countyscore
39.8
County Score
Soil Quality 75.5Health 71.1Lawn Care 67.5

County Report Card

About Adams County, Nebraska

Adams County Trails the National Median

Adams County earns a composite score of 39.8, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a lower-than-average ranking in several key livability metrics across the United States.

Falling Behind the Nebraska Average

With a score of 39.8, Adams County lags significantly behind the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It struggles to keep pace with higher-scoring peers in the central part of the state.

Health Outcomes and Solid Incomes

The county excels in community health with a score of 71.1. Residents also benefit from a healthy income score of 56.4, supported by a median household income of $65,680.

High Taxes and Safety Concerns

The tax score of 15.7 and safety score of 15.9 present the most significant challenges for the area. An effective tax rate of 1.437% puts a higher burden on homeowners compared to neighboring counties.

A Fit for Established Professionals

Adams County suits established professionals who value strong healthcare access and steady wages. It remains a viable option for those focused on career stability rather than low tax burdens.

2040608010015.742.815.971.15956.435.71845.7Tax15.7Cost42.8Safety15.9Health71.1Schools59Income56.4Risk35.7Water18Weather45.739.8/100
This county
National avg
1 above average5 below average

Adams County DNA

Foverall

How Adams County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Adams County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Water Quality (18/100), though Health (71.1/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
15.7-36.3
Cost
42.8
Safety
15.9-39.1
Health
71.1+21.099999999999994
Schools
59
Income
56.4
Risk
35.7-11.299999999999997
Water
18-40
Weather
45.7-10.299999999999997
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Many homeowners in Adams County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$185,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$853/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$185,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$34,120/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $65,680/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

6.4

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Kearney County
Nebraska
61.6
Hall County
Nebraska
35.5
Clay County
Nebraska
66.1
Webster County
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Hamilton County
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Buffalo County
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Nuckolls County
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Franklin County
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Deep Dives

Adams County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Adams County

via TaxByCounty

Adams taxes run above the national average

At 1.437%, Adams County's effective property tax rate exceeds the national median of 1.281%, placing it in roughly the 65th percentile nationwide. Homeowners here pay a median of $2,670 annually, slightly below the national median of $2,690, because homes are valued lower than the U.S. average of $281,900.

Higher taxes than most Nebraska counties

Adams County ranks among the higher-tax counties in Nebraska, with an effective rate of 1.437% compared to the state average of 1.281%. The county's median property tax of $2,670 also exceeds the state median of $1,972, placing it in the top quartile statewide.

More expensive than surrounding rural counties

Adams County taxes are notably steeper than neighboring Blaine County (1.186% rate, $1,211 median tax) and Boone County (1.016% rate, $1,673 median tax). Only Banner County nearby approaches Adams' tax burden, with a 1.513% rate and $2,516 median tax.

Median home costs $2,670 per year to tax

The typical Adams County home valued at $185,800 generates an annual property tax bill of approximately $2,670. If your home is financed with a mortgage, lenders typically require an escrow account, raising your monthly costs by about $104 to cover taxes and insurance.

Many Adams homeowners may be overassessed

Studies show that 15-20% of homeowners nationally are overassessed on their properties and never appeal. If your home's assessed value seems high compared to recent sales nearby, requesting a reassessment review could lower your tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Adams County

via CostByCounty

Adams rents bite harder than average

Adams County renters spend 15.6% of their income on rent, outpacing the national average of about 14% and putting housing costs firmly in the "cost-burdened" category. The median household here earns $65,680—roughly $9,000 less than the U.S. median—while rents average $853 per month, the highest gap between income and housing costs among comparable counties.

Above average for Nebraska

Adams County's 15.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks it as more costly than most Nebraska counties and notably higher than the state average of 14.2%. At $853 monthly, Adams rents run $70 above the state median, making it one of Nebraska's pricier rental markets despite moderate home prices.

Pricier than surrounding counties

Adams County renters face steeper costs than nearby Antelope County ($746) and Blaine County ($786), though they pay less than Banner County ($975). Among peers with similar population and geography, Adams stands out for the disconnect between modest wages and elevated rental demand.

Rent and mortgage split the burden

Renters spend $853 monthly while homeowners carry $956 in mortgage costs—nearly identical burdens that collectively consume significant income. With a median income of $65,680 annually ($5,473 monthly), both housing groups stretch toward the 20% affordability threshold, leaving limited room for other expenses.

Consider affordability before relocating

If you're eyeing Adams County, compare your rent expectations against the 15.6% benchmark: households earning under $65,000 will likely feel housing squeeze. Exploring nearby Antelope or Blaine counties could unlock modest savings while keeping you in rural Nebraska's social fabric.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Adams County

via IncomeByCounty

Adams trails the national income bar

Adams County's median household income of $65,680 falls about $9,075 below the national median of $74,755. While this puts the county below the U.S. average, it remains competitive within rural Nebraska's economic landscape.

