Mason County Public RecordsMichigan

Mason County, MI, consistently reports lower crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the property crime rate was 12.7 incidents per 1,000 residents, and the violent crime rate stood at 2.1 per 1,000, according to FBI data. The Mason County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes community policing and transparency, offering online crime reporting and public crime maps. Overall, residents experience a relatively high perception of safety, with most crimes being non-violent, such as theft and minor property offenses. Emergency response times typically average under 10 minutes in most areas of the county.

Mason County, MI hosts around 13 public schools, including Mason County Central and Eastern High Schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 87%, while 16% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Students score an average of 54% in reading and 42% in math proficiency tests. School safety measures include resource officers and security protocols. Adult education is available through the West Shore Educational Service District, offering GED and vocational programs. The county emphasizes STEM, arts, and career-technical education, fostering diverse learning opportunities for students.

As of 2023, Mason County, MI, has an employment rate of approximately 59%. Major employing industries include manufacturing (21%), healthcare and social assistance (17%), and retail trade (12%). The primary occupation types are production (18%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (10%). About 81% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 20 minutes. While most are employed within the county, around 27% commute to neighboring areas, including Manistee and Oceana Counties. (Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity)

Mason County, MI has a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, with median home values around $172,000 as of 2023. Rental rates average $850 per month. The market has seen a 6% annual increase in property values. Housing types include single-family homes, waterfront properties near Hamlin Lake and Ludington, and some multi-family units. Popular neighborhoods include Ludington and Scottville. Property taxes average 1.35% of assessed home value.

Mason County, MI, has approximately 22,000 registered voters as of 2024. Residents participate in federal, state, county, and local elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential election, about 63% voted Republican and 35% Democrat. Polling locations include 20 precincts across communities such as Ludington and Scottville. The county clerk administers elections, with issues like school funding and county millages frequently on ballots. The primary political parties are Republican and Democratic, and voter turnout typically ranges between 55-70% during major elections.

As of the 2020 Census, Mason County, MI, had a population of 29,052. The median age was 47.4 years, with 20% under 18 and 23% aged 65 or older. The gender split was approximately 49.5% male and 50.5% female. Racially, the county was 92.4% White, 2% Black or African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and 2.6% identifying as two or more races; 3.8% of residents were Hispanic or Latino of any race.