countyscore
50
County Score
Safety 69.6Health 65.4Lawn Care 55.9

County Report Card

About Newaygo County, Michigan

Matching the national middle

Newaygo County scores exactly 50.0, landing perfectly on the national median. It represents the quintessential American baseline for quality of life. This balanced profile offers a stable environment for its residents.

Exceeding the Michigan average

Newaygo outpaces the Michigan state average of 47.1. It provides a more balanced profile than many of the more industrialized or high-tax counties in the state. This makes it an attractive middle-ground option for Michigan residents.

Reliable safety and healthcare

Safety is a core strength here, with a score of 69.6, paired with a solid health score of 65.4. Residents also benefit from a moderate risk score of 52.9. These scores indicate a secure and healthy community atmosphere.

Taxes and water quality concerns

The county's tax score of 28.1 is a point of concern, driven by a 1.151% effective rate. Water quality also lags with a score of 42.8, while schools are slightly below average at 38.5. These are the primary areas where the county could improve its livability.

Perfect for safety-conscious families

Newaygo is an excellent choice for families seeking a safe, stable environment at a reasonable price. The $882 median rent and high safety score make it a practical home for those commuting to larger hubs. It offers a dependable, middle-class lifestyle with strong community security.

2040608010028.144.769.665.438.54552.942.855.8Tax28.1Cost44.7Safety69.6Health65.4Schools38.5Income45Risk52.9Water42.8Weather55.850/100
This county
National avg
2 above average3 below average

Newaygo County DNA

Foverall

How Newaygo County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Newaygo County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (65.4/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (28.1/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
28.1-23.9
Cost
44.7
Safety
69.6+14.599999999999994
Health
65.4+15.400000000000006
Schools
38.5-15.5
Income
45
Risk
52.9
Water
42.8-15.200000000000003
Weather
55.8
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Many homeowners in Newaygo County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$178,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$882/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$178,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$35,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $61,931/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

17.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Newaygo County with Fayette County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Muskegon County
Michigan
33.8
Mecosta County
Michigan
42.1
Montcalm County
Michigan
38
Kent County
Michigan
36.8
Oceana County
Michigan
46
Ottawa County
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Lake County
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Mason County
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Deep Dives

Newaygo County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Newaygo County

via TaxByCounty

Newaygo taxes slightly above national median

Newaygo's effective tax rate of 1.151% sits just below the national median of 1.099%, placing it near the center of the national distribution. The median annual property tax of $2,052 is about 24% below the national median of $2,690, reflecting affordable property values in the county.

Slightly below Michigan average

Newaygo's 1.151% effective rate falls just shy of Michigan's 1.166% average, ranking it in the middle cohort of the state's counties. This near-parity position makes Newaygo typical for Michigan property owners.

Moderate taxes among regional peers

Newaygo's 1.151% rate sits between Montcalm (1.075%) and Oceana (1.143%), occupying the middle ground in the west-central Michigan tax spectrum. The county avoids both extreme tax relief and steep burdens.

What $178,300 home costs annually

A Newaygo County homeowner with a median-valued property pays approximately $2,052 in annual property taxes. When mortgage-related adjustments are included, the total reaches about $2,266 per year.

Appeal if your assessment is high

Newaygo homeowners should confirm their assessment aligns with recent comparable property sales in their area. If your property was reassessed at a value above its fair market worth, file an appeal with the assessor for potential tax relief.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Newaygo County

via CostByCounty

Newaygo bears moderate housing pressure

Newaygo residents spend 17.1% of income on rent, exceeding the national average of 16.3% while earning $12,824 less than U.S. median households. This gap reflects above-average cost pressure relative to local earning power, suggesting some housing affordability challenge.

Slightly above Michigan's midpoint

Newaygo's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Michigan's 16.3% state average by a narrow margin, placing it just outside the state's most affordable tier. The county ranks in Michigan's middle affordability band, neither particularly strained nor especially favorable for renters.

Middle ground in a mixed region

Newaygo's $882 rent sits midway between Montcalm ($867) and Muskegon ($960), with a 17.1% burden that falls between Montcalm's best-in-class 16.0% and Muskegon's 18.1%. The county's positioning reflects a balanced but slightly stretched rental market compared to its most competitive peers.

Housing takes modest but notable share

Newaygo's $61,931 median income supports $882 monthly rent (17.1%) and $868 ownership costs (16.8%), both slightly above the efficient 16% threshold. This modest but consistent strain means residents here retain slightly less discretionary income than the most affordable Michigan counties.

A reasonable fit for average-earning movers

Newaygo's 17.1% rent-to-income ratio signals moderate affordability—manageable for those earning near or above the county median, but tight for lower earners. Compare this burden to your current housing cost situation to determine if Newaygo offers meaningful financial relief or represents a lateral move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Newaygo County

via IncomeByCounty

Newaygo trails national income benchmark

Newaygo County's median household income of $61,931 falls about $12,800 below the national median of $74,755. This 17% gap reflects moderate income challenges compared to the typical U.S. household.