Middle of the Nebraska pack

At $65,680, Adams County earns slightly below Nebraska's state average of $66,880, placing it near the middle tier of the state's counties. The county's per capita income of $36,480 edges above the state average of $36,101.

Stronger than nearby rural peers

Adams County outearns Antelope County ($63,750) and Boyd County ($58,984) but trails Banner County ($71,250) and Boone County ($71,367). Among its regional cohort, Adams holds solid mid-tier ground.

Rents remain manageable here

At 15.6%, Adams County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 30% affordability benchmark, meaning housing costs don't strain household budgets. Median home values of $185,800 align well with local earning power.

Build long-term financial security

Adams County households earning $65,680 have solid ground to invest for retirement and education. Local financial advisors can help residents leverage low housing costs into wealth-building strategies like homeownership and investment accounts.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Adams County

via CrimeByCounty

Adams County Stays Below National Crime Rates

Adams County maintains a safety score of 96.3, reflecting a total crime rate of 2,324.8 per 100,000 residents. This figure sits just below the national average of 2,385.5, indicating a slightly safer environment than many U.S. communities.

Comparing Adams to the Nebraska Average

While competitive nationally, Adams County's crime rate is significantly higher than the Nebraska state average of 626.7. Its safety score of 96.3 trails the impressive state average safety score of 99.0.

Safety Trends Among Regional Neighbors

Adams County shows higher crime activity than nearby rural counties like Boone, which reports a much lower rate of 166.8. Three reporting agencies track local data to provide a comprehensive look at safety in this central Nebraska hub.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Property crimes account for the bulk of incidents at 2,006.9 per 100,000, while violent crime remains lower at 317.9. This means residents are nearly seven times more likely to experience a property-related issue than a violent one.

Simple Steps for a Safer Home

With a 96.3 safety score, Adams County is generally secure, but property crime is the primary local concern. Residents can stay proactive by installing motion-sensor lighting and keeping entry points well-secured.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Adams County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Educational Framework in Adams County

Adams County supports a diverse educational infrastructure with 18 public schools serving 5,048 students across six districts. The network includes seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and six high schools, providing specialized pathways for local families. This comprehensive system ensures broad access to education from primary through secondary levels.

High Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

Students here achieve an impressive 89.0% graduation rate, surpassing both the national benchmark of 87.0% and the Nebraska state average of 86.9%. While the county spends $8,645 per pupil—well below the national average of $13,000—it maintains a solid school score of 56.6. These figures suggest a high level of academic efficiency and student success.

Hastings Public Schools Leads the Region

Hastings Public Schools is the dominant district, managing eight schools and educating 3,644 students. Adams Central Public Schools also plays a significant role with three schools and 1,004 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, as the traditional public districts manage all 100% of the local student population.

A Blend of Town and Rural Learning

The county offers a diverse locale mix with 11 schools in town settings and 7 in rural areas. Hastings Senior High School is the largest campus with 1,067 students, while the average school size across the county is 337. Families can choose between larger town-based environments or smaller, more intimate rural school settings.

Find Your Home Near Top-Performing Schools

With graduation rates that exceed state and national averages, Adams County is an attractive destination for families prioritizing education. Consider exploring neighborhoods within the Hastings or Adams Central districts to secure a home near high-performing schools. School quality remains a vital investment for both your children's future and your property value.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Adams County

via RiskByCounty

Adams County faces above-average tornado risk

With a composite risk score of 64.31, Adams County ranks as relatively low nationally but well above Nebraska's state average of 25.80. Tornadoes are the primary driver, scoring 79.58—a significant threat that demands preparation and awareness.

Highest tornado risk in Nebraska

Adams County's tornado risk of 79.58 is the most severe in the state, making it Nebraska's most tornado-prone county. This exceptional ranking reflects the county's location in a geographic zone particularly vulnerable to severe spring and early summer storms.

Far riskier than surrounding counties

Adams County's composite score of 64.31 dwarfs neighboring Boone County (43.35) and distant Antelope County (19.47). Its tornado risk of 79.58 stands alone—the next highest county threat in the region is significantly lower.

Tornadoes dominate Adams County threats

Tornadoes (79.58) and wildfire (42.72) are your primary hazards; tornado risk is nearly double the wildfire concern. Flooding (32.76) and earthquakes (24.65) present minor threats but warrant basic preparedness measures.

Prioritize tornado and wind protection

With tornado risk nearly four times the state average, comprehensive homeowners insurance and a reinforced safe room or basement shelter are essential investments. Consider additional coverage for hail and wind damage, which often accompany severe thunderstorms in Adams County.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Adams County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Faces Significant Compliance Challenges

Adams County carries a water quality grade of F, recording 42 health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 153.3 per 100,000 people significantly exceeds the Nebraska state average of 110.3. This data highlights a persistent struggle to meet Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Sixty Percent of Local Water Bodies Fail Standards

According to the 2022 ATTAINS report, 9 of the 15 assessed water bodies in Adams County are impaired. Primary pollutants include E. coli, mercury in fish tissue, and atrazine. While these conditions are concerning, the county's 60% impairment rate is slightly better than the Nebraska average of 66.4%.

Active Monitoring Tracks Physical and Nutrient Data

Two monitoring sites have produced 566 measurements over the past five years. Researchers focus heavily on physical characteristics, nutrients, and microbiological data. This footprint provides a baseline for understanding the county's specific water quality trends.

Local Streamflow Monitoring Data Is Currently Limited

There is currently no representative USGS streamgage providing live data for Adams County. Without real-time flow signals, local water intelligence relies heavily on existing compliance and watershed records. Residents should refer to historical drinking water data as the primary signal of system health.

Mitigating Risks from Atrazine and E. Coli

Given the 'F' grade and the presence of atrazine in watersheds, residents should prioritize home water filtration systems certified to remove pesticides. Regular testing for bacteria is also recommended if using private wells. Local awareness of these specific pollutants is the first step in ensuring household safety.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Adams County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Continental Climate

Adams County averages 51.5°F annually, which sits slightly below the national median temperature. The region receives 27.1 inches of precipitation, characteristic of the transition to the humid continental zone.

Warmer Than the State Average

The county's 51.5°F average makes it warmer than the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. It also receives about 1.2 inches more annual precipitation than the typical Nebraska county.

More Heat Than Northern Neighbors

With 34 extreme heat days, Adams sees twice as much intense heat as Antelope County to the north. Its winter average of 28.1°F is also milder than counties in the northern tier.

High Heat and Moderate Snow

Summers are intense with 34 days hitting 90°F or higher and a July average of 76.3°F. Winters bring 28.6 inches of snow, which is lower than the totals seen in western Nebraska.

Prepare for Summer Spikes

Residents need high-efficiency cooling systems to handle over a month of extreme heat days. Winter prep should focus on managing the 28.6 inches of snow and occasional 25.9°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Adams County

via SoilByCounty

Young Entisol Soils Define the Landscape

Adams County is characterized by loamy fine sand from the Entisols taxonomic order. Its average pH of 6.56 aligns almost perfectly with the national median of 6.5, providing a balanced chemical foundation for plants.

A Silty Blend for Easy Working

The soil profile contains 32.1% sand, 47.4% silt, and 19.3% clay. This high silt content makes the land easy to work while maintaining enough clay to support structural integrity.

High Water Capacity Boosts Growth

With an available water capacity of 0.198 in/in, these soils exceed the state average of 0.172. While the 2.86% organic matter is lower than the Nebraska average, it remains well above the 2.0% national benchmark.

Rapid Drainage for Aerated Roots

Classified as excessively drained and part of hydrologic group A, these soils move water very quickly. This setup prevents waterlogging but means crops may need more frequent watering during dry spells.

Thriving in Zone 5b

The region sits in USDA hardiness zone 5b, ideal for corn, soybeans, and hearty root vegetables. Residents should take advantage of this high 75.5 soil score by starting a home garden this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Adams County

via LawnByCounty

Prime conditions for Adams County lawns

Adams County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 67.5, making it significantly easier to maintain than the Nebraska average of 54.2. Residents in this 5b hardiness zone enjoy a more favorable environment for grass than much of the national median.

Monitoring heat and moisture levels

With 27.1 inches of annual precipitation, the county falls slightly short of the 30-50 inch ideal range, necessitating supplemental irrigation. The 34 annual extreme heat days and 3,447 growing degree days mean mowing stays frequent through the peak summer months.

Excessive drainage in loamy sands

The soil pH of 6.56 is nearly perfect for turf, though the loamy fine sand texture leads to excessive drainage. Lawns here benefit from organic matter additions to help hold moisture and nutrients within the root zone.

Managing twenty weeks of drought

While 100% of the county is currently abnormally dry, there is no severe drought presently recorded. To survive the 20 weeks of drought seen over the last year, experts recommend deep, infrequent watering early in the morning.

Timing your Adams County planting

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue thrive in this 5b zone when seeded after the last spring frost on April 25. Aim to complete major fall renovations before the first frost arrives around October 16.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adams County's county score?
Adams County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 39.8 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 Nebraska?
Adams County ranks #85 among all counties in Nebraska 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, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Adams County is $2,670, with an effective tax rate of 1.44%. This earns Adams County a tax score of 15.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Adams County?
The median household income in Adams County, Nebraska is $65,680 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Adams County earns an income score of 56.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Adams County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Adams County scores 39.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #85 in Nebraska. 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.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.