countyscore
62.1
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 82.3Schools 72.5

County Report Card

About Alcona County, Michigan

Well Above the National Median

Alcona County earns a composite score of 62.1, placing it significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high quality of life when compared to the average American county.

Outperforming the Michigan Average

The county's overall score of 62.1 comfortably exceeds the Michigan state average of 47.1. This strong performance marks it as one of the state's more desirable locations for livability.

Low Risk and Quality Schools

The county excels in stability, boasting a high Risk Score of 82.3 and an impressive Water Score of 86.0. Additionally, the School Score of 72.5 suggests a strong environment for local education.

Limited Income Potential

With an Income Score of 21.8, the county struggles to match national wage levels, as the median household income sits at $53,568. Residents also navigate a moderate tax burden, indicated by a Tax Score of 49.8.

A Haven for Retirees

This county is ideal for retirees or remote workers who prioritize safety and low environmental risk over high local wages. With a median gross rent of just $790, it offers an affordable lifestyle for those with established incomes.

Score breakdown

Tax49.8Cost68.5Safety63.9Health58.4Schools72.5Income21.8Risk82.3Water86Weather50.4
🏛49.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠68.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼21.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡63.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤58.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓72.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡82.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨50.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.8
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Alpena County
Michigan
52.2
Iosco County
Michigan
50.3
Oscoda County
Michigan
54.3
Ogemaw County
Michigan
41.7
Montmorency County
Michigan
52.5
Arenac County
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Presque Isle County
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Crawford County
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Deep Dives

Alcona County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Alcona County

via TaxByCounty

Alcona's taxes rank low nationally

At 0.839%, Alcona's effective tax rate falls well below the national median of 1.1%, placing the county in the bottom 25% nationally for property tax burden. This means homeowners here pay significantly less than typical Americans—a substantial advantage in the current economic climate.

Among Michigan's most affordable counties

Alcona ranks among Michigan's lowest-tax counties, with an effective rate of 0.839% compared to the state average of 1.166%. The county's median tax of $1,322 sits $780 below Michigan's state average of $2,102.

Cheaper than most regional peers

Alcona's 0.839% rate beats nearby Alpena County (1.129%) and Arenac County (1.299%), making it one of northeastern Michigan's most tax-friendly options. Only Antrim County (0.914%) comes close in the region.

What your $157,500 home costs

The typical Alcona homeowner with a $157,500 property pays around $1,322 annually in property taxes. Over a 30-year mortgage, that's roughly $39,660—a modest burden compared to higher-tax regions.

Even low taxes warrant assessment review

Many Michigan homeowners, regardless of their county's tax rate, are overassessed relative to current market values. If your home's assessed value seems high compared to recent sales of similar properties, filing an appeal with your assessor costs nothing and could lower your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Alcona County

via CostByCounty

Alcona rents strain on modest incomes

Alcona County renters spend 17.7% of their income on rent, exceeding the national comfort threshold of 30% by a comfortable margin but running above the national median household income of $74,755 compared to Alcona's $53,568. While the rent burden seems manageable, local incomes lag significantly behind national averages, making housing costs feel heavier in practice.

Slightly above Michigan's affordability curve

At 17.7%, Alcona's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Michigan's state average of 16.3%, placing it in the middle tier of county affordability across the state. Median rent of $790 sits below the state median of $873, but lower local incomes push the ratio slightly higher.

Comparable to rural northern Michigan peers

Alcona's $790 monthly rent closely mirrors Alger County ($712) and Alpena County ($660), though Alcona households earn slightly less than Alger ($59,406). Among this cluster of northern counties, Alcona represents a middle ground for both costs and income.

Renting and owning both claim similar shares

Renters in Alcona pay $790 monthly while homeowners spend $686 on mortgage and insurance, with a median home value of $157,500. Combined, housing consumes roughly 18–20% of the median household income of $53,568, leaving modest room for other expenses.

Quiet northern living with steady housing costs

Alcona offers rural Michigan living at moderate prices—rents and homes remain affordable compared to state averages, though incomes are lower. If you work remotely or seek small-town stability, Alcona's stable rental market and sub-$200k home values reward careful budgeting.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Alcona County

via IncomeByCounty

Alcona lags behind national income

Alcona County's median household income of $53,568 sits $21,187 below the U.S. median of $74,755—a gap of 28%. This places the county in the lower income tier nationally, though it remains a stable community with roots in resource-based industries.

Below Michigan's county average

At $53,568, Alcona's median household income falls $10,736 short of Michigan's county average of $64,304. This positions Alcona in the lower-middle range among the state's 83 counties, reflecting economic challenges common to rural northern Michigan.

Comparable to nearby rural counties

Alcona's $53,568 median income aligns closely with Alpena County ($51,909) and Arenac County ($56,989), its neighboring rural communities. All three counties face similar employment and economic dynamics in Michigan's northeast corner.

