Sterling, MI
Michigan · Ogemaw County
Sterling is a small town in Michigan with a population of 439. Residents earn $58,750 per year, which is 22% below the national average.
Data updated April 2026
Discover Sterling, MI
Explore over 40 sections covering people, economy, housing, health, crime, climate, community, costs, trends, schools, colleges, hospitals, treatment centers, industries, museums, libraries, breweries, farmers markets, grocery stores, pharmacies, campgrounds, parks, trails, stadiums, ski resorts, daycare centers, nursing homes, churches, fire stations, cell towers, bridges, power plants, EV stations, prisons, radio stations, airports, police stations, post offices, Amtrak stations, superfund sites, UNESCO sites, and more.
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How Sterling Compares to the U.S. Average (100% = U.S. avg)
People
Economy
B+Housing
A+Crime
FHealth
Climate
Education
CCommunity
Is Sterling a Good Place to Live?
Based on current data, Sterling receives an overall livability score of 2.9 out of 5.0, earning a grade of C+. Key strengths include low crime rates, affordable housing, abundant sunshine, a low poverty rate. Areas to be aware of include below-average incomes. Sterling has some notable strengths but also faces challenges that prospective residents should consider.
Economy & Jobs
The median household income in Sterling is $58,750, 22% below the national average of $75,149. The unemployment rate of 5.0% is somewhat elevated compared to the national rate of 3.6%. Only 4.3% of residents live below the poverty line, well below the national rate of 12.4%. Workers commute an average of 23 minutes.
Cost of Living & Housing
The median home value in Sterling is $84,700, 70% below the national median / offering relatively affordable homeownership. Renters pay a median of $771 per month, below the national average / a plus for affordability. At just 1.4x median income, home prices are very affordable relative to local earnings.
Safety & Crime
Sterling is a very safe community with a violent crime rate of 78 per 100,000 residents / well below the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,245 per 100,000, 36% below the national average.
Education
13.2% of residents hold a bachelor's degree, below the national average of 33.7%. 90.9% have completed high school. Area schools have an average test score of 5.2/10.
Climate & Weather
Sterling has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 44°F. Winters average 19°F in January while summers reach 68°F in July. With 270 sunny days per year, residents enjoy well above the national average of sunshine. Annual precipitation totals 33.6 inches, including 53.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median AQI of 38.
Population
Gender Distribution
Race & Ethnicity
Sterling vs U.S. Average
Language Spoken at Home
Social Characteristics
Sterling vs U.S. Average
Income: Sterling vs U.S.
Commute Mode
Income
| Median HH Income | $58,750 |
| 22% below US avg | |
| Per Capita Income | $26,161 |
| Avg Weekly Wage | $821 |
| IRS Avg AGI | $51,845 |
| Gini Index | 0.441 (0=equal, 1=unequal) |
Employment & Poverty
| Unemployment | 5.0% |
| 39% above US avg | |
| Poverty Rate | 4.3% |
| 65% below US avg | |
| Establishments (County) | 611 |
| County GDP | $788M |
Business (County)
| Restaurants | 60 |
| Healthcare | 71 |
| Retail | 107 |
| Manufacturing | 28 |
Tax & Cost of Living
| Property Tax (IRS) | $3,674 |
| 5% above US avg | |
| Cost of Living | 96.20 (100=avg) |
| Effective Tax Rate | 4.34% |
Commute & Transportation
| Commute Time | 22.5 min |
| Drive Alone | 85.0% |
| Public Transit | 1.0% |
| Work from Home | 5.0% |
Walkability
Home Value Sources
Ownership Split
Home Values
| Census Median | $84,700 |
