Mount Pleasant is in Isabella County (of which it is the county seat), and in the Central Region. This community is located west of Bay City between Midland and Big Rapids along Highway 20 on the banks of the Chippewa River near Lake Isabella and Coldwater Lake.

Mount Pleasant was established in 1860. The town was later developed and platted in 1864, when the railroad eventually reached the area. Mount Pleasant was incorporated as a village in 1875, named for its surrounding landscapes and agricultural potential. It later was incorporated as a city in 1889.

"Oil City" is 9 miles east of Mount Pleasant, the city was known as the "Oil Capitol" of Michigan from about 1930 until the early 1990's.

Mount Pleasant is supported by a strong economy, including manufacturing, tourism and business in connection with Central Michigan University.