60.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 92.7Health 91.3Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Leelanau County, Michigan

Exceptional Quality of Life

Leelanau County is a high achiever with a 60.9 composite score, well above the national median of 50.0. It ranks as one of the most desirable locations in the country based on its socioeconomic indicators.

A Michigan Standout

This county is a star in Michigan, easily surpassing the state average of 47.1. It combines high household wealth with exceptional environmental quality, making it a premier regional destination.

Wealth and Wellness

It boasts incredible scores for income (92.7) and health (91.3), along with a low effective tax rate of 0.702%. This creates a unique environment where residents enjoy high earnings alongside a strong tax score of 63.1.

High Cost of Entry

High demand makes housing expensive, resulting in a low cost score of 16.4 and a median home value of $406,900. Educational scores also lag the other high metrics, sitting at 47.0.

Affluent Professional Haven

This county is a perfect match for wealthy professionals and affluent retirees who prioritize health and scenic beauty. It suits those who can afford premium real estate in exchange for high incomes and low tax burdens.

Score breakdown

Tax63.1Cost16.4Safety82.3Health91.3Schools47Income92.7Risk51.7Water86Weather54.8
🏛63.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠16.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼92.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡82.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
91.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓47
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
51.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤54.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨55.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱73
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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Deep Dives

Leelanau County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Leelanau County

via TaxByCounty

Leelanau boasts Michigan's lowest tax rate

Leelanau County's 0.702% effective tax rate stands among the lowest in the nation, falling far below Michigan's state average of 1.166% and the national median of roughly 1.1%. At $2,856 in median property taxes on a median home value of $406,900, Leelanau residents enjoy substantial tax savings despite the region's premium real estate values.

Leelanau's tax rate ranks statewide lowest

Leelanau County claims the lowest effective tax rate among Michigan's 83 counties at just 0.702%, a stunning advantage for homeowners in this high-value region. The median tax of $2,856 reflects the county's expensive properties rather than a heavy tax burden.

Leelanau taxes drastically lower than regional peers

Leelanau's 0.702% rate is roughly 40% lower than Lapeer County's 0.954% and far below Kent County's 1.140%, making it the undisputed low-tax leader in northern Michigan. A Leelanau homeowner with a $400,000 property pays roughly $700 less annually than a similar Kent County homeowner.

Leelanau median home costs just $2,856 yearly

Despite a median home value of $406,900—the highest among these eight counties—a typical Leelanau property generates only $2,856 in annual property taxes. The rate reaches $2,700 for mortgaged homes and $3,191 for properties owned outright, reflecting the county's unique assessment structure.

Even Leelanau homeowners should verify assessments

Leelanau's ultra-low tax rate doesn't guarantee every property is fairly assessed—seasonal homes, recent purchases, and parcels with shifting market values can all be misvalued. Request your assessment details from the county assessor and compare them against recent arm's-length sales in your immediate area.

Cost of Living in Leelanau County

via CostByCounty

Leelanau County's wealth cushions high housing costs

At 16.0%, Leelanau County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the national average despite median rent of $1,223/month—among Michigan's priciest—because median household income reaches $91,943, outpacing the US norm by $17,188. This affluent county makes expensive housing feel proportional through strong earning power.

Leelanau County houses Michigan's wealthiest residents

Leelanau County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio undercuts Michigan's statewide 16.3% average, yet its residents pay $1,223/month in rent—$350 above the state median—because incomes are substantially higher. This Northern Michigan destination caters to affluent households for whom premium housing costs feel manageable.

Leelanau County's luxury housing market stands apart

Leelanau's median rent of $1,223/month and home value of $406,900 far exceed regional peers like Lapeer ($959 rent, $229,100 homes) and Lake County ($863 rent, $122,900 homes), reflecting its status as an upscale resort and second-home destination. This premium positioning attracts high-earning households seeking seasonal or permanent amenities.

Both renters and owners pay premium for location

Leelanau renters spend $1,223/month (16.0% of income), while homeowners pay $1,199/month (15.7% of income), with median home values reaching $406,900—Michigan's highest in this dataset. Affluent incomes make these extraordinary costs feel proportional, though entry barriers remain steep.

Leelanau County: premium living for premium earners

Leelanau County's breathtaking Northern Michigan setting and strong affordability ratio appeal to high-income households willing to pay top dollar for both rent and property values. This is not a cost-cutting relocation destination but rather a lifestyle choice for those whose earnings comfortably absorb luxury-tier housing markets.

Income & Jobs in Leelanau County

via IncomeByCounty

Leelanau County ranks among nation's wealthiest

Leelanau County's median household income of $91,943 is 23% above the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it in the top tier of American counties. The scenic Northern Michigan location and strong tourism, second-home, and professional services economy drive above-average earnings.