| 70% below US avg | |
| Zillow ZHVI | $161,006 |
Real Estate Market (Redfin)
Rental Costs
| Census Median Rent | $771 |
| 34% below US avg | |
| Rent Burden | 18.3% |
HUD Fair Market Rent
| Studio | $807 |
| 1 Bedroom | $891 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,113 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,419 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,588 |
Ownership & Property
| Homeownership | 84.7% |
| Owner-Occupied | 84.7% |
| Renter-Occupied | 15.3% |
| Housing Units | 182 |
| Median Year Built | 1954 |
Property Tax
| Avg Tax (IRS) | $3,674 |
| 5% above US avg | |
| Effective Rate | 4.34% |
Health Metrics: Sterling vs U.S. Average (%)
Chronic Conditions
| Obesity | 38.5% |
| 20% above US avg | |
| Diabetes | 10.1% |
| Heart Disease | 6.1% |
| High Blood Pressure | 32.8% |
| Asthma | 12.4% |
| COPD | 8.6% |
| Cancer | 7.8% |
| Stroke | 3.3% |
Behaviors & Mental Health
| Smoking | 18.5% |
| 32% above US avg | |
| Binge Drinking | 19.3% |
| Physical Inactivity | 25.5% |
| Depression | 30.4% |
| Mental Distress | 21.1% |
| Physical Distress | 14.9% |
| Short Sleep | 32.8% |
Healthcare Access
| Insurance Rate | 95.8% |
| Uninsured | 7.6% |
| 12% below US avg | |
| Primary Care | 1:6,909 |
| Dentists | 1:2,330 |
| Mental Health | 1:1,049 |
| Checkup Rate | 76.6% |
| Dental Visits | 66.3% |
| Premature Death | 11,752/100K |
Food & Exercise
| Food Environment | 7.4/10 |
| Exercise Access | 45.8% |
| Healthcare Facilities | 71 |
Crime Rates: Sterling vs U.S. Average (per 100,000)
Violent Crime
| Total Violent | 77.8/100K |
| 80% below US avg | |
Property Crime
| Total Property | 1,245.1/100K |
| 36% below US avg |
Traffic Safety
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 5 |
| Traffic Accidents | 6 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.7 / 4.0 |
Safety Score
| Safety Grade | F |
| Safety Score | 1.0 / 5.0 |
Temperature
| Annual Average | 44.3°F |
| 18% below US avg | |
| January Average | 19°F (-7°C) |
| July Average | 68°F (20°C) |
| Sunny Days | 270 days/yr |
Geography
| Elevation | 744 ft (227 m) |
| Area | 1.0 sq mi (2.5 km²) |
| Population Density | 448/sq mi |
| Coordinates | 44.0328°N, 84.0186°W |
| Timezone | America/Detroit |
| County | Ogemaw County County |
| Nearest Airport | Mbs International (MBS) 35 miles away |
Precipitation & Snow
Air Quality
| AQI Median | 38.0 |
| Rating | Good |
Natural Hazard Risk
| Overall Risk | Very Low |
| Risk Score | 37.0 / 100 |
| Social Vulnerability | 85.7 / 100 |
| Community Resilience | 49.0 / 100 |
Hazard Breakdown
| Tornado | Relatively Low |
| Hurricane | Very Low |
| Earthquake | Very Low |
| Wildfire | Very Low |
| Flood | Relatively Low |
| Hail | Relatively Moderate |
| Strong Wind | Relatively Moderate |
| Heat Wave | Very Low |
| Winter Weather | Relatively Moderate |
| Lightning | Relatively Moderate |
| Ice Storm | Very Low |
| Drought | No Rating |
| Cold Wave | Relatively Low |
| Landslide | Relatively Low |
Monthly Weather
| Month | Avg Temperature | Precipitation | Summary |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19°F (-7°C) | 1.5 in | Coldest |
| February | 21°F (-6°C) | 1.2 in | Driest |
| March | 31°F (-1°C) | 2.1 in | |
| April | 43°F (6°C) | 2.4 in | |
| May | 55°F (13°C) | 2.8 in | |
| June | 64°F (18°C) | 3.0 in | |
| July | 68°F (20°C) | 2.7 in | Warmest |
| August | 66°F (19°C) | 3.5 in | |
| September | 59°F (15°C) | 3.7 in | Wettest |
| October | 48°F (9°C) | 2.5 in | |
| November | 36°F (2°C) | 2.4 in | |
| December | 25°F (-4°C) | 1.9 in |
Sterling has a seasonal temperature swing of 49°F / from 19°F in January to 68°F in July. Total annual precipitation is 29.5 inches, with September being the wettest month (3.7") and February the driest (1.2").
