countyscore
43.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 95Health 94.1Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Anoka County, Minnesota

High Income vs. National Median

Anoka County scores 43.7 overall, falling below the national median of 50.0. Despite its lower composite, it hosts a high-earning population that ranks among the best nationally for wealth.

Trailing Minnesota’s High Standards

Anoka trails the Minnesota state average of 55.8 by over 12 points. While it provides elite services, the high cost of living weighs down its ranking relative to rural state peers.

Elite Income and Healthcare Access

The county boasts an exceptional income score of 95.0, with a median household income of $98,764. A health score of 94.1 indicates residents have world-class access to medical resources.

Housing Affordability and Risk

Affordability is a major hurdle, with a cost score of 8.2 and median home values reaching $325,800. Additionally, the risk score of 12.0 suggests vulnerability to natural or environmental stressors.

Best for High-Earning Professionals

Anoka suits established families and professionals who can leverage high incomes to afford premium housing. It is the destination for those prioritizing elite health services and community wealth.

Score breakdown

Tax41.7Cost8.2Safety25.2Health94.1Schools49.3Income95Risk12Water86Weather49
🏛41.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠8.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡25.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤94.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡12
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱64.4
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Anoka County

Whether buying or refinancing in Anoka County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Anoka County with Crawford County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Crawford County
Arkansas
Median income: $60,362
43.7
Poinsett County
Arkansas
Median income: $47,188
43.7
Garfield County
Colorado
Median income: $86,172
43.7
Talbot County
Georgia
Median income: $45,098
43.7
Boone County
Illinois
Median income: $81,638
43.7
Clarke County
Iowa
Median income: $66,821
43.7
Oakland County
Michigan
Median income: $95,296
43.7
Olmsted County
Minnesota
Median income: $93,494
43.7

Nearby counties

Hennepin County
Minnesota
36
Ramsey County
Minnesota
32.6
Washington County
Minnesota
47.6
Isanti County
Minnesota
43.6
Wright County
Minnesota
56.5
Sherburne County
Minnesota
55.6
Chisago County
Minnesota
46.2
St. Croix County
Wisconsin
50.8

Deep Dives

Anoka County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Anoka County

via TaxByCounty

Anoka's tax rate slightly below the nation

Anoka County's effective tax rate of 0.951% sits just below the national median of 0.956%, placing it near the middle of the national distribution. Despite a median home value $44,000 higher than the U.S. average, Anoka homeowners pay taxes at a more moderate rate than most Americans.

Middle of the pack in Minnesota

Anoka County's 0.951% effective tax rate ranks it 41st among Minnesota's 87 counties—just below the state average of 0.968%. The county's median property tax of $3,099 exceeds the state median of $2,168, reflecting higher-valued homes in this metro-adjacent area.

Anoka taxes slightly less than metro neighbors

Among the Twin Cities region counties, Anoka's 0.951% rate undercuts Beltrami County (0.996%) but exceeds Aitkin County (0.573%). A typical Anoka home ($325,800 value) generates $3,099 in annual taxes—comparable to similar properties in Hennepin and Ramsey counties.

Your annual Anoka property tax bill

The median Anoka County home is valued at $325,800, resulting in an annual property tax bill of approximately $3,099 at the county's 0.951% effective rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay about $3,134 annually, while those without mortgages pay $3,019.

Challenge your assessment if rates jump unexpectedly

In rapidly developing Anoka County, assessment errors are common when properties turn over or neighborhoods change. Request your assessment timeline and compare it against recent comparable sales—many homeowners find they can reduce their tax burden through formal appeals.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Anoka County

via CostByCounty

Anoka punches above national income levels

With a median household income of $98,764, Anoka County residents earn 32% more than the national average of $74,755. This higher income helps offset a rent-to-income ratio of 17.0%, which remains slightly above the national average despite stronger earning power.

Anoka ranks among Minnesota's most affluent

Anoka County's median household income exceeds the state average, reflecting its suburban proximity to Minneapolis-St. Paul. Its rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% sits above Minnesota's 14.5% average, showing that higher incomes alone don't guarantee affordability relief in this growing metro area.

Premium pricing for metro access

Anoka's median rent of $1,396 and homeowner costs of $1,576 far exceed nearby rural counties like Becker ($899 rent) and Big Stone ($718 rent). The trade-off reflects Anoka's position as a Twin Cities suburb, where proximity and amenities command higher housing prices.

Anoka's dual housing pressures

Renters pay $1,396 monthly while homeowners spend $1,576, combining for a housing burden that approaches 32% of the $98,764 median household income. Despite strong earnings, Anoka residents face the state's most expensive housing markets, driven by metro-area demand.

Suburban affordability at a premium

Anoka offers stable suburban living and strong household incomes, but expect to pay metro-area prices for housing and amenities. If you're relocating here, leverage your earning potential—the median home value of $325,800 reflects this county's position as Minnesota's most expensive market outside central Minneapolis.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Anoka County

via IncomeByCounty

Anoka leads nation in household income

Anoka County's median household income of $98,764 ranks among the highest in the nation, significantly exceeding the national median of $74,755 by 32%. This $24,000 advantage reflects a prosperous suburban economy with strong employment and wage growth.

