countyscore
37.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 68.3Cost of Living 67.6Soil Quality 67

County Report Card

About Ashland County, Wisconsin

Ashland Faces National Score Deficit

Ashland County earns a composite score of 37.6, which is well below the national median of 50.0. This score suggests the county ranks in the bottom third of counties across the country. Economic and safety factors contribute to this lower national standing.

Well Below Wisconsin Benchmarks

The county's 37.6 score significantly lags behind the Wisconsin state average of 50.3. This gap indicates that residents may experience fewer services or economic opportunities than the typical Wisconsinite. It remains one of the more challenging counties for livability within the state.

Affordable Housing and Low Risk

Ashland County shines in cost and environmental safety, with a risk score of 68.3 and a cost score of 67.6. Median gross rent is very low at $665 per month. These numbers make it one of the most affordable places to live in the region.

Infrastructure and Safety Concerns

A water score of 9.5 and a safety score of 16.6 highlight serious infrastructure and security needs. The income score of 32.2 reflects a median household income of $57,645, which limits local economic mobility. High effective tax rates of 1.467% further squeeze local budgets.

A Haven for Frugal Adventurers

This county is best for individuals who prioritize very low living costs and a low risk of natural disasters. It serves those who can work remotely or retire on a fixed income given the $160,500 median home value. Those seeking high safety or modern infrastructure may find it less suitable.

Score breakdown

Tax14.6Cost67.6Safety16.6Health51.1Schools32.4Income32.2Risk68.3Water9.5Weather48.8
🏛14.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠67.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼32.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤51.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡68.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧9.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨67
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱43.6
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

Ashland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ashland County

via TaxByCounty

Ashland's tax rate sits just below national median

Ashland County's effective rate of 1.467% places it around the 48th percentile nationally, nearly matching the median U.S. rate. The median tax of $2,354 runs $336 below the national median, reflecting Ashland's smaller median home value of $160,500.

Ashland ranks slightly above Wisconsin average

At 1.467%, Ashland's effective rate edges above Wisconsin's state average of 1.436%, placing it in the middle tier of the state's 72 counties. The median tax of $2,354 falls $727 below Wisconsin's median of $3,081.

Higher than Adams, lower than Barron

Ashland's 1.467% rate sits between Adams County (1.299%) to the south and Barron (1.424%) to the east, positioning it as a moderate-tax option in north-central Wisconsin. The rate is notably higher than regional leader Burnett (0.952%).

A $160,500 home costs about $2,350 yearly

The median Ashland County home valued at $160,500 generates an annual tax bill of approximately $2,354. With mortgage, that rises to $2,547; without, it drops to $2,063.

Challenge assessments that don't match market value

Wisconsin allows homeowners to appeal property assessments each year at no cost. If your assessed value diverges from comparable sales prices, an appeal could reduce your tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ashland County

via CostByCounty

Ashland County leads on rental affordability

Ashland County residents enjoy a 13.8% rent-to-income ratio, beating both the national standard and Wisconsin's 14.9% state average. The county's median household income of $57,645 is lower than the national median of $74,755, yet affordable rents at $665/month cushion that gap.

Among Wisconsin's most affordable counties

Ashland County ranks favorably statewide with a 13.8% rent-to-income ratio, comfortably below the state average of 14.9%. Its median rent of $665 is the lowest among the eight comparison counties, offering genuine affordability relief for renters.

Cheapest rents in the northern group

Ashland County's $665 monthly rent undercuts all comparable counties, including nearby Bayfield ($789) and Burnett ($758), reflecting its lower regional housing demand. Despite lower incomes, Ashland's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio is the best among its peers.

Rents consume just 14% of income

Ashland County renters spend $665 monthly—only 13.8% of the $57,645 median household income—leaving substantial room in household budgets. Homeowners face higher relative costs at $872/month, though median home values of $160,500 remain among the county's lowest in this group.

Best rental value in northern Wisconsin

Ashland County delivers the strongest rent-to-income ratio in this comparison, ideal for renters prioritizing affordability in a rural setting. If lower cost of living appeals to you more than wage premiums, Ashland's combination of cheap rents and manageable home values merits serious consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ashland County

via IncomeByCounty

Ashland income trails U.S. average significantly

Ashland County's median household income of $57,645 lags the national median of $74,755 by $17,110, representing a 23% gap. This positions Ashland among lower-income counties nationally, reflecting a rural economy with limited high-wage employment sectors.

Ashland ranks near the Wisconsin bottom

At $57,645, Ashland County trails Wisconsin's state median of $71,715 by $14,070. This places Ashland in Wisconsin's lowest quartile of counties by income, alongside other rural northern counties with limited urban centers.

