countyscore
50.2
County Score
Disaster Risk 88.9Water Quality 86Health 61.7

County Report Card

About Missaukee County, Michigan

Missaukee aligns with national trends

With a composite score of 50.2, Missaukee County sits slightly above the national median of 50.0. This places the county in the top half of all jurisdictions in the United States. Residents enjoy a balance of factors that mirror the typical American experience.

Outperforming the Michigan average

Missaukee County's 50.2 score exceeds the Michigan state average of 47.1. It stands as a reliable performer in Northern Michigan's interior. This makes it a competitive choice for those looking to stay within the state while maximizing livability.

Low environmental risk and high health scores

Missaukee excels with an impressive risk score of 88.9 and a water score of 86.0. The county also maintains a strong health score of 61.7. These metrics suggest a safe, clean environment for families concerned about natural hazards.

Educational and tax hurdles

The county faces challenges in education, where it holds a school score of 33.1. Additionally, its tax score of 39.9 reflects a moderate burden despite the 0.977% effective rate. Improvement in these areas could further boost its competitive standing.

A haven for nature-focused families

Missaukee is best suited for families who prioritize environmental safety and affordable housing. With a median rent of $838, it is a budget-friendly option for those who value the outdoors over high-end educational infrastructure. It offers a solid, middle-of-the-road lifestyle with exceptional water quality.

Score breakdown

Tax39.9Cost49.3Safety51.6Health61.7Schools33.1Income44.8Risk88.9Water86Weather48.3
🏛39.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠49.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼44.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡51.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤61.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓33.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡88.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨50.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.3
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

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36.8
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Roscommon County
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Deep Dives

Missaukee County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Missaukee County

via TaxByCounty

Missaukee's taxes run well below national average

At 0.977%, Missaukee's effective tax rate sits significantly lower than the national median of 1.099%, placing the county in the bottom 30% nationally. The median property tax of $1,600 annually is roughly 40% less than the national median of $2,690, reflecting both lower home values and a lighter tax burden overall.

Among Michigan's lowest tax counties

Missaukee ranks in the bottom tier statewide, with an effective rate of 0.977% compared to Michigan's average of 1.166%. This 16% discount relative to the state average means Missaukee homeowners keep more of their property's value free from taxation.

Lower taxes than rural peers

Montmorency County (0.922%) is the only nearby county with a lower rate, but Missaukee still beats Montcalm (1.075%) and Oceana (1.143%). Among this cluster of northern Michigan counties, Missaukee offers moderate tax relief without being the absolute cheapest option.

What $163,700 home costs annually

A homeowner with the median-valued property in Missaukee pays roughly $1,600 in annual property taxes. With mortgage-related assessments included, that figure rises to approximately $1,798—still well below the national norm.

Verify your assessment is fair

Many Michigan homeowners discover their properties are overassessed relative to market value. Missaukee residents can file an appeal with the county assessor's office if they believe their property valuation doesn't match recent comparable sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Missaukee County

via CostByCounty

Missaukee's affordability mirrors the nation

Residents spend 16.3% of household income on rent, matching the national trend exactly despite earning $12,887 less than the U.S. median. This alignment suggests Missaukee's housing costs scale proportionally with local wages, making it neither a bargain nor a burden compared to the broader American landscape.

Right in Michigan's sweet spot

Missaukee's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio ties the state average, placing it squarely in Michigan's affordability middle ground. Among Michigan's 83 counties, this positioning means Missaukee offers typical housing costs for the state without standing out as particularly expensive or cheap.

Competitive with nearby counties

Missaukee's $838 monthly rent sits between neighboring Montcalm County ($867) and Montmorency County ($811), offering a middle option for renters considering the region. Homebuyers here pay $868 monthly, outpacing Montmorency but trailing Montcalm's $908, giving prospective owners choices across a tight range.

Housing takes one-sixth of income

With median rent at $838 and homeownership costs at $868, Missaukee residents allocate roughly equal amounts whether renting or buying. At a $61,868 median household income, renters and owners each dedicate about 16% of earnings to housing, leaving substantial income for other needs.

A balanced choice for Michigan movers

If you're relocating within Michigan and want predictable housing costs, Missaukee offers stable affordability aligned with state norms—neither stretching your budget nor offering exceptional savings. Compare this 16.3% rent-to-income ratio to your current situation to see if Missaukee's balance fits your financial goals.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Missaukee County

via IncomeByCounty

Missaukee lags behind national income

Missaukee County's median household income of $61,868 falls about $12,900 below the national median of $74,755. This places the county in the lower-middle income bracket nationally, suggesting residents earn roughly 17% less than their typical American counterpart.

Below Michigan's county average income

At $61,868, Missaukee's median household income sits about $2,400 below Michigan's county average of $64,304. The county ranks in the lower half of Michigan's 83 counties by household income.

