countyscore
31.8
County Score
Water Quality 64.8Soil Quality 59.7Lawn Care 59.3

County Report Card

About Saginaw County, Michigan

Saginaw Trails the National Median

Saginaw County earns a composite score of 31.8, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a community facing more headwinds than the typical American county.

Below the Michigan State Average

While the Michigan average composite score sits at 47.1, Saginaw County struggles to keep pace at 31.8. It ranks in the lower tier of counties across the state for overall livability.

Strong Water Quality and Health Resources

The county excels in water quality with a score of 64.8 and maintains a respectable health score of 56.2. These metrics highlight reliable public utilities and accessible medical services for residents.

High Tax Burdens and Environmental Risks

Saginaw faces a low tax score of 10.0 due to an effective tax rate of 1.571%, one of the higher rates in the region. Additionally, a risk score of 11.5 suggests the area is more vulnerable to environmental or economic disruptions than neighbors.

A Value Play for Local Renters

With a median gross rent of just $921 and low home values, Saginaw suits budget-conscious residents who prioritize affordable housing over low taxes. It is best for those who can leverage the local health infrastructure while navigating higher-than-average tax costs.

Score breakdown

Tax10Cost44.6Safety18.8Health56.2Schools23.1Income33.8Risk11.5Water64.8Weather53.8
🏛10
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠44.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡18.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤56.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓23.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡11.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧64.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤53.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨59.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59.3
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

Bay County
Michigan
39.4
Midland County
Michigan
52.4
Tuscola County
Michigan
46.5
Genesee County
Michigan
31.5
Gratiot County
Michigan
43.1
Shiawassee County
Michigan
42.7
Lapeer County
Michigan
49.4
Clinton County
Michigan
33.8

Deep Dives

Saginaw County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Saginaw County

via TaxByCounty

Saginaw taxes above national median

Saginaw County's effective tax rate of 1.571% significantly exceeds the national median of 1.0%, placing it in the top 35% of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax bill here is $2,190 annually—far below the national median of $2,690—because home values are substantially lower. This means Saginaw homeowners pay a higher percentage of their home's value in taxes than the typical American.

35% higher taxes than state average

At 1.571%, Saginaw County's effective rate ranks among the highest in Michigan, significantly above the state average of 1.166%. This places Saginaw in the top quartile of Michigan counties for tax burden. The median property tax of $2,190 exceeds the state median of $2,102 by $88 annually.

Higher than most surrounding counties

Saginaw's 1.571% effective rate is notably steeper than nearby Shiawassee County (1.345%), Tuscola County (1.280%), and Sanilac County (0.917%). Among the eight-county region, only Saginaw and St. Clair County exceed the state average rate. Saginaw homeowners pay substantially more as a percentage of home value than their neighbors.

Median home taxes: $2,190 annually

A typical $139,400 home in Saginaw County generates roughly $2,190 in annual property taxes at the current effective rate. With mortgage, the total tax burden reaches $2,314; without mortgage, it drops to $2,045. This translates to approximately $183 per month in property taxes for a median-valued home.

Many homeowners can appeal assessments

Across Michigan, thousands of homeowners discover their properties are overassessed, leading to inflated tax bills. Saginaw County residents paying the county's above-average effective rate should review their assessment notices and consider filing an appeal if values seem high relative to recent sales. A successful challenge can reduce your tax burden significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Saginaw County

via CostByCounty

Saginaw rents stretch family budgets

Saginaw County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% exceeds the national average, meaning renters here spend nearly one-fifth of their income on housing compared to typical U.S. patterns. The median household income of $58,347 falls $16,408 below the national median, while median rent at $921 per month pushes affordability to uncomfortable levels.

Among Michigan's least affordable counties

Saginaw County ranks among Michigan's more expensive housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% versus the state average of 16.3%. At $921 monthly, Saginaw rents run $48 higher than Michigan's median, placing the county above the state baseline for affordability stress.

Pricier than Tuscola, cheaper than St. Clair

Saginaw's $921 rent sits between Tuscola County's $796 and St. Clair County's $999, reflecting its middle position in the region's rental market. However, Saginaw's lower income compared to St. Clair ($58,347 vs. $69,349) means residents spend a higher percentage of earnings on housing despite paying less in absolute dollars.

