Oscoda County Public RecordsMichigan

Oscoda County, MI, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 120 total crimes, translating to a rate of about 13.5 per 1,000 residents. Violent crime—such as assault or robbery—accounted for fewer than 15 cases, while property crimes (burglary, theft) comprised the majority. With proactive law enforcement and community engagement, Oscoda County remains among Michigan's safer rural areas. Crime reports are regularly published by the Michigan State Police and local sheriff’s office, ensuring transparency and accessibility for residents.

Oscoda County, MI, has approximately 4,000 registered voters as of 2024. Elections include federal, state, and local offices, as well as ballot initiatives. In the 2020 presidential election, 68% voted Republican and 31% Democrat. The county utilizes five polling locations, overseen by the County Clerk’s office. Key issues include rural infrastructure and jobs. Two main parties—Republican and Democrat—are active, with Republicans holding most local offices. Absentee and early voting are available.

As of the 2020 Census, Oscoda County, MI, had a population of 8,219. The median age was approximately 54 years, reflecting its older demographic. About 51% of residents were male and 49% female. The county is predominantly White (95.6%), with small populations of Native American (1.1%), Black or African American (0.4%), Asian (0.3%), and Hispanic or Latino (1.7%) residents.

Oscoda County, MI has 6 public schools, including Fairview and Mio-AuSable high schools. The county’s high school graduation rate is approximately 86%, but only around 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety ratings are average, and the schools participate in statewide assessment programs, scoring below the Michigan average, with proficiency rates near 40% in reading and 25% in math. Adult education and vocational programs are limited, and educational resources per student are about $10,000 yearly. Overall, educational opportunities are growing but remain limited compared to state averages.

As of 2022, Oscoda County, MI, had an employment rate of about 47%, with 3,012 people in the labor force. The largest industries are health care and social assistance (18%), retail trade (16%), and manufacturing (11%). The most common occupations are office & administrative support (15%) and sales (13%). About 78% of workers commute by car; 57% work outside the county, mainly traveling to neighboring Alcona and Montmorency counties. The median commute time is 27 minutes.

Oscoda County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 85%, with median home values around $110,000 in 2023, up 6% year-over-year. Rental options are limited, with median rents near $750 monthly. Housing is dominated by single-family detached homes; popular neighborhoods include Mio and Fairview. The market is mostly rural, with modest new construction. Property taxes average 1.3% of assessed value—roughly $1,430 annually on a median-priced home. Most homes are older builds, though some seasonal and vacation properties are present, catering to residents and visitors alike.