countyscore
41.7
County Score
Disaster Risk 63.1Cost of Living 62.1Health 52.2

County Report Card

About Ogemaw County, Michigan

Ogemaw County Trails National Median Scores

Ogemaw County earns a composite livability score of 41.7, falling below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects significant economic and educational hurdles compared to counties across the country.

Trailing Michigan's Statewide Livability Average

The county lags behind the Michigan average composite score of 47.1. While local costs remain manageable, the overall quality of life metrics suggest a gap between Ogemaw and more developed areas of the state.

Natural Resilience and High Affordability

Ogemaw excels in environmental resilience with a risk score of 63.1 and maintains a strong cost score of 62.1. Median home values sit at a highly accessible $138,600, making property ownership a realistic goal for residents.

Education and Income Need Significant Support

The county faces its steepest climb in education, where it scores a 9.5 out of 100. Additionally, the income score of 18.4 reflects a median household income of $51,983, which is lower than many peer counties.

A Haven for Low-Cost Rural Living

Ogemaw County is best suited for retirees or remote workers who prioritize low housing costs and low environmental risk over local career advancement. It offers a budget-friendly lifestyle for those who do not rely on local school systems.

Score breakdown

Tax36.5Cost62.1Safety44.1Health52.2Schools9.5Income18.4Risk63.1Water28.2Weather48.4
🏛36.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠62.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼18.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡44.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓9.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡63.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧28.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨49.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.5
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

Roscommon County
Michigan
47.4
Arenac County
Michigan
51.9
Gladwin County
Michigan
49.4
Oscoda County
Michigan
54.3
Iosco County
Michigan
50.3
Crawford County
Michigan
49.5
Clare County
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Alcona County
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Deep Dives

Ogemaw County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ogemaw County

via TaxByCounty

Ogemaw taxes well below national average

Ogemaw County's effective tax rate of 1.022% sits comfortably below the national median of 1.1%, putting homeowners here in the lower half nationally. The median property tax bill of $1,417 is less than half the national median of $2,690, reflecting both lower home values and a tax-friendly rate.

Among Michigan's lowest tax counties

Ogemaw's 1.022% effective rate is the 5th-lowest among Michigan's 83 counties, beating the state average of 1.166% by a significant margin. The county's median tax bill of $1,417 is well below Michigan's median of $2,102.

Competitive with surrounding northern Michigan counties

Ogemaw's rate of 1.022% matches Presque Isle County and beats nearby Ontonagon (1.232%) and Osceola (1.059%). Among the immediate region, only Oscoda (0.938%) and Otsego (0.891%) offer lower effective rates.

A $138,600 home costs about $1,417 yearly

With a median home value of $138,600, Ogemaw homeowners pay a median annual tax of $1,417. Adding mortgage-related assessments, the bill rises to approximately $1,467 for most properties with mortgages.

Check your assessment for overvaluation

Many Michigan homeowners discover their properties are overassessed relative to market value. If your home's assessed value exceeds recent comparable sales in your area, filing a property tax appeal could reduce your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ogemaw County

via CostByCounty

Ogemaw rents stretch income farther than U.S. average

Ogemaw County residents spend 19.1% of their income on rent, compared to the national average of roughly 30%, making housing more affordable here than across most of America. However, the county's median household income of $51,983 runs 30% below the national median of $74,755, meaning affordability comes partly from lower wages overall.

Above-average rent burden in Michigan

Ogemaw's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Michigan's state average of 16.3%, placing it among less affordable counties in the state. The median rent of $828 per month also tops the state's median of $873, reflecting higher local demand relative to incomes.

Pricier than Osceola but cheaper than Otsego

Ogemaw's median rent of $828 sits between neighboring Osceola County ($764) and Otsego County ($880), but its rent burden is higher due to lower incomes. Renters here pay proportionally more of their paychecks toward housing than those in adjacent Osceola or Oscoda counties.

