countyscore
38.3
County Score
Lawn Care 66Weather & Climate 59.1Income & Jobs 58.9

County Report Card

About Van Buren County, Michigan

Competing Below the National Median

Van Buren County scores 38.2, which falls below the national median score of 50.0. While some dimensions are strong, others drag the overall average into the lower tier of U.S. counties.

Below the Michigan State Average

The county’s 38.2 score lags behind Michigan’s state average of 47.1. It ranks lower than several neighboring counties in southwest Michigan due to disparities in public services.

Strong Incomes and Solid Health

Van Buren’s strengths lie in its income score of 58.9 and health score of 54.5. A healthy median household income of $66,902 suggests a robust local workforce and decent economic opportunities.

Struggling with Schools and Water

The county faces significant challenges with a school score of 15.6 and a water score of 30.1. These metrics suggest that public investment in education and utility infrastructure has not kept pace with resident needs.

Suited for Childless Working Professionals

Given the low school scores but strong income potential, Van Buren is a good fit for working adults without children. It allows residents to maximize their earnings while enjoying a decent standard of healthcare and community life.

2040608010021.341.844.954.515.658.939.530.159.1Tax21.3Cost41.8Safety44.9Health54.5Schools15.6Income58.9Risk39.5Water30.1Weather59.138.3/100
This county
National avg
4 below average

Van Buren County DNA

Foverall

How Van Buren County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Van Buren County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Schools (15.6/100), though Income (58.9/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
21.3-30.7
Cost
41.8
Safety
44.9-10.100000000000001
Health
54.5
Schools
15.6-38.4
Income
58.9
Risk
39.5
Water
30.1-27.9
Weather
59.1
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$189,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$845/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$189,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$33,800/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $66,902/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

18.5

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
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Nearby counties

Allegan County
Michigan
40.2
Cass County
Michigan
41.1
Berrien County
Michigan
32.7
Kalamazoo County
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St. Joseph County
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St. Joseph County
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Elkhart County
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Barry County
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Deep Dives

Van Buren County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Van Buren County

via TaxByCounty

Van Buren taxes above national median

Van Buren County's effective tax rate of 1.287% exceeds the national median of 1.0%, placing it in the top 42% of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax bill of $2,444 is $246 below the national median of $2,690, reflecting somewhat lower regional home values. Van Buren homeowners pay a notably higher percentage of their home's value in taxes than the typical American.

10% higher than Michigan average

At 1.287%, Van Buren County's effective rate exceeds Michigan's state average of 1.166%, ranking it in the upper-middle tier of Michigan counties by tax burden. The median property tax of $2,444 exceeds the state median of $2,102 by $342 annually. Van Buren residents face above-average property tax pressure within the state.

Higher-taxed than most neighbors

Van Buren's 1.287% effective rate tops Sanilac County (0.917%), Schoolcraft County (1.091%), St. Joseph County (1.114%), and St. Clair County (1.165%), though it trails Saginaw County (1.571%) and Shiawassee County (1.345%). Among the eight-county region, Van Buren ranks fourth-highest for tax burden. The county's rate is steeper than most surrounding communities.

Median home taxes: $2,444 annually

A typical $189,900 home in Van Buren County generates roughly $2,444 in annual property taxes at the current effective rate. With mortgage, taxes rise to $2,534; without mortgage, they fall to $2,290. This amounts to approximately $204 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. Van Buren County residents paying above-average effective rates should review their assessment notices and consider filing an appeal if values seem high relative to recent comparable sales. A successful challenge can reduce your tax burden meaningfully.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Van Buren County

via CostByCounty

Van Buren offers above-average housing affordability

Van Buren County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% sits notably below the national average, with median household income of $66,902 coming within $7,853 of the U.S. median. At $845 monthly rent, Van Buren delivers solid housing access compared to national patterns.

Better than Michigan's affordability baseline

Van Buren County ranks above Michigan's state average on housing affordability, with a 15.2% rent-to-income ratio below the state's 16.3% and median rent at $845—$28 below Michigan's $873 median. The county delivers stronger affordability than Saginaw and St. Clair.

