41.9
County Score
Water Quality 86Lawn Care 69.9Health 66.2

County Report Card

About Manistee County, Michigan

Scenic Living Below the National Median

Manistee County holds a composite score of 41.9, trailing the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a rural profile where natural beauty is balanced against lower institutional investment.

Striving for the State Average

Manistee’s score of 41.9 sits below Michigan’s average of 47.1. While it excels in resource quality, it lacks the school performance found in higher-scoring Michigan counties.

Pristine Water and Resilient Health

The county excels in water quality with a score of 86.0 and maintains a solid Health Score of 66.2. These metrics highlight a high quality of life for those focused on wellness and the environment.

Education and Safety Gaps

A School Score of 3.8 indicates significant challenges for the local education system. Safety also presents a hurdle with a score of 32.1, which is lower than many regional neighbors.

A Haven for Wellness-Minded Individuals

Manistee is a great fit for outdoor enthusiasts or childless households who prioritize clean water and health. With median home values at $166,600, it offers an affordable path to Lake Michigan access.

Score breakdown

Tax31.9Cost57.3Safety32.1Health66.2Schools3.8Income41.7Risk62.8Water86Weather53.6
🏛31.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠57.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼41.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡32.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
66.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓3.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
62.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤53.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱69.9
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
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Manistee County?

Many homeowners in Manistee County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Deep Dives

Manistee County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Manistee County

via TaxByCounty

Manistee taxes slightly above state average

Manistee County's 1.089% effective tax rate runs modestly above Michigan's 1.166% state average but well below the national median of 1.166%. Annual median taxes of $1,814 trail the national median of $2,690 by about 33%, reflecting lower home values in the region.

Manistee ranks mid-range in Michigan

With a 1.089% effective rate and $1,814 median tax, Manistee County hovers slightly below the state average of 1.166% and well below the state median tax of $2,102. The county sits in the lower-to-middle tier statewide for tax burden.

Mid-tier tax rate in west Michigan

Manistee's 1.089% rate falls between the lowest performers—Mecosta (0.996%) and Marquette (1.000%)—and higher-tax areas like Mason County (1.105%). For comparable home values around $166,000–$200,000, Manistee offers moderate and reasonable tax exposure.

Typical bill runs $1,814 per year

On a median home value of $166,600, Manistee County homeowners pay approximately $1,814 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, that increases to $1,967; without, it drops to $1,633.

Challenge assessments to cut your tax bill

Even in a moderate-tax county, overassessment happens, and homeowners who ignore it leave money on the table year after year. File an appeal with your assessor if comparable properties in your neighborhood sold for less than your assessed value.

Cost of Living in Manistee County

via CostByCounty

Manistee: Solid National Affordability

Manistee County residents spend 16.2% of household income on rent, slightly above the national sweet spot but remaining reasonably affordable compared to many American markets. With a median household income of $60,879—below the national average—this county still delivers respectable housing value for lower-income households.

Right at Michigan's Average

Manistee County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% sits nearly even with Michigan's state average of 16.3%, making it a middle-of-the-road option for affordability across the state. Monthly rent of $820 runs modestly below the state average of $873, offering modest savings for Michigan renters.

Affordability Between Regional Extremes

Manistee County positions itself as moderately priced compared to neighbors, with rents $59 below Marquette County but $45 above Menominee County's lowest rates. The median home value of $166,600 aligns closely with Mackinac County, making both reliable choices for homebuyers seeking value.

Ownership Slightly Cheaper Than Renting

Manistee County renters pay $820 monthly while homeowners spend $784—a rare arrangement where mortgages cost less than rent. This $36 monthly advantage for owners, combined with a 16.2% income burden, suggests good value for those able to secure financing.

Balanced Option for Michigan Movers

Manistee County offers middle-ground affordability without the premium pricing of Macomb or the ultra-cheap costs of Menominee, making it ideal for renters and buyers seeking stability. Research local employment in your field, then compare this county's balanced 16.2% ratio against more expensive alternatives to plan your Michigan relocation.

Income & Jobs in Manistee County

via IncomeByCounty

Manistee trails national income benchmark

Manistee County's median household income of $60,879 falls $13,876 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it roughly 30 percentile points below the U.S. average. This gap reflects limited high-wage employment and reliance on seasonal work in forestry and tourism. However, the county maintains stable income relative to similar rural-coastal communities.

Lower-middle tier in Michigan

At $60,879, Manistee County ranks approximately 45th among Michigan's 83 counties, falling below the state average of $64,304 by about $3,400. The county's position reflects economic dependence on lumber, agriculture, and seasonal tourism rather than diversified manufacturing. Still, median income remains above several dozen Michigan counties with similar rural characteristics.

Comparable to nearby rural counties

Manistee County ($60,879) slightly exceeds Mackinac County ($58,598) by $2,281 and sits close to Mason County ($62,296), reflecting similar economic structures across West Michigan's rural areas. Compared to Marquette County ($64,675) to the north, Manistee trails by roughly $3,800. These modest differences show how geography and local industries create subtle but consistent income patterns.