Renters and owners both stretched tight

Median gross rent of $828 and median monthly owner costs of $702 consume roughly a third of monthly household income after taxes. At current income levels, both renting and buying in Ogemaw leaves limited money for other expenses.

Consider Ogemaw's trade-offs carefully

If you're relocating to northern Michigan, Ogemaw offers moderate rent relative to the nation but above-state-average burden; Osceola County offers slightly cheaper rent with better affordability ratios. Compare your expected salary against these local income figures before committing to the move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ogemaw County

via IncomeByCounty

Ogemaw lags far behind national income

Ogemaw County's median household income of $51,983 falls nearly $23,000 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the bottom third of all U.S. counties. This gap reflects the county's reliance on manufacturing and seasonal industries that typically offer lower wage growth. Residents here earn roughly 70 cents for every dollar earned by the typical American household.

Among Michigan's lower-income counties

At $51,983, Ogemaw ranks below Michigan's state median of $64,304 by nearly $12,400, placing it in the bottom tier of the state's 83 counties. The county's per capita income of $30,529 also trails the state average of $35,451 by about 14%. These metrics suggest limited job diversification and wage stagnation across Ogemaw's employment base.

Ogemaw middle-of-the-road among peers

Ogemaw's $51,983 income sits between Oscoda County ($50,581) and Ontonagon County ($51,844), making it roughly average for Michigan's rural northern tier. However, it significantly trails the regional standout Otsego County ($67,285), suggesting economic divergence across neighboring communities. This pattern reflects differences in tourism, healthcare, and education sector strength.

Rent remains manageable but income tight

Ogemaw's rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% sits above the healthy threshold of 15-18%, meaning renters spend nearly one-fifth of gross income on housing. While median home values of $138,600 remain affordable compared to state averages, the gap between household income and local costs leaves little room for savings or emergencies. Households here must carefully budget to cover basic expenses and unexpected costs.

Build financial security despite constraints

Even with modest incomes, Ogemaw residents can strengthen financial stability through consistent saving—starting with 5–10% of household income redirected to emergency funds and retirement accounts. Consider leveraging low-cost index funds or employer 401(k) matches to build wealth over time, and explore local workforce development programs that may unlock higher-wage job opportunities. Small, disciplined financial choices compound significantly over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ogemaw County

via CrimeByCounty

Ogemaw County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

Ogemaw County reports a total crime rate of 1258.4 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive data translates to a safety score of 98.0 out of 100. Residents enjoy a community that is statistically much safer than the typical American county.

Above Average Safety in Michigan

Ogemaw’s safety score of 98.0 sits above the Michigan state average of 97.8. The county's total crime rate of 1258.4 per 100K remains well below the statewide average of 1371.8. This positioning marks Ogemaw as a secure choice within the Great Lakes State.

A Stable Profile Among Northern Neighbors

Ogemaw County maintains a lower crime rate than nearby Osceola County, which reports 1350.9 incidents per 100K. While its rate is higher than Oscoda County’s 955.9, Ogemaw remains a regional leader in public safety. These numbers highlight a consistent trend of low crime across this part of Michigan.

Property Crimes Predominate the Local Landscape

Property crime accounts for 931.8 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 326.6. These figures suggest that the vast majority of local law enforcement activity involves theft or vandalism rather than physical harm. Most residents will never experience a violent encounter based on these current trends.

Smart Steps for a Secure Home

Even in high-safety areas, most incidents in Ogemaw involve property theft. Installing motion-activated lighting and ensuring all entry points are visible can deter opportunistic crimes. Simple habits like locking garage doors help maintain the county’s strong safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ogemaw County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy gap widens here

Ogemaw County residents live to 73.6 years on average, nearly 7 years shorter than the U.S. average of 80.7 years. Nearly 18% of adults report poor or fair health, compared to the national average of about 15%.

Below Michigan's health benchmark

At 73.6 years, Ogemaw County's life expectancy trails Michigan's state average of 76.3 years by 2.7 years. This gap reflects both chronic disease burden and healthcare access challenges in the county.

