countyscore
33.8
County Score
Water Quality 70.1Health 63.3Weather & Climate 61

County Report Card

About Muskegon County, Michigan

Significant gap from national median

Muskegon County receives a composite score of 33.8, falling far short of the national median of 50.0. This ranking reflects substantial struggles across safety and tax metrics. It faces an uphill battle to match national livability standards.

Trailing the Michigan benchmark

The county's score of 33.8 is nearly 14 points below the Michigan state average of 47.1. Muskegon ranks lower than many of its shoreline neighbors. Economic and safety concerns are the primary drivers of this statewide disparity.

Water access and health services

Despite overall challenges, Muskegon maintains a respectable water score of 70.1 and a health score of 63.3. These assets provide a baseline for physical wellness and environmental enjoyment. Income remains moderate with a score of 49.6 and a $63,495 median.

High tax burden and safety concerns

Safety is a critical area for improvement, with a score of 13.0. Additionally, the tax score of 22.7 reflects a high 1.260% effective rate. These factors make it a difficult market for cost-sensitive and safety-conscious residents.

Suited for urban enthusiasts on a budget

Muskegon serves as a potential home for those who value healthcare access and coastal living over local safety rankings. With rents around $960, it remains affordable for those working in the regional economy. It is best for residents who are comfortable in a transitioning urban-coastal environment.

Score breakdown

Tax22.7Cost36Safety13Health63.3Schools23.4Income49.6Risk29.9Water70.1Weather61
🏛22.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠36
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼49.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡13
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤63.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓23.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡29.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧70.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤61
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨53.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59
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

Ottawa County
Michigan
52.1
Newaygo County
Michigan
50
Oceana County
Michigan
46
Kent County
Michigan
36.8
Montcalm County
Michigan
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Mecosta County
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Allegan County
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Mason County
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Deep Dives

Muskegon County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Muskegon County

via TaxByCounty

Muskegon taxes exceed national average

Muskegon's effective tax rate of 1.260% ranks in the top 25% nationally, notably higher than the national median of 1.099%. The median annual property tax of $2,280 approaches the national median of $2,690, signaling above-average burden despite lower-than-national home values.

Among Michigan's highest-tax counties

Muskegon's 1.260% effective rate substantially exceeds Michigan's average of 1.166%, ranking it in the top 15% statewide. This premium reflects local funding decisions that prioritize schools and services over tax relief.

Highest-taxed in its regional cluster

Muskegon's 1.260% rate tops every comparable county in the area, including Oakland (1.324%) when controlling for home values. Among west-central Michigan counties, Muskegon residents carry the heaviest proportional tax load.

What $180,900 home costs annually

A Muskegon homeowner with a median-valued property pays roughly $2,280 in annual property taxes. With mortgage-related assessments, that figure rises to approximately $2,364 per year.

Review your assessment closely

With higher-than-average tax rates in Muskegon, it becomes even more important to verify your assessment is accurate. If your property value was recently raised, request a reassessment review from the county to ensure it reflects current market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Muskegon County

via CostByCounty

Muskegon exceeds national affordability stress

Muskegon residents spend 18.1% of income on rent, exceeding the national average of 16.3% while earning $11,260 less than U.S. median households. This combination signals above-average housing cost pressure relative to earning power in the county.

Above Michigan's affordability threshold

Muskegon's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio trails the state average of 16.3%, placing it in the less affordable tier of Michigan's 83 counties. While not among the state's most pressured markets, Muskegon residents face noticeably tighter housing-cost burdens than typical Michigan households.

Mid-range costs, higher stress

Muskegon's $960 monthly rent falls between Missaukee ($838) and Monroe ($1,017), yet its 18.1% burden exceeds most neighbors due to a $63,495 income that lags the region. Homeownership at $917 monthly is regionally competitive, but rental affordability remains the county's weak point.

Rent strains household finances

At $63,495 median income, Muskegon renters allocate $960 monthly (18.1%) to housing, significantly above the efficient 16% range seen in better-performing counties. Homeowners fare better at $917 (17.4%), suggesting that ownership offers relative relief from the rental cost pressure felt here.

Evaluate income stability before moving

Muskegon's 18.1% rent-to-income ratio suggests moderate affordability stress compared to Michigan and national standards, making it suitable primarily for those with stable, above-median incomes. If you're relocating to Muskegon, ensure your salary places you well above the county's $63,495 median to avoid housing burden.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Muskegon County

via IncomeByCounty

Muskegon below national income levels

Muskegon County's median household income of $63,495 sits about $11,260 below the national median of $74,755. This 15% gap places Muskegon in the lower-middle income range nationally.

Below Michigan's county median income

At $63,495, Muskegon County trails Michigan's county average of $64,304 by roughly $800. The county ranks in the lower half of Michigan's 83 counties by household income, slightly underperforming the state baseline.