Housing costs consume nearly one-fifth of income

Renters spending $921 monthly use 18.9% of a $58,347 annual income, while homeowners with an $830 monthly mortgage dedicate 17.1% of income to ownership costs. Together, these figures show that Saginaw households bear substantial housing burdens across both rental and purchase markets.

Considering Saginaw? Compare your options

If relocating to Saginaw, verify that your household income comfortably covers 18.9% for rent or 17.1% for ownership—higher than Michigan's baseline. Nearby Schoolcraft County offers lower housing costs (13.6% rent ratio), while Sanilac provides a similar affordability profile at slightly lower absolute rents.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Saginaw County

via IncomeByCounty

Saginaw lags behind national income benchmarks

Saginaw County's median household income of $58,347 falls 22% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower tier nationally. This gap suggests families here have less purchasing power than the typical American household, affecting everything from housing to daily expenses.

Below Michigan's county average

At $58,347, Saginaw's median household income trails Michigan's county average of $64,304 by roughly $6,000 annually. The county ranks in the lower half of Michigan's 83 counties, reflecting economic challenges in the region.

Saginaw's income gap among peers

Saginaw households earn less than neighboring Shiawassee County ($64,464) and St. Clair County ($69,349), but slightly more than Schoolcraft County ($57,708). These comparisons show uneven economic development across Michigan's mid-state region.

Housing costs are manageable here

Saginaw's rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% is slightly elevated but still within acceptable ranges, meaning housing consumes less than one-fifth of typical household income. The median home value of $139,400 remains accessible relative to median earnings, supporting housing stability for many residents.

Build financial resilience in Saginaw

With median income at $58,347, establishing an emergency fund and low-cost investment accounts can help Saginaw families weather economic shifts. Even small, regular contributions to retirement savings compound significantly over time, creating long-term wealth despite current income constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Saginaw County

via CrimeByCounty

Saginaw County Safety vs the Nation

Saginaw County maintains a total crime rate of 2,136.7 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 96.6 out of 100. While the total rate is favorable, specific categories show varying results compared to U.S. benchmarks.

Comparing Saginaw to the Michigan Average

The county's crime rate exceeds the Michigan state average of 1,371.8 per 100K. Consequently, its safety score sits below the state average of 97.8. Local data from 18 reporting agencies helps track these figures across the county.

Regional Crime Trends Near Saginaw

Saginaw shows higher crime activity than neighboring Tuscola County, which reports 1,180.0 incidents per 100K. Despite this regional difference, it remains below the national total crime rate. Residents experience a different safety profile than those in more rural adjacent areas.

Violent vs Property Crime Breakdown

Violent crime in Saginaw is 759.1 per 100K, which is higher than the national rate of 369.8. However, the property crime rate of 1,377.6 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,015.7. This means property theft is less common here than in many other parts of the country.

Steps to Secure Your Saginaw Home

Since property crime remains the most frequent incident type, residents should prioritize home security. Installing smart lighting and alarm systems provides a reliable deterrent for local properties. Simple visibility improvements around your home can significantly increase overall safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Saginaw County

via HealthByCounty

Saginaw's Life Expectancy Lags National Peers

At 74.5 years, Saginaw County residents live about 4.5 years less than the U.S. average of 79 years. Nearly 21% of residents report poor or fair health, above the national average of 15%. These figures suggest significant health challenges that warrant closer attention and intervention.

Below Michigan's Health Rankings

Saginaw's life expectancy of 74.5 years falls 1.8 years below Michigan's state average of 76.3 years, placing it in the lower tier of Michigan counties. The 20.8% poor/fair health rate also exceeds the state profile. This county faces steeper health obstacles than most of its peers across the state.

Saginaw Trails Regional Health Benchmarks

Compared to Tuscola County (75.3 years) and Sanilac County (75.3 years) nearby, Saginaw residents experience notably shorter lifespans. However, Saginaw boasts more primary care providers at 87 per 100K—nearly triple Sanilac's 32—and significantly more mental health providers at 362 per 100K versus Tuscola's 286. Provider supply doesn't fully offset underlying health disparities.

