crimes, according to Michigan State Police data. While the violent crime rate is slightly below the state average, property crime remains a concern, with theft and burglary being most frequent. Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting and provides regular public safety updates, contributing to a gradual, year-over-year decline in total reported incidents.

As of the 2020 Census, Isabella County, MI, had a population of 64,394. The median age is 25.3 years, influenced by the student population at Central Michigan University. Females slightly outnumber males (51% to 49%). Racially, the county is 85% White, 4.7% Black or African American, 2.3% Native American, 2.1% Asian, and 4.7% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Isabella County, MI had approximately 47,000 registered voters in 2022. Elections include federal, state, local, and school board races. In the 2020 presidential election, 51% voted Democratic and 47% Republican. There are over 25 polling locations across 23 precincts. Issues often include funding for schools and local infrastructure. The county clerk's office administers elections, ensuring compliance with state laws. Major parties—Democratic and Republican—are active, with occasional third-party candidates. Voter turnout averages 60% in general elections.