If you are looking for a place where core values, respect, and dignity still matter, you may want to find yourself in the middle of Ottawa County or throughout the region. It is a place that still calls a child a child and looks across the fields and waters to watch then play and grow, a place where a business flourishes, cities grow yet farms are still encouraged and assisted to remain. It’s the place to want to call home.
Ottawa County is named after the Ottawa Nation that first settled in the area in the 1400’s along the east side of Lake Huron. It wasn’t until 1831 that it broke away from other lands. In 1837, it became known as Ottawa County. The county seat is Grand Haven.
Geography:
- It is surrounded by Muskegon County to the north, Kent County to the East, Allegan County to the South, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, and Racine County, Wisconsin to the West.
- Population: 282,250 est.
- Compromised of 6 cities, 1 village, 3 Census Places, 14 unincorporated communities, and 17 townships
- The population density per sq mile of land is 468.2. (2010)
Being a part of the Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI Metropolitan area makes employment readily available and highly competitive for the residents in Ottawa County. Commuting times to and from work are drastically cut with access to fourteen major highways including I-96, US-31, M-11, A-37 and more.
- The median household income 61,367 (2016), that’s six thousand dollars over the USA median average.
- Unemployment rate of 3.2%
Education:
Whether you live in a small town or a big city, education or access to it often plays a major role in relocation to the area. In Ottawa County, primary and secondary education is highly prized both in the public and private sectors.
- 94 public school serve the area
- Ottawa County scored a .29 on the diversity scale
- 91.7% of the population has a high school diploma or higher
- 30.3% of the population aged 25 or higher have obtained a bachelors or higher
- List of Public Schools
Recreation:
Pigeon Creek Park– located at 12524 Stanton Street West Olive, MI 49460 (616) 738-9531 – Skiing, sledding, Snowshoeing, Hiking, biking and equestrian trails, dogs welcome, picnic tables and grills are available.
Green Haven Lighthouse – located at Harbor Ave Grand Haven, MI 49417 (616) 847-1309 – located within the state park and on the beach, there are two lighthouses connected by about 1100 ft of pier to walk down. There is a bow at the end lighthouse that protects it from the pounding waves but it adds character as well. Visit at sunset for magical pictures.
Action Wake Park– located at 3320 Hudson Trails Dr. Hudsonville, MI 49426 (616) 827-7903 – wakeboarding for the brave souls that enjoy watersports.
Nelis’ Dutch Village – located at 12350 James St Holland, MI 49424 (616) 396-1475 – wooden shoe carving, candle making, barnyard animals and all things Dutch Nelis’ has it. The classic amusement park takes old world charm and introduces the kids to a new culture.
Zach’s Zoomer – located at 1198 West Riley-Thompson Rd Muskegon, MI 49445 – One single ride 1400 foot of roller coast 41 ft. high. It’s said to turn the stomach of even the most die-hard coaster fans, you be the judge.
Among the recreational places, there are some of the finest eating establishments, shopping experiences and more. Your time will never be lonely, perhaps short in supply but not lonely. Living in Ottawa County just makes sense from the one who seeks the solace of the country to the one who thrives on the excitement of the city. It is the place that covers and connects it all without blurring the lines. Call Doug Hansen at 616-485-8955 to learn more about living in Ottawa County.