Affordable housing supports families

Manistee County's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio is well below the 30% affordability ceiling, making it one of the most housing-affordable counties profiled. The median home value of $166,600 requires just 2.7 years of median household income—among the lowest ratios for homeownership readiness. Strong housing affordability partially offsets modest wage levels.

Leverage affordability to build assets

Manistee County's low housing costs ($166,600 median) create a unique opportunity for homebuyers to build equity on moderate incomes of $60,879. Prioritize paying down mortgage principal aggressively while maintaining a small emergency fund. With lower cost-of-living pressures than larger Michigan counties, households can redirect savings toward retirement and education investments.

Safety in Manistee County

via CrimeByCounty

Manistee County maintains a Strong Safety Score

Manistee County earns a safety score of 97.5, placing it well above the national norm. The total crime rate of 1596.3 per 100,000 residents is roughly 33% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These 2022 figures highlight a community with manageable crime levels.

Manistee Near the Michigan Average

The county's safety score of 97.5 sits just below the Michigan average of 97.8. This indicates that while Manistee is very safe by national standards, it follows the typical pattern for Michigan's peaceful rural and coastal counties. Local law enforcement across 3 agencies maintains this steady environment.

Regional Comparison Shows Moderate Rates

Manistee's crime rate of 1596.3 per 100K is lower than Mackinac County's 1789.2. However, it is higher than its neighbor to the south, Mason County, which reports a much lower rate of 925.4. This puts Manistee in the middle of the pack for Northern Michigan safety.

Focusing on Violent and Property Crimes

Violent crime in Manistee is relatively low at 223.5 per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime accounts for the bulk of incidents at 1372.8 per 100K. For most residents, the risk of property-related theft is more prevalent than violent threats.

Smart Home Protection in Manistee

Since property crime is the primary concern here, visible security cameras can be a major deterrent. Ensure all outbuildings and seasonal properties are properly secured during the off-season. Basic vigilance helps keep Manistee’s crime rates among the lowest in the country.

Health in Manistee County

via HealthByCounty

Manistee lags U.S. life expectancy

Manistee County residents live an average of 75.2 years, below the national average of 76.4 years. The county's poor or fair health rate of 15.9% is slightly better than national trends, though the lower life expectancy suggests underlying health disparities.

Below Michigan's health outcomes

At 75.2 years, Manistee County's life expectancy ranks below Michigan's state average of 76.3 years, placing it among the lower-performing counties statewide. This gap points to distinct health challenges requiring targeted attention and resources.

Lowest life expectancy in the region

Manistee County's 75.2-year life expectancy is the lowest among nearby counties including Mackinac (77.2 years), Mason (76.5 years), and Mecosta (76.3 years). The county's primary care provider rate of 51 per 100,000 is among the thinnest in the region, limiting routine healthcare access.

Moderate uninsured rate, limited providers

Manistee County's uninsured rate of 7.0% exceeds Michigan's state average of 6.4%, affecting healthcare access for roughly 1 in 14 residents. With only 51 primary care providers and 176 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the county has tighter healthcare infrastructure than many peers.

Get insured and find care

Manistee residents without insurance should visit healthcare.gov or contact the Manistee County health department to understand coverage options and financial assistance. Local community health centers offer primary care regardless of insurance status and can refer you to specialized providers.

Schools in Manistee County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Mix of Local and Virtual Schools

Manistee County hosts 14 public schools serving 5,994 students through seven distinct districts. The landscape includes five elementary schools and five high schools, supported by a mix of traditional and charter options. The presence of a large virtual academy significantly expands the county's educational reach beyond its physical borders.

Addressing Challenges in Graduation and Funding

The county faces academic headwinds with a graduation rate of 58.9%, which falls below the state average of 82.5%. Per-pupil expenditure is $5,655, trailing the Michigan average by nearly $1,800. These metrics contribute to a composite school score of 34.3, indicating a need for targeted educational investment.

Virtual Academy Shapes the District Landscape

Michigan Great Lakes Virtual Academy is the largest entity, enrolling 3,389 students through its charter program. Among traditional brick-and-mortar options, Manistee Area Public Schools leads with 1,225 students across three schools. Two other charter schools operate in the county, providing alternative choices for 14.3% of the total school population.

Rural Roots with Large Virtual Classrooms

Physical schools in Manistee are split between rural settings (8) and town locales (6), providing a classic small-town feel. While the average school size is 461, this is skewed by the virtual academy; traditional schools like KND Elementary are much more intimate. Students often find themselves in close-knit environments where the school serves as a central community hub.

Discover Homes in Quiet School Communities

Manistee County offers a unique choice between traditional small-town schools and flexible virtual learning options. Families looking for a slower pace of life will appreciate the rural and town-based districts near Lake Michigan. Consider local school proximity as you explore the charming residential real estate available across the county.

Disaster Risk in Manistee County

via RiskByCounty

Manistee County maintains low national disaster risk

Manistee County's composite risk score of 37.21 with a "Very Low" rating places it well below the national median for natural disasters. Residents here enjoy substantially lower hazard exposure than the typical American county.

