54.7
County Score
Safety 85.8Health 73.1Soil Quality 72.9

County Report Card

About Adams County, Illinois

Above the National Average

Adams County earns a composite score of 54.7, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This places the county in the top half of all counties nationwide for overall livability.

A Competitive Illinois Choice

The county's overall score exceeds the Illinois state average of 52.8. It remains a strong regional contender by balancing moderate costs with solid community services.

Strong Safety and Healthcare

Public safety is a standout feature with a high score of 85.8. Residents also benefit from a healthy environment and medical access, reflected in a health score of 73.1.

Tax and Environmental Risks

Property owners face a high tax burden with an effective rate of 1.579%, leading to a low tax score of 9.7. Natural risk also presents a challenge with a score of 35.8.

Ideal for Secure Family Living

This county is best suited for families prioritizing safety and healthcare over low tax rates. It offers a stable environment for those established in the local workforce.

Score breakdown

Tax9.7Cost49Safety85.8Health73.1Schools54.1Income54.3Risk35.8Water46.6Weather54.1
🏛9.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠49
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼54.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡85.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
73.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓54.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
35.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧46.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤54.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨72.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱67.4
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty
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Deep Dives

Adams County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Adams County

via TaxByCounty

Adams taxes run below the national average

Adams County's effective tax rate of 1.58% sits comfortably below the national median of 2.14%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. The median tax bill here is $2,461 annually—about 9% less than the national median of $2,690—despite homeowners paying on a much smaller property base.

Rank among Illinois counties

Adams County's 1.58% effective rate beats the Illinois state average of 1.83%, positioning it as a moderately taxed county in a high-tax state. At $2,461 in median property taxes, Adams residents pay about $321 less than the state median of $2,782.

How Adams compares nearby

Among nearby counties, Adams falls in the middle ground—higher than Brown County (1.47%) but significantly lower than Boone County (2.27%). The region shows considerable variation, with effective rates ranging from 1.47% to 2.27% across comparable communities.

What a typical Adams home costs annually

The median home in Adams County is valued at $155,900, which at the 1.58% effective rate translates to roughly $2,461 in annual property taxes. For homeowners with a mortgage, that figure rises slightly to $2,553 when certain assessments are included.

Many Adams homeowners could challenge their assessment

Property tax appeals are a proven way for overassessed homeowners to reduce their annual burden, and thousands of Illinois residents successfully file each year. If you believe your Adams County home is assessed too high, a formal appeal to the county assessor's office could lower your tax bill.

Cost of Living in Adams County

via CostByCounty

Adams rents bite harder than average

Adams County renters spend 15.3% of income on rent, outpacing the national average of 14.7%. With a median household income of $64,962—nearly $10,000 below the national median—residents here stretch further to afford housing than typical American households.

Above average for Illinois renters

Adams County's 15.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly above Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it in the middle tier of affordability among the state's 102 counties. Median rent of $826 runs roughly even with the statewide median of $837.

Surrounded by tight housing markets

Adams County's $826 rent sits between neighbor Cass County and larger regional markets. Similar-sized Illinois counties show comparable affordability challenges, with most rent-to-income ratios clustering between 14–16%.

Rent eats more than ownership

At $826 monthly, rent takes up a larger share of income (15.3%) than mortgage payments do (13.7% at $891/month), reflecting lower home values around $155,900. For renters, the math is tighter: homeowners can leverage equity, while renters have no financial cushion.

Consider your renter vs. buyer status

If you're thinking of relocating to Adams County, homebuying looks slightly more favorable than renting given the gap in cost ratios. Compare your own income and savings against these benchmarks to determine whether this county's housing market fits your budget.

Income & Jobs in Adams County

via IncomeByCounty

Adams lags behind national income

Adams County's median household income of $64,962 falls 13% short of the national median of $74,755. This places the county in the lower half of U.S. counties by household income, indicating limited earning power compared to the broader American economy.

Middle ground in Illinois

At $64,962, Adams County ranks near the middle of Illinois's 102 counties, earning slightly below the state median of $68,580. The county's per capita income of $36,317 nearly matches the state average of $36,009, suggesting household income is driven by family size rather than individual earning potential.

Modest earnings versus nearby counties

Adams County earns $64,962 compared to nearby Boone County's commanding $81,638—a gap of $16,676 that reflects regional economic disparities. Bureau County, another close neighbor, earns $65,894, placing Adams in a competitive but not leading position regionally.

Housing costs remain manageable

At 15.3%, Adams County's rent-to-income ratio matches the national affordability threshold, meaning housing consumes a reasonable share of household earnings. The median home value of $155,900 is accessible to median-income households, though modest incomes limit investment capacity.

