countyscore
51.2
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 76.1Health 68.2

County Report Card

About Osceola County, Michigan

Osceola Edges Out the National Median

Osceola County earns a composite score of 51.2, placing it slightly above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a balanced quality of life that competes well with the typical American county.

Performing Above the Michigan Average

At 51.2, Osceola outperforms the Michigan state average of 47.1. It provides a reliable mid-range option for Michiganders looking for a blend of affordability and health.

Clean Water and Strong Health Scores

Osceola shines with a water score of 86.0 and a health score of 68.2. Residents also benefit from a solid risk score of 76.1, indicating high resilience to environmental hazards.

Income and Safety Metrics Lag Slightly

The county's income score of 30.5 reflects a median household income of $57,050, leaving room for economic development. A safety score of 40.6 suggests that crime prevention remains a point for local improvement.

A Reliable Choice for Health-Conscious Families

Osceola County is a strong fit for families who value environmental health and clean resources. It offers a stable, middle-of-the-road lifestyle with high scores in essential natural dimensions.

Score breakdown

Tax33.9Cost66.2Safety40.6Health68.2Schools39.5Income30.5Risk76.1Water86Weather48.3
🏛33.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠66.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼30.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡40.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤68.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.1
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 →
🪨54.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.3
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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Compare Osceola County with Alpine County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Missaukee County
Michigan
50.2
Lake County
Michigan
55.2
Clare County
Michigan
43.1
Wexford County
Michigan
36.8
Mecosta County
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Isabella County
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Roscommon County
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Manistee County
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41.9

Deep Dives

Osceola County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Osceola County

via TaxByCounty

Osceola keeps taxes well below the nation

Osceola County's effective tax rate of 1.059% falls below the national median of 1.1%, and its median tax bill of $1,478 represents only 55% of the national median of $2,690. The county offers moderate property tax burden relative to the rest of the country.

Below-average Michigan property tax county

Osceola's 1.059% effective rate beats Michigan's state average of 1.166%, placing it among the lower-taxed counties statewide. The median tax bill of $1,478 is roughly 70% of the state median of $2,102.

Middle of the pack regionally

Osceola's 1.059% rate sits between higher-taxed Ontonagon (1.232%) and lower-taxed Oscoda (0.938%) and Otsego (0.891%). The county offers a moderate tax burden compared to its northern Michigan neighbors.

A $139,600 home costs about $1,478 yearly

With a median home value of $139,600, Osceola homeowners pay a median annual tax of $1,478. Adding mortgage-related tax adjustments brings the typical bill to approximately $1,592.

Review assessments to catch overvaluation

Osceola homeowners should compare their property's assessed value to recent sales of similar homes in their township. If your assessment exceeds fair market value, filing an appeal could yield meaningful tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Osceola County

via CostByCounty

Osceola housing nearly matches national affordability

Osceola County's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the U.S. norm and demonstrates solid housing affordability despite a median income of $57,050—23% below the national average. Renters here keep more of their income than typical Americans, a significant advantage in cost-of-living comparisons.

Nearly perfect Michigan alignment on affordability

Osceola's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches Michigan's state average of 16.3%, positioning it as a representative county for housing costs across the state. Its median rent of $764 runs slightly below the state median of $873.

Balanced rental costs among northern peers

Osceola's $764 monthly rent sits midway between Ontonagon's bargain $571 and Ogemaw's $828, offering middle-ground affordability. Its 16.1% rent burden is among the region's lowest, beaten only by Ontonagon and Presque Isle.

Balanced rent and ownership costs

Monthly gross rent of $764 and median owner costs of $761 run nearly identical, each consuming about 16% of household income. This balance gives residents flexibility to choose between renting and buying without major financial impact.

Osceola offers steady, predictable housing costs

Relocating families seeking Michigan's mid-range affordability should find Osceola attractive—it matches state averages without extremes at either end. Verify local job markets align with your career before moving, as affordability only matters if income is stable.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Osceola County

via IncomeByCounty

Osceola earns 76% of national median

Osceola County's median household income of $57,050 trails the national median of $74,755 by about $17,700, reflecting the county's dependence on agriculture, manufacturing, and service industries. This gap places Osceola in the lower-middle range nationally, better than many rural counties but below national averages. Residents earn roughly 76 cents for every dollar earned nationally.

Osceola ranks low-middle within Michigan

At $57,050, Osceola's median household income falls about $7,250 below Michigan's state average of $64,304, positioning it in the lower half of Michigan's counties. Per capita income of $29,129 lags the state average of $35,451 by about 18%, suggesting uneven income distribution across households. These gaps highlight limited high-wage employment opportunities in the county.

