countyscore
53.6
County Score
Safety 90.2Income & Jobs 84.2Lawn Care 77.9

County Report Card

About Bartholomew County, Indiana

Above the National Average

Bartholomew County posts a composite score of 53.6, placing it above the national median of 50.0. It remains a competitive choice on the national stage for overall quality of life.

Competitive Within Indiana

The county's score of 53.6 is slightly below the Indiana state average of 55.9. Despite this, it maintains strong fundamentals that keep it relevant among the state's leading counties.

High Incomes and Strong Safety

Bartholomew County shines with an income score of 84.2, driven by a median household income of $80,365. It complements this wealth with a robust safety score of 90.2, ensuring a secure environment for residents.

Education and Affordability Gaps

School quality and cost of living are the main pressures here, with scores of 20.2 and 23.4 respectively. A median gross rent of $1,110 makes it less affordable than many of its Indiana neighbors.

Best for Established Professionals

This county is a prime destination for high-earning professionals who value safety and economic vitality. Those with school-aged children may need to supplement local education options given the lower school score.

2040608010060.523.490.264.320.284.229.164.260.8Tax60.5Cost23.4Safety90.2Health64.3Schools20.2Income84.2Risk29.1Water64.2Weather60.853.6/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Bartholomew County DNA

Foverall

How Bartholomew County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Bartholomew County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (90.2/100) but notably weak in Schools (20.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
60.5+8.5
Cost
23.4-24.6
Safety
90.2+35.2
Health
64.3+14.299999999999997
Schools
20.2-33.8
Income
84.2+33.2
Risk
29.1-17.9
Water
64.2
Weather
60.8
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$221,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,110/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$221,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$44,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $80,365/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

16.9

per 100K

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

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 Bartholomew County with Howard County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

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Watonwan County
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Daviess County
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Cass County
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Henry County
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La Salle County
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Nearby counties

Brown County
Indiana
68.2
Jennings County
Indiana
52.1
Decatur County
Indiana
65.7
Jackson County
Indiana
51.5
Shelby County
Indiana
48.5
Johnson County
Indiana
47.3
Monroe County
Indiana
43.3
Ripley County
Indiana
66

Deep Dives

Bartholomew County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Bartholomew County

via TaxByCounty

Bartholomew's taxes run well below U.S. average

With an effective tax rate of 0.722%, Bartholomew County sits comfortably below the national median of roughly 0.85%, making it a relatively affordable place to own property. Its median annual tax of $1,597 represents just 59% of the national median of $2,690.

Bartholomew slightly below Indiana average

Bartholomew County's 0.722% effective rate falls just under Indiana's state average of 0.671%, positioning it near the middle of the state's 92 counties. At $1,597 in median annual taxes, homeowners here pay $398 more than the state average, primarily due to higher property values.

Moderate rates in the south-central region

Bartholomew County's tax rate (0.722%) is comparable to nearby Adams County (0.748%) and Benton County (0.756%), though its higher home values of $221,100 result in a steeper annual tax bill. The county strikes a balance between rate and property valuation among regional peers.

Median home generates $1,597 in annual tax

A property valued at Bartholomew County's median of $221,100 carries an annual tax bill of $1,597. Mortgaged homes average $1,740 annually, while outright-owned homes average $1,368.

Challenge assessments to reduce bills

In Bartholomew County, assessed values sometimes outpace actual market worth, especially in rural areas or changing neighborhoods. Filing an appeal with the county assessor when your assessment appears inflated can unlock meaningful annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Bartholomew County

via CostByCounty

Bartholomew County balances higher incomes with costs

Bartholomew County renters spend 16.6% of income on housing—above the national 30% threshold benchmark but supported by a median household income of $80,365, well above the U.S. average of $74,755. At $1,110 monthly rent, housing costs here reflect both stronger local earning power and higher-value properties.

Mid-range affordability within Indiana

Bartholomew County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% exceeds Indiana's state average of 15.6%, positioning it as a moderately expensive Indiana county. Median rent of $1,110 runs 25.6% higher than the state median of $883, indicating a more affluent local market.

Pricier than surrounding rural counties

Bartholomew County's $1,110 rent substantially exceeds nearby Adams ($799) and Carroll ($874), making it the costliest rental market in its immediate region. Home values of $221,100 also reflect Columbus's role as a regional economic hub, supporting stronger property valuations than peripheral counties.

Higher income absorbs higher costs

With an annual income of $80,365 ($6,697 monthly), renters allocate roughly $1,110 to housing—maintaining healthy affordability despite above-state-average rents. Homeowners pay $1,061 monthly, creating balanced housing burdens across both tenure types.

A prosperous county with premium pricing

Bartholomew County offers the state's strongest median income ($80,365) and robust employment markets around Columbus, though housing costs run 25% above Indiana's state average. If career growth and earning potential drive your move, Bartholomew's higher salaries may offset housing premiums; compare your earning trajectory against 16.6% rent-to-income expectations.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Bartholomew County

via IncomeByCounty

Bartholomew outearns the nation

Bartholomew County's median household income of $80,365 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by more than $5,600. The county ranks in the top 40% of American counties by household earning power.

