Demographics
As of the 2020 Census, Presque Isle County, MI had a population of approximately 12,982 residents. The median age was 54.6 years, reflecting a predominantly older population. About 49.6% were male and 50.4% female. Racially, the county was 96.7% White, 1.0% Native American, 0.3% Black or African American, 0.2% Asian, and 1.8% Hispanic or Latino of any race, indicating limited ethnic diversity.
Elections
Presque Isle County, MI, had around 11,800 residents and 9,323 registered voters in the 2020 general election. The county administers elections for federal, state, and local offices, with 16 polling locations. In the 2020 presidential election, 71.3% voted for the Republican candidate, while 27.2% supported the Democrat. The County Clerk oversees election administration. Major issues include economic development and infrastructure. Voters choose between candidates from parties such as Republican and Democratic. Polling places include schools and township halls across communities like Rogers City and Onaway.
County Crime & Safety
Presque Isle County, MI, has a low crime rate compared to the state average. In 2022, the county reported approximately 72 total crimes, translating to a crime rate of about 8.2 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes were rare, with just 6 reported incidents (0.7 per 1,000), while property crimes accounted for the remaining 66 cases. The Presque Isle County Sheriff’s Office encourages prompt reporting and community engagement to maintain safety. Overall, the county remains one of the safer regions in Michigan.
Education, Employment and Housing
Presque Isle County, MI, has 10 public schools, including 2 high schools and no dedicated colleges. About 88% of adults have a high school diploma, while 15% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average standardized test scores are slightly below the Michigan state average. School safety ratings are above average, with few incidents reported annually. Adult education opportunities are limited but offered through local districts. Programs include career tech and dual-enrollment with nearby community colleges, supporting student advancement.
As of 2022, Presque Isle County, MI, has an employment rate of 49.5%, with about 5,200 people in the labor force. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (19%), Manufacturing (17%), and Retail Trade (15%). Common occupations are Sales & Office (25%), Production (19%), and Management (15%). Over 83% of residents drive alone to work, with an average commute time of 25.8 minutes. Most commute within the county, but approximately 18% work in nearby counties such as Alpena and Cheboygan.
Presque Isle County, MI, has a homeownership rate of about 86%, with median home values around $140,000 as of 2023. Rental units are limited, comprising roughly 14% of housing, with median rents near $715/month. Housing stock mainly consists of single-family homes and cottages, especially in communities like Rogers City and Onaway. Property values have seen modest growth, with a 3-5% annual increase recently. Property taxes average 1.3% of assessed value. Neighborhoods are typically quiet, rural, or lakeside, attracting retirees and seasonal residents.
Popular names
- David Brege
- Heather Peters
- James French
- Kayla Allen
- Kelsey Merchant
- Lori Wirgau
- Marvin Gotts
- Angela Krajniak
- Bradley Wirgau
- Bruce Lecureux
- Cory Sweeso
- David Cowper
- David Crull
- David Kortman
- Derek Wirgau
- Donna Paull
- Doris Bidwell
- Doris Harrington
- Duane Wirgau
- James Fenstermaker
- John Gorham
- Joseph Kowalski
- Judith Faircloth
- Julie Smolinski
- Kaylee Travis
- Lacey Smolinski
- Louis Chaskey
- Luis Castaneda
- Marcia Martin
- Matthew Schalk
- Pamela Hyde
- Patrick Kowalski
- Sandra Wilson
- Sarah West
- Scott Grulke
- Steven Grulke
- Terry Basel
- Thomas Bruning
- Tina Morell
- Yvonne Buchler
- Adam Lovell
- Adam Plath
- Agnes Schaedig
- Albert Schaudt
- Alena Domke
- Alicia Plant
- Amy Hopp
- Amy Pastuszak
- Anne Haske
- Anthony Parr
- April Peacock
- Ashley Glowinski
- Aubrey Tucker
- Benjamin Eagleson
- Benjamin Tulgestke
- Bettylou Cunningham
- Bobbi Peak
- Bonita Strzelecki
- Brandon Lalonde
- Brian Claus
Other Counties in Michigan
- Alcona
- Alger
- Allegan
- Alpena
- Antrim
- Arenac
- Baraga
- Barry
- Bay
- Benzie
- Berrien
- Branch
- Calhoun
- Cass
- Charlevoix
- Cheboygan
- Chippewa
- Clare
- Clinton
- Crawford
- Delta
- Dickinson
- Eaton
- Emmet
- Genesee
- Gladwin
- Gogebic
- Grand Traverse
- Gratiot
- Hillsdale
- Houghton
- Huron
- Ingham
- Ionia
- Iosco
- Iron
- Isabella
- Jackson
- Kalamazoo
- Kalkaska
- Kent
- Keweenaw
- Lake
- Lapeer
- Leelanau
- Lenawee
- Livingston
- Luce
- Mackinac
- Macomb
- Manistee