Demographics and Data

Key Facts about Michigan's Great Southwest

The population of our area is 163,125 according to the 2000 Census conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau.

For a detailed look at key demographic information as provided by a 2008 Claritas report, click here.
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Berrien County is located in the southwest corner of Michigan, nestled along our beautiful Lake Michigan. Strategically located on the Chicago/Detroit, Grand Rapids/Indianapolis vectors, we are served by major interstate highways, airports, rail transportation, and shipping. Scenic natural beauty and 50 miles of shoreline make us a choice destination.

The County Seat for Berrien County is St. Joseph.

The area code for Michigan's Great Southwest is 269.

The Michigan's Great Southwest area is a part of the Benton Harbor/Niles MSA.

For additional Berrien County population information, please click here. (236 KB) Small PDF Icon

Cost of Living Information

Berrien County's Median Household Income: $41,875.00

State Sales Tax: 6%.

Use Tax: 4%.

Local Property Tax is based on 50% Market Value.

For latest unemployment numbers, please visit the Michigan Department of Labor web site.

Top Employers

To view a list of the Top 25 Employers-click here (533 KB) Small PDF Icon

To view a list of the Top 100 Chamber Member Employers-click here

HELPFUL LINKS

General Data
U.S. Census Bureau	Please note the area is listed as the Niles/Benton Harbor MSA.
Michigan Labor Market Information	This will help find average wages as well as unemployment rates.
WE Upjohn Institute for Employment Research	Conducted research on unemployment issues as well as other issues.

Demographics
Applied Geographic Solutions	Creates and distributes a complete range of marketing analysis.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics	Principal fact-finding agency for the Federal Government in the broad field of labor economics and statistics.

Environmental
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency	Learn of environmental regulations.
ESRI/FEMA Hazard Awareness	National environmental information.

Salaries
Economic Research Institute	Learn national employment trends.
Salary.com	Creates connections, between people, pay and performance.
Salary source.com	The ultimate tool for assessing the current market value for any of over 350 positions.