Ashland earns less than most northern peers

Ashland's $57,645 median income ranks lowest among its northern Wisconsin neighbors, trailing Adams County ($59,153) and significantly behind Bayfield ($69,609) and Burnett ($61,664). The income gap reflects Ashland's more tourism-dependent economy versus manufacturing neighbors.

Ashland enjoys strong housing affordability

With a rent-to-income ratio of just 13.8%—among Wisconsin's best—Ashland offers genuine housing relief for residents earning $57,645 annually. The median home value of $160,500 represents just 2.8 years of household income, creating accessible homeownership opportunities.

Leverage Ashland's affordable base to invest

Ashland's low housing costs (13.8% of income) free up capital for retirement accounts, education savings, and wealth-building investments unavailable to residents in higher-cost areas. Even $100 monthly into a diversified portfolio can grow to $40,000+ over 20 years at historical market returns.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ashland County

via CrimeByCounty

Ashland Remains Safer Than Most

Ashland County reports a total crime rate of 2269.2 per 100K, sitting just below the national average. The county earns a high safety score of 96.4 out of 100.

Above the Wisconsin Crime Average

The county's crime rate is roughly double the Wisconsin state average of 1103.1 per 100K. This gap keeps Ashland's safety score below the state average of 98.3.

Northern Wisconsin Safety Trends

Ashland County has a higher crime rate than neighboring Bayfield County, which reports 1097.9 per 100K. However, its violent crime rate of 193.3 is notably lower than Adams County's rate.

Focusing on Property Safety

Violent crime is relatively rare at 193.3 per 100K, but property crimes occur at a rate of 2075.9. Most local reports involve theft rather than personal harm.

Securing Your Property

Since property crime accounts for most local activity, securing outbuildings and vehicles is essential. Robust locks and home sensors provide effective defense for homeowners.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ashland County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy significantly below U.S. average

Ashland County residents live to 74.0 years on average—roughly 4 years shorter than the national life expectancy of 78 years. With nearly 1 in 5 adults (19.3%) reporting poor or fair health, the county faces steeper health challenges than most U.S. communities.

Lowest life expectancy in Wisconsin

At 74.0 years, Ashland County has the lowest life expectancy in the state, falling 3.8 years below Wisconsin's 77.8-year average. The 19.3% poor/fair health rate is also among the highest statewide, signaling urgent need for health interventions.

Significant health gap with surrounding counties

Ashland's 74.0-year life expectancy trails neighboring Bayfield and Burnett counties by 5+ years despite having exceptional provider access. This gap suggests factors beyond provider availability—such as socioeconomic conditions or healthcare-seeking behaviors—are driving poor outcomes.

Excellent providers, but barriers remain

Ashland County boasts 174 primary care providers and 411 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—far exceeding state averages and among the best in Wisconsin. Yet a 7.4% uninsured rate and low life expectancy suggest access barriers and underlying social determinants are limiting care's impact.

Connect with coverage and support

7.4% of Ashland County residents lack insurance despite strong local healthcare capacity. Check BadgerCare+, marketplace plans, and tribal health programs—many Ashland residents qualify for affordable or free coverage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ashland County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Multi-District Northern School Network

Ashland County supports 2,460 students across 11 public schools and four distinct districts. The system includes five elementary, two middle, and three high schools to serve the region.

Meeting Challenges in School Performance

The county reports a 78.0% graduation rate and a school score of 48.7, trailing state averages. Investment sits at $7,709 per pupil, which is below the Wisconsin average of $8,113.

Ashland School District Leads the Region

The Ashland School District is the largest, educating 1,823 students across four schools. One charter school operates in the county, representing roughly 9% of the local educational landscape.

From Town Centers to Rural Campuses

Eight schools are rural while three serve town settings, averaging 246 students per campus. Ashland High is the largest with 626 students, contrasting with smaller rural sites like Marengo Valley Elementary.

Find Your Home in Northern Wisconsin

Choosing a home in Ashland County offers access to diverse district sizes and rural settings. Consider how these unique educational environments fit your family's lifestyle and housing needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ashland County

via RiskByCounty

Ashland County sits in safest tier

Ashland County's composite risk score of 31.68 ranks it in the Very Low category—less than half the state average of 59.08 and well below national norms. This northern Wisconsin county enjoys one of the most favorable natural disaster risk profiles in the region.

Among Wisconsin's safest counties

Ashland County ranks among the lowest-risk counties in Wisconsin, with a score of 31.68 that sits well below the state average of 59.08. Few Wisconsin counties face substantially less natural disaster exposure than Ashland.

Exceptionally safe for the region

Ashland County's 31.68 score ranks it safer than most neighboring counties, particularly compared to Adams County (70.90) and Barron County (68.64). Only Bayfield County (35.08) among its regional peers comes close to matching Ashland's favorable risk position.

