countyscore
31.5
County Score
Lawn Care 73Soil Quality 67.6Health 64.6

County Report Card

About Genesee County, Michigan

Falling below the national median

Genesee County holds a composite score of 31.5, significantly trailing the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the bottom tier of counties across the country for overall livability.

A lag in state performance

The county's overall score sits well below Michigan's average composite of 47.1. It struggles to keep pace with higher-performing regions in the state, particularly regarding environmental and safety metrics.

Resilient health care outcomes

Health remains the county’s strongest dimension with a score of 64.6. This relatively high mark suggests better access to medical resources than other socio-economic factors might imply.

Environmental and tax burdens

The county faces a critical risk score of 7.8 and a low tax score of 17.3, driven by a 1.398% effective tax rate. Safety and school scores are also notably low, both falling below the 22-point mark.

Best for health-focused renters

With a median rent of $936 and a strong health score, this county suits individuals who prioritize healthcare access and low-cost housing. However, families may find the low school and safety scores challenging for long-term growth.

2040608010017.333.920.764.621.841.27.836.151.9Tax17.3Cost33.9Safety20.7Health64.6Schools21.8Income41.2Risk7.8Water36.1Weather51.931.5/100
This county
National avg
1 above average6 below average

Genesee County DNA

Foverall

How Genesee County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Genesee County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Disaster Risk (7.8/100), though Health (64.6/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
17.3-34.7
Cost
33.9-14.100000000000001
Safety
20.7-34.3
Health
64.6+14.599999999999994
Schools
21.8-32.2
Income
41.2-9.799999999999997
Risk
7.8-39.2
Water
36.1-21.9
Weather
51.9
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$172,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$936/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$172,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,440/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $60,673/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

13.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Shiawassee County
Michigan
42.7
Livingston County
Michigan
54.6
Lapeer County
Michigan
49.4
Saginaw County
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31.8
Tuscola County
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Oakland County
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Ingham County
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Deep Dives

Genesee County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Genesee County

via TaxByCounty

Genesee's taxes run higher than most

At 1.398%, Genesee County's effective tax rate sits well above the national median of 1.098%, placing it in the 72nd percentile nationally. That means homeowners here pay a steeper tax bill than three-quarters of American counties. The median property tax of $2,417 closely tracks the national median of $2,690, despite a home value gap that works in Michigan's favor.

Above average for Michigan

Genesee ranks in the upper third of Michigan's 83 counties for effective tax rates, at 1.398% versus the state average of 1.166%. Its median property tax of $2,417 exceeds Michigan's median of $2,102, reflecting both higher rates and modestly higher property values.

Higher than nearby counties

Genesee's 1.398% rate outpaces neighboring Gladwin County (1.183%) and regional peer Gratiot County (1.271%). Only Gogebic County to the west runs higher at 1.492%, making Genesee among the pricier jurisdictions in its region.

What a typical home costs

On a median home valued at $172,900, expect to pay roughly $2,417 annually in property taxes. Homeowners with a mortgage pay about $2,683 per year, while those owning outright pay approximately $1,988.

You might be overassessed

Many Michigan homeowners are overassessed relative to current market values, and Genesee County residents can file an appeal with the county assessor. A reassessment could lower your tax bill—it's worth reviewing your property's assessed value against comparable homes in your neighborhood.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Genesee County

via CostByCounty

Rent costs climb above national norms

Genesee County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% exceeds the national average, meaning renters here spend a larger share of their paycheck on housing than typical Americans. With a median household income of $60,673—nearly $14,000 below the national median of $74,755—housing affordability presents a real squeeze for working families.

Among Michigan's least affordable rentals

Genesee ranks above Michigan's state average rent-to-income ratio of 16.3%, making it one of the state's less affordable rental markets. At $936 per month, the median rent here also outpaces the state average of $873, widening the gap for renters on modest incomes.

Pricier than Gratiot, cheaper than Grand Traverse

Genesee's $936 median rent sits between neighboring Gratiot County ($808) and the more affluent Grand Traverse County ($1,215). Income levels tell a similar story: Genesee households earn slightly less than Gratiot ($61,128) but substantially less than Grand Traverse ($79,486).

Housing eats 18.5% of household income

Renters in Genesee spend $936 monthly while homeowners face $992 in mortgage and ownership costs, with both hitting harder against the county's $60,673 median income. Together, these figures reveal a county where more than one-sixth of household earnings go straight to housing—above the 30% affordability threshold that defines cost-burdened households.

Consider Genesee for Midwest stability

If you're weighing relocation across the Midwest, Genesee offers modest housing costs relative to other industrial regions, though income levels require careful budgeting. Nearby Gladwin and Gratiot counties provide even lower rents if affordability is your top priority.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Genesee County

via IncomeByCounty

Genesee lags the national income benchmark

Genesee County's median household income of $60,673 falls about $14,000 short of the national median of $74,755—an 18.8% gap. This places the county in the lower-middle range nationally for household earnings.