2024 Presidential Election (County)
Winner: Republican by 42 points
Safety & Disasters
| Fatal Crashes (County/yr) | 5 |
| Traffic Accidents | 6 |
| Avg Accident Severity | 2.7 / 4.0 |
Education
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 13.2% |
| 61% below US avg | |
| High School+ | 90.9% |
| Graduate Degree+ | 3.2% |
| School Test Score | 5.20 |
Area & Infrastructure
| RUCC Code 9 | Nonmetro / Rural |
| Population Density | 448/sq mi |
| Total Area | 1.0 sq mi |
| County | Ogemaw County County |
Services
| Broadband Access | 95.1% |
| Avg Download Speed | 144.8 Mbps |
| Avg Upload Speed | 27.9 Mbps |
| Max Download Speed | 1,000 Mbps |
| EV Charging Stations | 2 |
| Alt Fuel Stations | 2 |
| Public Libraries | 4 |
| Healthcare Facilities | 71 |
| Restaurants | 60 |
| Retail Stores | 107 |
Commute & Transportation
| Avg Commute | 22.5 min |
| Drive Alone | 85.0% |
| Public Transit | 1.0% |
| Work from Home | 5.0% |
Healthcare
| Doctor Visit (Primary Care) | $241 ($144-$385) |
| Specialist Visit | $337 ($192-$529) |
| Urgent Care Visit | $192 ($96-$337) |
| Emergency Room Visit | $2,116 ($770-$4,810) |
| Dental Cleaning | $125 ($72-$192) |
| Dental Filling | $241 ($144-$385) |
Auto Repair
| Oil Change (Conventional) | $43 ($24-$72) |
| Oil Change (Synthetic) | $72 ($48-$115) |
| Brake Pad Replacement | $289 ($144-$481) |
| Tire Rotation | $38 ($19-$72) |
| New Tires (Set of 4) | $577 ($385-$962) |
| Battery Replacement | $192 ($96-$337) |
Home Services
| Plumber (Per Hour) | $96 ($58-$144) |
| Electrician (Per Hour) | $87 ($48-$135) |
| HVAC Repair | $385 ($144-$770) |
| HVAC System Install | $6,734 ($3,848-$11,544) |
| Roof Repair | $962 ($385-$1,924) |
| Roof Replacement | $8,658 ($5,291-$14,430) |
Legal
| Divorce (Uncontested) | $1,443 ($481-$3,367) |
| Divorce (Contested) | $14,430 ($4,810-$28,860) |
| DUI Defense | $4,810 ($1,924-$9,620) |
| Bankruptcy (Chapter 7) | $1,443 ($770-$2,886) |
| Will Preparation | $481 ($192-$962) |
| Trust Preparation | $2,405 ($962-$4,810) |
Personal Care
| Men's Haircut | $24 ($14-$43) |
| Women's Haircut | $53 ($29-$96) |
| Hair Coloring (Full) | $144 ($72-$241) |
| Manicure | $24 ($14-$43) |
| Pedicure | $38 ($24-$63) |
| Massage (1 Hour) | $77 ($48-$125) |
Food & Grocery
| Gallon of Milk (per gallon) | $3.94 ($2.89-$5.29) |
| Dozen Eggs (per dozen) | $3.37 ($2.41-$4.81) |
| Loaf of Bread | $3.66 ($2.41-$5.29) |
| Chicken Breast (per lb) | $4.33 ($2.89-$6.25) |
| Ground Beef (per lb) | $5.29 ($3.85-$7.22) |
| Rice (per lb) | $0.96 ($0.58-$1.73) |
Utilities
| Electricity (Monthly) | $135 ($77-$241) |
| Natural Gas (Monthly) | $67 ($29-$144) |
| Water/Sewer (Monthly) | $67 ($38-$115) |
| Internet (Monthly) | $67 ($38-$96) |
| Cell Phone Plan (Monthly) | $63 ($29-$96) |
| Cable TV (Monthly) | $82 ($48-$144) |
Transportation
| Monthly Parking (Downtown) | $192 ($72-$481) |
| Car Insurance (Annual) | $1,924 ($1,154-$3,367) |
| Bus Pass (Monthly) | $67 ($29-$125) |
| Taxi/Uber (5-Mile Ride) | $14 ($7.70-$24) |
| Car Registration (Annual) | $96 ($29-$241) |
| Driver's License Renewal | $29 ($14-$72) |
Education & Childcare
| Daycare (Infant, Monthly) | $1,154 ($577-$2,405) |