Housing costs remain manageable here

Alcona's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% means housing absorbs less than one-fifth of median household earnings, well within the 30% affordability threshold. With a median home value of $157,500, homeownership remains accessible for local wage earners.

Build savings despite modest income

Even with a median income below state averages, Alcona residents benefit from affordable housing that frees up dollars for savings and investment. Setting up automatic transfers to retirement accounts and exploring employer matches can help households build long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Alcona County

via CrimeByCounty

Alcona County Far Surpasses National Safety Standards

Alcona County reports a total crime rate of 840.0 per 100K residents, which is nearly three times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county an impressive safety score of 98.7 out of 100. Residents enjoy one of the most secure environments in the United States today.

A Leader in Michigan Public Safety

The county's safety score of 98.7 sits comfortably above the Michigan state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 840.0 per 100K is significantly lower than the state-wide average of 1,371.8. Alcona stands out as one of the safest regions in the entire state.

Setting the Standard for Northern Michigan

Compared to Alpena County’s rate of 1,151.8, Alcona County maintains much lower overall crime numbers. Its total crime rate of 840.0 remains below most surrounding jurisdictions in the northern Lower Peninsula. This area consistently performs better than the state averages for both violent and property offenses.

Violent Crimes Remain Exceptionally Rare

The local violent crime rate is just 156.3 per 100K, less than half the national average of 369.8. Property crime makes up the bulk of local incidents at 683.7 per 100K, though this remains very low compared to urban centers. These figures reflect a community where serious crime is an infrequent occurrence.

Simple Steps to Maintain Security

Even in high-safety areas like Alcona, basic precautions make a difference for home security. Installing smart cameras or outdoor lighting helps deter the property crimes that constitute the majority of local reports. Monitoring your property ensures the county remains one of Michigan's safest havens.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Alcona County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy lags national average

Alcona residents live to an average of 75.1 years, about 5 years shorter than the U.S. average of 80.1 years. With 18.5% of the population reporting poor or fair health, the county faces persistent health challenges that affect quality of life.

Below Michigan's health outcomes

At 75.1 years, Alcona's life expectancy falls short of Michigan's state average of 76.3 years. This gap reflects broader health disparities that place the county in the lower tier of Michigan's 83 counties.

Healthier than nearby counties

Alcona's 75.1-year life expectancy exceeds Arenac County (73.9 years) and Baraga County (74.9 years), though it trails Antrim County (78.8 years) and Alger County (78.9 years). The county's 7.1% uninsured rate is slightly higher than the state average of 6.4%.

Primary care access is limited

Alcona has 49 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—below the national benchmark of 75 per 100,000. With 7.1% uninsured and mental health support at 143 providers per 100,000, residents face gaps in accessing routine preventive care.

Coverage options available now

If you're among the 7.1% uninsured in Alcona, federal and state health plans offer affordable coverage through the Michigan Health Insurance Marketplace. Visit healthcare.gov or your county health department to explore plans and potential subsidies today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Alcona County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Rural Education Infrastructure

Alcona County operates a streamlined educational system with just one school district serving 677 total students. The infrastructure consists of two primary facilities: one elementary school and one high school.

High Graduation Rates Outpace State Averages

The county boasts an exceptional 95% graduation rate, far exceeding the Michigan average of 82.5% and the national benchmark of 87%. Per-pupil expenditure stands at $7,742, which is higher than the state average despite being lower than national spending levels.

The Unified Alcona Community Schools

Alcona Community Schools is the sole provider for the county, with no charter school alternatives available. This single-district model ensures all 677 students share a consistent curriculum and community identity.

Small Schools in a Rural Setting

Education in Alcona is an entirely rural experience, with both schools classified in rural locales. Alcona Community High School is the largest campus with 371 students, while Alcona Elementary provides a more intimate setting for 306 younger learners.

Secure Your Family's Future in Alcona

Homebuyers seeking high-performing schools in a quiet, rural environment will find Alcona's 95% graduation rate a compelling reason to move here. Explore local properties to benefit from a school system that consistently outperforms the state.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Alcona County

via RiskByCounty

Alcona ranks well below national risk

Alcona County scores 17.75 on the composite disaster risk scale, earning a Very Low rating that sits well below the national average. This places the county in the safer tier for natural disaster exposure across all hazard types.

Among Michigan's safest counties

With a composite risk score of 17.75, Alcona ranks significantly below Michigan's state average of 49.56. The county's Very Low rating reflects below-average exposure to most major disaster hazards.

Safer than nearby Arenac County

Alcona's risk score of 17.75 compares favorably to neighboring Arenac County at 20.32 and Alpena County at 28.34. The county benefits from a more sheltered profile relative to its regional peers.

