RANK #57 / 996 · POP 53,218 · MI
PROJECTED GROWTH: +3.3%
Tuscola County, located in Michigan's "Thumb" region, is characterized by its flat, agricultural landscape and small-town atmosphere, with Caro serving as the county seat. The county is about 30 miles east of Saginaw and 90 miles north of Detroit. Commuting within Tuscola County averages around 29.1 minutes, slightly longer than the national average. The area offers various outdoor recreation opportunities, including biking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking, with parks like Vanderbilt County Park and Arthur Latham Park providing trails and green spaces.
Life in Tuscola County often appeals to those seeking a slower pace and rural surroundings. The housing market is generally more affordable than in Michigan's urban areas, with a high percentage of detached single-family homes. The economy is largely driven by agriculture, with Tuscola County ranking among Michigan's top farm economies. The Tuscola County Economic Development Corporation focuses on supporting local businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, and clean energy, aiming to enhance the quality of life through economic growth. Public education is provided by several local school districts, including Caro Community Schools and Cass City Public Schools.
Above national median (4.7x)
Contracting economy
Below-average climate & terrain
Above national median (13x)
Housing is fairly valued at 4.9x relative to local economic output. The typical U.S. county is 4–6x.
Source: Redfin · Census BPS — Browse sales on Redfin →
Bars show percentile rank among all 996 counties.
Tuscola County has a Boom Town Index score of 94/100, ranking #57 among 996 U.S. counties. With job growth at +1.0% and a median household income of $59,815, it's an above-average county on economic indicators.
The median home value in Tuscola County is $127,200 with median rent at $782/month. The income-to-home-value ratio is 0.4702, which is more affordable than the national average.
Population growth: -0.1% year-over-year. Job growth: +1.0%. Home values changed +8.8% in the past 12 months.
Yes — 4.45% of Tuscola County's population moved from another state, which is above the national average and indicates strong in-migration.