countyscore
56
County Score
Cost of Living 82.3Health 75.4Soil Quality 71.1

County Report Card

About Menominee County, Michigan

Significant Outperformance of National Median

Menominee County achieves a high composite score of 56.0, well above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a highly efficient cost-of-living to quality-of-life ratio.

A Standout Performer in Michigan

Ranking far above the Michigan average of 47.1, Menominee is one of the state's hidden gems. It offers high levels of safety and affordability that are rare in the region.

Extreme Affordability and Safety

The county excels with a Cost Score of 82.3 and a Safety Score of 68.5. Rents are remarkably low at $675, and the Health Score remains high at 75.4.

Education and Income Constraints

School performance is low with a score of 22.3, and the Income Score of 27.0 reflects lower average wages. Limited local high-paying jobs may require remote work or commuting.

The Ultimate Choice for Frugal Living

Menominee is perfect for retirees or remote workers looking to maximize their dollar while living in a very safe area. Home values average only $142,700, providing incredible entry-level value.

Score breakdown

Tax35.9Cost82.3Safety68.5Health75.4Schools22.3Income27Risk55.6Water27.2Weather48.3
🏛35.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠82.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡68.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤75.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓22.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡55.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧27.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.7
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

Menominee County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Menominee County

via TaxByCounty

Menominee's rate sits below state average

Menominee County's 1.030% effective tax rate runs below Michigan's 1.166% state average and ranks among the nation's more affordable options. The median annual tax of $1,470 falls nearly 45% short of the national median of $2,690, partly due to the county's lower median home value of $142,700.

Menominee ranks lowest in median tax

With a 1.030% effective rate and just $1,470 in median annual taxes—the lowest in this eight-county sample—Menominee County substantially outpaces Michigan's state average of 1.166% and median tax of $2,102. Residents enjoy the county's lowest absolute tax burden here.

Lowest median tax in the Upper Peninsula

Menominee's $1,470 median tax trails all comparison counties; even with Marquette and Mecosta's lower rates (1.000% and 0.996%), their higher home values push taxes up. Menominee combines a competitive rate with the region's lowest median home value for maximum affordability.

Typical homeowner pays just $1,470

On a median home value of $142,700, Menominee County homeowners pay approximately $1,470 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, that obligation rises to $1,721; without, it falls to $1,313.

Low taxes don't mean perfect assessments

Even in Michigan's most affordable counties, property overvaluation occurs, and leaving an inflated assessment unchallenged wastes money annually. Check whether your assessed value reflects current market conditions and file an appeal if your home is overvalued relative to recent comparable sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Menominee County

via CostByCounty

Menominee: Exceptional Housing Value

Menominee County delivers the strongest housing affordability in this cohort, with residents spending just 14.6% of income on rent—well below national comfort levels and exceptional compared to most American markets. Even with a modest median household income of $55,688, the county's $675 monthly rent creates genuine housing security for lower-income households.

Michigan's Most Affordable Option

Menominee County ranks among Michigan's most affordable destinations, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% significantly below the state average of 16.3%. The county's $675 median rent represents the lowest in this comparison group and stands $198 below Michigan's state average of $873.

Clear Value Leader in Region

Menominee County dramatically undercuts neighboring counties, with rent $86 below Manistee and $192 below Marquette, making it the unquestionable value champion. The median home value of $142,700 also ranks as the lowest in this cohort, offering exceptional homebuying affordability for price-conscious buyers.

Ownership and Rental Both Ultra-Cheap

Menominee County renters pay $675 monthly while homeowners spend $664—making ownership marginally cheaper but both remarkably affordable. This 14.6% income allocation to housing is the lowest in the entire comparison group, freeing up resources for other household needs.

Best Budget for Michigan Relocators

Menominee County is the clear choice for budget-conscious relocators seeking maximum housing affordability in Michigan, with rents and ownership costs far below state averages. Before moving, verify local job availability in your field, then compare Menominee's exceptional 14.6% affordability against pricier counties to calculate your relocation savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Menominee County

via IncomeByCounty

Menominee lags far behind national income

Menominee County's median household income of $55,688 ranks among the lowest profiled, falling $19,067 or 25.5% below the national median of $74,755. This substantial gap places the county in the lowest decile nationally and reflects severe economic challenges including population decline and limited employment opportunities. Addressing wage gaps remains critical for the county's future.

Michigan's lowest-income surveyed county

At $55,688, Menominee County ranks among Michigan's 10 lowest-income counties out of 83, trailing the state average of $64,304 by $8,616. The county's median income represents approximately the 12th percentile statewide. Persistent economic challenges including population losses and job scarcity define the county's income struggle.

Menominee struggles among peers

Menominee County ($55,688) ranks lowest among all eight surveyed counties, falling well below Mecosta ($57,774) by $2,086 and trailing Mackinac ($58,598) by $2,910. The county's significant income gap versus Marquette ($64,675) shows a $9,000 differential—the largest spread among regional peers. This disparity underscores Menominee's unique economic disadvantages.

