countyscore
46.2
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 78.7Soil Quality 65.7

County Report Card

About Kalkaska County, Michigan

Approaching the National Median

Kalkaska County earns a composite score of 46.2, placing it just under the national median of 50.0. It offers a fairly balanced quality of life compared to the rest of the country.

Consistent with State Averages

Kalkaska's score of 46.2 is nearly identical to the Michigan average of 47.1. It represents the typical experience of a rural-leaning Michigan county.

Excellent Environment and Low Risk

The county features an outstanding water score of 86.0 and a natural risk score of 78.7. Residents also benefit from low property taxes, indicated by a score of 45.9 and an effective rate of 0.886%.

Safety and School Score Gaps

Public safety and education are areas for improvement, with scores of 27.2 and 30.7 respectively. These scores suggest that civic infrastructure and safety services are the main developmental needs.

Ideal for Nature Lovers

Kalkaska is perfect for those who value clean water, low environmental risk, and low taxes. It is a strong candidate for retirees or outdoor enthusiasts who aren't focused on local school districts.

Score breakdown

Tax45.9Cost58.6Safety27.2Health55.6Schools30.7Income40.4Risk78.7Water86Weather49.4
🏛45.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠58.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼40.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡27.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤55.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓30.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡78.7
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 →
🪨65.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53
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

Grand Traverse County
Michigan
50.7
Antrim County
Michigan
54.7
Crawford County
Michigan
49.5
Missaukee County
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Wexford County
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Otsego County
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Roscommon County
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Leelanau County
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Deep Dives

Kalkaska County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kalkaska County

via TaxByCounty

Kalkaska among lowest-taxed U.S. counties

Kalkaska County's effective tax rate of 0.89% places it in the bottom 20% of U.S. counties, well below the national median of 1.10%. The median property tax of $1,545 is 43% below the national median of $2,690.

Kalkaska tied for lowest in Michigan

At 0.89%, Kalkaska ties Iosco County for the lowest effective property tax rate in Michigan, 23% below the state average of 1.17%. The median tax of $1,545 runs 27% below Michigan's county average of $2,102.

Kalkaska offers lowest taxes in north-central region

Kalkaska's 0.89% rate significantly undercuts all nearby counties, including Iosco (1.06%) and Iron (1.44%). The county offers some of Michigan's most tax-favorable property conditions.

A $174,300 home costs $1,545 annually

With a median home value of $174,300 and Kalkaska's 0.89% effective rate, the typical homeowner pays $1,545 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,610, adding just $65 in mortgage-related fees.

Even low-tax areas warrant assessment checks

Though Kalkaska residents benefit from historically low property taxes, individual assessments can still exceed fair market value. Periodically reviewing your assessment ensures you maintain this county's tax advantage.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kalkaska County

via CostByCounty

Kalkaska delivers below-average affordability stress

Kalkaska County's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio sits below Michigan's 16.3% state average and performs well against national baselines, with a $767 median rent that's 12% below the state median. The median household income of $60,365 trails the national median by 19%, but the lower rent burden compensates, positioning Kalkaska as a relatively affordable destination with modest income requirements.

Kalkaska ranks solid among Michigan counties

With a 15.3% rent-to-income ratio, Kalkaska County outperforms Michigan's state average and ranks in the upper quartile of state counties for housing affordability. This performance reflects balanced local economics where rents and incomes align reasonably well.

Kalkaska positioned between affordability extremes

Kalkaska's $767 median rent sits between Ionia ($840) and Iosco ($659), while its rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% outperforms most peers except Iron (11.4%) and Ionia (13.7%). With a median income of $60,365, Kalkaska occupies a stable middle ground in the regional affordability spectrum.

Kalkaska offers accessible ownership and rentals

Kalkaska renters spend approximately $9,204 annually at $767 monthly—15.3% of a $60,365 income, leaving substantial resources for other expenses and savings. Owner-occupants pay $866 monthly for homes valued at $174,300, with both tenure types representing reasonable affordability for households at or above the county median income.

Kalkaska: stable affordability in northern Michigan

If you're seeking Michigan housing with moderate costs, lower rent-to-income burden, and proximity to natural amenities, Kalkaska County delivers on all fronts with a 15.3% ratio below state average. The county's median income of $60,365 is accessible for many job seekers, making it an ideal option for families or individuals prioritizing affordability without sacrificing community character.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kalkaska County

via IncomeByCounty

Kalkaska trails national income median

Kalkaska County's median household income of $60,365 falls $14,390 short of the national median of $74,755, representing a 19% earnings gap. The county ranks in the lower-middle range nationally.

Kalkaska below Michigan state average

At $60,365, Kalkaska's median household income falls $3,939 short of Michigan's state average of $64,304. The county faces economic headwinds typical of smaller, northern Michigan communities.