| Daycare (Toddler, Monthly) | $962 ($481-$1,924) |
| After-School Care (Monthly) | $385 ($192-$673) |
| Tutoring (Per Hour) | $48 ($24-$96) |
| SAT/ACT Prep Course | $962 ($385-$2,405) |
| Private School (K-12, Annual) | $12,025 ($4,810-$28,860) |
Pets
| Vet Visit (Routine Checkup) | $58 ($29-$96) |
| Dog Vaccination (Annual) | $96 ($48-$192) |
| Dog Grooming | $58 ($29-$96) |
| Pet Boarding (Per Night) | $38 ($19-$72) |
| Dog Spay/Neuter | $289 ($144-$481) |
| Cat Spay/Neuter | $192 ($96-$385) |
Childcare
| Center-Based (monthly) | |
| Infant | $530 |
| Toddler | $556 |
| Preschool | $556 |
| Family Childcare (monthly) | |
| Infant | $757 |
| Toddler | $606 |
| Preschool | $577 |
Top Industries in Ogemaw County
Largest private-sector industries by employment (BLS QCEW 2024 data, county level).
| Industry | Jobs | Establishments | Avg Annual Pay | Location Quotient |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retail Trade | 1,515 | 94 | $32,043 | 2.52 |
| Accommodation & Food Services | 676 | 60 | $20,555 | 1.24 |
| Manufacturing | 341 | 36 | $48,803 | 0.69 |
| Transportation & Warehousing | 307 | 23 | $89,278 | 1.21 |
| Construction | 289 | 67 | $59,409 | 0.92 |
| Other Services | 206 | 61 | $31,616 | 1.14 |
| Agriculture & Forestry | 185 | 28 | $36,035 | 3.80 |
| Finance & Insurance | 113 | 22 | $55,538 | 0.46 |
| Arts & Entertainment | 78 | 11 | $20,006 | 0.77 |
| Administrative & Waste Services | 71 | 22 | $34,822 | 0.20 |
| Professional & Technical Services | 59 | 26 | $46,809 | 0.14 |
| Information & Technology | 48 | 8 | $62,660 | 0.43 |
| Real Estate | 39 | 12 | $47,363 | 0.42 |
| Mining & Oil/Gas | 25 | 8 | $65,159 | 1.10 |
Schools in Sterling
1 public schools (NCES 2022-23 data).
| School | Level | Enrollment | Teachers | Student/Teacher |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Elementary School | Elementary | 175 | 11 | 15.9:1 |
Radio Stations near Sterling
0 stations within ~55 km.
| Station | Genre | Quality |
|---|
Campgrounds Near Sterling
5 campgrounds found near Sterling.
| Name | Rating | Sites | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOUTH BRANCH TRAIL CAMP GROUP SITE | 5.0/5 | 1 | Free |
| MONUMENT CAMPGROUND | 4.7/5 | 19 | $15, $30 |
| ROLLWAYS CAMPGROUND | 4.3/5 | 19 | $15 |
| ROUND LAKE | 4.1/5 | 33 | $14 |
| Island lake (MI) | - | 17 | $15 |
National Parks Near Sterling
13 national parks and monuments found near Sterling.
| Park | Type | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Dnr Lakeview Park | State Park | Free |
| Harrisville State Park | State Park | Free |
| Hartwick Pines State Park | State Park | Free |
| Negwegon State Park | State Park | Free |
| North Higgins Lake State Park | State Park | Free |
| Otsego Lake State Park | State Park | Free |
| Port Crescent State Park | State Park | Free |
| Sanilac Petroglyphs State Park | State Park | Free |
| Sleeper State Park | State Park | Free |
| South Higgins Lake State Park | State Park | Free |
| Sturgeon Point State Park | State Park | Free |
| Tawas Point State Park | State Park | Free |
| Wilson State Park | State Park | Free |
Trails Near Sterling
159+ trails found near Sterling.
