The Cluster Area communities, located in the counties of Arenac and Bay, are the true definition of rural. The cluster cities of Standish (Arenac County), Pinconning (Northern Bay County), Au Gres (Arenac County), and Omer (Arenac County) list 2019 populations of 1421, 1296, 808, 259, respectively, and extend to even more rural, unincorporated areas surrounding the cities proper, in the outlying areas of Arenac and Northern Bay Counties.

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The Cluster Area is located on the Sunrise Side of Michigan, from the shores of Lake Huron to the east to just a few miles west of I-75; and from US-23 in Au Gres south to Pinconning. The communities share not only the same geographical area and demographic, but also the same Educational Service District, multiple service groups, and the talent pool for the businesses located in the region.