Comparable to nearby rural counties

Missaukee's median income of $61,868 closely mirrors Newaygo County ($61,931) and Montcalm County ($64,892) in the region. However, Monroe County to the south earns notably more at $75,272, while Montmorency County to the north lags further behind at $47,803.

Housing costs are manageable here

Missaukee's rent-to-income ratio of 16.3% is well below the 30% affordability threshold, meaning housing remains accessible on typical county incomes. With a median home value of $163,700, homeownership remains within reach for many households earning the county median.

Build savings with budget-friendly housing

Because housing costs consume only 16% of income in Missaukee, residents have room to save and invest the difference. Starting a retirement account or building an emergency fund becomes more achievable when housing doesn't strain your paycheck.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Missaukee County

via CrimeByCounty

Missaukee County's Strong Safety Profile

Missaukee County boasts a high safety score of 98.3 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 1,086.9 per 100K residents is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This makes the county significantly more secure than the typical American community.

Beating the Michigan Average

The county's safety score of 98.3 sits comfortably above the Michigan state average of 97.8. With a total crime rate of 1,086.9, it remains safer than many other parts of the state. Local law enforcement maintains a high standard of public safety compared to the state average of 1,371.8.

Comparing Missaukee to Regional Neighbors

Missaukee's crime rate is lower than Montcalm County's 1,651.7 but higher than the exceptionally low 496.7 in Montmorency. It remains a very safe choice within the region. The county provides a balanced safety environment for its residents.

A Look at Crime Categories

Property crime accounts for 815.2 incidents per 100K, while the violent crime rate is 271.7. Both figures fall below national averages, particularly property crime which is less than half the U.S. rate. Residents primarily deal with lower-level property issues rather than serious violent incidents.

Staying Safe in Missaukee

Even in high-safety areas, basic precautions help maintain low crime rates. Consider installing smart locks and motion-sensor lighting to deter opportunistic property crime. Staying informed about local activity is the best way to keep your home secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Missaukee County

via HealthByCounty

Missaukee slightly outlives the nation

At 76.7 years, Missaukee County's life expectancy edges above the U.S. average of 76.4 years, a modest but meaningful advantage. However, 17.9% of residents report poor or fair health, slightly below the national average of 18%, suggesting overall health outcomes are comparable to most American counties.

Above state average, but room to gain

Missaukee's 76.7-year life expectancy outpaces Michigan's 76.3-year state average by four months. The county's 8.1% uninsured rate, however, runs higher than Michigan's 6.4% average, indicating more residents lack insurance coverage than typical for the state.

Healthier than nearby Montmorency

Missaukee residents live 3.1 years longer than those in neighboring Montmorency County (73.6 years), a substantial gap. With 20 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Missaukee lags behind most comparable Michigan counties, which average around 50 per 100,000.

Primary care access is a challenge

Only 20 primary care providers per 100,000 residents means many Missaukee residents must travel for routine care or wait longer for appointments. The 8.1% uninsured rate means about 1 in 12 people lack coverage, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected medical costs.

Check your insurance options today

If you're among Missaukee's uninsured residents, explore Michigan's marketplace plans or Medicaid eligibility at Healthcare.gov or Michigan's official health insurance portal. Getting covered can mean the difference between preventive care and costly emergency visits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Missaukee County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Infrastructure in Missaukee County

Missaukee County maintains a focused education system with 2,208 students enrolled across six total public schools. Two districts, Lake City Area and McBain Rural Agricultural, manage the county's two elementary, middle, and high schools.

Strong Graduation Rates Exceed State Average

The county achieves an 86.3% graduation rate, significantly higher than the Michigan average of 82.5%. While per-pupil spending of $6,933 is below the state average of $7,394, the county maintains a competitive school score of 51.4.

Lake City and McBain Lead the Way

Lake City Area School District is the county's largest, serving 1,171 students across three schools. Traditional public schools account for 100% of the county's enrollment as there are currently no charter schools in operation.

Intimate Rural Learning Environments

Every school in the county is classified as rural, creating a consistent and close-knit learning experience. Schools average 368 students, with McBain Elementary being the largest at 512 students and Lake City Middle being the smallest at 274.

Find a Home in Missaukee Schools

Families looking for a community-centered environment will find Missaukee's rural schools offer personalized attention and strong results. Consider local school quality as you explore real estate options in this high-performing northern Michigan county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Missaukee County

via RiskByCounty

Missaukee's natural disaster risk ranks very low

With a composite risk score of 11.10, Missaukee County sits well below the national average and faces substantially lower overall natural disaster exposure than most U.S. counties. This "Very Low" rating reflects relatively modest hazard risks across all major disaster types, from tornadoes to earthquakes.