Indiana's income leader

At $80,365, Bartholomew County significantly outperforms Indiana's state average of $68,681—a 17% advantage that places it among the state's highest-earning counties. This strong performance reflects Columbus's robust manufacturing and professional sectors.

Bartholomew dominates regional income

Bartholomew County's $80,365 far exceeds surrounding counties like Adams ($63,128), Carroll ($64,003), and even Allen County ($68,839). Only Boone County ($104,865) outpaces Bartholomew in the broader region.

Strong income supports homeownership

Bartholomew County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% is below the national stress threshold, and the median household income of $80,365 comfortably supports the county's median home value of $221,100. Residents enjoy genuine financial breathing room.

Maximize wealth potential here

Bartholomew County's above-average income creates an ideal window for aggressive investing, real estate acquisition, and long-term wealth building. Residents should capitalize on this earning advantage with tax-advantaged retirement plans and diversified investment strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Bartholomew County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceeding National Safety Standards

Bartholomew County is exceptionally safe, posting a safety score of 99.7. Its total crime rate of 190.6 per 100,000 is less than one-tenth of the national average of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer for Indiana Safety

Ranking well above the state average safety score of 98.9, the county shows very low incident levels. Four local agencies collaborate to keep the total crime rate far below Indiana's 693.8 average.

Comparing Bartholomew to Regional Peers

Bartholomew's rate of 190.6 is significantly lower than more urbanized areas like Allen County. It offers a much quieter environment than many of its Indiana neighbors.

Minimal Violent Crime in the County

Violent crime is nearly non-existent here at just 10.9 per 100,000 residents. Property crime makes up the bulk of the data at 179.7, though this is still a fraction of the national property crime rate.

Maintaining Peace in Bartholomew County

Low crime rates are no reason for complacency regarding home security. Simple habits like keeping garage doors closed and using outdoor lighting go a long way in this peaceful community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Bartholomew County

via SchoolsByCounty

Columbus Serves as the Central Education Hub

Bartholomew County features a streamlined system of 19 public schools across two primary districts. The county supports 12 elementary schools, two middle schools, and four high schools to educate a total of 12,606 students. This infrastructure primarily centers around the city of Columbus, which hosts the majority of the county's facilities.

Focusing on Core Graduation and Investment

The county reports an 87.5% graduation rate, which aligns closely with the national average but trails the Indiana state average of 92.6%. Per-pupil spending stands at $5,354, slightly under the state benchmark of $5,507. With a school score of 48.7, the county is working to improve its academic standing relative to its regional neighbors.

Bartholomew Consolidated Commands the County

Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp is the dominant provider, educating 11,634 students across 17 different schools. The much smaller Flat Rock-Hawcreek School Corp serves the remaining 972 students in just two facilities. There are currently no charter schools in the county, maintaining a traditional district-led educational model.

Big-School Atmosphere in a City Setting

Students in Bartholomew County often attend large schools, with an average enrollment of 700 students per building. Columbus North High School is a massive institution serving 2,224 students, while even elementary schools like Southside reach enrollments of 905. The locale mix is heavily urban, with 14 schools situated in city environments.

Connect with Community in Columbus

For families who prefer large, comprehensive schools with extensive extracurricular options, Bartholomew County is a top contender. Proximity to the city's major high schools is a key factor for many local homebuyers. Explore the diverse neighborhoods of Columbus to find a home that puts your children in the heart of the action.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Bartholomew County

via RiskByCounty

Bartholomew County above-average risk

Bartholomew County scores 70.87, significantly above the national average and placing it in the relatively low risk category. Your county experiences moderate-to-high exposure to natural hazards compared to typical American communities.

Upper-tier risk in Indiana

Bartholomew County ranks in the higher-risk portion of Indiana's 92 counties with a score of 70.87, well above the state average of 45.52. Only a handful of Indiana counties exceed your disaster vulnerability.

Riskier than most regional peers

Bartholomew County's 70.87 score exceeds nearby Brown County (19.69) and Carroll County (29.64), placing it among the region's most vulnerable. Only Allen County to the north approaches comparable risk levels.

Tornadoes and floods are critical

Tornado risk peaks at 87.34, making severe storms your most immediate threat, while flooding reaches 77.99—reflecting the White River system and precipitation vulnerability. Earthquake risk of 83.30 completes your trio of major hazards.

Strengthen tornado and flood defenses

With tornado risk at 87.34 and flood risk at 77.99, invest in a certified safe room and confirm your flood insurance is current and adequate. Review your homeowners policy annually and maintain emergency supplies for the 48-72 hour period following major storms.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Bartholomew County

via WaterByCounty

High Grade for Drinking Water Systems

Bartholomew County holds a B grade for drinking water, with only 3 health violations recorded over 5 years. Its violation rate of 4.0 per 100,000 people is far below the state average of 42.3.

Low Rate of Water Body Impairment

Only 21.9% of assessed water bodies in the county are impaired, which is roughly half the Indiana average of 40.9%. The 2022 cycle lists E. coli and PCBs in fish tissue as primary impairment causes.