Among lower earners in west Michigan

Muskegon's median income of $63,495 falls below Newaygo ($61,931), Montcalm ($64,892), and Missaukee ($61,868) counties. Only Montmorency County to the north lags further behind in the broader region.

Housing costs rise above county average

Muskegon's rent-to-income ratio of 18.1% exceeds most other counties in the comparison, consuming nearly one-fifth of median household income. While still below the 30% affordability threshold, housing costs are rising faster than in neighboring counties.

Strategic budgeting unlocks savings potential

With housing consuming 18% of income, Muskegon residents have room to build savings if they budget deliberately. Automating savings deposits and exploring employer retirement matches can help residents accumulate wealth despite modest income levels.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Muskegon County

via CrimeByCounty

Muskegon County Crime Challenges

Muskegon County has a safety score of 96.0, reflecting more active crime trends. Its total crime rate of 2,519.5 per 100K is slightly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This suggests residents experience crime more frequently than in many surrounding areas.

Below the Michigan Safety Average

The county's safety score of 96.0 falls below the Michigan average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 2,519.5 is significantly higher than the state average of 1,371.8. Eleven different reporting agencies work to manage safety across the county.

Muskegon Compared to Neighboring Counties

Muskegon's crime rate of 2,519.5 is the highest among its immediate peers, more than double Oceana's 1,962.1. It is nearly four times higher than the 712.2 rate found in Newaygo County. This makes it a regional outlier for crime activity.

Violent and Property Crime Trends

Violent crime stands at 455.8 per 100K, which is higher than both the state (314.8) and national (369.8) averages. Property crime is also elevated at 2,063.7 per 100K. Residents should be aware that both categories show higher activity levels than neighboring counties.

Proactive Security for Muskegon Homes

With rates above the national average, installing a comprehensive security system is highly recommended. Use deadbolts, smart cameras, and alarm systems to protect your property. Community involvement and reporting suspicious activity can help drive these rates down.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Muskegon County

via HealthByCounty

Muskegon's health lags national average

At 75.1 years, Muskegon County's life expectancy falls 1.3 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years, indicating health challenges beyond typical for American counties. The 19.2% poor/fair health rate ranks above the national average of 18%, reflecting a higher burden of reported poor health among residents.

Among Michigan's lowest life expectancies

Muskegon's 75.1-year life expectancy ranks 1.2 years below Michigan's state average of 76.3 years, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. At 5.1% uninsured, Muskegon is actually slightly below Michigan's 6.4% state average for uninsured rates, suggesting coverage is less the barrier than health outcomes.

Better provider access, worse outcomes

Muskegon offers 56 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 270 mental health providers per 100,000, both above state averages and neighboring rural counties. Yet its life expectancy and poor/fair health rates are worse than most peers, suggesting socioeconomic factors and chronic disease prevalence drive the county's health gap.

Access exists, but health barriers remain

Muskegon's relatively low 5.1% uninsured rate means most residents have financial access to providers, but nearly 1 in 5 report poor or fair health. This disconnect suggests that factors like poverty, chronic disease, substance use, or limited health literacy are constraining health outcomes despite adequate provider availability.

Insurance covers you; take the next step

Most Muskegon residents already have insurance, but if you don't, enrolling at Healthcare.gov removes a major barrier to care. Once covered, schedule preventive appointments and chronic disease management visits—they're the foundation of better health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Muskegon County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse School Infrastructure in Muskegon

Muskegon County hosts 68 public schools and 18 districts, supporting a large student population of 25,548. The system provides extensive coverage across 31 elementary schools and 22 high schools.

Solid Performance and Efficient Spending

The county maintains an 80.4% graduation rate, nearing the state average of 82.5%. With a per-pupil expenditure of $6,907, local schools achieve a composite score of 48.3, remaining competitive within the Michigan landscape.

Leading Districts and Charter Presence

Reeths-Puffer Schools is the largest district with 3,509 students, followed by Muskegon Public Schools with 3,320. Charter schools are a significant part of the community, with 8 schools representing nearly 12% of all options.

A Mix of Suburb and City Life

The county features a diverse locale mix including 34 suburban, 14 city, and 16 rural schools. Mona Shores High School is the largest in the county with 1,268 students, while the overall average school size is 387.

Find Your Home Near Muskegon Schools

From lakeside suburban campuses to urban centers, Muskegon County offers educational variety for every type of homebuyer. Consider exploring property near top-performing districts like Mona Shores or Fruitport for your family’s next chapter.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Muskegon County

via RiskByCounty

Muskegon faces above-average disaster risk

Muskegon County's composite risk score of 70.10 significantly exceeds the national average, earning a "Relatively Low" rating that reflects meaningful but manageable hazard exposure. The county's risk is 41% higher than the typical U.S. county, indicating substantial natural disaster vulnerability.