Below Michigan's average county income

At $61,931, Newaygo County's median household income trails Michigan's county average of $64,304 by roughly $2,400. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of Michigan's 83 counties by household earnings.

Similar income to nearby rural counties

Newaygo's median income of $61,931 closely matches Missaukee ($61,868) and trails Montcalm ($64,892) by a modest margin. Monroe County to the southeast and Oakland County further away earn substantially more.

Efficient housing costs boost budgets

Newaygo's rent-to-income ratio of 17.1% ranks among the lowest in the comparison, keeping housing affordable for typical households. With a median home value of $178,300, homeownership remains within reach for families earning the county median.

Low housing burden enables saving

Because housing costs stay just above 17% of income in Newaygo, residents have meaningful opportunity to save and invest. Establishing a regular savings plan and exploring tax-advantaged retirement accounts can help compound wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Newaygo County

via CrimeByCounty

Newaygo County's Exceptional Safety Score

Newaygo County is a very safe place to live, earning a safety score of 98.9. The total crime rate of 712.2 per 100K is far below the national average of 2,385.5. It offers a much more secure environment than the average U.S. county.

A Leader in State Safety

The county's safety score of 98.9 beats the Michigan average of 97.8 by a healthy margin. Its crime rate of 712.2 is roughly half the statewide average of 1,371.8. Local law enforcement maintains a high level of public order.

Comparing Newaygo to Nearby Counties

Newaygo is much safer than neighboring Muskegon, where the crime rate is 2,519.5. It also outperforms Montcalm County's rate of 1,651.7. Residents enjoy one of the lowest crime rates in the western Michigan region.

Breakdown of Local Crime Data

Violent crime is impressively low at 157.6 per 100K, less than half the national average. Property crime sits at 554.6, which is also significantly below the national rate of 2,015.7. Most crime in the county is property-related, but even those incidents are rare.

Smart Security for Newaygo Residents

Even in low-crime areas, keeping doors locked and windows secure is essential. Consider joining a local neighborhood watch to help maintain these high safety standards. Small prevention steps ensure Newaygo remains a top-tier safe community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Newaygo County

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad School Network in Newaygo

Newaygo County operates 23 public schools across seven districts, serving 7,064 students. The network is well-balanced with 8 elementary, 5 middle, and 9 high schools providing coverage for the whole county.

Exceeding State Education Benchmarks

Newaygo outpaces the Michigan average with a 84.5% graduation rate and a school score of 52.0. The county invests $7,619 per pupil, which is higher than the state average and reflects a strong commitment to education.

Fremont and Grant Lead Enrollment

Fremont Public School District is the county's largest with 2,092 students, followed by Grant Public with 1,638. All 23 schools are traditional public institutions, as the county currently has no charter schools.

Rural and Town Centered Education

Education is mostly rural, with 19 schools in rural areas and 4 in town settings. The average enrollment is 321 students, with Fremont High School serving as the largest campus at 674 students.

Settle Down Near Quality Schools

With graduation rates and spending that exceed state averages, Newaygo County is a premier choice for education-focused families. Explore available homes in the Fremont or Newaygo districts to secure a place in these high-achieving communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Newaygo County

via RiskByCounty

Newaygo's disaster risk slightly exceeds national average

Newaygo County's composite risk score of 47.07 sits just below the national average, earning a "Relatively Low" rating that reflects modest natural disaster exposure. The county's risk profile is comparable to the typical U.S. county, with moderate vulnerabilities across multiple hazard types.

Below Michigan's average risk level

Newaygo's 47.07 score ranks it slightly below Michigan's average of 49.56, positioning the county in the safer half of the state's communities. This places Newaygo among Michigan's more protected counties, with hazard exposure below most of the state.

Middle ground between safer and riskier neighbors

Newaygo's 47.07 score sits between Montcalm County (56.87) to the east and Oceana County (33.72) to the west, reflecting a transition zone in west-central Michigan risk levels. Muskegon County (70.10) to the north presents notably higher exposure.

Tornado and flood risks are primary concerns

Tornado risk of 45.36 and flood risk of 60.08 are Newaygo's highest hazard exposures, with wildfire risk at 44.82 adding a third consideration. These three hazards account for most of the county's moderate composite risk score.

Standard coverage plus flood insurance recommended

Newaygo County homeowners should obtain standard homeowners insurance with tornado/wind riders and evaluate flood risk carefully based on property location. Residents in mapped flood zones should secure separate flood insurance, while others in flood-prone areas may want to add coverage as an extra precaution.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Newaygo County

via WaterByCounty

Newaygo Drinking Water Faces Compliance Challenges

Newaygo County receives a Grade D after recording 3 health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 27.1 per 100,000 people is higher than many neighbors, though it remains below the Michigan state average of 35.7. These violations indicate a need for continued infrastructure focus.