Among Michigan's safest counties

Missaukee's score of 11.10 ranks it as one of the lowest-risk counties in Michigan, where the state average composite risk is 49.56. This means residents face roughly one-quarter of the typical natural disaster risk compared to other Michigan communities.

Safer than surrounding counties

Missaukee's 11.10 score outperforms neighboring Montcalm County (56.87) and Newaygo County (47.07), making it one of the more protected areas in west-central Michigan. Only Montmorency County (15.87) nearby presents a comparably low risk profile.

Wildfire and flood are the primary concerns

Wildfire risk ranks highest at 35.15, followed by tornado risk at 25.19—both still well below state and national averages. Flood risk of 21.95 and earthquake risk of 10.18 present minimal threat to the county's residents.

Homeowners insurance protects against limited threats

While Missaukee County faces low overall disaster risk, standard homeowners policies should cover the modest wildfire and tornado exposure. Residents in flood-prone areas should verify whether flood insurance is included, as standard policies typically exclude flood damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Missaukee County

via WeatherByCounty

Missaukee County Experiences a Cooler Climate Profile

Missaukee averages 43.8°F annually, nearly 10 degrees cooler than the national median temperature. It is characterized by long winters and a short, mild summer season.

One of Michigan's Cooler Inland Counties

The county's average temperature of 43.8°F is almost 2 degrees lower than the Michigan state average. Its inland northern position limits the warming effects found further south.

Colder Than Its Neighboring Coastal Peers

Missaukee is significantly cooler than Mason County to the west, which averages 46.0°F. Without lake moderation, Missaukee faces harsher temperature swings and more intense cold.

Seventy Inches of Snow and Mild Heat

Winters are long with 70.0 inches of snow and a 19.1°F January average. Summer peaks at 67.5°F in July, with only 7 days of extreme heat per year.

Prepare for Persistent Winter Snow Coverage

Robust snow removal tools and winterized homes are essential for the 70-inch annual snow load. Heating systems must be reliable to handle the 21.6°F average winter temperatures.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Missaukee County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic and Distinctive Soils

Missaukee County soil presents an average pH of 4.22, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data for this region is limited, the extreme acidity suggests a unique chemical environment for plant growth.

A Gritty, Sand-Dominant Profile

The soil contains 60.3% sand, 13.3% silt, and 9.7% clay. This high sand percentage ensures easy workability, though the lack of clay suggests the soil may struggle to naturally retain mineral nutrients.

High Organic Matter and Solid Potential

The county boasts an organic matter content of 25.67%, which is well above the Michigan average of 19.76%. However, the available water capacity sits at 0.174 in/in, falling slightly below the state benchmark of 0.202 in/in.

Managing Water in Sandy Ground

While specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are unavailable for this county, the high sand content typically points to rapid water movement. Gardeners should expect the soil to dry out quickly during dry spells without regular irrigation.

Cold-Hardy Gardening in Zone 5a

Missaukee County sits in hardiness zone 5a, making it ideal for cool-weather crops and hardy perennials. Start your garden with acid-loving plants like blueberries or potatoes that thrive in these specific northern conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Missaukee County

via LawnByCounty

Missaukee Faces a Tougher Growing Environment

With a difficulty score of 49.3, Missaukee falls below the national median of 50.0 and the Michigan average of 60.1. The Zone 5a climate requires specific grass choices to survive cold winters and a late-start spring.

Late Frosts Shorten the Mowing Season

The growing season is compressed by a late spring frost on May 30 and only 1982 growing degree days. Annual precipitation of 32.6 inches sits on the lower end of the ideal range, requiring careful irrigation management.

Acidic Soil Requires Heavy Amending

The soil pH is a very low 4.22, far below the ideal range of 6.0-7.0 for healthy turf. With 60.3% sand content, you will need regular lime applications and organic matter to help retain nutrients.

Managing 18 Weeks of Dry Conditions

The county experienced 18 weeks of drought over the past year, and 73.9% of the area currently remains abnormally dry. To conserve water, mow at higher heights to shade the soil and reduce evaporation during these dry spells.

Start Seeding After the Late Spring Frost

Kentucky Bluegrass or Fine Fescue blends are best for this Zone 5a climate. Aim to seed or sod after the final frost on May 30 to ensure young roots establish before the summer heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Missaukee County's county score?
Missaukee County, Michigan has a composite county score of 50.2 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 Missaukee County rank among counties in Michigan?
Missaukee County ranks #37 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 Missaukee County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Missaukee County is $1,600, with an effective tax rate of 0.98%. This earns Missaukee County a tax score of 39.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Missaukee County?
The median household income in Missaukee County, Michigan is $61,868 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Missaukee County earns an income score of 44.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Missaukee County, Michigan a good place to live?
Missaukee County scores 50.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #37 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Missaukee 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 Missaukee 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.