Mid-tier affordability with highest home values

Van Buren's $845 rent ranks mid-region, higher than Schoolcraft ($654) and Tuscola ($796) but lower than Shiawassee ($876) and St. Clair ($999). However, Van Buren's median home value of $189,900 ranks second-highest regionally, suggesting established neighborhoods with premium land values.

Strong income offsets higher ownership costs

Van Buren renters spend 15.2% of a $66,902 income on $845 monthly rent, while homeowners allocate a higher 17.9% to $1,000 monthly mortgages on homes valued at $189,900. The income strength helps absorb elevated ownership costs without severe budget stress.

Van Buren suits buyers seeking established areas

Relocating to Van Buren County works well if you're seeking homeownership; at 17.9%, the mortgage-to-income ratio remains manageable for a county with $189,900 median home values. Renters get solid value at 15.2%, though home prices suggest the market rewards buyers over renters.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Van Buren County

via IncomeByCounty

Van Buren approaches national income levels

Van Buren County's median household income of $66,902 is 10% below the national median of $74,755, making it one of the stronger earners in this group nationally. The county's proximity to the national average suggests decent economic activity.

Van Buren exceeds Michigan county average

At $66,902, Van Buren's median household income surpasses Michigan's county average of $64,304 by $2,598, placing it in the state's upper-middle tier. The county ranks above average among Michigan's 83 counties.

Van Buren ranks second among peer counties

Van Buren ($66,902) ranks second only to St. Clair ($69,349) in this eight-county group, outearning Shiawassee ($64,464), St. Joseph ($64,707), Tuscola ($62,847), and all lower-income peers. The county demonstrates strong regional economic performance.

Van Buren housing affordable despite higher values

With a rent-to-income ratio of 15.2%, Van Buren offers excellent housing affordability; the median home value of $189,900 remains accessible on a $66,902 income. Higher property values don't strain household budgets here.

Van Buren families can accelerate wealth growth

At $66,902, Van Buren households are positioned to save aggressively and diversify investments across real estate, stocks, and bonds. Strategic use of Roth IRAs, HSAs, and taxable brokerage accounts creates multiple pathways to six-figure net worth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Van Buren County

via CrimeByCounty

Van Buren County Safety Insights

Van Buren County boasts a high safety score of 98.1, with a total crime rate of 1,226.9 per 100K. This is well below the national average of 2,385.5. This data reflects a secure community that is significantly safer than the U.S. average.

Leading the State in Safety

The county's safety score exceeds the Michigan state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate is also lower than the statewide average of 1,371.8 per 100K. Ten local reporting agencies help ensure that these figures are accurately tracked and reported.

Comparing Van Buren to Its Neighbors

Van Buren is notably safer than neighboring St. Joseph County, which reports a crime rate of 1,916.6. It also maintains a higher safety score than many other counties in the region. This regional safety advantage makes it a popular choice for families and retirees.

A Breakdown of Local Crime Stats

The property crime rate of 887.1 is less than half the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime also remains below the national benchmark at 339.8 per 100K. This means residents face lower risks across both major crime categories.

Securing Your Van Buren Home

Installing smart home technology like video doorbells can add an extra layer of security. Keeping driveways and entryways well-lit serves as a strong deterrent to potential property crime. These small investments help maintain the high level of safety found throughout the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Van Buren County

via SchoolsByCounty

Large Educational Infrastructure of 45 Schools

Van Buren County serves 14,771 students across 45 public schools and 13 districts. This diverse system includes 17 elementary and 16 high schools, providing comprehensive coverage for a significant student population.

Graduation Rates Facing Challenges

The graduation rate in Van Buren County is 70.9%, which is lower than both the state average of 82.5% and the national 87% benchmark. Spending per pupil is $6,677, representing a lower investment level compared to state and national averages.

Mattawan Consolidated Leads the County

Mattawan Consolidated School is the largest district, serving 3,610 students across five campuses. The county also features unique options like the Michigan Online School, a charter institution that serves 925 students statewide.