Minnesota's wealthiest counties include Anoka

Anoka County's $98,764 median income places it in the top tier of Minnesota counties, far above the state average of $75,757. The $23,000 surplus reflects robust job markets and skilled workforce concentrations in the metro area.

Anoka outearns all nearby competitors

At $98,764, Anoka's income significantly exceeds neighboring counties like Becker ($71,117), Beltrami ($67,257), and Benton ($71,480). The wealth gap demonstrates Anoka's status as a premier employment and residential destination in the region.

Strong earnings support suburban lifestyle

Anoka's 17.0% rent-to-income ratio indicates comfortable housing affordability, with plenty of income left for savings and discretionary spending. The median home value of $325,800 is well-supported by local earning power, enabling wealth-building through homeownership.

Higher income enables aggressive investing

Anoka residents earning nearly $100,000 should leverage their income advantage to maximize retirement contributions and diversify investments. The substantial earnings cushion allows for meaningful equity exposure and real estate investments that can significantly compound over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Anoka County

via CrimeByCounty

Anoka County maintains strong safety score

Anoka County earns a 97.1 safety score with a total crime rate of 1847.3 per 100,000 residents. This total remains well below the national average of 2,385.5 incidents per 100,000 people.

Crime rates exceed the Minnesota average

The county's crime rate of 1,847.3 is higher than the Minnesota average of 1,123.5. Eleven reporting agencies manage public safety across this busy metropolitan corridor.

Anoka tracks higher than rural Minnesota peers

As a large suburban area, Anoka sees more crime than neighbors like Aitkin or Becker. However, it remains significantly more secure than the extreme rates reported in Benton County.

Violent crime sits slightly above state benchmark

The local violent crime rate is 178.0, which is higher than the state average of 153.0. Property crime makes up the bulk of reports at 1669.3 per 100,000 residents.

Deterring property crime in suburban Anoka

Doorbell cameras and smart home security systems are effective deterrents in high-density residential areas. Staying vigilant and reporting suspicious activity helps maintain community safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Anoka County

via HealthByCounty

Anoka outpaces national health trends

At 79.9 years, Anoka County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 78.9 years by a full year, placing it among Minnesota's healthier counties. Just 12.4% of residents report poor or fair health, well below national norms.

Minnesota's healthiest county profile

Anoka ranks in the upper tier of Minnesota counties with a life expectancy of 79.9 years, beating the state average of 78.7 by 1.2 years. Its 5.2% uninsured rate is among the lowest in the state, indicating strong health insurance coverage.

Anoka leads regional health outcomes

Anoka's 79.9-year life expectancy outshines Benton County's 77.3 years and Becker County's 77.9 years by a significant margin. The county's 231 mental health providers per 100,000 residents far exceed most neighboring counties, supporting robust mental health care.

Strong coverage but primary care stretched

Anoka's 5.2% uninsured rate is among Minnesota's best, meaning most residents have coverage for health needs. Yet primary care providers number just 47 per 100,000—below county averages—suggesting potential wait times despite strong insurance uptake.

Maintain your health coverage advantage

Anoka's low uninsured rate reflects strong community health insurance enrollment. If you're uninsured or changing coverage, MNsure.org helps you find and enroll in plans in minutes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Anoka County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Educational Network in Anoka

Anoka County operates a sprawling network of 129 schools across 14 districts, serving 58,096 students. The diverse system includes 56 elementary schools, 15 middle schools, and 47 high schools, supported by dozens of specialized alternative and special education centers.

Investing in Scale and Student Success

The county maintains a graduation rate of 85.0%, which sits slightly below the Minnesota state average of 86.6%. Annual spending reaches $8,673 per pupil, narrowly outpacing the state average of $8,463 though falling short of the $13,000 national median.

Anoka-Hennepin Dominates the Local Landscape

The Anoka-Hennepin School District is a regional powerhouse, managing 52 schools and 38,590 students. Charter schools also play a significant role, with 11 institutions representing roughly 8.5% of the county's total school inventory.

Suburban Intensity and Large Campus Life

School life here is primarily suburban, with 110 of the 129 schools located in developed residential hubs. While the average school size is 488, major institutions like Blaine High School serve nearly 3,000 students on a single campus.

Discover Vibrant Communities with Diverse Schools

With over 100 suburban campuses to choose from, homebuyers in Anoka County have unparalleled access to diverse educational paths. Explore neighborhoods near Centennial or Spring Lake Park to find a home that fits your student's needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Anoka County

via RiskByCounty

Anoka: Minnesota's Highest-Risk County

Anoka County's composite risk score of 88.01 ranks it in the Relatively Moderate category—more than double Minnesota's state average of 42.38. This makes Anoka one of Minnesota's most disaster-vulnerable counties, with significant exposure across multiple hazard types.

