countyscore
46.5
County Score
Lawn Care 71.6Safety 68.1Water Quality 66.8

County Report Card

About Ashtabula County, Ohio

Just Below National Norms

Ashtabula County's composite score of 46.5 sits slightly under the national median of 50.0. This indicates that while the county offers some advantages, it faces specific systemic challenges that keep it from the top tier. It reflects the typical experience of a transitioning industrial and agricultural region.

Near the State Average

The county's score of 46.5 is nearly identical to the Ohio state average of 48.6. It serves as a representative sample of the state's broader economic and social landscape. While it isn't an outlier in either direction, it has room to grow to match Ohio's highest-performing counties.

Safety and Environmental Quality

High marks in safety at 68.1 and water quality at 66.8 make this a secure place to live and breathe. Affordability is another plus, with a cost score of 56.0 and a median home value of just $149,600. These factors provide a meaningful safety net for residents who value environmental health and low-cost entry into homeownership.

High Taxes and Low Incomes

The county's tax score is a low 22.5, burdened by a high effective tax rate of 1.263%. This is paired with an income score of 26.5 and a median household income of $55,507, creating a tight financial squeeze. Residents pay more in taxes while earning less than those in many neighboring counties.

Best for Low-Cost Living

Ashtabula County is best suited for those who can work remotely or have stable local employment and want to capitalize on low real estate prices. The high safety and water scores provide a high quality of physical life despite the financial pressures of taxes. It is a practical choice for first-time homebuyers looking for a safe, quiet community.

Score breakdown

Tax22.5Cost56Safety68.1Health38.9Schools39.1Income26.5Risk37.4Water66.8Weather58.3
🏛22.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠56
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼26.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡68.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤38.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡37.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧66.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨59.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱71.6
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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Nearby counties

Lake County
Ohio
49.4
Trumbull County
Ohio
39.3
Geauga County
Ohio
55.7
Crawford County
Pennsylvania
52.4
Erie County
Pennsylvania
39
Mercer County
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51.1
Cuyahoga County
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30.4
Portage County
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42.8

Deep Dives

Ashtabula County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ashtabula County

via TaxByCounty

Ashtabula County's taxes run above average

Ashtabula County's effective rate of 1.263% exceeds the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the upper 40% of U.S. counties for property taxes. Despite having lower home values, residents pay a median of $1,890 annually in property taxes.

Among Ohio's higher-tax counties

At 1.263%, Ashtabula County's effective rate ranks above the Ohio state average of 1.148%, putting it in the upper tier of the state's 88 counties. The median property tax of $1,890 also exceeds Ohio's $2,145 average when adjusted for home values.

Highest rates among regional peers

Ashtabula County's 1.263% rate is the highest in its immediate region, exceeding Adams (0.827%), Ashland (1.016%), Allen (1.125%), and Athens (1.205%) counties. This makes it a notable outlier in the area for tax burden.

A $149,600 home costs $1,890 yearly

With a median home value of $149,600 and the county's 1.263% rate, the typical Ashtabula County homeowner pays about $1,890 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages pay $2,052, while outright owners pay $1,690.

Ashtabula homeowners should challenge assessments

Given the county's above-average tax rates, Ashtabula residents should carefully review their property assessments for potential errors. Filing an appeal with your county auditor costs nothing and is a smart move if you believe your home is overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ashtabula County

via CostByCounty

Ashtabula's affordability challenge

Ashtabula County renters spend 17.6% of their median household income on gross rent—above Ohio's 15.6% average but still manageable against the 30% national threshold. The median income of $55,507 ranks 26% below the national median, squeezing household budgets despite modest rent levels.

Ashtabula struggles in state ranks

With a 17.6% rent-to-income ratio, Ashtabula County falls among Ohio's less affordable counties, well above the state average of 15.6%. The northeastern county's combination of lower incomes and moderate rents creates persistent housing pressure.

Midrange costs, tight budgets

Ashtabula's $816 rent is cheaper than Allen County ($898) but pricier than Adams ($700), placing it in the regional middle. However, Ashtabula's lower median income of $55,507 means renters here face tighter affordability than the rent price alone suggests.

Housing claims heavy income share

Renters spend $816 monthly (17.6% of income) while owners pay $807, nearly identical burdens on a $55,507 median income. This leaves little margin for other essential expenses in a county where median home values sit at $149,600.

Trade lower rents for income reality

Ashtabula County offers modest $816 rents but pair that with the county's median income of $55,507 to gauge true affordability for your household. Compare this northeastern location against higher-income neighbors like Ashland or Brown County before relocating.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ashtabula County

via IncomeByCounty

Ashtabula significantly below U.S. median

Median household income of $55,507 is 26% below the national median of $74,755, reflecting the county's struggles in post-industrial Ohio. The gap places Ashtabula among the nation's lower-income areas.

Below Ohio average by substantial margin

At $55,507, Ashtabula County trails Ohio's state average of $68,101 by $12,594—an 18.5% gap. The county ranks in the lower portion of Ohio's income distribution.

Struggles against most neighboring counties

Ashtabula's $55,507 income trails Ashland County ($64,991) by $9,484 and Brown County ($69,990) by $14,483. Only Adams County ($49,521) falls notably below it in the region.

Rent burden creeps toward stress levels

At 17.6% of income, rent remains affordable, but it approaches higher-stress territory when combined with other essential expenses. The limited income cushion means households must budget carefully.

Start small, think long-term

Even tight budgets support wealth building through automated savings and low-cost index funds—even $50 monthly compounds meaningfully over decades. Employer retirement plans and health savings accounts offer crucial tax advantages.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ashtabula County

via CrimeByCounty

Safe Living on Lake Erie

Ashtabula County enjoys a high safety score of 98.8, indicating it is safer than most of the country. The total crime rate of 746.4 is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Surpassing State Safety Norms

At 98.8, Ashtabula's safety score exceeds the Ohio average of 97.8. Eleven law enforcement agencies contribute to the data that tracks these favorable safety trends.

Consistent Safety Along the Border

With a crime rate of 746.4, Ashtabula provides a secure environment for residents and visitors alike. It maintains a much lower crime profile than the industrial hubs located further west.

A Focus on Property Security

Violent crime is very low at 82.9 per 100K, while property crime accounts for 663.5 incidents. Residents are nearly eight times more likely to encounter property issues than violent ones.

Locking Down Residential Property

Property crime is the most frequent challenge, so securing garages and sheds is vital. Simple locks and smart doorbells help maintain the county's excellent safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ashtabula County

via HealthByCounty

Ashtabula lags national health standards

At 73.7 years, Ashtabula County residents live 2.4 years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. The county's 21.5% poor or fair health rate reflects ongoing chronic disease and health management challenges.

Bottom tier within Ohio

Ashtabula's 73.7-year life expectancy falls 1.1 years below Ohio's 74.8-year average, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. With a 21.5% poor/fair health rate, Ashtabula faces significant population health headwinds.

Weakest outcomes in northeastern Ohio

Ashtabula's 73.7-year life expectancy trails Trumbull and Geauga counties to the south and east. At just 29 primary care providers per 100K, Ashtabula ranks among the lowest in the region, creating access barriers.

Provider shortage compounds access gaps

With 9.4% of residents uninsured—above Ohio's 7.5% average—and only 29 primary care providers per 100K, Ashtabula faces twin barriers to care. Mental health provider availability at 239 per 100K provides some support, but overall capacity remains strained.

Get covered and get care

If you're among the 9.4% of Ashtabula residents without insurance, coverage is urgent—especially when providers are scarce. Visit healthcare.gov or call Ashtabula County's health department to enroll in Medicaid, marketplace plans, or community health resources today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ashtabula County

via SchoolsByCounty

Educational Access Across Ashtabula

Ashtabula County manages 34 public schools and 8 districts, serving a large student body of 12,661. The infrastructure includes a diverse mix of 15 elementary and 9 high schools spread across the region.

Investing in Ashtabula's Future

The county reports an 85.8% graduation rate and a school score of 52.4, which sits near the state average. Per-pupil spending is currently $7,482, slightly below the Ohio benchmark of $7,994.

Ashtabula Area City Schools Spotlight

Ashtabula Area City is the county's largest district, supporting 3,047 students across 8 schools. Traditional public education is the primary model here, as there are no charter schools currently operating in the county.

Town and Country Learning Environments

The county features a mix of 20 rural schools and 14 town-based schools, offering varied atmospheres for families. While Lakeside High School enrolls 894 students, the average school size across the county is a manageable 384.

Discover Homes Near Quality Schools

Ashtabula County offers reliable public education in both scenic rural and bustling town settings. Explore available properties near top districts like Geneva Area City or Jefferson Area Local.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ashtabula County

via RiskByCounty

Ashtabula County faces moderate-high risk

Ashtabula County's composite risk score of 62.60 exceeds the national average, with tornado exposure (78.78) and flooding (72.58) as significant national outliers. The county's Great Lakes proximity and regional geography create elevated hazard exposure.

Above-average vulnerability for Ohio

At 62.60, Ashtabula County ranks 7.57 points above Ohio's state average of 55.03, placing it in the state's higher-risk category. The county's tornado hazard particularly distinguishes it within Ohio's risk landscape.

Notably riskier than western neighbors

Ashtabula County's score of 62.60 exceeds Ashland County (46.34) and Auglaize County (41.76) significantly, though it remains safer than Athens County (68.73). The county's tornado exposure (78.78) is among the highest in this region.