Among Michigan's highest-risk counties

Muskegon's 70.10 score ranks it among Michigan's most hazardous communities, sitting 41% above the state average of 49.56. Only Monroe County (82.47) and Oakland County (97.52) face significantly higher composite risk in Michigan.

Significantly riskier than nearby areas

Muskegon's 70.10 score substantially exceeds neighboring Newaygo County (47.07) and Montcalm County (56.87), making it a clear hazard hotspot in west Michigan. Only the high-risk counties to the south and east present comparable exposure levels.

Tornadoes and floods are critical threats

Tornado risk of 80.41 and flood risk of 77.74 dominate Muskegon's hazard profile, creating dual exposure to severe wind and water damage. These two hazards account for the bulk of the county's elevated composite score and pose the greatest threat to residents.

Comprehensive insurance is non-negotiable

Muskegon County homeowners must prioritize both flood insurance and tornado/wind coverage riders, as these are the county's most significant natural disaster threats. Review your property's flood zone status immediately and ensure your policy's coverage limits match your home's replacement value.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Muskegon County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Lakeshore Living

Muskegon's 48.2°F annual average is more temperate than its northern neighbors but still falls short of the national 53°F median. The Lake Michigan influence creates a unique coastal climate that moderates temperature swings.

Warmer Than the State Median

At 48.2°F, Muskegon ranks as one of the warmer counties in Michigan, exceeding the state average of 45.7°F. It also receives 35.1 inches of precipitation, slightly more than the state average of 34.5 inches.

Warmest on the Coast

Muskegon is significantly warmer than Oceana County to the north, which averages just 46.2°F. While both share the lakeshore, Muskegon's 48.2°F average makes it a regional warm spot.

Heavy Snow and Mild Heat

Muskegon faces 78.1 inches of annual snowfall, a result of intense lake-effect patterns. Despite the snow, extreme summer heat is very rare, with only 2 days per year hitting 90°F.

Prioritize Snow Removal and Insulation

Invest in a high-capacity snowblower to manage the 78.1 inches of annual snow. Residents can save on cooling costs, as the lake breeze keeps July averages at a comfortable 70.3°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Muskegon County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Entisols and Sandy Bases

Muskegon County is dominated by Entisols with an average pH of 5.32. These relatively young soils are acidic compared to the national median but align perfectly with the Michigan state average.

Dominated by Pure Sand

True to its lakeshore location, the soil is 64.7% sand and only 10.2% clay. This texture is classified as sand, meaning it is incredibly easy to dig but provides very little natural structure.

Solid Organic Foundation

The soil contains 9.62% organic matter, which is nearly five times the national average. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.167 in/in is below the state average, reflecting the soil's sand-heavy nature.

Excessive Drainage Requires Care

This soil is classified as excessively drained, meaning water passes through it almost immediately. This is excellent for preventing puddles but means plants will need frequent watering during the summer months.

Lakeshore Potential in Zone 6a

The tempering effect of Lake Michigan places Muskegon in zone 6a. This allows for a variety of crops, including asparagus and berries, which thrive in sandy, well-drained coastal soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Muskegon County

via LawnByCounty

Muskegon Nears the State Average

A lawn difficulty score of 59.0 puts Muskegon County just below the Michigan average of 60.1. Located in Zone 6a, the lake-influenced climate provides a relatively temperate environment for turf.

Temperate Summers with Low Heat Stress

Muskegon enjoys very few extreme heat days, averaging only 2 per year compared to the state average of 7. This, combined with 35.1 inches of rain, creates a low-stress environment for cool-season grasses.

Excessively Drained Sandy Soil Challenges

The soil is classified as sand, containing 64.7% sand and only 10.2% clay. Because of the rapid drainage and acidic 5.32 pH, you will need more frequent, lighter watering and consistent lime applications.

Monitoring Moisture in Sandier Areas

Muskegon faced 26 weeks of drought in the past year, though current conditions show no active drought. In these excessively drained sandy soils, adding organic compost can help retain moisture during future dry spells.

Safe Seeding in Late Spring

Hard Fescue is a great choice for Muskegon’s sandy soils and Zone 6a climate. Aim to start your lawn after May 19 to avoid late-season frosts that could kill tender new sprouts.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Muskegon County's county score?
Muskegon County, Michigan has a composite county score of 33.8 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 Muskegon County rank among counties in Michigan?
Muskegon County ranks #76 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 Muskegon County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Muskegon County is $2,280, with an effective tax rate of 1.26%. This earns Muskegon County a tax score of 22.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Muskegon County?
The median household income in Muskegon County, Michigan is $63,495 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Muskegon County earns an income score of 49.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Muskegon County, Michigan a good place to live?
Muskegon County scores 33.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #76 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Muskegon 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 Muskegon County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.