Good Uninsured Rate, Provider Access Gaps

Saginaw's 5.5% uninsured rate matches the state's best performers and sits well below Michigan's average of 6.4%. Yet with 87 primary care providers per 100K, residents still report difficulty scheduling appointments and accessing timely care in rural pockets. Mental health support is relatively robust at 362 per 100K, but primary care remains the real constraint.

Already Insured—Now Optimize Your Plan

Most Saginaw residents have coverage, but it's worth checking if your plan matches your needs. Visit Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance or call 1-800-867-9272 to review options, compare deductibles, and ensure you're accessing preventive care. Better coverage alignment could help close the gap in life expectancy outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Saginaw County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Network of 74 Public Schools

Saginaw County maintains a large educational infrastructure with 74 public schools serving 25,519 students across 19 districts. The system includes 34 elementary, 10 middle, and 24 high schools, alongside specialized alternative and special education facilities.

Graduation Rates Trail State and National Benchmarks

The county's graduation rate stands at 78.8%, which falls behind the Michigan average of 82.5% and the national 87% benchmark. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,957, significantly lower than the national average of $13,000 and the state average of $7,394.

Saginaw School District Leads by Size

The Saginaw School District of the City of is the largest in the county, managing 16 schools and 5,178 students. Charter schools play a notable role here, making up 8.1% of the total school landscape with six dedicated institutions.

Suburban and Urban Learning Environments

With 32 suburban and 18 city schools, the county offers a variety of educational settings with an average school size of 354 students. Heritage High School is the largest campus with 1,396 students, providing a stark contrast to the county's smaller rural elementary buildings.

Investing in Your Family's Future

School performance is a vital factor in local property values and long-term community growth. Families researching homes in Saginaw County should prioritize proximity to top-rated districts like Saginaw Township to ensure strong educational outcomes.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Saginaw County

via RiskByCounty

Saginaw faces above-average disaster risk

Saginaw County scores 88.55 on the composite risk scale, placing it well above Michigan's state average of 49.56 and significantly higher than the national median. This "Relatively Moderate" rating reflects meaningful exposure to multiple hazard types that residents should understand and prepare for. The county's risk profile demands serious attention to home protection and emergency planning.

Among Michigan's riskier counties

Saginaw County ranks as one of the higher-risk counties statewide, driven by particularly elevated flood and tornado exposure compared to most other Michigan communities. With a composite score nearly 80% above the state average, Saginaw faces hazards that affect fewer residents in safer parts of Michigan. This elevated ranking underscores the importance of county-specific preparedness in this region.

Saginaw's risks dwarf nearby areas

Saginaw's score of 88.55 far exceeds neighboring Tuscola County (73.06) and Sanilac County (70.32), making it the riskiest county in its immediate region. While all three counties sit in Michigan's higher-risk band, Saginaw's 15+ point gap reflects substantially greater tornado and flood exposure. This geographic variation means neighboring communities face significantly different disaster preparedness needs.

Tornadoes and flooding dominate here

Saginaw County faces exceptional tornado risk (93.29) and severe flood risk (91.44), both among the state's highest—these two hazards alone shape much of the county's overall danger profile. Earthquake risk is moderate at 59.70, while wildfire risk remains low at 16.03. Residents should prioritize tornado safety infrastructure and flood-resistant building practices as the core of their disaster preparation strategy.

Flood and wind coverage are critical

Given Saginaw's 91.44 flood risk score, standard homeowners insurance is insufficient—most policies exclude flooding entirely, so separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is essential. Wind and hail coverage should also be verified in your homeowners policy to protect against tornado damage. Review your coverage now and consider a professional home inspection to identify vulnerabilities to water intrusion and wind damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Saginaw County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate temperatures for the Great Lakes region

Saginaw County’s annual average of 47.7°F is closer to the national median than its northern neighbors. Its 33.5 inches of precipitation closely matches the Michigan state average of 34.5 inches.

Warmer than the Michigan state average

At 47.7°F, Saginaw County is 2 degrees warmer than the statewide average of 45.7°F. This reflects its southern-central positioning within the state's geography.