| Trail | Miles | Surface | Hike | Bike | Horse |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IOSCO SMT DNR6 | 23.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MI SHORE TO SHORE HORSE&HIKE | 22.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | Yes |
| HURON ORV, SMT/HURON ORV TRAIL | 18.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| OSCODA-ALCONA SMT DNR96 | 18.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR TRAILS | 17.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR TRAILS | 17.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| OGEMAW-IOSCO SMT DNR6 | 17.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 15.4 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MI SHORE TO SHORE HORSE&HIKE | 12.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | Yes |
| IOSCO SMT MONUMENT ROAD DNR- | 11.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CONNECTING COMMUNITIES | 10.4 | - | - | - | |
| HURON ORV, SAND LAKE SPUR | 9.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT SAND LAKE DNR649 | 8.7 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HIGHBANKS TRAIL | 6.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| ALCONA SMT TURKEY FT DNR962 | 6.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CHANNELS TRAIL | 5.8 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT WELCOME LAKE DNR647 | 5.8 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, SMT/HURON ORV TRAIL | 5.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - MCCCT | 5.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| LUPTON SMT DNR643 | 4.7 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - SOUTH BRANCH LOOP TRAIL | 4.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT M65 BRIDGE CONNECTOR | 3.8 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| OSCODA TO OASIS | 3.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HIGHBANKS TRAIL | 3.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MEADOWS WEST TRAIL | 3.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, SMT/HURON ORV TRAIL | 3.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| OSCODA TO OASIS | 3.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HIGHBANKS TRAIL | 2.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CURTIS ROAD SPUR | 2.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 2.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - OLD BALDY TRAIL | 2.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT MONUMENT ROAD DNR- | 2.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - LUPTON TRAIL | 2.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - TABOR TRAIL | 2.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 2.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, RIVER ROAD SPUR | 2.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| OSCODA SMT HUGES LK CONNECTOR | 1.9 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 1.8 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 26-29-25 SPUR | 1.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 26-29-25 SPUR | 1.7 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - TABOR TRAIL | 1.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| FORD ROAD SPUR | 1.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 9-7-5-4 SPUR | 1.4 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 9-7-5-4 SPUR | 1.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 1.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 1.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT DNR6 | 1.2 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - FOWLER ROAD TRAIL | 1.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS-M.L.L.T. C | 1.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 1.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, SMT/HURON ORV TRAIL | 0.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS-M.L.L.T. C | 0.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, SMT/HURON ORV TRAIL | 0.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| ALCONA SMT KINGS CORNER DNR961 | 0.9 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| ISLAND LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 0.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| OASIS SPUR | 0.9 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 18-19-20 SPUR | 0.8 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 18-19-20 SPUR | 0.8 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT M65 BRIDGE CONNECTOR | 0.8 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 27-28 SPUR | 0.8 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 27-28 SPUR | 0.8 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - TABOR TRAIL | 0.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 14-15-16 SPUR | 0.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 14-15-16 SPUR | 0.7 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 21-22 SPUR | 0.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 21-22 SPUR | 0.7 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 0.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 3-25 SPUR | 0.7 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 3-25 SPUR | 0.7 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 0.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| ALLEN ROAD SPUR | 0.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - SOUTH BRANCH LOOP TRAIL | 0.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 0.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT SAND LAKE DNR649 | 0.6 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 0.6 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| TOWERLINE SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT MONUMENT ROAD DNR- | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 13-24 SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 13-24 SPUR | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, RIVER CAMP SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 15-17 SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 15-17 SPUR | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HIGHBANKS TRAIL POWERLINE SPUR | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HIGHBANKS TRAIL POWERLINE SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - FOWLER ROAD TRAIL | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT RIVER CAMP DNR--- | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HALE ROAD SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 10-11 SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 10-11 SPUR | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 19-23 SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 19-23 SPUR | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| HURON ORV, ROLLWAYS SPUR | 0.5 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT ROLLWAYS SPUR DNR--- | 0.5 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 0.4 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 2-9-8 SPUR | 0.4 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 2-9-8 SPUR | 0.4 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| LMVIC - FOREST DISCOVERY TRAIL | 0.3 | IMPORTED COMPACTED MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 3-5-6 SPUR | 0.