Housing offers rare affordability bright spot

Menominee County's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all surveyed counties, providing renters substantial income relief compared to peers. The median home value of $142,700—the lowest of the eight counties—requires just 2.6 years of household income for ownership. Housing affordability is a critical asset in an otherwise economically challenged county.

Maximize low cost of living advantage

Menominee County's exceptionally affordable housing ($142,700 median) and lowest rent-to-income ratio create a rare wealth-building advantage despite modest $55,688 incomes. Prioritize homeownership to lock in housing costs while building equity; every payment builds wealth on affordable property. With housing costs manageable, redirect any available surplus toward emergency savings and retirement accounts.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Menominee County

via CrimeByCounty

Menominee County is One of America's Safest

Menominee County boasts an exceptional safety score of 98.8, making it one of the safest counties in the nation. Its total crime rate of 738.3 per 100,000 residents is a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5. Residents enjoy a rare level of security and peace.

A Safety Leader in Michigan

With a safety score of 98.8, Menominee County significantly outperforms the Michigan state average of 97.8. Even with only 3 reporting agencies, the county maintains incredibly low crime volumes. It stands as a model for public safety within the state.

Setting the Standard for the Region

Menominee's crime rate of 738.3 per 100K is far lower than Marquette County's 1072.7 and Mackinac County's 1789.2. It is even safer than Mason County, which is also a top performer at 925.4. This county is a regional standout for minimal criminal activity.

Exceptionally Low Crime Across the Board

Violent crime is very rare here, with just 209.1 incidents per 100,000 people. Property crime is also remarkably low at 529.2 per 100K, compared to over 2,000 nationally. These figures indicate that both violent and property-related crimes are highly unusual events.

Preserving Menominee’s Safe Streets

In such a low-crime area, the best protection is maintaining the strong community bonds that prevent crime from starting. Simple security measures like locking up tools and equipment are still recommended to deter opportunistic theft. Your vigilance helps Menominee County remain a top-tier safe haven.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Menominee County

via HealthByCounty

Menominee County leads on longevity

Menominee County residents live 78.4 years, notably above the national average of 76.4 years. Despite a 17.5% poor or fair health rate, the strong life expectancy reflects solid underlying health outcomes and population resilience.

Among Michigan's healthiest counties

At 78.4 years, Menominee County's life expectancy ranks among Michigan's best, exceeding the state average of 76.3 years by over a year. This advantage positions the county as a health success story within the state.

Regional longevity champion

Menominee County's 78.4-year life expectancy is the highest in the region, surpassing Marquette (78.0 years) and Mackinac (77.2 years). However, its primary care provider density of 34 per 100,000 residents is the lowest among peers, creating a healthcare access disparity.

Good coverage, limited provider density

Menominee County's uninsured rate of 6.3% closely mirrors Michigan's state average of 6.4%, ensuring broad coverage. Yet the county's 34 primary care providers and 122 mental health specialists per 100,000 residents represent the tightest healthcare workforce in the region, potentially creating wait times and access barriers.

Maintain coverage and plan ahead

Menominee County residents should verify annual insurance coverage and plan ahead for healthcare needs given the county's limited provider density. Those uninsured can explore marketplace plans at healthcare.gov or contact local health departments for coverage assistance and care coordination.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Menominee County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Versatile Collection of Local Schools

Menominee County operates 15 public schools serving 3,823 students through eight different districts. The county landscape is unique, featuring four elementary schools, two middle schools, and five schools with non-traditional grade structures. This variety allows for more flexible learning environments suited to the Upper Peninsula's geography.

Strong Local Results on a Lean Budget

The county achieves an 80.5% graduation rate, coming very close to the Michigan state average of 82.5%. While per-pupil spending of $6,828 is lower than the state's $7,394, the school score of 48.2 remains competitive. This efficiency demonstrates a commitment to student success despite having fewer financial resources than national peers.

Menominee Area Schools Serves the Core

Menominee Area Public Schools is the largest traditional district with four schools and 1,147 students. For those seeking alternative education, the Uplift Michigan Academy charter school serves 709 students across various grades. Overall, 13.3% of the county's schools are charters, providing families with diverse instructional choices.

Intimate Classrooms in a Rural Landscape

Two-thirds of the county's schools are rural, with the remaining five situated in town settings. The average enrollment is just 255 students per school, ensuring that children receive significant individual attention from educators. Stephenson Area Public School is a prime example of the regional style, serving 442 students in a single K-12 building.

Settle Near Menominee’s Community Schools

Menominee County is perfect for families who value small class sizes and a strong sense of school-spirit. With high-performing rural districts and innovative charter options, there is a fit for every type of learner. Look for your next home in a county where education is a personal, community-wide effort.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Menominee County

via RiskByCounty

Menominee County sits near national average risk

With a composite risk score of 44.43 and a "Relatively Low" rating, Menominee County hovers just below the national median for natural disasters. The county's risk profile reflects typical American exposure to multiple hazard types.

