Demographics

As of 2023, Monroe County, MI has a population of approximately 155,000. The median age is 41.2 years, with 49.4% male and 50.6% female residents. The racial composition is 90% White, 4.5% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, and 3% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up about 6% of the population.

Elections

Monroe County, MI had about 111,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, including primaries, generals, and special issues like millages. In the 2020 presidential election, Monroe County results were 56% Republican, 42% Democratic. There are 61 polling locations across 24 municipalities. Election administration is overseen by the Monroe County Clerk. The main parties are Republican and Democratic. Recent ballot issues included school funding and marijuana ordinances. Voter turnout in 2020 was approximately 70%. Voter registration and precinct information are available on the county’s official elections website.

Education, Employment and Housing

Monroe County, MI serves over 18,000 K-12 students across 29 public schools, including 12 high schools. High school graduation rate stands at 89%, while 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores hover near state averages. The county offers career and technical education, adult GED programs, and special education resources. School safety initiatives include resource officers and emergency drills. Notably, Monroe County ranks above average for student safety, with fewer discipline incidents per 1,000 students than the Michigan average.

Monroe County, MI, had an employment rate of approximately 60% in 2022. Leading industries include manufacturing (23%), healthcare and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (10%). The workforce is primarily composed of production (16%), office and administrative support (13%), and sales roles (9%). Around 87% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 26 minutes; about 37% work outside the county. Major employment hubs include Monroe city and nearby Toledo, Ohio. Unemployment hovered near 4.0% as of late 2023.

Monroe County, MI, has a 77% homeownership rate, with median home values around $207,000 in 2023, reflecting a 5% annual increase. Median rent is approximately $1,050 per month. Popular housing types include single-family homes and some townhouses, with prominent neighborhoods like Frenchtown, Bedford, and Monroe city. Property taxes average 1.6% of home value, resulting in about $3,300 annually for a median-priced home. The housing market remains competitive but affordable relative to nearby metro areas.

County Crime & Safety

Monroe County, MI, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with 2022 FBI data showing a violent crime rate of 187 per 100,000 residents and property crime rate at 1,098 per 100,000. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office actively reports and investigates incidents, resulting in high case closure rates. In 2023, reported thefts dropped by 8%, while burglaries decreased by 6%. However, drug-related offenses remain a concern. Overall, Monroe County maintains a relatively safe environment, supported by proactive law enforcement and community involvement.