Watershed Assessment Coverage Pending

Local water bodies in Newaygo County are not currently assessed under the federal §303(d) standards. Without this data, the overall health of local watersheds relative to national standards remains undefined. Monitoring efforts fill the gap by tracking physical and microbiological indicators.

Extensive Sampling Across 32 Monitoring Sites

Over the past five years, 32 monitoring sites in Newaygo have recorded 11,566 measurements. This high volume of data centers on physical and microbiological characteristics to track water quality. The abundance of readings provides a strong scientific basis for local health decisions.

Muskegon River Flow Surges Above Mean

The Muskegon River at Bridgeton is currently discharging 5,200 cfs, which is 186% of its long-term mean. This high flow drains a massive 2,460-square-mile area and signals a significant increase in water volume. Such conditions can impact source water characteristics due to increased runoff.

Monitor Water Safety During High Flows

With a Grade D and 186% of typical river flow, residents should be extra vigilant about water quality notifications. High Muskegon River discharge can lead to increased turbidity and runoff contaminants. Check your local utility's annual report to understand the nature of the three recent health violations.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Newaygo County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Continental Conditions

Newaygo County's 46.2°F average annual temperature sits below the national median but reflects a classic Great Lakes climate. It receives 37.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than many inland U.S. counties.

Typical Michigan Temperatures

Newaygo ranks slightly above the Michigan state average temperature of 45.7°F. Its 37.1 inches of annual rainfall and snowmelt makes it wetter than the 34.5-inch state average.

Wetter Than Southern Neighbors

Newaygo shares an identical 46.2°F average with Oceana County to the west. However, it is slightly drier than Oceana, which receives 37.4 inches of annual precipitation.

Snowy Winters and Quiet Summers

The county receives 63.8 inches of snow annually, keeping winters busy for road crews. Summers are mild, with 90-degree days occurring only 4 times per year on average.

Gear Up for Deep Snow

Homeowners should ensure roofs are rated for heavy snow loads, given the 63.8-inch annual total. Energy-efficient heating is a must for the 22.7°F January average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Newaygo County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Soils for Forest Growth

Newaygo County soil has an average pH of 5.14, which is lower than the Michigan state average of 5.30. This acidity level is common in the region's diverse forested landscapes and agricultural fields.

High Sand and Minimal Clay

The soil is remarkably sandy at 69.5%, with a very low clay content of only 6.0%. This composition makes the soil lightweight and easy to work, though it holds very little tension for building or water storage.

Abundant Organic Material

Organic matter is a strong point at 12.95%, though it trails the high Michigan average. The available water capacity is 0.152 in/in, indicating that the soil is prone to drying out more quickly than the state median.

Rapid Water Flow Dynamics

While official drainage classes aren't recorded here, the low clay and high sand percentages suggest rapid drainage. This prevents waterlogging but may require soil amendments to keep moisture near the root zone.

Hardy Crops for Zone 5b

In hardiness zone 5b, Newaygo is well-suited for a variety of northern vegetables and fruits. Start a garden with beans, peas, or potatoes, which tolerate the sandy texture and cool climate well.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Newaygo County

via LawnByCounty

Newaygo County Offers Average Difficulty

With a score of 55.9, Newaygo sits slightly above the national median but below the Michigan state average of 60.1. This Zone 5b county provides a standard environment for local lawn enthusiasts.

High Rainfall Supports Natural Growth

Newaygo receives 37.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the state average of 34.4. Very few extreme heat days—just 4 per year—help keep grass from burning out during the summer months.

High Sand Content Limits Nutrients

The soil is 69.5% sand, which leads to quick drainage but also low nutrient retention. With a pH of 5.14, your lawn will likely require lime and slow-release fertilizers to reach its full potential.

Managing Abnormally Dry Conditions

Currently, 64.7% of the county is abnormally dry after 26 weeks of drought over the past year. Since sandy soil dries out quickly, prioritizing morning watering can reduce evaporation and help your grass survive these dry stretches.

Early May Start for Lawns

The last spring frost typically hits around May 8, giving you a healthy window for spring seeding. Kentucky Bluegrass is well-suited for the 2272 growing degree days this region experiences.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Newaygo County's county score?
Newaygo County, Michigan has a composite county score of 50 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 Newaygo County rank among counties in Michigan?
Newaygo County ranks #39 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 Newaygo County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Newaygo County is $2,052, with an effective tax rate of 1.15%. This earns Newaygo County a tax score of 28.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Newaygo County?
The median household income in Newaygo County, Michigan is $61,931 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Newaygo County earns an income score of 45/100 on CountyScore.
Is Newaygo County, Michigan a good place to live?
Newaygo County scores 50/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #39 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Newaygo 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 Newaygo County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.