Schoolcraft County Public RecordsMichigan

As of the 2020 Census, Schoolcraft County, MI had a population of 8,047. The median age was 49.6 years, reflecting an older demographic. About 50.3% identified as male and 49.7% as female. Racially, 84.7% were White, 7.6% Native American, 0.3% Black or African American, and 1% Asian, with 6.3% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals comprised 1.6% of the population.

Schoolcraft County, MI, had approximately 5,800 registered voters as of 2022. Elections include local, state, and federal races, with recent general election turnout near 60%. Presidential and gubernatorial elections typically favor Republican candidates; in 2020, Donald Trump received 63% of the county’s vote. Polling locations are spread across six townships and one city. The County Clerk oversees election administration. Key issues often include natural resource management and economic development. The dominant parties are Republican and Democratic, though third-party candidates occasionally appear on ballots.

Schoolcraft County, MI, has 5 public schools, including Manistique High School, serving approximately 1,100 students. The high school graduation rate is around 85%, while about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety measures meet state standards, and the student-to-teacher ratio averages 15:1. The district offers career and technical education programs, but statewide standardized test scores are slightly below Michigan averages. Adult education options are limited, with some GED preparation programs available locally.

As of 2022, Schoolcraft County, MI, had an employment rate of about 53%, with approximately 3,000 employed residents. Major industries include health care and social assistance (18%), manufacturing (15%), and retail trade (13%). The most common occupations are office and administrative support (13%), production (11%), and sales (9%). Around 75% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 20 minutes. Most employment is local, but over 18% work outside the county, primarily commuting to Delta and Alger counties.

Schoolcraft County, MI, has a homeownership rate of approximately 81%, with a median home value around $125,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is about $750 monthly. The housing market remains stable, with modest annual appreciation under 5%. Most homes are single-family dwellings, though seasonal cabins are common. Neighborhoods like Manistique offer proximity to Lake Michigan. Property tax rates average 1.42% of home value, relatively low compared to the national average. The county’s affordable housing and scenic settings draw retirees and outdoor enthusiasts.

Schoolcraft County, MI, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, there were approximately 110 reported crimes, with 16.3 offenses per 1,000 residents. Violent crime is rare, with only 10 cases (1.5 per 1,000), while property crimes make up the majority, around 100 incidents. The Schoolcraft County Sheriff’s Office actively encourages timely crime reporting and community involvement, contributing to effective law enforcement and safer neighborhoods.