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Au Sable

city

Au Sable is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in Iosco County, Michigan, nestled within Au Sable Township at the mouth of the Au Sable River where it meets Lake Huron. As of the 2020 census, the population of the CDP was 1,453. The community offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a unique place to live and visit. Historically, Au Sable was a booming lumber town in the late 19th century, but a devastating fire in 1911 led to its decline. Today, the area's economy is supported by light manufacturing, retail trade, forest products, and recreation. The Au Sable River is a major attraction, offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Au Sable is distinctive for its rich history tied to the lumber industry and its stunning natural setting along the Au Sable River and Lake Huron. The area provides access to vast public lands, diverse wildlife, and scenic beauty, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The Au Sable River itself is a renowned trout stream and a designated National Wild and Scenic River, further enhancing the area's appeal.

Au Sable, Michigan

Overview
Classification
Unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP)
FIPS Code
26-04280
Country
United States
County
Iosco County
Geography
Region
Northeastern Michigan, along Lake Huron
Elevation
592 ft
Total Area
2.13 sq mi
Land Area
2.1 sq mi
Water Area
0.03 sq mi
Latitude
44.41083
Longitude
-83.33222
Climate
The Au Sable area experiences a typical Midwestern climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. It is influenced by its proximity to Lake Huron.
Notable Features
Au Sable River · Lake Huron
Neighboring Areas
Oscoda · Au Sable Township
Demographics
Population (2020)
1,453
Est. Population (2024)
1,643
Median Age
53
Median Income
$42,431
Poverty Rate
13.45%
Family Households
55%
Owner-Occupied
92%
Racial & Ethnic Composition
The racial makeup of Au Sable is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Asian, Black or African American, and multiracial populations.
Governance
Government Type
Unincorporated community within a township
Governing Body
Au Sable Township Board
School District
Oscoda Area Schools
Municipal Services
Fire Department · Water and Sewer Services (provided by Au Sable Township) · Cemetery
Economy
Economic Profile
Residential · Recreational/Tourism
Employment Sectors
Light Manufacturing · Retail Trade · Forest Products · Recreation/Tourism
Education
School Districts
Oscoda Area Schools
Infrastructure
Transportation
US-23 · Local roads · Access to Oscoda Airport
Utilities
Municipal water (provided by Au Sable Township) · Sewer system (provided by Au Sable Township) · Power · Broadband
Major Facilities
Au Sable Harbor
Recreation
Outdoor Access
Yes
Major Recreation Areas
Au Sable River · Lake Huron · Huron-Manistee National Forest
Parks & Trails
Au Sable River Trail · Highbanks Trail · Wolf Creek Trail
History
Founded
1848
Incorporated
1872 (village), 1889 (city)
Named After
Au Sable River
Historical Significance
Au Sable was once a thriving lumber town and the largest city in Iosco County, but it declined after a major fire in 1911 and disincorporated in 1931.
Key Events
Settled in 1848 by Curtis Emerson and James Eldridge · Platted in 1849 · Incorporated as a village in 1872 · Incorporated as a city in 1889 · Devastated by fire in 1911