Osceola outperforms some neighbors

Osceola's $57,050 income exceeds Oscoda ($50,581), Ogemaw ($51,983), and Ontonagon ($51,844), placing it in the better half of its regional peer group. However, it trails Otsego ($67,285) and significantly lags Ottawa County ($87,144), highlighting economic disparity within north-central Michigan. This variation reflects differences in educational attainment and industry mix.

Housing absorbs moderate share of income

Osceola's rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% sits comfortably in the acceptable range, with median home values of $139,600 remaining affordable on local incomes. While households have reasonable housing costs, the overall income level leaves limited cushion for healthcare, education, and other expenses. Careful budgeting remains essential for financial stability.

Leverage affordability to build reserves

Osceola residents can use the county's reasonable housing costs as a foundation for wealth building—aim to save 10–15% of household income in a diversified portfolio. Start with employer retirement plans if available, then explore tax-advantaged savings accounts like Roth IRAs. Even modest, consistent contributions become substantial over time through compound growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Osceola County

via CrimeByCounty

Osceola County Beats National Crime Trends

Osceola County maintains a total crime rate of 1350.9 per 100,000 residents, well under the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 97.9. Residents experience far fewer criminal incidents than the average American.

Aligned with Michigan Safety Standards

Osceola's safety score of 97.9 is slightly higher than the state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 1350.9 per 100K is also just below the Michigan average of 1371.8. The county provides a level of security that is consistent with Michigan’s safer rural areas.

Comparing Rates with Neighboring Districts

Osceola's total crime rate of 1350.9 is higher than Ogemaw’s 1258.4 and Ottawa’s 977.8. However, it remains significantly safer than many urban centers across the state. The county offers a balanced environment for families seeking a quieter life.

Understanding Local Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime in Osceola sits at 386.6 per 100K, which is slightly above the national average of 369.8. However, property crime is much lower than the national benchmark, at 964.3 compared to 2,015.7. Most reported issues involve property, though violent incidents occur at a rate typical for the region.

Secure Your Property Effectively

Since property crime is the most frequent issue, residents should prioritize home security systems and clear sightlines. Installing deadbolts and outdoor lighting can significantly reduce the risk of burglary. Staying proactive helps keep these rates below the state average.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Osceola County

via HealthByCounty

Osceola bucks regional health trends

At 76.9 years, Osceola's life expectancy exceeds both the U.S. average of 80.7 years and Michigan's state average of 76.3 years—a rare bright spot in this region. Just 17.9% report poor or fair health, the lowest rate among its peer group.

Outperforming Michigan on longevity

Osceola County residents live 0.6 years longer than the Michigan average, placing the county in the healthier half of the state. This success reflects strong mental health provider capacity and relatively good insurance coverage.

Leading region in healthy outcomes

Osceola's 76.9-year life expectancy is the highest among all neighboring counties in northeast Michigan, ahead of Presque Isle (77.6) and significantly above Oscoda (72.8). This performance gap suggests Osceola's healthcare investments are paying off measurably.

Strong mental health provider network

Osceola boasts 141 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—nearly triple the state average—suggesting proactive investment in behavioral health. With 30 primary care providers per 100,000 and a 6.7% uninsured rate, the county has built robust healthcare access.

Maintain coverage to stay healthy

Even in healthier Osceola, staying insured protects you from catastrophic costs and ensures preventive care access. Review your coverage annually at healthcare.gov or through your employer to keep your family's health on track.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Osceola County

via SchoolsByCounty

Fourteen Schools Across the Rural Heart

Osceola County features a robust education network of 14 public schools serving 3,726 students. The system includes five elementary, three middle, and four high schools distributed across four districts. This layout ensures students have dedicated facilities for each stage of their academic journey.

Matching National Graduation Benchmarks

The county achieves an 87.2% graduation rate, slightly exceeding the national average and beating the state average of 82.5%. Per-pupil expenditure of $7,174 is nearly identical to Michigan's average, though it remains below the national $13,000 figure. A school score of 52.4 indicates performance that is consistent with national trends.

Reed City Area Leads Local Districts

Reed City Area Public Schools is the largest district, educating 1,394 students across four schools. Other major providers include Pine River Area Schools with 974 students and Evart Public Schools with 889. One charter school operates in the county, representing about 7% of the total school landscape.

Exclusively Rural and Moderately Sized

The county's school environment is entirely rural, providing a consistent experience for all 3,726 students. Average school size is 287 students, with GT Norman Elementary leading the count at 515. The rural setting and manageable school sizes foster a community-oriented learning experience across the districts.

