countyscore
39.7
County Score
Health 86Income & Jobs 81.6Lawn Care 68.3

County Report Card

About Eaton County, Michigan

Losing Ground Against National Averages

Eaton County’s composite score of 39.7 falls notably short of the national median of 50.0. While incomes are high, other systemic scores depress the overall ranking.

Below the Michigan State Average

Eaton County scores 39.7, which is lower than the Michigan average of 47.1. Despite its proximity to the state capital, it faces challenges in tax and housing affordability that its neighbors often avoid.

Robust Incomes and Health Services

The county is a financial leader with an income score of 81.6 and a median household income of $78,025. Health is also a major plus, reflected in a high score of 86.0.

High Taxes and Environmental Risk

The tax score of 16.7 and risk score of 32.4 represent significant hurdles for residents. Combined with a low school score of 22.6, the county faces a complex set of developmental challenges.

Tailored for Prospering Health Professionals

Eaton County is best for well-compensated professionals who want access to excellent healthcare and can afford higher taxes. It suits those who prioritize financial earning power over school rankings or tax efficiency.

Score breakdown

Tax16.7Cost23Safety38.2Health86Schools22.6Income81.6Risk32.4Water56.3Weather55
🏛16.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠23
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼81.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡38.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤86
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓22.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡32.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧56.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨57.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.3
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

Barry County
Michigan
46.2
Ionia County
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Calhoun County
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Ingham County
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Jackson County
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Kalamazoo County
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Shiawassee County
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Deep Dives

Eaton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Eaton County

via TaxByCounty

Eaton County taxes top national average

Eaton County's effective tax rate of 1.415% significantly exceeds the national median of 1.73% when normalized, positioning it as a higher-tax county nationally. The median property tax of $2,924 also surpasses the nation's $2,690 median, reflecting both strong rates and substantial home values.

Well above Michigan's average

Eaton County's 1.415% effective rate ranks notably above Michigan's state average of 1.166%, making it one of the state's highest-tax counties. The median tax of $2,924 substantially exceeds the state median of $2,102.

Among region's highest tax rates

Eaton County's 1.415% ranks second-highest regionally after Dickinson County (1.471%), well above Crawford County (1.093%) and Emmet County (0.905%). Only Clinton County comes close with its 1.251% rate.

Eaton homeowners pay $2,924 yearly

On the county median home value of $206,700, owners pay approximately $2,924 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that amount rises to $2,966; without one, it drops to $2,842.

Appeal assessments in higher-tax counties

Eaton County's elevated tax rate amplifies the impact of any overassessment, making appeals particularly valuable. If your property's assessed value exceeds recent comparable sales, filing an appeal could deliver substantial annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Eaton County

via CostByCounty

Eaton Combines Strong Incomes with Balanced Costs

Eaton County residents enjoy a median household income of $78,025—above the national average of $74,755—while maintaining a reasonable 16.0% rent-to-income ratio despite higher absolute housing costs. Monthly rents of $1,042 reflect a more developed market with stronger earning potential to support them.

Above-Average Incomes, Average Affordability

Eaton County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Michigan's state average of 16.3%, benefiting from incomes that exceed the state median and rents only slightly higher than Michigan's $873 baseline. This positions Eaton as a moderately affordable option for families with above-average earning power.

Lower Peninsula's Balanced Alternative

Eaton County's $1,042 rent and $78,025 income place it as a middle option between Clinton County's premium market ($1,039 rent, $85,928 income) and Delta County's bargain basement ($698 rent, $54,829 income). For Lower Peninsula relocators, Eaton offers strong incomes without Clinton's elevated housing costs.

Homeownership Premium Reflects Market Value

Eaton County homeowners pay $1,139 monthly compared to renters' $1,042—a $97 premium reflecting the county's $206,700 median home values and more affluent market positioning. Despite higher absolute costs, the 16.0% rent-to-income ratio proves residents' strong incomes manage both pathways comfortably.

Eaton Suits Growing Families and Professionals

Eaton County delivers solid housing affordability for households with incomes near or above $78,025, with balanced rent and ownership options around $1,040-$1,140 monthly. If you're relocating to Michigan's Lower Peninsula with above-average household income, Eaton offers accessibility without the premium pricing of neighboring Clinton County.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Eaton County

via IncomeByCounty

Eaton County exceeds national income average

Eaton County's median household income of $78,025 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by $3,270, placing it among the stronger-earning counties nationwide. This solid performance reflects a diversified regional economy with manufacturing, agriculture, and public sector employment.

Above Michigan's county median

At $78,025, Eaton County outpaces Michigan's state median of $64,304 by $13,721, ranking among the state's higher-income counties. This $13,721 advantage signals robust economic activity and strong purchasing power relative to most of Michigan.

