Cities and Towns in Arenac County, Michigan
Founded in 1831, Arenac County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Arenac County was formed from unorganized territory; annexed to Bay County in 1857, but reinstated in 1883. The city of Standish is the county seat. With FIPS code of 11, Arenac County has a population of 14,975 and area of 681 square miles (1,764 km²).
List of all cities in Arenac County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alger, MI | 48610 | 989 |
| Au Gres, MI | 48703 | 989 |
| Omer, MI | 48749 | 989 |
| Standish, MI | 48658 | 989 |
| Sterling, MI | 48659 | 989 |
| Turner, MI | 48765 | 989 |
| Twining, MI | 48766 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Arenac County, Michigan
1. Standish
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48658
- Latitude: 43.9831° N
- Longitude: 83.9586° W
Location and History
Standish is the county seat of Arenac County, located along US-23 and I-75, making it a gateway to Michigan’s northern Lower Peninsula. Standish was established in the late 19th century and named after John D. Standish, an early settler who contributed to its development. It was initially a stop for the Detroit and Mackinac Railroad, serving as a crucial hub for transporting agricultural goods, lumber, and other resources. The town officially incorporated in 1903 and has grown into a quiet, close-knit community while preserving its historical roots. Its central location made Standish a crucial stop for travelers heading north, and it continues to thrive due to its access to major highways.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Standish is served by the Standish-Sterling Community Schools, which includes Standish-Sterling Central High School. Major landmarks in the area include Standish Historical Depot, a restored railroad station now serving as a museum and community center. Saganing Eagles Landing Casino attracts visitors seeking entertainment and gaming, and Standish City Park provides outdoor recreation opportunities. Pine River Golf Club is a local favorite for golf enthusiasts. The town’s downtown area offers a quaint, historic atmosphere with local shops and dining options.
2. Au Gres
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.11 square miles
- Population: Approximately 889 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48703
- Latitude: 44.0425° N
- Longitude: 83.6950° W
Location and History
Au Gres is a charming town located on the shore of Saginaw Bay, where the Au Gres River meets Lake Huron. The name “Au Gres” comes from the French term for “gritty sand,” referring to the sandy soil in the area. The town’s history dates back to the early 19th century when French fur traders and settlers passed through the region. By the late 1800s, Au Gres had developed into a fishing and lumbering community, with the river providing easy access to the bay and the Great Lakes. Today, Au Gres is known for its fishing, boating, and access to Lake Huron, making it a popular summer destination for visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Au Gres-Sims School District serves the town’s educational needs, including Au Gres-Sims High School. The Au Gres Riverfront Park is a notable landmark, offering boating facilities and scenic views of the river. Point Au Gres Marina is a favorite spot for boating and fishing enthusiasts. The Au Gres Water Tower, a symbol of the town’s identity, stands tall near the downtown area. Tawas Point State Park, located nearby, attracts nature lovers and beachgoers, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and hiking.
3. Omer
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.73 square miles
- Population: Approximately 313 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48749
- Latitude: 44.0528° N
- Longitude: 83.8531° W
Location and History
Omer, known as Michigan’s smallest city, is located along the Rifle River, just a few miles inland from Saginaw Bay. The town was settled in the mid-19th century and became an important logging and milling center due to its proximity to the Rifle River. Omer was officially incorporated as a city in 1903, though its population has remained modest. Throughout its history, Omer has been closely tied to the surrounding natural environment, particularly the river, which remains a central part of the community’s identity. Today, Omer is known for its quiet, small-town charm and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly during the spring and fall fishing seasons.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Omer is part of the Standish-Sterling Community Schools district. Notable landmarks in Omer include the Rifle River, which is renowned for its canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. The river also offers excellent fishing, especially for steelhead and other trout species. Omer’s City Hall, located in the heart of downtown, reflects the city’s small-town atmosphere. The Bungalow Inn, a historic restaurant, has been a local gathering place for decades. Omer’s Annual Sucker Festival, held each spring, celebrates the start of fishing season and attracts visitors from across the region.
4. Twining
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.99 square miles
- Population: Approximately 181 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48766
- Latitude: 44.1472° N
- Longitude: 83.8247° W
Location and History
Twining is a small village located in the northern part of Arenac County, along M-65. It was settled in the late 19th century, largely by farmers and workers supporting the railroad industry. Named after one of the early families that helped establish the community, Twining grew as a rural service center for the surrounding agricultural region. Over the years, Twining has remained a quiet farming community, with much of its local economy still tied to agriculture. While the village itself has remained small, it serves as a vital part of the local farming landscape, providing services and community to residents in the surrounding areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Twining is served by the Whittemore-Prescott Area Schools, including Whittemore-Prescott High School. The village is known for its peaceful, rural environment and proximity to natural attractions like the Rifle River Recreation Area, which offers camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities. Twining’s Grain Elevator is a key local landmark, reflecting the village’s agricultural heritage. The Twining Community Center hosts local events and gatherings. Nearby Huron National Forest provides outdoor recreation opportunities for locals and visitors alike, including hunting, hiking, and wildlife observation.
5. Sterling
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.96 square miles
- Population: Approximately 533 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48659
- Latitude: 44.0364° N
- Longitude: 84.0247° W
Location and History
Sterling is a small village located in central Arenac County, not far from Standish, along US-23. It was founded in the late 1800s and grew as a service town for the surrounding agricultural and logging industries. The village’s name comes from the sterling silver color of the nearby streams, which were thought to be rich in minerals. Sterling has a strong agricultural tradition, with farms in the surrounding areas producing various crops, including corn, soybeans, and potatoes. Over time, Sterling has retained its rural charm while serving as a quiet residential community for the larger county area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sterling is part of the Standish-Sterling Community Schools district. One of the key landmarks in Sterling is Sterling Village Park, a community gathering space that offers recreational facilities for residents. The Sterling Truck Stop, located along the highway, is a popular stop for travelers passing through the area. The Rifle River flows near Sterling and offers opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Sterling Area Health Center provides essential medical services for the community. Nearby, Nayanquing Point Wildlife Area is a popular spot for birdwatching and enjoying Michigan’s natural beauty.
