countyscore
49.5
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 82Health 69.7

County Report Card

About Crawford County, Michigan

Meeting the National Baseline

Crawford County’s composite score of 49.5 sits right at the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced quality of life that mirrors the typical American county experience.

Performing Above the State Average

The county outperforms the Michigan state average of 47.1. Its strength in environmental and resource metrics gives it an edge over more urbanized parts of the state.

Environmental Stability and Water Quality

Crawford excels in natural metrics, with a water score of 86.0 and a risk score of 82.0. These scores indicate a high-quality environment with very low exposure to natural disasters.

School and Education Gaps

The county's school score of 25.8 is its most pressing challenge, suggesting local schools may lack the resources of higher-ranked districts. An income score of 34.4 also indicates slower economic growth.

A Haven for Outdoor Lovers

With a median home value of $149,900 and high environmental scores, this county is perfect for people seeking an affordable life close to nature. It is ideal for those who value clean water and safety from natural risks.

Score breakdown

Tax31.6Cost58Safety48.7Health69.7Schools25.8Income34.4Risk82Water86Weather49.4
🏛31.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠58
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼34.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡48.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤69.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓25.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡82
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51
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

Otsego County
Michigan
50.8
Kalkaska County
Michigan
46.2
Oscoda County
Michigan
54.3
Roscommon County
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Ogemaw County
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Montmorency County
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Missaukee County
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Antrim County
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Deep Dives

Crawford County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Crawford County

via TaxByCounty

Crawford has Michigan's lowest tax rate

Crawford County's effective tax rate of 1.093% ranks in the lowest tier nationally, well below the median of 1.73%. With a median property tax of $1,639, residents save significantly compared to the nation's $2,690 median.

Below Michigan's state average

Crawford County's 1.093% effective rate runs below Michigan's state average of 1.166%, placing it among the state's most tax-friendly counties. The median tax of $1,639 falls well below the state median of $2,102.

Second-lowest rate in the region

Crawford County's 1.093% ranks second-lowest regionally, trailing only Emmet County's 0.905%. The county significantly undercuts Dickinson County (1.471%) and Chippewa County (1.288%), offering genuine tax savings.

Crawford median tax: $1,639 yearly

On the county median home value of $149,900, owners pay around $1,639 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages average $1,550; those without average $1,734.

Even low rates can hide overassessments

Crawford County's low tax rate doesn't guarantee accurate assessments—overvaluation occurs even in low-tax counties. Review your assessment and file an appeal if you believe your home is valued above its fair market price.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Crawford County

via CostByCounty

Crawford's Housing Costs Mirror National Patterns

Crawford County residents spend 16.9% of household income on rent, just slightly above the national average, with monthly rents of $825 that reflect a modest cost of living. The median household income of $58,614 falls below the national average of $74,755, yet housing costs remain reasonably proportioned to local earning capacity.

Slightly Above Average for Michigan Renters

Crawford County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Michigan's state average of 16.3% by just 0.6 percentage points, placing it near the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. Rents of $825 are lower than Michigan's median of $873, offering modest savings on the state baseline.

Balanced Middle Ground in Upper Peninsula

Crawford County's $825 monthly rent sits between Chippewa ($793) and the higher-cost Lower Peninsula counties, with a 16.9% rent-to-income ratio placing it between Chippewa (15.7%) and Clare (17.9%). This positioning makes Crawford a reasonable compromise for those seeking moderate costs in rural Michigan.

Renting and Buying Costs Align Closely

Crawford County renters pay $825 monthly while homeowners pay $763—one of the few counties where ownership is notably cheaper than renting by nearly $62 per month. With a median home value of $149,900 and median income of $58,614, both pathways consume 16-17% of household income, making the choice about lifestyle rather than pure affordability.

Crawford Offers Balanced Options

Crawford County works well for relocators seeking moderate housing costs without extreme affordability constraints or premium pricing. Whether you rent or buy, Crawford keeps housing costs in a comfortable 16-17% of income range—making it a practical choice for middle-income households.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Crawford County

via IncomeByCounty

Crawford income trails national median

Crawford County's median household income of $58,614 falls $16,141 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. This gap reflects the economic pressures facing rural Upper Michigan communities with limited industrial diversification.

Below Michigan average

At $58,614, Crawford County earns about 9% less than Michigan's state median of $64,304. Among the state's 83 counties, Crawford ranks in the lower-middle range for household earnings.

Competitive with nearby counties

Crawford's $58,614 median is slightly above Clare County ($49,805) but slightly below Chippewa ($60,631) and Dickinson ($61,882). This clustering suggests similar economic drivers—forestry, light manufacturing, and tourism—shape incomes across the northern region.

