Osceola County Public RecordsMichigan

Osceola County, MI, experiences lower crime rates compared to state averages. According to recent data, the violent crime rate stands at 2.4 per 1,000 residents, while the property crime rate is 8.9 per 1,000. The county reported 56 violent crimes and 203 property crimes in the last recorded year. Efforts by local law enforcement and community programs have contributed to a safer environment. Regular reporting and transparency by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office help keep residents informed and proactive about public safety concerns.

Osceola County, MI, hosts around 14 public schools, including two main high schools—Evart and Reed City—serving nearly 3,000 students. High school graduation rates average 86%, while only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores typically align with state averages, and graduation rates indicate steady performance. The county offers career-tech programs and limited adult education options, including GED classes. State test scores for math and reading hover slightly below Michigan’s average, reflecting ongoing challenges, but several schools provide specialized educational programs to address diverse student needs.

As of 2022, Osceola County, MI, had an employment rate of approximately 56.2%. The largest industries are manufacturing (20.2%), health care and social assistance (14.6%), and retail trade (12.3%). Leading occupations include production (16%), office/administrative support (13%), and sales (10%). Around 76% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 24 minutes; 51% work within the county, while many commute to neighboring counties such as Mecosta and Wexford.

Osceola County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 79%, with median home values around $140,000 and median gross rent near $820. The housing market has seen property values rise by roughly 8% over the past year. Single-family homes dominate, especially in neighborhoods like Reed City and Evart. Apartments and mobile homes are also available. The property tax rate averages 1.34%, translating to approximately $1,875 annually for a median-priced home. Neighborhoods remain largely rural and quiet, appealing to families and retirees alike.

As of 2022, Osceola County, MI has a population of approximately 23,200. The median age is around 41 years. About 49.8% of residents are male and 50.2% female. Racially, the population is 94% White, 1% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.5% Asian, and approximately 3% Hispanic or Latino of any race. The county's small, predominantly rural community is generally less diverse than the state average.

Osceola County, MI, had around 16,200 registered voters for the 2020 general election. Elections include local, state, and federal races, with recent presidential turnout near 66%. The county typically leans Republican; in 2020, Donald Trump received approximately 69% of the vote. Osceola has 20 polling locations overseen by the County Clerk’s office. Key issues include local school millages and infrastructure. Administration complies with Michigan’s election laws, and two main parties, Republican and Democrat, dominate. Voter registration and polling details are available through the Clerk’s website or the Michigan Voter Information Center.