countyscore
71.2
County Score
Safety 90.8Water Quality 86Health 85

County Report Card

About Boone County, Nebraska

Boone County Ranks Among Best

Boone County earns an impressive 71.2 composite score, significantly higher than the 50.0 national median. It ranks as a top-tier county for overall livability.

A Leader in Nebraska

Boone County's score of 71.2 is over 10 points higher than the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It is a standout performer across nearly every metric tracked by the CountyScore.

High Incomes and Excellent Safety

A safety score of 90.8 and a health score of 85.0 make this a premier destination. Residents earn well, with a median household income of $71,367 and a strong income score of 69.7.

Moderate Risk Exposure

While most scores are high, the risk score of 56.7 is the county's relative weak point. This suggests more vulnerability to environmental factors than other high-performing Nebraska counties.

A Top Choice for Balanced Living

Boone County is ideal for families seeking high-quality schools, safety, and strong earnings. It provides a rare balance of economic prosperity and community well-being.

Score breakdown

Tax36.9Cost71.3Safety90.8Health85Schools72.2Income69.7Risk56.7Water86Weather44.9
🏛36.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠71.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼69.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡90.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤85
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓72.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡56.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨58.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.9
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

Think property taxes are too high in Boone County?

Many homeowners in Boone County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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 Boone County with Ida County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Ida County
Iowa
Median income: $62,841
71.2
Harding County
New Mexico
Median income: $41,250
71.2
Crockett County
Texas
Median income: $81,739
71.3
Wolfe County
Kentucky
Median income: $29,052
71
LaSalle Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $67,077
70.9
Mitchell County
North Carolina
Median income: $58,089
70.9
Nelson County
North Dakota
Median income: $68,051
71.5
Floyd County
Virginia
Median income: $61,401
71.5

Nearby counties

Nance County
Nebraska
63.3
Greeley County
Nebraska
64
Wheeler County
Nebraska
74.8
Madison County
Nebraska
52.8
Platte County
Nebraska
44
Merrick County
Nebraska
64.9
Antelope County
Nebraska
67.5
Howard County
Nebraska
65.4

Deep Dives

Boone County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Boone County

via TaxByCounty

Boone County below-average for nation

Boone County's effective tax rate of 1.016% ranks in the 30th percentile nationally, well below the 1.281% national median. The median property tax of $1,673 sits 38% below the national median of $2,690, reflecting both lower local rates and home values ($164,700 vs. the national $281,900).

Boone among lowest-taxing in state

Boone County's 1.016% effective rate ranks in the bottom quartile statewide, running 0.265 percentage points below Nebraska's 1.281% average. The $1,673 median tax is 15% below the state median of $1,972.

Boone's low rate matches Arthur's advantage

Boone County (1.016% rate) ranks second-lowest in its region, trailing only Arthur County (0.834%) and beating all other neighbors. Boone's rate rivals some of Nebraska's most tax-friendly counties, offering rural homeowners genuine relief.

Median home tax $1,673 per year

The typical Boone County home worth $164,700 generates a property tax of roughly $1,673 annually. This translates to approximately $139 monthly in escrow for mortgaged properties, well below state and national norms.

Even in low-tax Boone, appeals matter

Boone County's already-favorable rates don't guarantee individual assessments are fair—every property deserves scrutiny. Requesting a reassessment if your home's assessed value exceeds recent comparable sales could save you hundreds over time.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Boone County

via CostByCounty

Boone County: Nebraska's most affordable

Boone County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio beats both the national average and Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, making it the most affordable county in this peer group. With a median household income of $71,367 and rent at just $734 monthly, Boone renters enjoy genuine affordability cushion.

Top-tier affordability across Nebraska

Boone County ranks among Nebraska's least expensive rental markets, with a 12.3% rent-to-income ratio that sets it apart statewide. At $734 monthly rent—$49 below the state median—and above-median income of $71,367, Boone delivers the best housing value among comparable counties.

The region's affordable leader

Boone County's $734 rent undercuts all neighbors except Antelope ($746) and Boyd ($650), while its income of $71,367 exceeds most peers. This combination—strong wages plus low rent—positions Boone as the region's affordability champion for both stability and cost control.

Balanced, comfortable housing economics

Renters and homeowners alike spend nearly equal monthly amounts ($734 rent vs. $740 mortgage), with each consuming just 12.3-12.4% of the $71,367 median income. This exceptional alignment and low burden ratio leave substantial breathing room for savings, education, and quality of life.

Your top choice for rural affordability

Boone County stands out: strong incomes, low rents, and balanced ownership costs create genuine financial flexibility for relocating households. Whether you're renting or buying, Boone delivers the best cost-of-living profile in rural Nebraska—a compelling draw for families and workers seeking stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Boone County

via IncomeByCounty

Boone nearly matches national income

Boone County's median household income of $71,367 trails the national median of $74,755 by just $3,388. The county ranks among Nebraska's strongest income performers.

Top tier in Nebraska earnings

At $71,367, Boone County surpasses the state average of $66,880 by over $4,400, placing it among the state's highest-earning counties. Its per capita income of $36,659 also exceeds the state average.

Leads the regional income race

Boone County edges out Banner County ($71,250) as the highest earner in this cohort by just $117. The county's diversified economy supports strong and stable household incomes.

Best housing affordability ratio

Boone County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.3% is the lowest in this group, meaning residents spend minimal income on housing. Median home values of $164,700 are very manageable relative to local earnings.

Maximize wealth-building capacity

Boone County households earning $71,367 with a 12.3% housing burden have exceptional capacity for wealth building. Aggressive saving, investment diversification, and long-term financial planning create substantial generational wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Boone County

via CrimeByCounty

Boone County Boasts High Safety Ratings

Boone County achieves an impressive 99.7 safety score, with a total crime rate of only 166.8 per 100,000 residents. This is significantly lower than the national average crime rate of 2,385.5.

Surpassing the Nebraska State Average

Boone County's safety score of 99.7 is higher than the Nebraska state average of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 166.8 is nearly four times lower than the state average of 626.7.

Comparing Boone to Nearby Counties

Boone County reports more activity than neighboring Antelope County, which reported zero crimes, but remains far safer than Adams County. Three reporting agencies contribute to this highly favorable local safety profile.

Low Rates of Property and Violent Crime

The local crime breakdown includes 111.2 property crimes and 55.6 violent crimes per 100,000 people. This low frequency makes physical and material crime a rare occurrence for Boone County residents.

Maintaining Peace in Boone County

With a 99.7 safety score, