countyscore
34
County Score
Soil Quality 80.7Lawn Care 78.1Water Quality 60.8

County Report Card

About Allen County, Ohio

Struggling to Match National Benchmarks

Allen County's composite score of 34.0 falls well below the national median of 50.0. This ranking suggests the county faces significant headwinds in maintaining standard livability metrics compared to the rest of the country. High safety and environmental risks weigh down its overall standing.

Trailing the Ohio Average

The county sits significantly behind the Ohio state average score of 48.6. While it maintains a median household income of $62,001, other factors prevent it from climbing higher in the state rankings. It currently functions as a more challenging environment for residents compared to its higher-scoring peers.

Balanced Water and Health Scores

Strengths include a water quality score of 60.8 and a respectable health score of 49.2. These metrics indicate that the basic physical well-being of the population is supported by decent environmental standards. Furthermore, an income score of 45.3 shows a reasonably stable economic base for the region.

Critical Safety and Risk Concerns

Safety is a primary concern with a score of just 9.9, and the risk score of 26.7 indicates vulnerability to various disruptions. Tax burdens are also higher than average, with an effective rate of 1.125% resulting in a tax score of 29.6. These factors combine to create a less predictable living environment for many families.

A Challenging Choice for Families

Allen County currently suits those who are tied to local industry but may not be the first choice for those seeking high safety and low taxes. While income levels are decent, the trade-off involves navigating lower safety ratings and higher tax burdens. Improvements in public security would greatly enhance its appeal to new residents.

Score breakdown

Tax29.6Cost43.1Safety9.9Health49.2Schools31.1Income45.3Risk26.7Water60.8Weather58.1
🏛29.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠43.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼45.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡9.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤49.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡26.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧60.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨80.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱78.1
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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Nearby counties

Putnam County
Ohio
65.2
Auglaize County
Ohio
58.4
Van Wert County
Ohio
54.9
Hardin County
Ohio
50.9
Hancock County
Ohio
46.4
Logan County
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56
Shelby County
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47.9
Paulding County
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57.1

Deep Dives

Allen County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Allen County

via TaxByCounty

Allen County's taxes near the national norm

Allen County's effective rate of 1.125% sits just slightly below the national median of 1.1%, putting it squarely in the middle of the national distribution. The median property tax of $1,782 is still well below the national median of $2,690, driven by lower home values across the county.

Allen County mirrors the Ohio average

At 1.125%, Allen County's effective tax rate nearly matches Ohio's state average of 1.148%, placing it comfortably in the middle of Ohio's 88 counties. The median tax bill of $1,782 falls below the state average of $2,145.

Mid-range rates in its regional context

Allen County's 1.125% rate sits between lower-tax Adams County (0.827%) and higher-tax Ashtabula County (1.263%) to the north. Its tax burden is comparable to Ashland County (1.016%) but notably lower than Athens County (1.205%).

A $158,400 home costs $1,782 yearly

The typical Allen County home is valued at $158,400, resulting in an annual property tax of approximately $1,782 at the current 1.125% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,874, while those owning outright pay $1,639.

Challenge your assessment if it's inflated

Allen County homeowners should know that assessment errors are common statewide, and challenging an inflated valuation is free. Contact your county auditor to request a reassessment if you believe your home's appraised value exceeds its true market worth.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Allen County

via CostByCounty

Allen rents strain modest incomes

Allen County renters spend 17.4% of their median household income on gross rent—above Ohio's 15.6% average but still below the national 30% affordability threshold. The county's median income of $62,001 is 17% below the national median, making housing costs proportionally tighter here.

Allen ranks below state average

With a 17.4% rent-to-income ratio, Allen County falls in the less-affordable half of Ohio's 88 counties, slightly worse than the state average. The median rent of $898 exceeds Ohio's state average of $873, signaling above-average housing pressure in this northwestern county.

Pricier than western Ohio peers

Allen County's $898 median rent is notably higher than Auglaize County ($853) and Ashland County ($841) to the south and east. Renters here pay a premium compared to surrounding rural counties, reflecting Allen's larger urban anchor in Toledo.

Renters shoulder bigger burden

Allen County renters spend $898 monthly (17.4% of income), while owners pay $873—nearly identical burdens on a $62,001 median income. This tight balance leaves households with limited flexibility for unexpected housing-related expenses.

Mid-tier Ohio option near Toledo

If you're considering Allen County's larger job market in Toledo but concerned about affordability, compare rent ($898) against lower-cost neighbors like Auglaize ($853) or Ashland ($841) to weigh city access versus housing savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Allen County

via IncomeByCounty

Allen County slightly below national average

Median household income of $62,001 runs 17% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing Allen in the lower-middle range nationally. The gap reflects Ohio's broader post-industrial income patterns.