The Riskiest County in Minnesota

Anoka County ranks as Minnesota's highest-risk county by composite score, substantially exceeding all other counties in the state. Its 88.01 score reflects critical vulnerability to natural disasters statewide, making disaster preparedness essential for residents.

Anoka Stands Out as Highest-Risk

Anoka County (88.01) faces dramatically higher risks than neighboring Becker County (37.40) and Beltrami County (60.56), making it a clear outlier in the region. Even Aitkin County (56.58) and Benton County (51.34) experience substantially lower exposure than Anoka.

Triple Threat: Floods, Tornadoes, Wildfires

Anoka residents face severe risks from flooding (91.98), tornado activity (87.25), and wildfire exposure (81.65)—all among the highest in the state. This combination of hazards makes Anoka County one of Minnesota's most multi-hazard-vulnerable areas, requiring comprehensive household preparedness.

Critical: Multi-Hazard Insurance Now

Anoka County residents must prioritize flood insurance as a separate policy, since standard homeowners coverage excludes it—and with flood risk scores at 91.98, this is essential. Additionally, review tornado and storm damage coverage, consider reinforced roof construction, and maintain an emergency plan for your family.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Anoka County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Patch in the Cold North

Anoka County’s annual average of 44.2°F is nearly 9 degrees below the national median but represents one of Minnesota's warmer pockets. The climate is defined by high seasonal variability and significant precipitation.

Exceeding the State Temperature Average

At 44.2°F, Anoka sits 1.4 degrees warmer than the statewide average of 42.8°F. It ranks among the more temperate counties in Minnesota due to its southerly position and urban heat influences.

Warmer and Snowier Than Northern Peers

Anoka is considerably warmer than Aitkin County and receives nearly 11 inches more snow annually, totaling 54.0 inches. It also sees 7 days of extreme heat, more than double its northern neighbors.

Hot July Days and Heavy Snow

Summer temperatures peak in July at 70.9°F, while winter averages a chilly 17.0°F. The county experiences a significant 54.0 inches of snow, often more than many northern counties.

Strategies for Anoka's Variable Weather

Robust snow removal equipment is a must for the heavy 54-inch annual accumulation. Homeowners should also maintain air conditioning systems to handle the week of 90°F heat each summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Anoka County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Loamy Sands of Anoka

Anoka features Entisols with a loamy sand texture and a pH of 5.30. This acidic profile sits well below the state average of 6.21 and the national median of 6.5.

Sand-Dominant Composition

A high sand content of 65.4% defines the area, paired with 23.9% silt and 8.4% clay. While easy to till, this sandy mix loses moisture and nutrients faster than heavier soils found elsewhere in the state.

Strong Organic Matter Levels

With 12.02% organic matter, these soils are richer than the state average of 9.90%. However, the available water capacity of 0.170 in/in is lower than the Minnesota benchmark, requiring frequent irrigation.

Very Poor Drainage Challenges

Despite the high sand content, the county is often classified as very poorly drained due to low-lying topography. Growers should manage the A/D hydrologic group's variable water table by using raised beds.

Zone 4b Gardening Success

Zone 4b is ideal for asparagus and strawberries that enjoy well-worked, sandy ground. Lean into the high organic content to produce a vibrant landscape in your own backyard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Anoka County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable conditions in Anoka County

Anoka County scores a 64.4 on the lawn difficulty index, hovering just above the state average of 63.9. Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b, this area offers a more manageable environment than the national median of 50.0. Better temperature stability and moderate winters simplify long-term turf maintenance.

Moderate heat for steady growth

With 2,455 growing degree days and 31.6 inches of annual precipitation, the climate supports a robust mowing season. The county experiences 7 extreme heat days annually, requiring occasional supplemental watering during July peaks. Grass typically begins active growth after the May 5 spring frost.

Managing sandy, wet foundations

The soil is predominantly loamy sand, featuring a high 65.4% sand content but a very poor drainage class. A pH of 5.30 indicates acidic conditions that require lime amendments to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range. Homeowners must balance the sandy texture with the slow drainage to prevent soil compaction and waterlogging.

High resilience to drought

Anoka County has avoided drought conditions entirely over the past year, reporting zero weeks of drought. This consistent moisture profile reduces the need for intensive irrigation systems. Maintaining a higher mowing height can further protect the grass if short dry spells occur.

Best turf for Zone 4b

Perennial Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive here, providing the durability needed for local winters. The ideal time to seed is shortly after May 5, when the soil warms and frost risk diminishes. Your growing window remains wide until the first fall frost arrives around October 7.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Anoka County's county score?
Anoka County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 43.7 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 Anoka County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Anoka County ranks #76 among all counties in Minnesota 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 Anoka County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Anoka County is $3,099, with an effective tax rate of 0.95%. This earns Anoka County a tax score of 41.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Anoka County?
The median household income in Anoka County, Minnesota is $98,764 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Anoka County earns an income score of 95/100 on CountyScore.
Is Anoka County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Anoka County scores 43.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #76 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Anoka 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 Anoka 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.