Among the shortest lifespans here

Ogemaw's 73.6-year life expectancy ranks at the lower end of neighboring counties—Osceola leads the region at 76.9 years while Oscoda, at 72.8 years, is the only peer closer to the bottom. The 4-year spread among neighbors suggests uneven health infrastructure across northeast Michigan.

Primary care shortage compounds gaps

Just 15 primary care providers per 100,000 residents serve Ogemaw—less than half the density in healthier neighboring counties. With a 7.4% uninsured rate and limited physician supply, many residents delay care or travel significant distances for routine checkups.

Check your coverage options today

If you're uninsured or underinsured, Michigan's open enrollment period offers plans through healthcare.gov or the state marketplace. A few minutes now can connect you to preventive care and help narrow Ogemaw's persistent health gap.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ogemaw County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network Serving Nearly 2,000 Students

Ogemaw County manages five public schools, including two elementary schools and two high schools, across two districts. This infrastructure supports a total enrollment of 1,989 students. The landscape features a mix of traditional public education and alternative learning options.

Lower Investment Amid Challenging Outcomes

The county's graduation rate stands at 73.6%, trailing both the Michigan average of 82.5% and the national mark of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,102, which is significantly lower than the state average of $7,394. Consequently, the county's school score of 43.0 sits below the national median.

West Branch-Rose City Leads Local Education

West Branch-Rose City Area Schools is the dominant provider, educating 1,871 students across four schools. The county also hosts one charter institution, the Alternative Educational Academy of Ogemaw County, which accounts for 20% of all local schools. These two districts define the academic path for Ogemaw families.

Small, Rural Campuses Define Student Life

Every school in the county is classified as rural, creating a close-knit environment with an average school size of 398 students. Surline Elementary is the largest campus with 601 students, while Rose City School provides a more intimate setting with just 115 students. This rural focus ensures that education is deeply rooted in the local community.

Finding Your Place in Ogemaw Schools

Families looking for a rural lifestyle often prioritize proximity to the West Branch schools. While performance metrics show room for growth, the small campus sizes offer a personalized atmosphere for local children. Explore homes near Surline Elementary to stay connected to the county's educational hub.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ogemaw County

via RiskByCounty

Ogemaw's risk: well below national average

With a composite risk score of 36.96, Ogemaw County ranks as Very Low—significantly safer than the typical U.S. county. This score reflects a county where natural disaster hazards pose minimal threat to homes and communities across the region.

Among Michigan's safest counties

Ogemaw's score of 36.96 sits well below Michigan's state average of 49.56, placing it in the safer tier of Michigan counties. The county benefits from a geographic profile that limits exposure to most major natural disaster types.

Comparable to nearby northern Michigan counties

Ogemaw's risk profile mirrors its neighbors—Osceola County (23.92) and Otsego County (18.42) are similarly protected. All three counties experience much lower composite risk than Ottawa County (82.89) to the south, which faces significantly higher tornado and flood threats.

Wildfire and flood pose modest threats

Wildfire risk (61.39) is Ogemaw's most elevated hazard, though still manageable with standard precautions. Flood risk (43.13) and tornado risk (36.20) round out the county's exposure profile, each remaining below statewide averages.

Standard homeowner coverage suffices here

Ogemaw residents should maintain standard homeowner's insurance, which covers wind and weather events, along with basic wildfire defensibility measures around their property. Given the county's low composite risk, catastrophic coverage is generally unnecessary, though flood insurance makes sense in mapped flood zones.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ogemaw County

via WeatherByCounty

Crisp Northern Air

Ogemaw County's 44.0°F annual average is much lower than the national median, signaling a true northern climate. The county experiences a shorter growing season and longer periods of frost.

Below the Michigan Median

Ogemaw is cooler than the state average, coming in at 44.0°F compared to Michigan's 45.7°F. Its annual precipitation of 33.5 inches is slightly below the state's 34.5-inch average.