Predominantly Rural with Notable Large Schools

While 29 schools are in rural settings, Mattawan High School is a major hub with 1,171 students. The average school size is 336 students, though the county's specialized and online schools offer varying educational experiences.

Explore Homes in Growing Districts

When researching homes in Van Buren County, district choice is essential for long-term satisfaction. Exploring high-demand areas like Mattawan can provide your family with access to the county's largest and most robust educational facilities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Van Buren County

via RiskByCounty

Van Buren faces moderate disaster exposure

Van Buren County scores 60.46 on the composite risk scale, placing it above Michigan's state average of 49.56 and in the "Relatively Low" risk category. This moderate exposure reflects meaningful hazard presence, particularly from tornadoes, without approaching the state's highest-risk areas. The county's risk profile is manageable through thoughtful preparedness strategies.

Above-average risk for Michigan overall

Van Buren County ranks in the middle tier of Michigan counties for disaster risk, with a composite score about 22% above the state average. This positioning places the county above roughly half of Michigan's counties while remaining well below the state's most hazardous regions. Residents face moderately above-average but not extreme disaster exposure.

Comparable to nearby regional counties

Van Buren's score of 60.46 sits in the lower end of its regional grouping, slightly exceeding St. Joseph County (58.59) and falling well below Shiawassee County (62.18). This three-county cluster exhibits consistent moderate-to-slightly-above-average disaster risk across the region. Geographic and weather patterns create relatively uniform hazard exposure across these neighboring communities.

Tornado and flood risks drive profile

Van Buren County faces tornado risk (77.04) and flood risk (62.02) as its primary hazards, both above state average but not extreme. Earthquake exposure (52.89) is moderate, while wildfire risk remains low at 26.40 and hurricane risk minimal at 29.04. Residents should prioritize tornado shelter access and flood-aware property management as core preparedness elements.

Wind coverage and selective flood insurance

Van Buren residents should verify that homeowners insurance includes robust wind and hail coverage adequate for the county's 77.04 tornado risk. While countywide flood risk is moderate at 62.02, residents in flood-prone areas should seriously consider separate flood insurance. Professional roof assessment and impact-resistant roofing materials provide effective tornado loss reduction.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Van Buren County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Compliance Grade Falls to F

Van Buren County has recorded 19 health violations in five years, leading to an F grade. The violation rate of 66.8 per 100,000 residents is nearly double the Michigan state average of 35.7. This high rate indicates significant risk and potential instability in public water quality safety.

Federal Watershed Assessment Data Not Available

Water bodies in Van Buren County are not yet covered in the federal §303(d) assessment for the current cycle. There is no official record of the percentage of impaired water bodies or the primary causes of impairment. Residents must rely on other monitoring signals to understand the health of local rivers.

Largest Monitoring Network in the Region

Van Buren County hosts 60 monitoring sites that have produced 12,934 measurements over the last five years. This is the most extensive monitoring footprint in the area, focusing on physical and microbiological data. This data is critical for addressing the county's significant compliance challenges.

Black River Flow Drops to 60%

The South Branch Black River near Bangor currently discharges only 65 cubic feet per second. This is just 60% of its long-term mean, indicating a significant deficit in streamflow for this 84 square mile basin. Lower flows often mean that any pollutants entering the water are less diluted.

Heightened Caution Needed for Local Water

With an F grade and streamflow at only 60% of typical levels, residents should be extra cautious about water quality. Low flow can exacerbate existing contamination issues by concentrating pollutants. Using a high-quality water filter and staying updated on health violations is strongly recommended.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Van Buren County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm But Extremely Snowy Climate

Van Buren County averages 49.7°F annually, which is closer to the national median than most of Michigan. However, its 109 inches of annual snowfall is vastly higher than most U.S. counties due to lake-effect patterns.

One of Michigan's Warmest Spots

At 49.7°F, this county is significantly warmer than the Michigan state average of 45.7°F. It ranks near the top of the state for annual temperature, though it leads in precipitation as well.