Favorable housing affordability

Crawford's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% indicates solid housing affordability, with median home values of $149,900 remaining within reach for local earners. At this ratio, a household earning the median can allocate housing costs comfortably while preserving money for savings and other needs.

Start a disciplined savings plan

Crawford households earning $58,614 should commit to saving 10–15% annually—roughly $5,800–$8,800—through automatic payroll deductions into retirement and education accounts. This consistent approach, compounded over decades, builds meaningful wealth even at modest income levels.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Crawford County

via CrimeByCounty

Crawford County Boasts High Safety Ratings

With a safety score of 98.2, Crawford County is significantly safer than most of the United States. Its total crime rate of 1,151.8 per 100,000 is less than half the national average.

Above the Michigan Safety Average

Crawford County outperforms the state average safety score of 97.8. Its total crime rate also remains lower than the Michigan average of 1,371.8.

A Safe Pocket in the Region

Crawford’s crime rate of 1,151.8 is more favorable than Clare County's rate of 1,509.7. It offers residents a quieter environment compared to neighbors further south.

Property Offenses Outnumber Violent Incidents

The county sees a violent crime rate of 341.0 per 100,000, which is close to the national average. However, the property crime rate of 810.8 is remarkably low, keeping the overall risk levels down.

Focusing on Basic Security Habits

The low overall crime rate makes Crawford County a peaceful place to live. Simple habits like locking vehicles and installing door cameras are usually enough to maintain a high level of personal safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Crawford County

via HealthByCounty

Crawford slightly trails national health trends

Crawford County's life expectancy of 76.6 years is nearly equal to the U.S. average of 76.4 years, but 17.8% report poor or fair health, slightly above the national average. The county sits near the middle ground on national health benchmarks.

Close to Michigan average, slightly better insured

Crawford's 76.6-year life expectancy edges just above Michigan's state average of 76.3 years, while its 6.1% uninsured rate is nearly identical to the state average of 6.4%. Crawford performs near state norms across both metrics.

Middle ground among Michigan's central counties

Crawford's life expectancy falls between Clare (73.7) and Chippewa (77.2), placing it in the middle tier regionally. With 76 primary care providers per 100K, Crawford has reasonable care access, though mental health providers (192 per 100K) lag behind Chippewa (450).

Moderate access, slight coverage gaps

Crawford offers 76 primary care providers per 100K, providing decent day-to-day medical access for routine care. At 6.1% uninsured, about 1 in 16 Crawford residents lack coverage, creating pockets of financial vulnerability for healthcare costs.

Fill the coverage gap in Crawford

With 6.1% of Crawford uninsured, there's room to improve coverage in the county—and for you personally, health insurance removes the fear of unexpected medical costs. Visit Michigan's health marketplace or ask about Medicaid eligibility.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Crawford County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Schooling in Grayling

Crawford County utilizes a focused educational model with just five public schools serving 1,660 students. The system includes one elementary, one middle, and two high schools, largely managed by a single primary district. There are currently no charter schools in the county, emphasizing a unified public school experience.

Consistent Outcomes for Northern Learners

The county’s graduation rate of 82.0% is nearly identical to the Michigan state average of 82.5%. Schools operate with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,952, staying efficient compared to the $13,000 national average. This investment supports a school score of 49.2, which aligns closely with the state median.

Crawford AuSable Schools Leads the Region

The Crawford AuSable Schools district is the dominant provider, enrolling 1,646 of the county’s 1,660 students. It manages the region's largest campuses, including Grayling Elementary and Grayling High School. A small secondary district managed by the Department of Human Services provides specialized care for a handful of students.

A Close-Knit Campus Community

With an average size of 332 students per school, Crawford County offers a manageable and familiar learning environment. Grayling Elementary is the busiest hub with 638 students, representing the starting point for most local children. The setting is primarily rural and town-based, reflecting the natural beauty of the surrounding forest lands.

Living in a Unified School Community

Homebuyers in Crawford County enjoy the simplicity of a single-district system where the community revolves around Grayling’s schools. The high graduation rate makes this a reliable choice for families looking for stability in a beautiful northern Michigan setting. Explore homes near Grayling to stay close to all the county’s primary educational assets.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Crawford County

via RiskByCounty

Crawford is Michigan's safest county

Crawford County's composite risk score of 18.03 with a 'Very Low' rating makes it one of America's lowest-risk counties. This exceptional safety profile puts Crawford residents among the most protected from natural disasters nationally.