Tornado and flood threats are acute

Tornado risk dominates at 78.78, making Ashtabula one of Ohio's tornado hotspots; flood risk follows at 72.58, both substantially outpacing the county's composite score. Combined, these two hazards create a significant seasonal and year-round risk profile.

Tornado preparedness is critical

Ashtabula County residents must maintain a detailed tornado safety plan, including a reinforced shelter or interior room away from windows, and practice drills quarterly. Flood insurance is equally essential for any property within a flood zone, and weather alert subscriptions should be active during spring storm season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ashtabula County

via WeatherByCounty

Extreme Snowfall in the Snowbelt

Ashtabula County averages a chilly 48.3°F annually, well below the national median. It is defined globally by its massive lake-effect precipitation patterns.

Ohio's Frozen North Coast

The county is significantly colder than the state average of 51.5°F. Its 89.9 inches of annual snow is the highest in the state, dwarfing the averages of central and southern counties.

The Region's Snow Leader

Ashtabula's 89.9 inches of snow is more than five times what residents in Athens County see. Its July average of 70.0°F is also much cooler than its inland neighbors.

Mild Summers and Intense Winters

Summer offers relief with only 6 days above 90°F and an average temp of 68.1°F. However, winter dominates the calendar with heavy snow and a 27.7°F average.

Invest in Heavy Snow Gear

A high-stage snowblower and winter tires are essential for the nearly 90 inches of annual snowfall. Residents benefit from lower summer cooling costs due to the lake-cooled air.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ashtabula County

via SoilByCounty

Distinctly Acidic Lake Effect Soils

Ashtabula County has highly acidic soil with a pH of 5.43, significantly lower than the 6.5 national median. This acidity is a defining characteristic of the region, often requiring management for traditional grain farming.

Fine Texture and Low Clay

The soil is comprised of 46.7% silt, 30.6% sand, and 15.3% clay. This lower clay percentage compared to neighboring counties suggests the soil is less likely to become sticky or heavy when wet.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Ashtabula boasts a massive 9.13% organic matter content, nearly double the state average of 4.85%. This organic wealth provides an incredible nutrient base, even though the available water capacity of 0.181 is slightly below the state average.

Naturally Rich Hydrological Potential

While specific drainage classes are not currently listed in the data, the high organic matter suggests the soil functions like a sponge. This allows for productive growth despite the county's relatively low soil score of 59.6.

A Vineyard Paradise in Zone 6a

The 5.43 pH and high organic matter are perfect for Ashtabula’s famous vineyards and berry farms. If you are starting a garden, embrace the acidity by planting blueberries, azaleas, or potatoes.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ashtabula County

via LawnByCounty

Cooler Climates for Northern Lawns

Ashtabula County has a lawn difficulty score of 71.6, reflecting a slightly more demanding environment than the state average of 76.0. Located in hardiness zone 6a, the county experiences the tempering effects of Lake Erie. This score still beats the national median of 50.0, indicating overall favorable growing conditions.

Lake Effects and Low Heat

This county enjoys just 6 extreme heat days per year, significantly fewer than the state average of 15. Annual precipitation of 42.0 inches is perfectly aligned with the ideal range for healthy turf. However, with only 2,552 growing degree days, the grass grows more slowly here than in most other Ohio counties.

Addressing High Soil Acidity

The soil pH in Ashtabula is 5.43, which is quite acidic and can hinder the growth of popular grass varieties. The soil contains 30.6% sand, aiding in drainage, but the low pH remains the primary challenge for homeowners. Regular applications of pelletized lime are essential to bring the soil closer to the 6.5 sweet spot.

Resilient Moisture Levels

Ashtabula is currently drought-free, with no part of the county experiencing abnormally dry conditions. It has only seen six weeks of drought over the last 12 months, providing a very stable environment for moisture-loving grasses. This consistency reduces the need for expensive irrigation systems.

Adapting to the Short Season

Cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in this northern 6a zone. Because the last spring frost usually hits around May 10, wait until mid-to-late May for any spring planting. For fall, ensure your seeds are down well before the October 21 frost date to allow for proper establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ashtabula County's county score?
Ashtabula County, Ohio has a composite county score of 46.5 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 Ashtabula County rank among counties in Ohio?
Ashtabula County ranks #57 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 Ashtabula County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Ashtabula County is $1,890, with an effective tax rate of 1.26%. This earns Ashtabula County a tax score of 22.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ashtabula County?
The median household income in Ashtabula County, Ohio is $55,507 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ashtabula County earns an income score of 26.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ashtabula County, Ohio a good place to live?
Ashtabula County scores 46.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #57 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Ashtabula 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 Ashtabula 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.