Solidly middle of Ohio's pack

Allen County's $62,001 median sits just $6,100 below Ohio's average of $68,101, positioning it squarely in the state's middle tier. The county earns modestly but not dramatically below its peers.

More affluent than nearby Adams County

At $62,001, Allen County outearns Adams County ($49,521) by $12,480 but trails Ashland County ($64,991) by under $3,000. The county represents a step up in regional prosperity.

Housing costs stay within reasonable bounds

The 17.4% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing affordable relative to earnings, staying well under the 30% benchmark. This cushion allows families to allocate income toward savings and other priorities.

Invest in steady, long-term growth

Allen County's solid middle-range income creates real opportunity for wealth building through disciplined saving and diversified investments. Tax-advantaged accounts, real estate, and patient capital compound into substantial gains over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Allen County

via CrimeByCounty

Allen County Faces Higher Crime Challenges

Allen County reports a total crime rate of 2,789.8 per 100K, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 95.6, indicating more frequent incidents than the U.S. norm.

Safety Below the State Average

The county's safety score of 95.6 falls below the Ohio average of 97.8. Twelve different reporting agencies work together to address these public safety challenges across the region.

Higher Activity Than Neighboring Counties

Allen's crime rate of 2,789.8 is significantly higher than nearby Auglaize County, which sits at just 676.6. As a regional hub, Allen experiences more urban-style crime patterns than its more rural neighbors.

Property Crime Drives Local Totals

The county sees 417.3 violent crimes and 2,372.5 property crimes per 100K residents. Property-related incidents account for the vast majority of law enforcement activity in the area.

Investing in Home Protection

With property crime rates exceeding 2,300 per 100K, security cameras and alarm systems are highly recommended. These tools provide critical evidence and act as a strong deterrent against theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Allen County

via HealthByCounty

Allen approaches national health benchmarks

At 74.3 years, Allen County's life expectancy falls just 1.8 years short of the U.S. average of 76.1 years. With a 21.7% poor or fair health rate, Allen performs better than many peers while still facing room for improvement.

Nearly matches Ohio's health performance

Allen's 74.3-year life expectancy sits just 0.5 years below Ohio's state average of 74.8 years, positioning it closer to the middle of the state's health rankings. The county's 21.7% poor/fair health rate aligns with state trends.

Stronger provider access than regional peers

Allen's 65 primary care providers per 100K population exceed those in Defiance and Putnam counties to the northwest. The county's 311 mental health providers per 100K rank among the higher concentrations in northwest Ohio.

Solid coverage with room to grow

Allen's uninsured rate of 6.8% sits below Ohio's 7.5% average, suggesting stronger insurance penetration across the population. Primary care availability at 65 per 100K reflects adequate access for routine medical needs in most parts of the county.

Keep coverage strong in Allen

Most Allen residents carry insurance, but the 6.8% uninsured should explore marketplace plans and Medicaid options. Contact the Allen County health department or visit healthcare.gov to confirm you have coverage that meets your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Allen County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse School Options in Allen County

Allen County features a large educational footprint with 36 public schools serving nearly 15,000 students across 12 districts. This robust system includes 16 elementary, 8 middle, and 11 high schools to support a growing population.

Efficiency and Achievement in Allen

The county operates with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,395, which is lower than both the state and national averages. Despite the leaner budget, the county maintains an 81.5% graduation rate and a school score of 49.9, mirroring national median performance.

Lima City Schools Leads Enrollment

Lima City is the largest district, overseeing 10 schools and 3,394 students. Two charter schools also operate in the county, representing roughly 5.6% of the total school options available to local families.

A Mix of Urban and Rural Classrooms

Students experience a variety of settings, with schools split between 12 city locations, 11 rural areas, and 9 suburban sites. Elida Elementary is the largest individual school with 1,018 students, while the county average sits at 427.

Find Your Fit in Allen County

From city centers to rural retreats, Allen County offers a school environment for every lifestyle. Start your home search today and join a community that values diverse educational pathways.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Allen County

via RiskByCounty

Allen County faces above-average risks

Allen County's composite risk score of 73.35 is substantially elevated, driven by severe flood and earthquake vulnerabilities that exceed national averages. Despite low wildfire risk, the county's flood (83.05), earthquake (83.17), and tornado (74.30) scores make it notably more exposed than most U.S. counties.

Among Ohio's highest-risk counties

At 73.35, Allen County's composite risk score ranks it well above Ohio's state average of 55.03, placing it in the upper tier of the state's most vulnerable counties. The county's flood and earthquake hazards particularly distinguish it as a higher-risk area within Ohio.

Stands out as the riskiest neighbor

Allen County's score of 73.35 significantly exceeds nearby Auglaize County (41.76) and Ashland County (46.34), making it the most hazard-exposed in its immediate region. The disparity is especially pronounced in flood risk, where Allen County's 83.05 dwarfs surrounding counties' scores.

