Cass County

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Cass County, Michigan, had a population of approximately 51,589 people. The racial composition was 84.2% White, 9.6% Black or African American, 1.3% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 2.2% from other races, and 2.0% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals made up 4.7% of the population. The median age was about 44.6 years. The average household size was 2.42, and the median household income was approximately $54,395.

As of 2023, Cass County, MI, has a median home value of approximately $173,000. The housing stock is diverse, with around 30% of homes built before 1950 and a mix of both single-family residences and seasonal vacation properties near lakes. The homeownership rate stands at roughly 81%, while rental properties make up about 19% of the market. The median rent is approximately $800 per month. The housing market has seen moderate appreciation, with an annual growth rate of about 4-5%. The county's population density is low, with an average of 91 people per square mile.

As of 2023, Cass County, MI, has multiple local elections. The county seat is Cassopolis. The Board of Commissioners consists of 7 districts. Key positions up for election include:

1. County Commissioners - 7 seats
2. Sheriff
3. County Clerk/Register of Deeds
4. Treasurer
5. Prosecuting Attorney
6. Drain Commissioner

The most recent contested races included:

• County Commissioner District 1: John Nelson (Rep) vs. William Curry (Dem)
• Sheriff: Richard Behnke (Rep) ran unopposed
• County Clerk/Register of Deeds: Monica Kennedy (Rep) vs. Angela Barnes (Dem)

Turnout typically ranges around 50% in midterm and local elections, with higher engagement in presidential election years. For the most recent data and candidate list, consult the Cass County Clerk's office or their official website.

As of the most recent data, Cass County, MI, exhibits the following educational attainment levels: 86.5% of residents (aged 25 and over) have at least a high school diploma, which is slightly lower than the national average of around 88%. Approximately 18.5% hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.1% and Michigan's average of 29.3%. The county faces educational challenges relative to both state and national benchmarks, indicating a need for targeted educational improvements to closer align with broader averages.

As of the latest data, Cass County, MI has an employment population of roughly 25,000. Top industries include manufacturing, healthcare, and retail trade. Manufacturing employs about 22% of the workforce, healthcare employs around 15%, and retail trade employs 12%.

Nationally, manufacturing employs roughly 8.5% of the workforce, healthcare 14.7%, and retail trade 10%. In Michigan, manufacturing employs about 18%, healthcare 15.3%, and retail trade 11%.

Cass County shows a stronger reliance on manufacturing compared to both state and national averages. Healthcare employment aligns closely with both state and national figures, while retail trade employment is relatively higher than the national but closer to state levels.

Cass County's unemployment rate is approximately 4.2%, slightly below the national average of around 4.5%.

These figures provide a snapshot of the employment landscape, highlighting the county's industrial focus.

As of the latest available data, the average household income in Cass County, MI, is approximately $55,000. This is relatively lower compared to the national average household income of around $68,700 and the Michigan state average of about $60,300. The discrepancy highlights economic disparities that may be influenced by various factors including local industries, cost of living, and employment opportunities.

This data underscores the economic challenges in Cass County compared to broader averages and can be vital for policy-making, community planning, and socio-economic programs.

As of the latest data available, Cass County, Michigan, has a crime rate of approximately 985.7 per 100,000 residents. This figure is below the national average. The following table details the most recent crime statistics for various types of crimes in the county:

These statistics indicate that property crimes are more prevalent than violent crimes in Cass County. Efforts to enhance community safety and crime prevention are ongoing.