Flood and wildfire pose modest threats

Alcona's primary hazard concerns are flood risk at 41.32 and wildfire risk at 41.25, both still below state averages. Tornado risk stands at 20.74, making it the least of these three concerns for residents.

Standard homeowners coverage recommended

While Alcona carries low overall risk, flood damage is excluded from standard homeowners policies—consider separate flood insurance if your property sits near water. A basic homeowners policy remains essential for tornado and wind coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Alcona County

via WeatherByCounty

A Chilly Presence in Northern Michigan

Alcona County maintains an average annual temperature of 42.8°F, placing it significantly below the national median. This humid continental climate experiences much colder winters than the typical American county, driven by its northern latitude and proximity to Lake Huron.

Cooler Than the Michigan Average

The county's 42.8°F annual average trails the Michigan state average of 45.7°F. While Michigan is already known for its cold winters, Alcona sits in the lower tier of counties for thermal warmth, reflecting its position in the northeastern Lower Peninsula.

Colder Winters Than Its Southern Neighbors

Alcona's average annual temperature of 42.8°F is cooler than Alpena County to the north, which averages 44.0°F. Despite the similar latitude, Alcona experiences slightly more restrictive warmth, though it remains more temperate than the state's Upper Peninsula regions.

Moderate Snowfall and Brief Summers

The county sees an average of 46.8 inches of snowfall each year, which is lower than many of its lake-effect neighbors. Summer brings a modest July average of 66.0°F, with only 4 days per year typically reaching or exceeding 90°F.

Prepare for a Long Heating Season

Residents should prioritize high-efficiency heating systems, as winter temperatures average a brisk 21.3°F. While extreme heat is rare, the 30.4 inches of annual precipitation requires reliable roofing and drainage to handle spring thaws.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Alcona County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Gritty Alcona Earth

Alcona County soils are noticeably acidic with an average pH of 5.22, falling well below the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is limited for this region, the low pH suggests a need for lime amendments for many garden crops. Local gardeners must manage this acidity to unlock essential nutrients for plant growth.

High Sand Content Limits Retention

The soil profile is dominated by 68.6% sand, making it exceptionally easy to work but prone to rapid drying. With only 11.3% clay and 17.5% silt, these soils provide excellent aeration but struggle to hold onto water and fertilizers. This gritty mix requires frequent, smaller applications of water to prevent leaching.

Rich Organic Matter, Lower Water Capacity

At 14.43%, Alcona's organic matter is significantly higher than the 2% national average, though it trails the Michigan state average of 19.76%. The available water capacity (AWC) of 0.158 in/in is also below the state average of 0.202 in/in. This suggests that despite the organic richness, the sandy texture limits the soil's ability to act as a reservoir.

Navigating Sparse Hydrologic Data

Formal drainage and hydrologic group classifications are not widely recorded for Alcona County. However, the high sand percentage typically indicates rapid drainage and high permeability. Farmers and builders should expect water to move through the profile quickly, reducing the risk of ponding.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a

In USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, Alcona County is well-suited for cool-weather staples like potatoes and berries that tolerate sandier conditions. The acidic environment is particularly favorable for blueberries and evergreens. With a little extra irrigation, your Alcona garden can become a productive landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Alcona County

via LawnByCounty

Alcona's lawn care matches the national median

Alcona County earns a 50.8 lawn difficulty score, which sits just above the national average of 50.0 but remains nearly 10 points lower than the Michigan state average. Homeowners in this Hardiness Zone 5a region face moderate challenges compared to the rest of the state.

Low heat helps Alcona's cool-season grass

With only 4 extreme heat days per year, local lawns avoid the scorching stress found in the state average of 7 days. Annual precipitation of 30.4 inches sits at the lower end of the ideal range, requiring careful monitoring of the 1,761 growing degree days.

Acidic, sandy soil requires regular amendments

The soil profile consists of 68.6% sand, which leads to fast drainage and potential nutrient leaching. A low pH of 5.22 means the ground is significantly more acidic than the 6.0-7.0 ideal range, making lime applications necessary for healthy turf.

Recent dry spells test Alcona's resilience

Lawns survived 19 weeks in drought over the past year, though currently only 3.4% of the county remains abnormally dry. To protect grass during these periods, residents should maintain a higher mowing height to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Start your Alcona lawn after May frost

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive best in this climate. Aim to seed after the final spring frost on May 19th or in the late summer before the first fall frost arrives on October 16th.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alcona County's county score?
Alcona County, Michigan has a composite county score of 62.1 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Alcona County rank among counties in Michigan?
Alcona County ranks #5 among all counties in Michigan on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Alcona County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Alcona County is $1,322, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Alcona County a tax score of 49.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Alcona County?
The median household income in Alcona County, Michigan is $53,568 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Alcona County earns an income score of 21.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Alcona County, Michigan a good place to live?
Alcona County scores 62.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Alcona County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Alcona County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.