Michigan's premium income destination

At $91,943, Leelanau County's median household income towers 43% above Michigan's state average of $64,304. The county ranks among Michigan's most affluent regions, rivaling the state's economic powerhouses in average household earnings.

Leading income earners in the region

Leelanau County's $91,943 median income surpasses all comparison counties except Livingston County ($101,315), demonstrating exceptional regional prosperity. The county's wealth outpaces Kent County ($80,390), Lapeer County ($76,228), and all lower-income peers significantly.

Income challenged by premium property values

Despite strong median income, Leelanau County's median home value of $406,900 creates an affordability tension—homes cost 4.4 times the median household income. The 16.0% rent-to-income ratio remains healthy, but homeownership entry prices are steep relative to most American markets.

Maximize wealth strategies for high earners

Leelanau County's affluent residents should maximize tax-advantaged retirement contributions, explore investment properties, and consider wealth preservation strategies with professional advisors. High earners benefit from strategic tax planning, diversified portfolios, and legacy planning to sustain generational wealth.

Safety in Leelanau County

via CrimeByCounty

Leelanau's Top-Tier Safety Score

Leelanau County is a national leader in safety with a score of 99.3. Its total crime rate of 423.6 per 100K is more than five times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

One of Michigan's Safest

The county easily beats the Michigan average safety score of 97.8. Leelanau’s crime rate of 423.6 is less than one-third of the Michigan state average of 1371.8.

Safer than Northern Neighbors

Leelanau is much safer than Luce County, which has nearly four times the crime rate. It also maintains a higher safety score than neighboring Keweenaw's 98.8.

Understanding the Local Data

Violent crime is minimal at 115.9 per 100K, while property crime stands at 307.7. For most residents, criminal activity is not a factor in daily life.

Locking in High Safety

Leelanau's high safety scores are best maintained through consistent home awareness. Installing a basic security system can help ensure this community remains one of the state's best.

Health in Leelanau County

via HealthByCounty

Leelanau County ranks among nation's healthiest

At 80.9 years, Leelanau County's life expectancy is nearly 4.5 years above the U.S. average of 76.4 years, positioning residents among America's longest-living communities. Just 11.0% report poor or fair health, well below national norms.

Michigan's top health outcomes

Leelanau County's 80.9-year life expectancy is the highest in this cohort and substantially exceeds Michigan's 76.3-year state average. The county's 11.0% poor/fair health rate ranks among the best, signaling robust community wellness.

Clear regional health leader

Leelanau County's 80.9-year life expectancy significantly outpaces all eight counties analyzed, trailing only the nation's most affluent retirement and wellness destinations. With 44 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, access is solid for a rural county.

Strong outcomes despite higher uninsured rate

Leelanau County's 6.6% uninsured rate slightly exceeds Michigan's 6.4% average—unusual for such a healthy county, suggesting wealth disparities within the community. With 44 primary care providers and 65 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the county offers adequate healthcare access.

Complete coverage for all residents

Even in healthy Leelanau County, 6.6% of residents remain uninsured—a gap that undermines the county's overall wellness. Contact the Leelanau County health department or Healthcare.gov to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, and subsidies for those who've fallen through the cracks.

Schools in Leelanau County

via SchoolsByCounty

Unique School Models in a Scenic County

Leelanau County educates 1,942 students across 7 public schools managed by 5 districts. The landscape is unique, featuring four 'other' level schools that often combine multiple grades into single PK-12 campuses.

Investing in Quality Rural Education

With a per-pupil expenditure of $9,877, Leelanau County spends well above the state average to support its students. The county earns a school score of 53.6, though the graduation rate of 78.3% trails the Michigan state average.

Glen Lake and Suttons Bay Excellence

Glen Lake Community School is the largest single facility with 711 students, while Suttons Bay Public Schools manages three separate schools. The county also hosts one charter, Leelanau Montessori Public School Academy, serving 74 students.

An Entirely Rural School Environment

Every school in the county is classified as rural, emphasizing the area's quiet, natural setting. Schools are moderately sized, averaging 277 students, with the PK-12 model at Glen Lake providing a consistent long-term community.

Discover Rural Schools with Small-Town Heart

Leelanau County is perfect for those seeking rural schools that receive high per-pupil funding. Explore homes in Suttons Bay or near Glen Lake to enjoy a high-quality education in a beautiful northern Michigan setting.

Disaster Risk in Leelanau County

via RiskByCounty

Leelanau County has below-average risk

With a composite risk score of 48.35, Leelanau County ranks as relatively low risk—essentially at Michigan's state average of 49.56. This cherry-growing county benefits from relatively balanced, moderate exposure across all major hazard types.

Near-average risk in Michigan

Leelanau County's composite risk score of 48.35 mirrors Michigan's state average of 49.56, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's hazard exposure spectrum. No single hazard dominates the county's risk profile.