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 3-5-6 SPUR | 0.3 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 20-H-C SPUR | 0.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 20-H-C SPUR | 0.3 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT MONUMENT ROAD DNR- | 0.3 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| OGEMAW-IOSCO SMT DNR6 | 0.3 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT MONUMENT ROAD DNR- | 0.3 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.3 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MI SHORE TO SHORE HORSE&HIKE | 0.2 | IMPORTED LOOSE MATERIAL | - | - | Yes |
| LMVIC - FOREST DISCOVERY TRAIL | 0.2 | IMPORTED COMPACTED MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS-M.L.L.T. C | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| HIGHBANKS TRAIL | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| ISLAND - LOON LK SPUR | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - LUPTON TRAIL | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - PINK SPUR | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 2-9-8 SPUR | 0.2 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 2-9-8 SPUR | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, H-E-14-B SPUR | 0.2 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, H-E-14-B SPUR | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MEADOWS WEST TRAIL | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.2 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 12-A, NORTH SPUR | 0.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 12-A, NORTH SPUR | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - FOWLER ROAD TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK LAKE LOOP TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| ISLAND - LOOP CUTOFF TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT M65 BRIDGE CONNECTOR | 0.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - LUPTON TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 2-9-8 SPUR | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 2-9-8 SPUR | 0.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 1-WRIGHTS PARK SPUR | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 1-WRIGHTS PARK SPUR | 0.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, F TO END OF FISH SPUR | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, F TO END OF FISH SPUR | 0.1 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| LMVIC DISCOVERY TRAIL SPUR | 0.1 | IMPORTED COMPACTED MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| TOWERLINE TO H9 | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 0.1 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, E TO CORSAIR PARKSPUR | 0.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 12-WRIGHTS PARK SPUR | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, 12-WRIGHTS PARK SPUR | 0.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, E TO CORSAIR PARKSPUR | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, H TO CORSAIR PARKSPUR | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| CORSAIR, H TO CORSAIR PARKSPUR | 0.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, G TO SV PARK SPUR | 0.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| CORSAIR, G TO SV PARK SPUR | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT M65 BRIDGE CONNECTOR | 0.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - MCCCT | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| IOSCO SMT MONUMENT ROAD DNR- | 0.0 | SNOW | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MEADOWS WEST TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| LMVIC DISCOVERY DECK SPUR | 0.0 | IMPORTED COMPACTED MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MEADOWS - HUGHES LAKE TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| LMVIC - FOREST DISCOVERY TRAIL | 0.0 | IMPORTED COMPACTED MATERIAL | Yes | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
| MACK - MALTBY HILLS LOOP TRAIL | 0.0 | NATIVE MATERIAL | - | - | - |
Historical Trends - Sterling
Population and economic data over time (US Census / ACS estimates).
Population
Median Household Income
| Year | Population | Median Income |
|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 514 | $37,115 |
| 2015 | 510 | $39,531 |
| 2017 | 502 | $40,568 |
| 2019 | 499 | $38,750 |
| 2021 | 454 | $43,438 |
| 2023 | 462 | $58,750 |
Museums in Sterling
| Name | Type | Address | Phone | Annual Revenue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OGEMAW GENEALOGICAL & HISTORICAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION | 123 S 5TH ST | 9893430177 | $58,037 |
| MANITOU ISLANDS MEMORIAL SOCIETY | HISTORIC PRESERVATION |
Libraries in Sterling
| Name | Address | Staff | Annual Visits | Circulation | Collection | Programs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| WEST BRANCH DISTRICT LIBRARY | 119 NORTH FOURTH STREET | 0.0 | 44,000 |
Farmers Markets in Sterling
Restaurants in Sterling
2 restaurants within city radius - OpenStreetMap data
Clinics in Sterling
1 clinics within city radius - OpenStreetMap data
Gas Stations in Sterling
1 gas stations within city radius - OpenStreetMap data
Golf Courses in Sterling
1 golf courses within city radius - OpenStreetMap data
Breweries in Sterling
| Name | Type | Address | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sportsman's Lounge & Restaurant | Restaurants, Pizza, Breweries & Brew Pubs, Cocktail Lounges, American Restaurants, Take Out Restaura | 200 S Bullock (m 65) | 9897564169 | Visit |
Nursing Homes in Sterling
1 nursing homes and rehabilitation centers (CMS data).