Lowest risk ranking statewide

Crawford's 18.03 score is the lowest among all Michigan counties, dramatically below the state average of 49.56. The county's very low composite rating reflects minimal exposure to nearly all major natural hazards.

Safest in Michigan's north-central region

Crawford's 18.03 risk score significantly outperforms all surrounding counties: Chippewa (26.30), Clare (47.46), Oscoda, and other neighbors. This makes Crawford the undisputed safest zone in Michigan's north-central interior.

Wildfire poses main seasonal threat

Despite very low overall risk, Crawford's wildfire risk score of 75.22 reflects extensive forest coverage that requires vigilance during dry seasons. Tornado risk of 26.34 presents a secondary concern during spring severe weather, though well below state averages.

Focus on wildfire and basic coverage

Crawford residents should prioritize wildfire insurance if their homes sit near forested areas, as this represents the county's primary natural hazard. Standard homeowner's insurance with adequate coverage limits provides solid protection for this very-low-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Crawford County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler than the national average

Crawford County’s average annual temperature of 43.3°F sits nearly 11 degrees below the U.S. median. This northern location results in a much shorter growing season and extended winter conditions.

Trailing the Michigan state norm

At 43.3°F, the county is colder than the Michigan state average of 45.7°F. It represents the transition into the colder northern latitudes of the Lower Peninsula.

Heavy snow compared to neighbors

Crawford experiences 88.3 inches of snow, far exceeding the 50.2 inches found in Clinton County to the south. It stays cooler year-round, with a summer average that is nearly five degrees lower than Clinton's.

Brief summers and deep snows

The summer average is a comfortable 65.8°F, with only 6 days reaching above 90°F annually. Winters are intense, marked by an 88.3-inch snow total and a January average of just 17.8°F.

Gear up for long winters

Homeowners should invest in high-capacity heating and snow removal equipment to manage the nearly 90 inches of annual snow. The 20.4°F winter average requires heavy-duty thermal gear for any outdoor activities.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Crawford County

via SoilByCounty

Extreme Acidity in Sandy Entisols

Crawford County's soil pH of 3.97 is extremely acidic, far lower than the national median of 6.5. These sandy Entisols create a unique chemical environment that dictates what can successfully grow.

High Clay and Sand Mix

The soil contains 39.9% sand and a surprisingly high 21.5% clay for this region. This mix allows for good aeration while the clay helps provide some mineral stability that pure sands lack.

Top-Tier Organic Matter and Storage

Organic matter is remarkably high at 50.33%, which is 2.5 times the state average. This supports a high available water capacity of 0.280 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average of 0.202.

Rapid Drainage in Hydrologic Group A

Classified as excessively drained, water moves through this soil very quickly. While this prevents puddling, gardeners must monitor hydration closely as the soil will not hold water near the surface for long.

Acid-Loving Plants Flourish in Zone 5a

This environment is perfect for blueberries, conifers, and other acid-loving species. The massive organic content provides a fertile foundation for specialized gardening in Crawford's Zone 5a climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Crawford County

via LawnByCounty

Average Growing Ease in Crawford

Crawford County scores a 51.0 for lawn difficulty, placing it right at the national average but below the state mark of 60.1. Its position in hardiness zone 5a means a shorter season for establishing new turf.

Balanced Rain and Summer Heat

The area receives 33.2 inches of annual precipitation, which provides a solid baseline for lawn health. Moderate summer heat, with 6 days over 90°F, keeps the mowing schedule predictable through most of the growing season.

Addressing Extreme Sand and Acidity

At a pH of 3.97, Crawford's soil is extremely acidic and will require substantial lime applications. The excessively drained sandy texture means nutrients wash away quickly, so use slow-release fertilizers to maintain health.

Navigating Fast-Draining Soils

While the county only spent 18 weeks in drought last year, the sandy soil makes lawns vulnerable to even short dry spells. Deep watering is necessary to reach roots, especially when local rainfall deviates from the 33.2-inch average.

Establishing Tough Northern Turf

Fine Fescue is a top pick here due to its tolerance for acidic, sandy soils in zone 5a. Aim to seed between the last spring frost on May 23 and the relatively early first fall frost on September 27.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crawford County's county score?
Crawford County, Michigan has a composite county score of 49.5 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 Crawford County rank among counties in Michigan?
Crawford County ranks #40 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 Crawford County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Crawford County is $1,639, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Crawford County a tax score of 31.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Crawford County?
The median household income in Crawford County, Michigan is $58,614 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Crawford County earns an income score of 34.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Crawford County, Michigan a good place to live?
Crawford County scores 49.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #40 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Crawford 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 Crawford County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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