Marlette is a welcoming small city located in Sanilac County in Michigan’s Thumb region, known for its strong agricultural roots, historic downtown and close-knit community atmosphere. Home to about 1,800 residents, Marlette blends small-town charm with a proud history of farming, business and local industry.
Founded in the late 1800s, Marlette developed as a railroad community along the Port Huron and Northwestern Railway line. The railroad played a major role in the city’s early growth, helping farmers and businesses transport goods throughout Michigan and beyond. Fertile farmland surrounding the city quickly made agriculture the backbone of the local economy.
Today, farming remains central to Marlette’s identity, with area farms producing crops such as corn, soybeans, wheat and sugar beets. Agriculture has supported generations of local families and continues to shape the rural landscape that surrounds the community.
Marlette also became widely known for manufacturing and industry. The city gained national recognition as the home of Marlette Homes, a manufactured housing company founded in the 1950s that provided jobs for many local residents and became one of the area’s most significant employers for decades.
Despite its modest size, Marlette maintains a strong sense of community pride. Residents regularly support local schools, churches, businesses and volunteer organizations, while annual festivals, parades, athletic events and community celebrations bring neighbors together throughout the year.
Education remains an important part of the community through Marlette Community Schools, which serves students from preschool through high school and has long been a source of local pride through academics, athletics and extracurricular activities.
Outdoor recreation also contributes to Marlette’s appeal. Residents enjoy nearby parks, trails and recreational opportunities throughout the scenic Thumb countryside, offering a quiet and relaxed pace of life.
Today, Marlette continues to reflect the enduring values of rural Michigan — hard work, community involvement and neighborly spirit — while preserving the historic character and agricultural traditions that have defined the city for generations.
Current local officials
- Mayor: Charles Bush
- Mayor Pro Tem: Shane Hunter
- City Manager: Christine Malzahn
- Clerk: Rebecca Slater
- Treasurer: Tammy Morell
School district
- Marlette Elementary School · 6230 Euclid St. · (989) 635-7427
- Marlette Junior/High School · 3051 Moore St. · (989) 635-7425
Service organizations
- Post Office · 2984 Fenner St. · (989) 635-3560
- Fire Non-Emergency · (989) 635-5034
- Police Non-Emergency · (989) 635-2008
- Marlette District Library · 3116 Main St. · (989) 635-2838
Hospital
- Marlette Regional Hospital · 2770 Main St. · (989) 635-4000