| Facility | Ownership | Beds | Residents | Overall | Health | Staffing | Quality | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MEDILODGE OF STERLING 500 SCHOOL RD |
For profit - Corporation | 84 | 62 | 5/5 | - | 4/5 | 5/5 | 9896542496 |
Cell Towers in Sterling
| Address | Structure Type | Height (ft) |
|---|---|---|
| 1901 Huron Road (111107) | GTOWER | 127 |
| 1901 Huron Road (111107) | GTOWER | 127 |
| 5205 Bordeau Road # A (17249) | LTOWER | 68 |
| 5205 Bordeau Road # A (17249) | LTOWER | 68 |
Fire Stations in Sterling
| Name | Address | Type | Active Firefighters | Volunteers | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Area Fire Department | 510 E State ST | Volunteer | 989-654-2444 |
Bridges in Sterling
| Location | Type | Kind | Year Built | Length (ft) | Daily Traffic | Condition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Prestressed concrete | 1968 | 384 | 14,350 | P | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Prestressed concrete | 1968 | 112 | 8,140 | F | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Prestressed concrete | 1968 | 112 | 8,140 | F | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Prestressed concrete | 1968 | 156 | 7,175 | F | |
| Culvert | Steel | 1968 | 30 | 7,138 | G | |
| Culvert | Steel | 1968 | 30 | 7,138 | F | |
| Culvert | Steel | 1968 | 30 | 7,138 | P | |
| Culvert | Steel | 1968 | 30 | 7,138 | G | |
| Tee Beam | Concrete | 1932 | 29 | 2,554 | P | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Prestressed concrete | 2008 | 180 | 2,400 | F | |
| Box Beam (Multiple) | Prestressed concrete | 1977 | 173 | 1,566 | G | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Prestressed concrete | 1968 | 156 | 1,400 | F | |
| Slab | Concrete | 2019 | 23 | 430 | G | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Wood or Timber | 1907 | 29 | 226 | F | |
| Stringer/Multi-beam | Steel | 1918 | 40 | 155 | F | |
| Culvert | Steel | 1970 | 32 | 150 | P | |
| Culvert | Steel | 1970 | 26 | 150 | F |
Airports Near Sterling
39 airports within the area.
| Airport | IATA | Type |
|---|---|---|
| MBS International Airport | MBS | Medium Airport |
| Bauer Field | - | Small Airport |
| Boyer Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Clare Municipal Airport | - | Small Airport |
| D J Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Earl's Spray Services Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Ernie's Field Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Fancy Field | - | Small Airport |
| Field of Dreams Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Flying M Ranch Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Gladwin Zettel Memorial Airport | GDW | Small Airport |
| Gratiot Community Airport | AMN | Small Airport |
| Grayling Army Air Field | - | Small Airport |
| Gross Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Harrisville Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Iosco County Airport | ECA | Small Airport |
| Jack Barstow Airport | - | Small Airport |
| James Clements Municipal Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Kauffman Airfield Ultralight Flightpark | - | Small Airport |
| Kelleys Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Letts Field | - | Small Airport |
| Lost Creek Airport | - | Small Airport |
| McKimmy Field | - | Small Airport |
| Miller Field | - | Small Airport |
| Mount Pleasant Municipal Airport | MOP | Small Airport |
| Oscoda County/Dennis Kauffman Memorial Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Oscoda Wurtsmith Airport | OSC | Small Airport |
| Raymond Field | - | Small Airport |
| Roscommon Conservation Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Roscommon County - Blodgett Memorial Airport | HTL | Small Airport |
| Saginaw County H.W. Browne Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Sebewaing Township Airport | - | Small Airport |
| St Helen Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Sugar Springs Airpark | - | Small Airport |
| The Farm Airport | - | Small Airport |
| Tuscola Area Airport | TZC | Small Airport |
| Vassar Field | - | Small Airport |
| West Branch Community Airport | WBK | Small Airport |
| William Tiny Zehnder Field | - | Small Airport |
Police Stations in Sterling
1 police stations.
| Station | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| West Branch Police Department | 130 Page Street |
Grocery Stores in Sterling
5 grocery stores.