Kalkaska in lower-middle tier regionally

Kalkaska's $60,365 income trails Ionia ($73,436), Kalamazoo ($70,525), Jackson ($65,004), and Ingham ($64,354), but exceeds Iosco ($47,777), Isabella ($53,759), and Iron ($53,614). The county occupies the lower-middle range of surrounding regions.

Affordable housing eases budget strain

Kalkaska households spend just 15.3% of income on rent, well below the 30% affordability threshold, providing meaningful discretionary budget room. Median home values of $174,300 remain relatively accessible for local earners.

Maximize housing savings for investing

Kalkaska's favorable 15.3% rent-to-income ratio frees up household resources compared to pricier counties, allowing residents to direct those savings toward retirement and investment accounts. Consistent monthly contributions to low-cost index funds build long-term wealth despite moderate income levels.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kalkaska County

via CrimeByCounty

Kalkaska County Maintains Solid Safety Score

Kalkaska County holds a safety score of 97.2, providing a relatively secure environment. The total crime rate of 1,767.5 per 100,000 people is comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5. Four local agencies manage the county’s public safety and emergency responses.

Near the Average for Michigan Safety

Kalkaska’s safety score of 97.2 is just slightly below the Michigan state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 1,767.5 is somewhat higher than the state average of 1,371.8. While safer than national benchmarks, there is room for local safety improvements.

Safer Than Kalamazoo but Trails Iron

Kalkaska County is much safer than Kalamazoo County, which reports 3,892.1 incidents per 100,000. However, it trails the high safety standards of Iron County, where the rate is only 656.1. It remains a mid-range performer for safety in its region.

Violent Crime Exceeds State Averages

The violent crime rate of 524.1 per 100,000 is higher than the Michigan average of 314.8. Property crime stands at 1,243.4, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,015.7. Residents should prioritize personal safety while enjoying lower property risks.

Invest in Personal and Home Protection

Because violent crime rates are elevated, personal awareness and home security are more important than ever. Installing motion sensors and smart cameras can provide early warnings of unauthorized property access. Staying active in local safety groups helps keep Kalkaska a secure community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kalkaska County

via HealthByCounty

Kalkaska County significantly below national average

Kalkaska County residents live an average of 74.7 years, 4.2 years below the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 18.5% poor or fair health rate exceeds the national average of 15% by 3.5 percentage points, signaling serious health disparities.

Trails Michigan average considerably

At 74.7 years, Kalkaska County trails Michigan's state average of 76.3 years by 1.6 years, placing it in the lower quartile of Michigan's 83 counties. This gap demands public health attention.

Most underserved regional peer

Kalkaska County's 74.7-year life expectancy edges ahead of only Iosco County among the eight comparison counties, and its 7.3% uninsured rate ranks second-highest regionally. The county's sparse provider infrastructure—just 22 primary care providers per 100,000—is the lowest in the group.

Severe provider shortage compounds access gaps

Kalkaska County faces the region's most acute healthcare access challenge: only 22 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and just 87 mental health providers per 100,000—the lowest in the group. Combined with a 7.3% uninsured rate, residents face formidable barriers to care.

Coverage closes Kalkaska's access gap

With sparse providers and high uninsured rates, Kalkaska County residents must prioritize enrollment now. Visit healthcare.gov or contact Northern Michigan health centers today—securing coverage is your first step toward accessing the care your county desperately needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kalkaska County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Learning in Northern Michigan

Kalkaska County operates 8 public schools for 1,794 students across 3 school districts. The footprint includes 4 elementary schools and 2 high schools, serving a tightly-knit student population.

High Per-Pupil Spending in a Small County

The county invests $7,800 per student, which actually exceeds the Michigan state average of $7,394. This investment supports a 72.6% graduation rate and a composite school score of 46.1.

Kalkaska and Forest Area Districts

Kalkaska Public Schools is the largest district, educating 1,379 students across 5 schools. Forest Area Community Schools manages 515 students, and there are currently no charter schools in the county.

Small-Town Feel and Rural Reach

Schools are split evenly between town and rural locales, offering an average school size of just 224 students. Kalkaska High School is the largest campus in the county, yet it remains relatively small with 449 students.

Discover a Small-School Community

If you prefer an environment where every student is known by name, Kalkaska County's small school sizes are ideal. Look for homes in the Kalkaska or Forest Area districts to enjoy a high-investment, low-enrollment educational experience.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kalkaska County

via RiskByCounty

Kalkaska represents very low risk

Kalkaska County's composite risk score of 21.28 ranks among the nation's lowest, sitting dramatically below Michigan's state average of 49.56 and nearly 60 percent below the national median. This very low risk rating offers residents exceptional natural disaster safety.