Top earner in a strong cohort

Eaton's $78,025 median trails only Clinton County ($85,928) and Emmet County ($73,724), positioning it as one of the region's most economically robust counties. This strength reflects Eaton's position as a manufacturing and agricultural hub with diversified employment.

Housing costs reasonable for earners

At 16.0%, Eaton's rent-to-income ratio is moderate, with median home values of $206,700 remaining accessible for local earners. This balance allows households to build equity while maintaining financial flexibility for other investments and goals.

Invest aggressively for long-term growth

Eaton County's $78,025 median income supports robust wealth-building strategies—consider maximizing 401(k) contributions ($23,500 annually for 2024), opening a taxable brokerage account, or exploring real estate investment. At this income level, professional financial planning can unlock substantial compounding over a career.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Eaton County

via CrimeByCounty

Eaton County Beats National Averages

Eaton County maintains a safety score of 97.8, making it a very safe place by national standards. The total crime rate of 1,415.6 per 100,000 is significantly lower than the U.S. average of 2,385.5.

In Line with Michigan Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 97.8 matches the Michigan state average exactly. Its crime rate of 1,415.6 is very close to the state average of 1,371.8, reflecting a typical Michigan security profile.

A Safer Alternative to Neighboring Areas

Eaton County is dramatically safer than neighbor Clinton County, which reports a crime rate five times higher. It provides a more tranquil suburban and rural environment for its residents.

Low Violence and Moderate Property Crime

Violent crime is low at 259.5 per 100,000, while property crime is the main focus at 1,156.1. This suggests that theft and burglary are the most common challenges for local law enforcement.

Smart Strategies for Home Protection

Residents should stay aware of property crime trends by using home alarm systems and outdoor lighting. Most property incidents can be deterred through simple, consistent security habits.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Eaton County

via HealthByCounty

Eaton residents live healthier, longer lives

At 77.1 years, Eaton County exceeds the U.S. life expectancy average by nearly a year, and only 13.7% report poor or fair health—significantly below the national average of 17.5%. Eaton's residents enjoy better health outcomes than typical Americans.

Among Michigan's healthier communities

Eaton's 77.1-year life expectancy is 0.8 years above Michigan's state average of 76.3 years, while its 4.8% uninsured rate ranks among the state's best—well below the 6.4% state average. Eaton excels on both longevity and insurance coverage.

Strong health profile in south-central Michigan

Eaton's 77.1-year life expectancy and 4.8% uninsured rate outperform most regional peers, including Clinton (79.9 life expectancy but comparable coverage). Eaton combines strong coverage with solid 13.7% poor/fair health reporting.

Good coverage with adequate provider access

Eaton's 4.8% uninsured rate means most residents have health insurance protection, though with 33 primary care providers per 100K, access requires some planning ahead. The 217 mental health providers per 100K offer reasonable behavioral health availability.

Eaton's coverage is nearly complete

With 4.8% uninsured, Eaton leads in health insurance coverage—but if you're uninsured, your county's strong health infrastructure makes coverage even more worthwhile. Visit Michigan's marketplace or local health office to get covered today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Eaton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Expansive Educational Network

Eaton County boasts a large-scale system with 45 public schools serving 16,767 students across 13 districts. This infrastructure includes 19 elementary, nine middle, and 12 high schools, making it one of the most comprehensive in the region. The county offers a blend of traditional districts and specialized alternative or special education schools.

Steady Performance in a Large-Scale System

The county maintains a graduation rate of 81.0%, which is competitive with the Michigan state average. Educators manage a per-pupil expenditure of $6,813, prioritizing efficiency while serving a large and diverse student body. The overall school score of 48.4 reflects the challenges and successes of managing a high-volume system.

Grand Ledge and Charlotte Anchor the Region

Grand Ledge Public Schools is the heavyweight district, serving 5,065 students across eight schools. Charlotte Public Schools and Eaton Rapids Public Schools also play major roles, together educating over 4,300 students. Charter schools represent about 9% of the local options, providing additional choice for families in the area.

A Melting Pot of Suburban and Rural Schools

Eaton County offers a unique locale diversity, with 16 rural schools, 15 suburban schools, and 13 town-based schools. Large secondary campuses define the experience, headlined by Grand Ledge High School and its 1,650 students. The average school size of 373 ensures a vibrant, active environment for most students.

Versatile Options for Every Family

Whether you seek the bustle of a large suburban high school or the quiet of a rural elementary, Eaton County has it all. Homes in Grand Ledge or Waverly offer quick access to major campus hubs and diverse extracurricular programs. Look for properties in these districts to find an educational fit that matches your lifestyle.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Eaton County

via RiskByCounty

Eaton faces Michigan's highest risk

Eaton County's composite risk score of 67.62 with a 'Relatively Low' rating significantly exceeds Michigan's 49.56 state average and ranks among the nation's moderate-risk counties. This elevated profile reflects multiple concurrent hazard exposures that demand serious preparedness.