| Store | Type | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Dj's Country Store | Convenience Store | 1276 M 61 |
| Dollar General 17011 | Other | 470 Saginaw St |
| Dores Store 14 | Convenience Store | 5353 M 61 |
| Forward Shell-Sterling 145 | Convenience Store | 600 Saginaw St |
| Next Door Store 5073 | Convenience Store | 5354 M 61 |
Post Offices in Sterling
2 post offices.
| Post Office | Address |
|---|---|
| Rhodes Post Office | |
| Sterling Post Office |
Treatment Centers in Sterling
4 treatment centers.
| Center | Type | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| AuSable Valley Community Mental Health - Authority | Mental Health | 989-345-5571 |
| Senior Life Solutions - Ascension Standish Hospital | Mental Health | 989-846-3542 |
| Sterling Area Health Center - Behavioral Healthcare Services | Both | 989-654-2491 |
| Ten16 Standish Outpatient | Substance Abuse | 989-426-8886 |
Churches & Religious Organizations in Sterling
1 religious organizations (IRS tax-exempt data).
| Name | Address |
|---|---|
| STERLING WESLEYAN CHURCH | 365 JEFFERSON ST |
Explore Near Sterling
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Get ReportFrequently Asked Questions About Sterling
What is the population of Sterling?
Sterling has a population of 439 residents and is located in Michigan. The population density is 448 people per square mile, spread across 1.0 square miles. The median age of residents is 45.1 years, which is older than the national median of 38.9 years. The population is 54.9% female and 45.1% male.
Is Sterling expensive to live in?
Sterling has a cost of living roughly in line with the national average, with an index of 96.2 (baseline: 100). The median household income is $58,750, 22% below the national average of $75,149. The median home value is $84,700 (70% below the U.S. median). Renters pay a median of $771 per month, below the national average of $1,163. The home price-to-income ratio is 1.4x, indicating housing is reasonably affordable relative to local income levels.
Is Sterling safe?
Sterling is considered a very safe city with a violent crime rate of 78 per 100,000 residents, well below the national average of 380. Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,245 per 100,000 (below the national average). Overall, Sterling receives a safety grade of F based on combined crime data.
What is the weather like in Sterling?
Sterling has a cool climate with an average annual temperature of 44°F (7°C). Winter temperatures average 19°F in January, while summers reach an average of 68°F in July. The area receives 270 sunny days per year, well above the national average of 205. Annual rainfall totals 33.6 inches, with 53.0 inches of snow. Air quality is rated Good with a median Air Quality Index (AQI) of 38.
How is the job market in Sterling?
The unemployment rate in Sterling is 5.0%, somewhat above the national average of 3.6%. Job seekers may face moderate competition. The average weekly wage is $821. There are 611 business establishments in the area, including 60 restaurants and food service locations. The average commute time is 23 minutes, and 5.0% of workers work from home.
How much does housing cost in Sterling?
The median home value in Sterling is $84,700. Zillow estimates the typical home value at $161,006. For renters, the median monthly rent is $771. Fair market rent is $891 for a 1-bedroom and $1,113 for a 2-bedroom apartment. The homeownership rate is 84.7%. The average annual property tax is $3,674.
How are the schools in Sterling?
Schools in Sterling score 5.2 out of 10 on standardized testing, near the national average. 13.2% of adults in Sterling hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average of 33.7%. 90.9% have completed high school. 3.2% hold a graduate or professional degree.
How healthy is Sterling?
The obesity rate in Sterling is 38.5% (above the national rate of 32.1%). 18.5% of adults are smokers. 25.5% are physically inactive. 30.4% of residents report depression. 7.6% lack health insurance. 45.8% of residents have access to exercise opportunities. The primary care physician ratio is 1:6,909.
What is transportation like in Sterling?
The average commute in Sterling is 23 minutes, shorter than the national average of 28 minutes. 85% of workers drive alone to work, and 5.0% work from home.
What are the demographics of Sterling?
The racial and ethnic makeup of Sterling is 94.8% White, 1.8% Black or African American, 2.5% Hispanic or Latino. 99.3% of residents speak only English at home. 5.5% of the population are military veterans. 18.1% of residents have a disability. 95.8% have health insurance coverage.
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