Well below Michigan's average risk level

At 37.21, Manistee County scores significantly better than Michigan's state average of 49.56. The county ranks among Michigan's safer communities for disaster preparedness and resilience.

Lower risk than many West Michigan peers

Manistee County's score of 37.21 outperforms several neighboring counties in the western Lower Peninsula. Compared to Mecosta County (69.85) and Midland County (71.95) to the east, Manistee offers notably lower combined risk.

Flooding poses the primary concern

Flood risk (56.87) represents Manistee County's highest hazard, likely due to its proximity to Lake Michigan and coastal geography. Tornado risk (20.36) and wildfire risk (28.21) are secondary concerns, but remain manageable.

Prioritize flood coverage for waterfront properties

Manistee residents with homes near water or in flood-prone zones should secure dedicated flood insurance, as standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. For inland properties, basic homeowners coverage with occasional weather preparedness reviews provides solid protection.

Weather & Climate in Manistee County

via WeatherByCounty

The Epicenter of Lake Effect

Manistee County averages 45.9°F annually, keeping it well below the national median. Its location on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan creates a climate defined by moisture and massive snowfall.

Matching the Michigan Average

Manistee's 45.9°F average temperature sits perfectly in line with the Michigan state average of 45.7°F. While the temperature is average, the 36.9 inches of precipitation is above the state norm.

A Twin to Leelanau's Climate

Manistee and Leelanau share an identical annual average of 45.9°F. However, Manistee receives slightly less snow than its northern neighbor, though it still exceeds 100 inches annually.

Buried in Snow, Cool in Summer

The county endures 106.1 inches of snowfall annually, while summers remain mild with only five days of extreme heat. July averages a comfortable 68.4°F, cooled by prevailing lake breezes.

Prepare for Intense Winter Work

Residents must invest in professional-grade snow removal gear for the 106-inch winter average. Modern HVAC systems should focus on heating efficiency, as extreme summer heat is relatively rare.

Soil Quality in Manistee County

via SoilByCounty

Northern Michigan Soil Identity in Progress

Specific taxonomic data and pH levels for Manistee County are currently unavailable in the central survey records. Historically, this region features sandy soils typical of the Lake Michigan shoreline with varying levels of acidity. Local testing is recommended to determine if your specific plot matches the state average pH of 5.30.

Awaiting Local Composition Details

Data regarding the percentages of sand, silt, and clay for this county is not currently specified. Many coastal Michigan counties are sand-dominant, which usually translates to fast drainage and lower workability for heavy crops. You can perform a simple jar test at home to estimate your local soil's composition.

Managing Fertility with Limited Local Data

While specific organic matter and available water capacity (AWC) figures are not available, northern Michigan soils often require amendments to reach peak productivity. The state average for organic matter is 19.76%, which acts as a helpful benchmark for local expectations. Adding compost is a reliable way to boost fertility regardless of your starting point.

Variable Drainage Along the Lakeshore

The drainage class and hydrologic group for Manistee are not yet formally classified in this dataset. Site-specific drainage is likely influenced by proximity to the lake and local elevation changes. Observe how water behaves on your land after a storm to understand its unique hydrologic needs.

Lakeside Growing Potential in Zone 6b

Manistee County enjoys the moderating effects of Lake Michigan in hardiness zone 6b. This climate is excellent for fruit trees, especially cherries and apples, which benefit from the delayed spring bloom. Plant an orchard or a coastal-hardy garden to celebrate this beautiful shoreline environment.

Lawn Care in Manistee County

via LawnByCounty

Manistee Leads the State in Ease

With a score of 69.9, Manistee County offers some of the most favorable lawn-growing conditions in Michigan. This Zone 6b coastal county makes achieving a professional-looking lawn much simpler than the national average.

Temperate Climate with Ample Rain

Annual precipitation reaches 36.9 inches, which is slightly above the state average and fits perfectly within the ideal lawn range. Only 5 extreme heat days per year keep the grass from entering summer dormancy too early.

Local Testing for Best Results

While specific soil database metrics are currently unavailable for this area, local gardeners typically find varied textures. We recommend a professional soil test to determine your specific pH and nutrient needs before fertilizing.

Stable Moisture Levels Near the Lake

Manistee experienced 18 weeks of drought over the last year, but only 10.1% of the county is currently abnormally dry. This indicates a relatively stable moisture profile that requires only moderate irrigation.

Wait for Late Spring Seeding

The last spring frost typically occurs on May 28, so patience is key before starting new grass. Fine fescues are particularly well-suited for the lake-effect climate and the local growing season.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Manistee County's county score?
Manistee County, Michigan has a composite county score of 41.9 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 Manistee County rank among counties in Michigan?
Manistee County ranks #58 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 Manistee County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Manistee County is $1,814, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Manistee County a tax score of 31.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Manistee County?
The median household income in Manistee County, Michigan is $60,879 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Manistee County earns an income score of 41.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Manistee County, Michigan a good place to live?
Manistee County scores 41.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #58 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Manistee 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 Manistee County with other counties side by side.