Michigan's safest county for disasters

Kalkaska ranks as one of Michigan's safest counties for natural disaster exposure, with minimal tornado (27.74), flood (31.36), and earthquake (8.71) threats. The county's northern location and geography create exceptional protective advantages.

Kalkaska's safety is extraordinary

Kalkaska's 21.28 score is among Michigan's lowest and compares favorably even to other safe counties like Iosco (37.75), making it an exceptional outlier for natural disaster resilience. The county's remote northern location substantially explains this advantage.

Wildfire is minimal concern here

Kalkaska's wildfire risk of 54.96 is its highest hazard score, though even this remains modest in statewide and national context. Tornado (27.74) and flood (31.36) risks are substantially lower than most Michigan communities.

Standard insurance provides solid protection

Kalkaska residents' relatively low risk means standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for most properties, though flood insurance remains valuable near waterways. Maintain clear gutters and drainage to address the county's modest flood exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kalkaska County

via WeatherByCounty

A northern climate with extreme snow

Kalkaska’s average annual temperature of 43.1°F is well below the national median. This area is defined by its dramatic lake-effect winter patterns rather than summer heat.

Colder than the typical Michigan county

Kalkaska sits over 2.5 degrees below the state average of 45.7°F. Its inland northern position makes it a hotspot for winter weather enthusiasts.

The snow king of the region

Kalkaska receives a staggering 129.2 inches of snow annually, dwarfing the state average and most neighbors. Precipitation is also high at 35.1 inches per year.

Mild summers and buried winter landscapes

Summer is brief and cool with only 5 days reaching 90°F. Winter is the dominant season, featuring average temperatures of 20.8°F and nearly 11 feet of total snowfall.

Prepare for massive snow management

Residents need heavy-duty snow removal equipment and potentially roof rakes to manage the 129.2-inch annual snowfall. Four-wheel drive vehicles and winter tires are highly recommended for local travel.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kalkaska County

via SoilByCounty

Extremely Acidic Northern Forest Soils

Kalkaska County has a very low average pH of 3.88, making it one of the most acidic regions in the state. This is far below the national median of 6.5 and reflects the county's history of conifer forests and specialized soil development.

Balanced Texture for Northern Ground

The soil is comprised of 47.8% sand, 23.2% silt, and 15.9% clay. This creates a more substantial body than many other sandy Michigan counties, providing a better foundation for holding onto added nutrients.

Incredible Organic Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is exceptionally high at 40.65%, which is double the state average. This results in a high available water capacity of 0.236 in/in, allowing the soil to retain significant moisture despite its high sand content.

Moisture-Retentive and Complex Soils

While drainage classes are not officially specified, the high organic matter and clay content suggest this soil holds water much longer than typical sands. This makes it a unique environment where drought resistance is naturally high.

Specialized Gardening in Zone 5b

The extreme acidity and high moisture are perfect for blueberries, rhododendrons, and other acid-loving plants in zone 5b. If you want to grow standard vegetables, significant soil amending will be the secret to your success.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kalkaska County

via LawnByCounty

Moderate Difficulty in Northern Michigan

Kalkaska County holds a lawn score of 53.0, reflecting a moderately challenging environment compared to the state average. This zone 5b county requires specific strategies to handle very acidic soils and a shorter growing season.

Cool Temps and Ample Rain

The county enjoys 35.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average and supports lush growth. With only 5 extreme heat days, lawns rarely suffer from scorching, but the 1,931 growing degree days limit the speed of recovery from damage.

Correcting Extreme Soil Acidity

At 3.88, the soil pH is extremely acidic and will likely require significant lime applications to support a traditional lawn. The soil is a fairly balanced mix of 47.8% sand and 15.9% clay, providing a decent structure if the chemical balance is corrected.

Current Conditions are Favorable

Kalkaska experienced 17 weeks of drought last year but is currently at 0.0% drought coverage. This provides a perfect window to focus on soil amendments without the immediate stress of water shortages.

Late May to October Window

Wait until May 24 to seed to avoid the late spring frost that characterizes this northern region. Fine Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are the best choices for the cooler climate, provided they are settled before the October 1 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kalkaska County's county score?
Kalkaska County, Michigan has a composite county score of 46.2 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 Kalkaska County rank among counties in Michigan?
Kalkaska County ranks #47 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 Kalkaska County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Kalkaska County is $1,545, with an effective tax rate of 0.89%. This earns Kalkaska County a tax score of 45.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kalkaska County?
The median household income in Kalkaska County, Michigan is $60,365 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kalkaska County earns an income score of 40.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kalkaska County, Michigan a good place to live?
Kalkaska County scores 46.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Kalkaska 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 Kalkaska 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.