Build wealth through planning

Adams County households earning $64,962 have a solid foundation for wealth building if they prioritize savings and investing. Even small contributions to retirement accounts and diversified investments compound over decades, helping bridge the county's income gap with wealthier regions.

Safety in Adams County

via CrimeByCounty

Adams County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

Adams County maintains an exceptional safety score of 99.5, reflecting a very secure environment. Its total crime rate of 321.7 per 100,000 residents is roughly seven times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in the Prairie State

The county's safety profile is stronger than the Illinois average safety score of 98.7. With a total crime rate significantly below the state average of 835.0, Adams ranks among the safer regions in Illinois.

Comparing Adams to Its Illinois Neighbors

While neighbor Brown County reports a 0.0 crime rate, Adams County provides more transparent data through its four reporting agencies. The county's rate remains notably lower than more populated Illinois hubs.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crime Trends

Property crimes make up the bulk of local incidents at 277.5 per 100,000 people. Violent crime is extremely rare at just 44.2, which is far below the national violent crime rate of 369.8.

Simple Steps to Secure Your Adams County Home

Even in high-safety areas, most incidents are crimes of opportunity involving property. Residents can maintain this safety by installing motion-sensor lighting and ensuring all entry points are secure.

Health in Adams County

via HealthByCounty

Adams County lives longer than average

With a life expectancy of 76.5 years, Adams County residents live about half a year longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Only 17% of adults report being in poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 21%, signaling stronger overall wellness across the county.

Leading Illinois in life expectancy

Adams County's 76.5-year life expectancy outpaces Illinois' state average of 76.0 years, placing it in the upper tier of Illinois counties for longevity. The county's 17% poor/fair health rate also beats the state trend, reflecting better health management and preventive care practices.

Strong provider access in the region

Adams County maintains 105 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly double the availability in Alexander County (20 per 100K) and well above Bond County's 54 per 100K. Mental health resources are robust at 317 providers per 100,000, giving residents reliable access to behavioral health support.

Healthcare access remains affordable

Only 5.6% of Adams County residents lack health insurance, below the state average of 6.3%, meaning most have a safety net for medical care. The combination of abundant primary care providers and strong mental health infrastructure makes navigating the healthcare system straightforward for most residents.

Keep coverage strong and continuous

While Adams County's uninsured rate is already low, maintaining continuous coverage protects your health and finances. Visit healthcare.gov or contact your local health department to review your options and ensure your coverage meets your family's needs.

Schools in Adams County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Rural-Town Network

Adams County maintains 23 public schools across five districts, serving 8,920 students. The infrastructure is well-distributed between 11 elementary, 3 middle, and 9 high schools to support a mix of town and rural communities.

Strong Outcomes on Lean Budgets

Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $6,926—well below the national average of $13,000—Adams County achieves an impressive 92.4% graduation rate. This performance surpasses both the Illinois state average of 88.8% and the national benchmark of 87.0%.

Quincy Schools Lead the Region

Quincy SD 172 is the county's dominant provider, managing 9 schools and 6,345 students, which represents over 70% of total enrollment. There are currently no charter schools in operation within the county's borders.

The Balance of Town and Country

Education here is split between 12 rural and 11 town-based locales, with an average school size of 469 students. Quincy Sr High School is the largest campus with 1,924 students, while smaller elementary schools like Colonel George Iles offer more intimate settings.

Relocate for High Graduation Rates

Families looking for high-performing schools in a town-and-country setting should explore the Quincy area. These schools deliver graduation rates that beat state benchmarks, making the region a top choice for education-focused homebuyers.

Disaster Risk in Adams County

via RiskByCounty

Adams County's disaster risk: above average nationally

Adams County scores 64.19 on the composite disaster risk scale, placing it in the "Relatively Low" category but notably above the national average. This score reflects meaningful exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly earthquake risk at 64.60 and flood risk at 60.66.

Higher risk than most Illinois counties

At 64.19, Adams County ranks in the upper portion of Illinois counties for disaster risk, exceeding the state average of 54.46. This above-average exposure means residents face greater-than-typical natural hazard threats compared to their peers statewide.

Stands out among nearby counties

Adams County's 64.19 score significantly exceeds neighboring Brown County (4.74) and Calhoun County (6.08), making it the highest-risk county in its immediate area. Even compared to more distant peers like Bond County (36.23) and Carroll County (39.03), Adams faces notably elevated composite risk.

Earthquake and flood pose greatest threats

Earthquake risk (64.60) and flood risk (60.66) dominate Adams County's hazard profile, with tornado risk also significant at 58.84. While wildfire risk remains low at 5.22, residents should prioritize preparedness for seismic and flood events.

Secure flood and earthquake coverage now

Given Adams County's dual exposure to earthquake (64.60) and flood hazards (60.66), standard homeowners insurance is insufficient—you'll need separate earthquake and flood policies. Contact your insurance agent today to ensure your home is protected against these significant, distinct threats.