Flooding and earthquakes dominate

Flooding (83.05) and earthquakes (83.17) are Allen County's two greatest hazard threats, both ranking in the highest percentiles nationally. Tornado risk at 74.30 adds a third significant concern, creating a tripled-threat environment for preparedness planning.

Comprehensive insurance is essential

Allen County residents must secure flood insurance immediately—the county's 83.05 flood score indicates widespread exposure that standard policies exclude. Earthquake insurance should also be prioritized, and all residents should maintain updated emergency kits and know their home's safe room location for tornado events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Allen County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Midwestern Climate Trends

Allen County maintains an average annual temperature of 51.2°F, placing it just below the national median for temperate zones. The area experiences a classic four-season humid continental climate.

Mirroring the Ohio Average

At 51.2°F, Allen County sits remarkably close to the Ohio state average of 51.5°F. It represents the typical thermal experience for residents in the western part of the state.

Drier Than the Southern Border

The county records 38.5 inches of annual precipitation, which is drier than the 41.2-inch state average. It receives less snow (18.5 inches) than its neighbors closer to the Lake Erie snowbelt.

Hot Summers and Brisk Winters

Summers reach an average of 71.8°F, including 13 days where temperatures climb above 90°F. Winters drop to a 29.3°F average, accompanied by 18.5 inches of snow.

Balance Cooling and Heating Needs

Homeowners should service their AC units early to handle the 13 extreme heat days each year. Reliable insulation is equally important for the 26.6°F January average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Allen County

via SoilByCounty

Perfectly Balanced pH for Growth

Allen County boasts a pH of 6.49, which almost perfectly matches the national median of 6.5 and is much higher than the state average of 5.97. This neutral balance makes it one of the most versatile counties in Ohio for immediate planting without heavy liming.

A Versatile Loamy Mixture

The soil is a balanced mix of 43.4% silt, 32.7% sand, and 22.4% clay. This composition provides excellent workability for farmers and enough clay to retain essential nutrients for high-yield crops.

High Soil Score and Superior Storage

With a soil score of 80.7, Allen County significantly outperforms the state average of 66.0. The available water capacity is 0.201 in/in, which is nearly 10% higher than the state average of 0.186, ensuring plants stay hydrated during dry spells.

Reliable Hydrology for Stable Land

The specific hydrologic group data is limited, but the 80.7 soil score suggests excellent natural utility. The balanced clay and sand ratio typically provides a stable foundation for both construction and intensive agriculture.

Bountiful Options in Zone 6a

Allen County sits in Zone 6a, making it ideal for staple crops like corn and soybeans which thrive in its neutral 6.49 pH soil. Gardeners can jump straight into the growing season with a soil that is already optimized for most vegetables.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Allen County

via LawnByCounty

An Ohio Leader in Lawn Ease

Allen County boasts a high lawn difficulty score of 78.1, outperforming the Ohio state average of 76.0. This score indicates a very hospitable environment for home turf compared to the national median of 50.0. Residents in this 6a hardiness zone enjoy a climate that supports lush, resilient landscapes.

Optimal Growing Degree Days

With 3,215 growing degree days, Allen County provides plenty of thermal energy for consistent grass growth. Annual precipitation of 38.5 inches falls slightly below the state average of 41.2, but remains within the ideal lawn range. The 13 extreme heat days per year are manageable for most cool-season turf varieties.

Near-Perfect Soil Chemistry

The soil pH in Allen County stands at an impressive 6.49, which is nearly perfect for nutrient absorption. A sand content of 32.7% helps with aeration, while the 22.4% clay helps retain necessary moisture and minerals. This balanced profile means fewer chemical amendments are required compared to neighboring counties.

Navigating Severe Dry Spells

Despite good soil, Allen County faces significant drought pressure with 53.8% of the area currently in severe drought. The county has spent 27 weeks in drought over the last year, requiring careful water management. Residents should prioritize deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to keep roots hydrated without wasting water.

Timing Your Planting Cycle

Hardiness zone 6a is perfect for a mix of Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass. Aim to finish your fall seeding by the October 24 frost date to ensure the young grass survives the first freeze. Spring planting is also viable once the threat of frost passes after April 24.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Allen County's county score?
Allen County, Ohio has a composite county score of 34 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 Allen County rank among counties in Ohio?
Allen County ranks #82 among all counties in Ohio 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 Allen County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Allen County is $1,782, with an effective tax rate of 1.13%. This earns Allen County a tax score of 29.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Allen County?
The median household income in Allen County, Ohio is $62,001 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Allen County earns an income score of 45.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Allen County, Ohio a good place to live?
Allen County scores 34/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #82 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Allen 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 Allen County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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