Slightly below Michigan's average income

At $60,673, Genesee's median household income sits just below Michigan's state average of $64,304, ranking the county in the middle tier statewide. The per capita income of $34,587 mirrors the state average of $35,451.

Genesee outearns several regional peers

Genesee's $60,673 median household income exceeds Houghton County ($56,573), Huron County ($56,963), and Gladwin County ($55,576) but lags Grand Traverse County's $79,486. Among its closest neighbors in central Michigan, Genesee occupies a middle position.

Rent remains manageable in Genesee

The 18.5% rent-to-income ratio indicates housing costs consume less than one-fifth of typical household earnings, well within the 30% affordability threshold. With a median home value of $172,900, homeownership remains within reach for many families earning the county median.

Build savings with steady Genesee wages

Genesee residents earning the median $60,673 have room to invest after covering housing costs at 18.5% of income. Starting an emergency fund or exploring retirement accounts now positions households to weather economic shifts and build long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Genesee County

via CrimeByCounty

Genesee Stays Below National Crime Averages

Genesee County reports a total crime rate of 2,052.1 per 100,000 residents, which sits comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 96.8 out of 100. This score reflects a community that is safer than many similarly sized urban centers across the country.

Evaluating Genesee Within the State

While Genesee’s safety score is strong, it trails the Michigan state average safety score of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 2,052.1 is significantly higher than the state average of 1,371.8. Local law enforcement agencies across the county continue to address these regional disparities through 28 reporting agencies.

Comparing Genesee to Mid-Michigan Neighbors

Genesee County faces higher crime challenges than its more rural neighbors like Gratiot County, which reports a lower rate of 1,418.1 per 100,000. It also sees more than double the total crime rate of Gladwin County. These figures highlight the different safety profiles between Michigan's industrial hubs and its rural corridors.

Property and Violent Crime Breakdown

Violent crime in Genesee County stands at 618.8 per 100,000, which is higher than the national rate of 369.8. However, property crime is notably lower than the national benchmark, at 1,433.3 compared to 2,015.7. This suggests that while personal safety is a priority for local police, theft and burglary are less frequent here than in many other U.S. counties.

Strengthening Your Personal Security

With over 1,400 property crimes reported per 100,000 residents, residents should stay vigilant about home security. Installing smart cameras and motion-sensor lighting provides an effective deterrent for local neighborhoods. Staying informed through the county's 28 reporting agencies helps keep the community proactive.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Genesee County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large and Diverse Education Network

Genesee County manages a massive education infrastructure with 155 public schools serving 59,085 students. The landscape includes 73 elementary schools, 23 middle schools, and 40 high schools across 36 distinct districts.

Evaluating Graduation and Investment Results

The county reports an 80.6% graduation rate, trailing the state average of 82.5% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $6,777 is below the Michigan average, the county continues to support a large student population with a 48.1 composite school score.

Grand Blanc and Flint Lead the Way

Grand Blanc Community Schools is the largest district, educating 7,772 students, while Flint School District serves 2,789. The county also offers 17 charter schools, which represent 11.0% of the total public school options.

Suburban Focus with Large High Schools

Most students attend one of the 106 schools in suburban locales, where the average school size is 397 students. Grand Blanc Community High School stands out as the largest facility with 2,556 students, offering a significantly different experience than the county's 23 rural schools.

Finding Your Home Near Top Schools

Proximity to large, resource-rich districts like Grand Blanc or Davison is a primary driver for local home buyers. Explore the diverse residential options available near these established education hubs to find the right fit for your family.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Genesee County

via RiskByCounty

Genesee faces significantly above-average risk

With a composite risk score of 92.18, Genesee County ranks in the upper tier of U.S. counties for natural disaster risk. This score is nearly double Michigan's state average of 49.56, placing it in the "Relatively Moderate" category nationwide. The county's exposure is driven by multiple overlapping hazards rather than a single dominant threat.

Highest-risk county in Michigan

Genesee County's 92.18 composite risk score makes it the riskiest county in Michigan by a significant margin. It ranks substantially above every other Michigan county, with the next-closest county trailing by over 30 points. This distinction reflects Genesee's particular vulnerability to tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes—hazards that rarely cluster at this intensity level.

Genesee stands alone in regional risk

Neighboring Gratiot County (54.13) and Lapeer County score roughly half of Genesee's risk level, underscoring how concentrated the hazard exposure is within Genesee's borders. Even Saginaw County and Tuscola County, also in central Michigan, report substantially lower composite scores. Genesee's unique position suggests localized geography and infrastructure factors amplify its vulnerability.

Tornadoes and floods dominate the threat

Genesee's tornado risk of 98.54 is among the highest in the nation, and flood risk of 92.59 compounds exposure across much of the county. Earthquake risk of 70.83 adds a third significant layer of hazard. Together, these three threats account for the vast majority of Genesee's composite risk and require distinct preparation strategies.