Warmer and Snowier Than Inland Neighbors

Van Buren is warmer than St. Joseph County (48.5°F) and experiences more than double its annual snowfall. The proximity to Lake Michigan creates a unique microclimate that neighbors further inland lack.

Mild Summers and Intense Lake-Effect Snow

Summer averages a warm 70.2°F with only 8 days exceeding 90°F. Winter is defined by 109.0 inches of snow, even though the average winter temperature remains a relatively moderate 28.7°F.

Invest in Serious Snow Removal

The extreme 109-inch snowfall requires heavy-duty blowers and plan-ahead winter travel strategies. Homeowners should also prepare for 39.2 inches of annual precipitation with robust roofing and gutter systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Van Buren County

via SoilByCounty

The Heart of Michigan's Fruit Belt

Van Buren County has an average pH of 4.97, making it one of the more acidic regions in the state compared to the national median of 6.5. This acidity is a hallmark of the Fruit Belt, where specialized soils support unique agricultural niches. While taxonomic data is sparse, the soil's chemistry is its most defining trait.

Light Sands with Minimal Clay

The soil is 58.9% sand, 16.6% silt, and only 6.9% clay. This extremely low clay content means the soil provides very little resistance to root growth and allows for excellent aeration. However, it also results in a profile that can leach nutrients quickly without careful management.

High Organic Matter, Low Retention

Despite being sandy, the county has 13.21% organic matter, far exceeding the national 2.0% average. Its available water capacity of 0.170 in/in is below the state average, meaning the soil doesn't hold moisture as long as heavier loams. This combination creates a specialized environment that rewards precise irrigation and fertilization.

Naturally Fast Infiltration

With nearly 60% sand, water moves through these soils rapidly even though formal drainage classes are not listed. This makes the county less prone to the drainage issues found in heavier clay regions to the east. It is an ideal soil for crops that dislike 'wet feet' or standing water.

A Fruit Grower's Dream in 6a

Van Buren is legendary for its blueberries, grapes, and peaches, all of which thrive in these acidic, sandy conditions. Gardeners in Zone 6a should embrace the acidity by planting berries and acid-loving shrubs like hydrangeas. It is the perfect place to start an orchard or a specialized berry patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Van Buren County

via LawnByCounty

Lush Growing Potential Near the Lake

Van Buren County's lawn difficulty score of 66.0 indicates a favorable environment for landscaping. Located in Zone 6a, the county benefits from the moderating effects of Lake Michigan, making it easier than the state average.

Ample Rainfall and High Energy for Growth

A high 39.2 inches of annual precipitation supports lush growth, while 2,852 growing degree days provide the most biological energy of any county on this list. With only 8 heat days, the climate is nearly ideal for cool-season turf.

Combating High Acidity in Sandy Soils

The soil pH is 4.97, which is significantly more acidic than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. While the 58.9% sand content provides good drainage, you will need to apply lime to neutralize the soil and allow grass to absorb nutrients properly.

Zero Current Drought and High Resilience

There are currently 0.0% of areas under drought stress in Van Buren County. Despite 14 weeks of drought last year, the high annual rainfall and lake-effect moisture provide a natural buffer against dry conditions.

The Longest Growing Window in the Region

Thanks to a late first frost on November 5, you have an exceptionally long window to seed and establish your lawn. Choose a blend of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass to make the most of this extended season and ample moisture.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Van Buren County's county score?
Van Buren County, Michigan has a composite county score of 38.3 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 Van Buren County rank among counties in Michigan?
Van Buren County ranks #66 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 Van Buren County, Michigan?
The median annual property tax in Van Buren County is $2,444, with an effective tax rate of 1.29%. This earns Van Buren County a tax score of 21.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Van Buren County?
The median household income in Van Buren County, Michigan is $66,902 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Van Buren County earns an income score of 58.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Van Buren County, Michigan a good place to live?
Van Buren County scores 38.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #66 in Michigan. The best way to evaluate Van Buren 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 Van Buren County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.