Mirroring the climate of Shiawassee County

Saginaw shares an identical 47.7°F annual average with neighbor Shiawassee County. Both counties experience similar seasonal swings, though Saginaw sees slightly fewer extreme heat days at 9 per year.

Hotter summers and moderate snowfall

July averages 71.4°F with 9 days exceeding 90°F, making for a warm growing season. Winters are less severe than the north, with 44.9 inches of snow and January averages of 22.6°F.

Balanced utility needs for all seasons

Residents should plan for both active summer cooling and winter heating due to the 49-degree seasonal temperature swing. The 44.9 inches of snow is manageable with standard equipment, but the 9 days of 90°F heat make AC a standard comfort.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Saginaw County

via SoilByCounty

Saginaw's Neutral and Balanced Alfisols

Saginaw County's soil features an average pH of 6.81, which is slightly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5 and significantly higher than the Michigan state average of 5.30. These Alfisols primarily manifest as loam, providing a stable foundation for the region's agricultural activities. This near-neutral pH creates an ideal environment for nutrient availability and biological activity.

A Versatile Loam Mixture

The county's soil composition is 59.3% sand, 27.0% silt, and 13.7% clay. This loamy texture offers a perfect balance of workability and structural integrity, allowing for easy tilling while retaining essential minerals. The moderate clay content ensures that the soil doesn't dry out too quickly during summer months.

Steady Growth Potential

Saginaw's organic matter stands at 4.40%, which doubles the national average of 2.0% but falls well below the state average of 19.76%. With an available water capacity of 0.152 in/in, the soil holds slightly less moisture than the state benchmark of 0.202 in/in. Growers here find the soil fertile enough for high-yield harvests with standard irrigation support.

Managed Drainage for Productive Lands

The soil is classified as moderately well drained and falls into hydrologic group B. This indicates a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wet, making it suitable for both farming and construction. Producers benefit from the predictable water movement, though low-lying areas may require tile drainage for peak performance.

Harvesting Success in Zone 6a

Saginaw County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, making it a prime location for corn, soybeans, and hearty garden vegetables. The balanced loam and neutral pH provide a welcoming home for everything from tomatoes to fruit trees. Residents can start their gardening season with confidence in these versatile soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Saginaw County

via LawnByCounty

Saginaw's Reliable Mid-Range Growing Conditions

Saginaw County earns a lawn difficulty score of 59.3, placing it just slightly below the Michigan state average of 60.1. In USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, homeowners find maintenance somewhat easier than the national median score of 50.0.

Steady Precipitation and Moderate Summer Heat

With 33.5 inches of annual precipitation, the county sits right in the ideal range for healthy turf. While there are 9 extreme heat days per year—slightly more than the state average of 7—the 2,637 growing degree days support consistent grass growth.

Ideal Soil pH for Low-Maintenance Lawns

The soil pH of 6.81 is nearly perfect, falling directly within the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for most turfgrasses. This loamy soil is 59.3% sand and 13.7% clay, providing moderate drainage that rarely requires heavy amendments.

Managing Stress During Prolonged Dry Spells

Despite 44 weeks spent in drought conditions over the past year, only 37.0% of the area remains abnormally dry today. To maintain resilience, deep watering during the early morning helps lawns survive these frequent dry periods without entering dormancy.

Plan Your Planting Around Spring Frosts

Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue thrive in Zone 6a, provided they are established after the last spring frost on April 29. Start your seeding projects in late summer or early autumn to take advantage of the 2,637 growing degree days before the first fall frost on October 17.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Saginaw County's county score?
Saginaw County, Michigan has a composite county score of 31.8 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 Saginaw County rank among counties in Michigan?
Saginaw County ranks #79 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 Saginaw County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Saginaw County is $2,190, with an effective tax rate of 1.57%. This earns Saginaw County a tax score of 10/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Saginaw County?
The median household income in Saginaw County, Michigan is $58,347 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Saginaw County earns an income score of 33.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Saginaw County, Michigan a good place to live?
Saginaw County scores 31.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #79 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Saginaw 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 Saginaw 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.