Multi-hazard insurance is critical here

Homeowners in Genesee should carry flood insurance separate from standard homeowners policies, which do not cover flood damage. Given the tornado risk, structural reinforcement (reinforced safe rooms, impact-resistant roofing) and earthquake insurance should also be considered for comprehensive protection. Review your coverage annually, especially after any local flooding or severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Genesee County

via WaterByCounty

Water Quality Struggles in Genesee County

Genesee County receives an F grade for drinking water compliance with 117 health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 43.0 per 100,000 residents exceeds the Michigan average of 35.7.

Watershed Assessments Pending Federal Review

Federal agencies have not yet assessed Genesee County's water bodies under Section 303(d) standards for the current reporting cycle. This lack of ATTAINS data means the official impairment status of local watersheds remains unrecorded.

Extensive Monitoring Tracks Local Nutrients

A network of 27 monitoring sites has logged 9,193 measurements over the past five years. Data collection focuses heavily on nutrients, physical characteristics, and inorganic compounds to track water health.

Flint River Flows Below Average

The Flint River near Flint currently flows at 423 cfs, which is only 64% of its long-term mean. This primary gauge monitors a large drainage area covering 956 square miles.

Guidance for Genesee Residents

Given the F grade and high violation count, residents should prioritize certified home filtration and stay informed about local quality alerts. Low streamflow in the Flint River may also increase the concentration of existing contaminants.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Genesee County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate weather in Southeast Michigan

Genesee County averages 47.3°F annually, which is about 7 degrees cooler than the national median. It experiences a classic four-season climate with hot summers and cold, snowy winters.

Slightly warmer than the state

The county’s average of 47.3°F is nearly two degrees warmer than the Michigan state average. Its annual precipitation of 33.2 inches is just under the statewide mean of 34.5.

Consistent with southern peers

Genesee is very similar to Eaton County, though it receives slightly more snowfall at 46.3 inches. It is significantly warmer than Emmet County, which sits over 4 degrees cooler on average.

Hot summers and brisk winters

July temperatures average 70.5°F, including 10 days of extreme heat above 90°F. Winters bring a January average of 22.9°F and a steady 46.3 inches of snow throughout the season.

Ready for heat and snow

With 10 days of extreme heat, reliable air conditioning is important for summer comfort. Residents should also prepare for the 25.3°F winter average with good insulation and winter-ready vehicles.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Genesee County

via SoilByCounty

Organic Muck and Moderate Acidity

Genesee County is characterized by Muck soils within the Histosols taxonomic order. At pH 6.18, these soils are more acidic than the national 6.5 median but significantly more neutral than the Michigan average of 5.30.

A Sandy and Carbon-Rich Mix

The soil composition features 61.9% sand and 12.5% clay. This mixture provides a unique balance of workability and organic structure, though the high sand content allows for rapid initial water movement.

Rich Organic Matter for Crop Growth

Organic matter sits at 8.18%, which is over four times the national average of 2.0%. While the available water capacity of 0.165 in/in is below the state average, the high organic content supports strong growing potential.

Managing Very Poorly Drained Lands

Classified as very poorly drained and belonging to hydrologic group A/D, these soils require careful water management. High water tables are common, making drainage systems essential for both farming and construction.

Productive Gardening in Zone 6a

The hardiness zone 6a climate is ideal for hearty vegetables and berries. Use the nutrient-rich muck soil to your advantage by starting a backyard garden with moisture-tolerant varieties.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Genesee County

via LawnByCounty

Prime Conditions for Genesee Lawns

Genesee County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 73.0, far exceeding both the Michigan average of 60.1 and the national median of 50.0. In Hardiness Zone 6a, homeowners find it significantly easier to maintain lush turf compared to most of the country.

Managing Moderate Heat and Mowing

With 2,523 growing degree days and 10 extreme heat days annually, grass grows vigorously here through the summer. The 33.2 inches of annual precipitation provides a steady baseline, though it falls slightly below the state average of 34.4 inches.

Navigating Muck and Poor Drainage

The soil features a healthy 6.18 pH, but its muck texture and 61.9% sand content create very poorly drained conditions. Lawns here require careful aeration and perhaps raised grading to prevent roots from rotting in the dense, wet foundation.

Resilient Water Systems

Genesee is currently drought-free, having faced only 6 weeks of drought over the past year. Because the soil is very poorly drained, homeowners should water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth without over-saturating the muck.

Seeding for Success in Zone 6a

The growing season begins after the last spring frost on May 3rd, making early May the ideal window for new sod or seed. Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue thrive in this zone and should be established well before the first fall frost on October 12th.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Genesee County's county score?
Genesee County, Michigan has a composite county score of 31.5 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 Genesee County rank among counties in Michigan?
Genesee County ranks #80 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 Genesee County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Genesee County is $2,417, with an effective tax rate of 1.40%. This earns Genesee County a tax score of 17.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Genesee County?
The median household income in Genesee County, Michigan is $60,673 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Genesee County earns an income score of 41.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Genesee County, Michigan a good place to live?
Genesee County scores 31.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #80 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Genesee 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 Genesee County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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