More exposed than Lake County, safer than inland counties

Leelanau County's risk score of 48.35 exceeds Lake County (22.04) but lags behind Lapeer County (66.41) and Livingston County (73.47). Its lakeside location provides some protection while maintaining moderate baseline risk.

Flooding poses the primary threat

Leelanau County's flood risk of 42.14 is its highest score and represents the primary hazard concern for the county. Tornado risk remains modest at 19.15, while wildfire, earthquake, and hurricane risks all stay well below state maximums.

Standard coverage with flood consideration

Leelanau County's moderate risk level means standard homeowners insurance provides a solid foundation, but flood coverage deserves careful review given the 42.14 flood risk score. Properties in flood-prone areas or near the Great Lakes should prioritize NFIP flood insurance.

Weather & Climate in Leelanau County

via WeatherByCounty

A Lake-Driven Coastal Climate

Leelanau County records an annual average temperature of 45.9°F, falling nearly 10 degrees below the national median. The surrounding waters of Lake Michigan moderate the air, creating a unique microclimate for the peninsula.

Aligning With the Michigan Baseline

The county's 45.9°F average temperature sits right in line with the Michigan state average of 45.7°F. This balance makes it a representative snapshot of the state's overall thermal profile.

Mirroring the West Michigan Coast

Leelanau's average temperature exactly matches Manistee County to the south at 45.9°F. However, Leelanau faces slightly higher winter intensity with 116.4 inches of snowfall compared to its southern peers.

Intense Snow and Mild Summers

Winters are heavy with over 116 inches of snow, yet July remains comfortable with an average of 68.5°F. Extreme heat is rare here, as the county only sees about four days per year hitting 90°F.

Gear Up for Heavy Snow

High-capacity snow blowers and winter tires are non-negotiable for the massive 116.4-inch annual snow totals. Cooling needs are minimal, as summer averages rarely stress modern electrical grids.

Soil Quality in Leelanau County

via SoilByCounty

Young Entisols Near the Lake

Leelanau's Entisols have a pH of 6.05, making them more alkaline than the state average of 5.30 but still below the national median of 6.5. These 'young' soils are common in the county's famous dune and lake-side landscapes.

High Sand, Low Retention

The soil is predominantly sand at 67.3%, with 21.0% silt and only 9.8% clay. This 'Sand' texture means water moves through the profile very quickly, offering high workability but low natural retention.

Thirsty Ground with Organic Value

Organic matter sits at 5.84%, nearly triple the national average despite being lower than the Michigan state benchmark. A water capacity of 0.138 in/in confirms this soil dries out much faster than the average Michigan field.

Excessively Drained Landscapes

Labeled as 'Excessively drained,' this soil sheds water rapidly, which prevents root rot but challenges plants during droughts. It is ideal for construction but requires careful irrigation for sensitive crops.

Vineyards and Cherry Orchards

Hardiness zone 6b benefits from the Lake Michigan 'lake effect,' making it a premier spot for cherries and grapes. Your sandy soil is perfect for a vineyard or a beach-ready native garden.

Lawn Care in Leelanau County

via LawnByCounty

Leelanau is a lawn care leader

Boasting a score of 73.0, Leelanau County is one of the easiest places in the nation to maintain a beautiful lawn. The mild Zone 6b climate, influenced by Lake Michigan, keeps conditions stable and favorable.

Lake-effect cooling protects your grass

Only 4 extreme heat days occur annually, well below the state average of 7. While precipitation is slightly lower than the state average at 33.2 inches, the moderate 2204 growing degree days prevent turf from burning out quickly.

Fast-draining sandy foundation

The soil is 67.3% sand and classified as excessively drained, meaning water moves through the profile very quickly. With a near-perfect pH of 6.05, your main task is adding organic matter to help the sand retain moisture.

High resilience to dry spells

Leelanau only saw 3 weeks of drought in the past year and currently sits at 0% dryness. This stability is excellent for lawn health, though the sandy soil requires consistent monitoring during any rain-free weeks.

Take advantage of Zone 6b

The long growing season begins after the May 9 frost and lasts until late October. Because your soil is so sandy, look for drought-tolerant Fine Fescue blends that can thrive with minimal supplemental irrigation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Leelanau County's county score?
Leelanau County, Michigan has a composite county score of 60.9 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 Leelanau County rank among counties in Michigan?
Leelanau County ranks #6 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 Leelanau County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Leelanau County is $2,856, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns Leelanau County a tax score of 63.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Leelanau County?
The median household income in Leelanau County, Michigan is $91,943 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Leelanau County earns an income score of 92.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Leelanau County, Michigan a good place to live?
Leelanau County scores 60.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Leelanau 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 Leelanau County with other counties side by side.