Flooding poses the primary concern

Ashland County's flood risk of 28.24 represents its most significant natural disaster exposure, though even this remains well below state averages. Tornado, wildfire, and earthquake risks all score substantially lower, with minimal hurricane threat at 0.00.

Standard coverage meets protection needs

Ashland County residents can generally rely on standard homeowners insurance with modest flood protection considerations. The county's low overall risk profile means insurance needs are straightforward, though property owners in flood-prone areas should still verify their coverage limits.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ashland County

via WeatherByCounty

Cold Northern Latitudes Define the Region

Ashland County averages a cool 41.1°F annually, nearly 13 degrees below the national median temperature. This humid continental climate is heavily influenced by its position on the southern shore of Lake Superior.

One of Wisconsin's Coldest Counties

At 41.1°F, Ashland County is significantly colder than the statewide average of 44.4°F. It ranks among the chillier regions in Wisconsin due to its northern proximity and lake effects.

Sharing a Chill with Bayfield

Ashland matches neighboring Bayfield County exactly with an annual average of 41.1°F. However, it receives slightly less annual precipitation than Bayfield, recording 31.7 inches compared to 33.7 inches.

Vast Snowfall and Short Summers

The county endures a massive 88 inches of annual snowfall, which is among the highest in the state. Summers are mild with only 4 extreme heat days, while January temperatures plunge to an average of 13.2°F.

Winter Readiness Is the Top Priority

Invest in heavy-duty winter gear and reliable snow blowers to manage the nearly 90 inches of annual snow. Indoor humidity control is vital during the dry, cold winter months when averages dip to 16.5°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ashland County

via SoilByCounty

Ashland’s Highly Acidic Northern Soil

Ashland County features a very acidic pH of 4.70, falling significantly below both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.63. This chemical profile suggests a landscape shaped by pine forests and cool northern temperatures.

Fine Texture and Low Clay

The soil contains 37.2% sand and 28.2% silt, but only 6.6% clay. This lack of clay can make the soil less stable, though the high silt and sand blend often aids in initial drainage.

Extraordinary Organic Wealth

With an incredible 28.86% organic matter, these soils far exceed the state average of 11.02%. The available water capacity of 0.284 in/in is also much higher than the state average of 0.204, creating a massive moisture reservoir for plants.

High Moisture Retention Challenges

The limited hydrologic data is balanced by the extremely high water capacity of the soil itself. This suggests a soil that stays damp, which is excellent for moisture-loving plants but may require raised beds for certain crops.

Cool-Climate Growing in Zone 4a

Zone 4a is one of the coldest in the state, making it ideal for northern berries and hardy perennials. Leverage that high organic matter to grow a productive home garden this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ashland County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Growing Conditions in the North

Ashland County faces a challenging lawn difficulty score of 43.6, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. As a Hardiness Zone 4a region, the cold climate and short season make turf management a significant hurdle. Maintaining a lush green lawn here requires much more effort than the Wisconsin state average of 64.4.

Short Seasons and Moderate Moisture

With only 1,784 growing degree days, the season for grass development is notably short compared to southern Wisconsin. Annual precipitation of 31.7 inches is just enough for lawn health, but the low July average of 66.6°F keeps growth rates slow. Residents enjoy a break from heat stress, as the county sees only 4 days above 90°F annually.

Managing High Soil Acidity

The soil pH in Ashland County is a very low 4.70, which is far below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turfgrass. This high acidity can lock out essential nutrients, making lime applications a necessity for most yards. The soil composition includes 37.2% sand and 6.6% clay, though drainage data remains limited for this specific area.

Frequent Dry Spells Impact Turf

The county spent 28 weeks in drought over the past year, and 96.3% of the area is currently considered abnormally dry. This prolonged water stress makes supplemental irrigation vital, even in a cooler climate. Focusing on deep, infrequent watering can help roots reach deeper to survive these recurring dry periods.

Timing Growth in Zone 4a

In Zone 4a, cold-tolerant species like Creeping Red Fescue are essential to surviving the harsh winters. The planting window is narrow, with the last spring frost occurring as late as May 23. Early June is the safest time to seed to ensure roots are established before the October 2 frost date.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ashland County's county score?
Ashland County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 37.6 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 Ashland County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Ashland County ranks #71 among all counties in Wisconsin 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 Ashland County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Ashland County is $2,354, with an effective tax rate of 1.47%. This earns Ashland County a tax score of 14.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ashland County?
The median household income in Ashland County, Wisconsin is $57,645 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ashland County earns an income score of 32.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ashland County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Ashland County scores 37.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #71 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Ashland 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 Ashland 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.