Consistent Physical and Inorganic Monitoring

Local monitoring sites have recorded 3,833 measurements across 14 locations in the past 5 years. Physical properties and inorganic chemicals are the most frequent targets of these water quality assessments.

Above Average Flow on East Fork White River

The East Fork White River at Columbus is currently flowing at 2,370 cubic feet per second, or 117% of its long-term mean. This suggests healthy water volume for the 1,707-square-mile drainage basin.

Awareness of PCBs in Local Fish

Residents should follow local fish consumption advisories due to the presence of PCBs in the watershed. While drinking water remains reliable, high river flows can sometimes increase sediment and runoff into source waters.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Bartholomew County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and Wetter Than National Medians

Bartholomew County's 54.1°F annual average is slightly warmer than the national median. This region experiences the humid continental climate with a noticeable lean toward warmer southern Indiana patterns.

Warmer Than the Indiana Mean

The county is significantly warmer than the Indiana average, exceeding the 52.2°F state mean by nearly two degrees. Its 47.3 inches of annual precipitation also outpaces the state average of 43.9 inches.

Warmer and Rainier Than Northern Counties

It is much warmer than northern neighbors like Boone County, which averages only 51.5°F. It also receives nearly 10 inches more precipitation than Allen County to the north.

Intense Summer Heat and Mild Winters

Heat is a major factor here, with 22 days per year reaching 90°F or higher. Winter is relatively mild for Indiana, seeing only 16.3 inches of snow and a 32.6°F average.

Prioritize Cooling and Flood Preparedness

Prioritize high-efficiency HVAC systems to manage the 22 annual extreme heat days. Residents should prepare for a wetter climate, as the county receives over 47 inches of rain annually.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Bartholomew County

via SoilByCounty

The Young Soils of Bartholomew

Bartholomew County is primarily composed of Entisols, which are relatively young and undeveloped soils. The pH level of 6.27 is slightly below the national median of 6.5 but higher than the Indiana state average. This provides a solid chemical foundation for a wide variety of plant life.

Silty Texture with Low Clay

The soil contains a high 56.7% silt content, giving it a smooth, flour-like feel that holds moisture well. With 25.8% sand and only 17.5% clay, the soil is relatively easy to work but may lack some of the structural strength of heavier soils. Gardeners should focus on building structure to prevent erosion.

Moderate Organic Matter and Reliable Water

Organic matter is lower here at 2.18%, which is just above the national average but well below the Indiana state average of 4.90%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.203 matches the state average almost exactly. Regular composting can help boost the fertility of this silty landscape.

Silty Soils and Runoff Management

While specific drainage classes are not provided for this area, the high silt percentage often leads to moderate permeability. Local residents should watch for erosion on slopes where the fine soil particles can easily wash away. Managing surface water is key to maintaining the county's 68.5 soil score.

Longer Seasons in Zone 6b

Located in Zone 6b, you enjoy a slightly longer growing season, perfect for heat-loving crops like melons and squash. Even with lower organic matter, the high water capacity makes this a reliable place for a backyard garden. Adding a bit of mulch will help your plants thrive in these silty soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Bartholomew County

via LawnByCounty

Prime Growing Conditions in Bartholomew County

Bartholomew County boasts a high lawn difficulty score of 77.9, making it one of the easiest places in Indiana to maintain a green space. The warmer Hardiness Zone 6b climate provides a slightly longer window for lawn development compared to northern neighbors.

High Rainfall and Extended Warmth

The county sees 47.3 inches of rain annually, which is higher than the state average and helps combat the 22 extreme heat days. A robust 3,724 growing degree days means turf grows quickly, requiring a diligent mowing schedule from April through October.

Low Clay Content Aids Root Growth

The soil pH of 6.27 is nearly perfect for turfgrass, and the low 17.5% clay content helps prevent the heavy compaction common elsewhere in Indiana. Lawns here benefit from the 25.8% sand content, which supports healthy air and water movement.

Strong Resilience Against Dry Spells

Bartholomew is highly resilient, with only 4 weeks of drought in the past year and zero percent of the county in severe drought currently. While only 32.6% of the area is abnormally dry, maintaining a taller mow height will help shade the soil and preserve moisture.

Early Spring Starts for Bartholomew Lawns

With the last spring frost typically occurring on April 11, you can start your lawn projects earlier than most Hoosiers. Tall Fescue is a great choice for this 6b zone, offering excellent heat tolerance through the first frost on October 25.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bartholomew County's county score?
Bartholomew County, Indiana has a composite county score of 53.6 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 Bartholomew County rank among counties in Indiana?
Bartholomew County ranks #61 among all counties in Indiana 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 Bartholomew County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Bartholomew County is $1,597, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Bartholomew County a tax score of 60.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Bartholomew County?
The median household income in Bartholomew County, Indiana is $80,365 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Bartholomew County earns an income score of 84.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Bartholomew County, Indiana a good place to live?
Bartholomew County scores 53.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #61 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Bartholomew 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 Bartholomew 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.