Weather & Climate in Adams County

via WeatherByCounty

Adams County's Middle-of-the-Road Climate

Adams County averages 52.9°F annually, aligning almost perfectly with the national median for a humid continental climate. The region experiences 37.2 inches of precipitation, providing a consistent water supply throughout the year.

Right at the Illinois Average

With an annual temperature of 52.9°F, Adams sits right at the Illinois state average of 52.8°F. It serves as a representative sample of the state's central weather patterns, though it is slightly drier than the state average of 41.7 inches of rain.

Drier Winters than Northern Neighbors

Adams receives 17.0 inches of snow, which is significantly less than the 30-plus inches seen in northern Illinois counties. Its 52.9°F average temperature makes it warmer than Bureau County but cooler than the state's southern tip.

Hot Summers and Moderate Snow

Summer heat is a major factor here, with 26 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 76.4°F. Winter brings a colder turn with a 26.2°F January average and 17.0 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for Summer Humidity Peaks

Invest in high-efficiency cooling systems to handle the 26 annual extreme heat days. Keep moderate snow removal tools ready for the 17.0 inches of winter accumulation that typically occurs between December and March.

Soil Quality in Adams County

via SoilByCounty

A Slightly Acidic Foundation in Adams

Adams County soil maintains an average pH of 6.38, sitting just below the national median of 6.5 and nearly matching the Illinois state average. While specific taxonomic orders are not listed, this chemical profile supports a wide range of agricultural activity. The soil score of 72.9 indicates a solid, productive base for local growers.

Silt-Heavy Soils Define the Landscape

The earth here is composed of 64.9% silt, 21.8% clay, and a relatively low 13.3% sand. This heavy silt concentration creates a smooth texture that holds nutrients well but requires careful management to prevent compaction. Farmers benefit from the high clay-to-sand ratio which aids in moisture consistency.

Solid Water Retention and Organic Strength

With 2.14% organic matter, Adams County exceeds the national average of 2.0% even though it trails the state's high bar of 2.94%. The available water capacity (AWC) of 0.209 in/in is higher than the state average, meaning these fields store water more efficiently during dry spells. This combination provides a resilient environment for consistent crop yields.

Managing Water in Silty Fields

Though specific drainage class data is currently unavailable, the high silt and clay content suggests a soil that holds onto moisture tightly. The county's soil score of 72.9 reflects a landscape that manages water better than many regional neighbors. Proper tiling and conservation tillage help navigate the high available water capacity of 0.209 in/in.

Thriving in the Heart of Zone 6a

Hardiness zone 6a offers a versatile growing season for Adams County residents. The silt-rich soil is perfect for staple crops like corn and soybeans, but it also supports robust vegetable gardens and orchards. Start your planting in early spring to take full advantage of this fertile Illinois ground.

Lawn Care in Adams County

via LawnByCounty

Moderate Lawn Maintenance in Adams County

Adams County earns a lawn difficulty score of 67.4, making it slightly more challenging than the Illinois average of 69.8. While it is significantly easier than the national median of 50.0, homeowners in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a must stay vigilant. You will find that standard cool-season grasses thrive here with consistent attention.

High Heat Impacts Growing Schedules

The county sees 26 extreme heat days annually, which is nearly identical to the state average of 27. With 37.2 inches of annual precipitation, local lawns receive less water than the state average of 41.8 inches. This climate generates 3,697 growing degree days, requiring a robust mowing schedule through the peak season.

Ideal Soil Acidity for Turf

The local soil pH stands at 6.38, which sits perfectly within the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for healthy turf. The soil composition is 21.8% clay and 13.3% sand, providing a stable foundation for root growth. You likely won't need heavy lime applications, but aeration helps manage the clay content.

Severe Drought Challenges Local Resilience

Lawns here faced 39 weeks of drought over the past year, and 85.9% of the county currently experiences severe drought conditions. Every inch of the county is considered abnormally dry right now. Deep, infrequent watering is essential to encourage deep roots that survive these harsh dry spells.

Start Seeding After Mid-April

The last spring frost typically occurs around April 14, marking the start of the primary growing window. Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are the recommended varieties for Zone 6a. Plan your major seeding or sodding projects for early fall to avoid the stress of summer heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adams County's county score?
Adams County, Illinois has a composite county score of 54.7 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Adams County rank among counties in Illinois?
Adams County ranks #50 among all counties in Illinois on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Adams County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Adams County is $2,461, with an effective tax rate of 1.58%. This earns Adams County a tax score of 9.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Adams County?
The median household income in Adams County, Illinois is $64,962 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Adams County earns an income score of 54.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Adams County, Illinois a good place to live?
Adams County scores 54.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Adams County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Adams County with other counties side by side.