Riskiest county in all of Michigan

At 67.62, Eaton ranks highest among all Michigan counties, substantially above the state average of 49.56. The county's elevated composite score reflects particularly severe tornado and flood risks that dominate its disaster profile.

Far exceeds surrounding county risk levels

Eaton's 67.62 score dramatically outpaces neighboring Clinton County (47.04), Clare County (47.46), and all other surrounding counties. This makes Eaton a clear regional risk outlier in south-central Michigan.

Tornadoes and floods dominate hazards

Eaton faces tornado risk of 86.48—the highest in Michigan—making severe spring and summer thunderstorms a critical seasonal threat to life and property. Flood risk of 72.01 ranks second-highest statewide, driven by the county's position in a low-lying agricultural region prone to spring snowmelt and heavy rainfall.

Invest heavily in storm and flood protection

Eaton residents must prioritize tornado and high-wind coverage in their homeowner's policies and strongly consider constructing or retrofitting a safe room for severe weather events. Flood insurance through the NFIP is essential for this county's elevated risk profile, especially for properties in flood-prone zones.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Eaton County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate climate in Mid-Michigan

Eaton County’s 47.7°F average temperature is about 6 degrees cooler than the national median. This southern Michigan location provides a more moderate climate than the state's northern reaches.

Warmer than the state norm

With an average of 47.7°F, Eaton is exactly two degrees warmer than the Michigan state average. It also receives 36.1 inches of precipitation, slightly more than the statewide average of 34.5.

Warmer and wetter than Gladwin

Eaton is two degrees warmer on average than Gladwin County and receives nearly 11 inches less snow annually. It is one of the less snowy counties in this group, totaling 37.7 inches.

Predictable seasons and humid summers

July averages 71.0°F with 8 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winters are manageable by Michigan standards, with a January average of 22.8°F and 37.7 inches of snow.

Manage precipitation and humidity

With 36.1 inches of annual precipitation, proper drainage and basement waterproofing are important for homeowners. The 25.5°F winter average is cold but milder than northern Michigan neighbors.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Eaton County

via SoilByCounty

Moderate Acidity in Southern Michigan

Eaton County features a soil pH of 5.47, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.30. It remains below the national 6.5 median, requiring some monitoring for acid-sensitive plants.

Stable Sandy Loam Structure

The soil consists of 51.4% sand and 23.5% silt, balanced by 11.4% clay. This combination provides a stable structure that is less prone to the extreme drainage issues found in pure sand.

Lower Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is 9.09%, which is lower than the Michigan average of 19.76%. The available water capacity of 0.173 in/in suggests the soil holds less water than typical Michigan plots, needing attentive irrigation.

Consistent Drainage Without Saturated Roots

While specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the clay and silt content provide enough grip to prevent the rapid leaching seen in sandier counties. This typically results in moderate drainage suitable for various uses.

Extended Growing Season in Zone 6a

Zone 6a offers a generous growing window for Michigan gardeners compared to northern neighbors. Supplementing with compost will help overcome the lower organic matter and boost your gardening success.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Eaton County

via LawnByCounty

Eaton County's High Lawn Success

Eaton County earns an impressive lawn difficulty score of 68.3, making it one of the easiest places in Michigan to grow grass. This score is significantly higher than both the state average and the national median of 50.0.

Ideal Rainfall for Lush Turf

The county receives a generous 36.1 inches of annual precipitation, perfectly matching the needs of cool-season grasses. Even with 8 extreme heat days, the moisture levels help maintain a resilient and green lawn.

Sandy Soil and Liming Needs

The soil is 51.4% sand and features a pH of 5.47. While the sand provides good aeration, you should apply lime to raise the pH level toward the 6.0 range for better grass health.

Strong Recovery and Low Stress

The county only faced 10 weeks in drought over the last year and is currently reporting no abnormally dry areas. This consistent water access is a primary reason for the county's high lawn ease score.

Seizing the Zone 6a Advantage

A mix of Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass thrives in this 6a climate. With the last frost usually passing by May 1, you have a long window before the first fall frost on October 15.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Eaton County's county score?
Eaton County, Michigan has a composite county score of 39.7 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 Eaton County rank among counties in Michigan?
Eaton County ranks #63 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 Eaton County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Eaton County is $2,924, with an effective tax rate of 1.41%. This earns Eaton County a tax score of 16.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Eaton County?
The median household income in Eaton County, Michigan is $78,025 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Eaton County earns an income score of 81.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Eaton County, Michigan a good place to live?
Eaton County scores 39.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #63 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Eaton 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 Eaton 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.