Typical for the Region

Ogemaw's 44.0°F average is nearly identical to neighboring Oscoda County's 44.6°F. It receives 53.0 inches of snow, which is standard for this part of the Northern Lower Peninsula.

Deep Freezes and Pleasant Summers

January is particularly cold here, with an average temperature of just 18.7°F. In contrast, July is mild at 67.8°F, and the county sees only 7 days of 90-degree heat.

Insulate for Cold Winters

Homeowners should prioritize attic insulation and window sealing to combat the 18.7°F January average. Expect to manage 53.0 inches of snow throughout a winter season that begins early and ends late.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ogemaw County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Sandy Ogemaw Grounds

Ogemaw County soils are noticeably acidic with an average pH of 5.19, which sits well below the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic classification data is limited here, the chemical profile is slightly more acidic than the Michigan state average of 5.30. This acidity typically requires amendments like lime for most traditional gardening projects.

High Sand Limits Water Retention

The soil composition is dominated by sand at 67.6%, making for a very loose and workable texture. Silt and clay comprise only 14.6% and 10.1% of the mix respectively, which means the ground resists compaction but may struggle to hold onto nutrients. This gritty profile allows for easy digging but necessitates frequent watering during dry spells.

Strong Organic Matter Levels

Ogemaw boasts a 14.13% organic matter content, which is seven times higher than the national average of 2.0%. However, its available water capacity of 0.154 in/in falls short of the Michigan state average of 0.202. This indicates that while the soil is rich in carbon, it may not hold moisture as effectively as neighboring counties.

Managing Unclassified Drainage Realities

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted for this county's primary soil profiles. However, the high 67.6% sand content suggests a naturally fast-draining environment that likely prevents pooling after heavy rains. Gardeners should monitor their plots closely to ensure crops don't dry out too quickly in this permeable substrate.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 5a

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, Ogemaw County supports cool-weather staples like potatoes and berries that tolerate acidic conditions. The high sand content is particularly well-suited for root vegetables if you supplement the soil with consistent moisture. Start your garden today by focusing on acid-loving perennials that thrive in Michigan’s northern climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ogemaw County

via LawnByCounty

Ogemaw County Lawn Difficulty Analysis

Ogemaw County earns a lawn difficulty score of 49.5, sitting just below the national average of 50.0. This Hardiness Zone 5a region is significantly more challenging than the Michigan state average of 60.1.

Precipitation and Heat Stress

Annual precipitation of 33.5 inches falls slightly below the state average, requiring attentive watering during the 2030 growing degree day season. With only 7 extreme heat days per year, your grass faces less thermal stress than many southern neighbors.

Managing Sandy Acidic Soil

The ground here is sandy at 67.6% and highly acidic with a 5.19 pH. You need significant lime applications to bring the soil closer to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for healthy turf.

Battling Dry Spells in Ogemaw

Lawns here spent 27 weeks in drought over the past year, and 72.2% of the county currently feels abnormally dry. Deep, infrequent watering is essential to encourage deep root systems during these dry spells.

Seeding for Success in 5a

Plant cool-season favorites like Kentucky Bluegrass or Fine Fescue to thrive in this 5a zone. Aim to finish seeding between the last spring frost on May 21 and the first fall frost on October 4.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ogemaw County's county score?
Ogemaw County, Michigan has a composite county score of 41.7 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 Ogemaw County rank among counties in Michigan?
Ogemaw County ranks #59 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 Ogemaw County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Ogemaw County is $1,417, with an effective tax rate of 1.02%. This earns Ogemaw County a tax score of 36.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ogemaw County?
The median household income in Ogemaw County, Michigan is $51,983 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ogemaw County earns an income score of 18.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ogemaw County, Michigan a good place to live?
Ogemaw County scores 41.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #59 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Ogemaw 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 Ogemaw 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.