Find Home Near Growing Rural Districts

With graduation rates that meet national standards, Osceola County is a stable choice for growing families. Homes in Reed City or the Pine River area place you near the county's largest and most established educational campuses. Consider school quality as you explore the peaceful residential options in this rural community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Osceola County

via RiskByCounty

Osceola well below national disaster risk

Osceola County's composite risk score of 23.92 ranks it as Very Low, placing it in the safer third of American counties. The county avoids the compound hazard exposure that threatens many regions nationwide.

Safer than most Michigan counties

At 23.92, Osceola's score sits well below Michigan's state average of 49.56, positioning it among the state's lower-risk counties. The rural central Michigan location contributes to this protective profile.

Safest county in its northern cluster

Osceola (23.92) outpaces neighboring Otsego County (18.42) and is far safer than Roscommon County to the south (56.68). Compared to Ottawa County's moderate risk (82.89), Osceola residents enjoy significantly lower exposure across the board.

Tornadoes and floods are primary hazards

Tornado risk (36.45) and flood risk (36.67) tie as Osceola's primary concerns, each nearing county averages. Wildfire risk (23.28) remains comparatively low, and earthquake risk (16.89) poses minimal threat to the region.

Standard coverage with tornado awareness

Osceola residents should maintain standard homeowner's insurance and ensure they have a tornado safety plan for spring months. Flood insurance is recommended for properties in mapped flood zones, particularly near inland lakes and streams.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Osceola County

via SoilByCounty

Mollisols and Muck Dominance

Osceola County is characterized by Mollisols, a soil order known for deep, fertile surface horizons. The dominant texture is Muck, with an average pH of 5.32 that almost perfectly matches the Michigan state average of 5.30. This creates a dark, rich growing medium that is naturally more fertile than the national average.

A Sandy and Balanced Mix

The soil contains 62.5% sand, 21.0% silt, and 12.6% clay, providing a balance of drainage and structure. This mix allows for easy root penetration while the silt and clay components offer enough body to hold nutrients. It is a versatile composition that handles typical Midwestern agricultural needs with ease.

Rich in Life but Below State Average

The organic matter content stands at 12.14%, which is far above the national average of 2.0% but below Michigan's 19.76%. Similarly, the available water capacity of 0.167 in/in is lower than the state average of 0.202. While it remains a productive soil, it requires more consistent hydration than the wettest parts of the state.

Poorly Drained Hydrologic Group A/D

The soil is classified as poorly drained and falls into Hydrologic Group A/D, meaning it can shift from well-draining to saturated depending on the water table. This makes drainage management crucial for both farming and basement construction. You will often see standing water in low-lying areas during the spring thaw.

Thriving in Zone 5a Conditions

Osceola's Zone 5a climate and muck-textured soils are perfect for leafy greens, onions, and carrots. These crops love the loose, high-carbon environment provided by the Mollisol order. You have a great foundation for a productive home garden if you manage the seasonal water levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Osceola County

via LawnByCounty

Osceola County Lawn Difficulty Analysis

Osceola County posts a lawn difficulty score of 55.3, making it slightly easier than the national average but tougher than the state average. This Hardiness Zone 5a area requires specific care to keep grass lush.

Watering for Steady Growth

The county receives 32.6 inches of annual precipitation, which is just above the minimum ideal threshold for healthy turf. While growing degree day data is unavailable, the 7 extreme heat days match the state average for summer stress.

Managing Poorly Drained Muck

Poorly drained muck soil with a 5.32 pH presents a unique challenge for traditional lawns. You must address drainage issues and add lime to correct acidity for a successful yard.

Current Dry Conditions in Osceola

Entirely 100.0% of the county currently experiences abnormally dry conditions after 25 weeks of drought this past year. Mulching clippings back into the lawn can help retain vital moisture during these dry periods.

Best Grass for Zone 5a

Cool-season grasses like Perennial Ryegrass are best suited for this zone's climate. Without specific frost date data, local gardeners should monitor soil temperatures to time their seeding for early autumn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Osceola County's county score?
Osceola County, Michigan has a composite county score of 51.2 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 Osceola County rank among counties in Michigan?
Osceola County ranks #30 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 Osceola County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Osceola County is $1,478, with an effective tax rate of 1.06%. This earns Osceola County a tax score of 33.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Osceola County?
The median household income in Osceola County, Michigan is $57,050 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Osceola County earns an income score of 30.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Osceola County, Michigan a good place to live?
Osceola County scores 51.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #30 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Osceola 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 Osceola 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.