Genesee County, Michigan

Genesee County MI Courthouse

Genesee County, Michigan is a county located in the U.S. state of Michigan. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 405,813, making it the fifth-most populous county in Michigan. The county seat is Flint. Genesee County is part of the Flint, MI Metropolitan Statistical Area and is also included in the larger Detroit-Warren-Ann Arbor, MI Combined Statistical Area.

History

Genesee County was created on March 28, 1835, from territory that was previously part of Lapeer, Saginaw, and Shiawassee Counties. Its name comes from the Genesee County, New York, which in turn was named after the Genesee River. The name "Genesee" is derived from the Seneca Indian word "Gen-nis'-hee-yo," meaning "the Beautiful Valley".

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 649 square miles, of which 637 square miles is land and 12 square miles (1.8%) is water. The county's western border is formed by the Flint River, which flows through the county seat of Flint.

Adjacent counties

• Lapeer County (east)
• Oakland County (southeast)
• Livingston County (southwest)
• Shiawassee County (west)
• Saginaw County (north)
• Tuscola County (northeast)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 405,813 people, 159,875 households, and 100,024 families residing in the county. The population density was 637 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant African American, Hispanic or Latino, Asian, and other racial groups represented.

Economy

The economy of Genesee County has historically been centered around the automotive industry, with Flint often being referred to as "Vehicle City". However, the decline of the automotive industry in the late 20th and early 21st centuries has led to economic diversification. Health care, education, and retail have become significant sectors in the county's economy.

Government

The government of Genesee County is run by a Board of Commissioners, which consists of nine members elected from single-member districts. The county also elects officials such as a Sheriff, County Clerk, Prosecutor, and Treasurer.

Education

Genesee County is home to several higher education institutions, including the University of Michigan-Flint, Kettering University, and Mott Community College. These institutions play a vital role in the local economy and in providing education and training for the workforce.

Transportation

Bishop International Airport serves as a major transportation hub for the county and the surrounding region. The county also has a well-developed highway system, including Interstate 75 (I-75), which runs through the eastern part of Flint.

Culture and recreation

Genesee County offers a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, including the Flint Cultural Center, which houses the Flint Institute of Arts, Flint Symphony Orchestra, and Sloan Museum. The county also boasts numerous parks and recreational areas, such as the Genesee County Parks system, which is one of the largest county park systems in the state.