Below Michigan's average, mid-range statewide

Menominee County's 44.43 score edges below Michigan's state average of 49.56, placing it slightly better-protected than average Michiganders. Among the state's 83 counties, Menominee ranks in the safer half.

Lower risk than Marquette, safer than some peers

Menominee County's 44.43 score substantially undercuts Marquette County (69.78) and Midland County (71.95) in the same region. The county ranks among Michigan's safer Upper Peninsula and north-central communities.

Flooding and tornadoes pose manageable threats

Flood risk (44.75) and tornado risk (31.42) represent Menominee County's highest hazards, while wildfire risk (33.33) ranks moderate. The county faces zero hurricane risk and minimal earthquake danger (8.30).

Balanced preparedness covers Menominee threats

Homeowners should secure flood insurance for low-lying or riverside properties and maintain a weather emergency plan. Standard homeowners coverage combined with seasonal tornado awareness provides appropriate protection for this relatively balanced-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Menominee County

via WeatherByCounty

Menominee County Is Defined by Northern Cold

Menominee’s average annual temperature of 42.9°F is more than 10 degrees lower than the national median. It experiences a rigorous northern climate with short, mild summers.

Colder Than the Rest of Michigan

At 42.9°F, Menominee is nearly 3 degrees colder than the state average of 45.7°F. It represents the colder, more volatile weather patterns of the Upper Peninsula.

The Warmer Side of the Upper Peninsula

Though cold, Menominee is warmer than Marquette County, which averages just 40.3°F. It experiences about half the snowfall of its neighbor to the north but remains significantly snowier than the Lower Peninsula.

Deep Winters and Comfortable Summers

The county faces 70.2 inches of annual snow and a frigid 16.0°F January. Summer is very mild, averaging 65.7°F with only 6 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F.

Heating Reliability Is the Top Priority

Winter survival gear and secondary heating sources are recommended for the prolonged cold season. Residents should also be prepared for significant snow removal with an average of 70 inches per year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Menominee County

via SoilByCounty

High-Scoring Acidic Soils in the U.P.

Menominee County earns a high soil score of 71.1, despite an acidic pH of 5.15. This pH is just below the state average of 5.30 and well under the national median of 6.5. These soils represent a high-quality agricultural resource for the Upper Peninsula.

Balanced Sand Mix with Low Clay

The soil contains 40.9% sand, 15.3% silt, and 5.7% clay, creating a relatively light and workable texture. The modest clay content means the soil won't compact easily, which is great for root health. However, the lack of clay requires more reliance on organic matter for nutrient storage.

Rich Organic Matter and Solid Water Capacity

The county features an impressive 32.21% organic matter, far exceeding both the state average of 19.76% and the national 2.0%. This richness supports an available water capacity (AWC) of 0.242 in/in, which is better than the state average of 0.202. Plants in Menominee have access to a deep reservoir of moisture and nutrients.

Sponge-Like Hydrology in Forested Lands

While official drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not provided, the high organic matter suggests the soil acts like a sponge. This allows the ground to absorb heavy rainfall effectively, though it may remain cool and damp longer into the spring. Site-specific testing is always wise for construction projects.

Short-Season Success in Zone 5a

Menominee sits in hardiness zone 5a, favoring crops that can handle a shorter window between frosts. The soil is well-suited for potatoes, cabbage, and forage crops for livestock. Start your garden this spring and take advantage of some of the best soil in the Upper Peninsula.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Menominee County

via LawnByCounty

Northern Maintenance Realities

Menominee County scores a 53.7 for lawn difficulty, reflecting the unique challenges of the Upper Peninsula. While it is tougher than the state average, the 5a hardiness zone is well-suited for traditional northern grasses.

Dryer Climate with a Short Window

The annual precipitation of 31.3 inches is below the state average, which may require supplemental watering. Combined with 1,972 growing degree days, the lawn has a focused but intense growing period between May and September.

Acidic and Sandy Soil Mix

With a pH of 5.15 and 40.9% sand content, the soil is acidic and somewhat prone to nutrient runoff. Adding organic compost can help improve the 5.7% clay content and provide better water retention for the grass roots.

Moderate Drought and Dry Conditions

Over the last year, the county spent 13 weeks in drought, and 48.6% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Mulching your grass clippings back into the lawn can help retain the moisture you do receive.

Quick Starts for the UP Season

The first fall frost arrives early on September 27, so early spring seeding after May 22 is crucial. Hard fescues are recommended here for their ability to withstand the cold and lower moisture levels.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Menominee County's county score?
Menominee County, Michigan has a composite county score of 56 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 Menominee County rank among counties in Michigan?
Menominee County ranks #9 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 Menominee County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Menominee County is $1,470, with an effective tax rate of 1.03%. This earns Menominee County a tax score of 35.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Menominee County?
The median household income in Menominee County, Michigan is $55,688 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Menominee County earns an income score of 27/100 on CountyScore.
Is Menominee County, Michigan a good place to live?
Menominee County scores 56/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Menominee 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 Menominee 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.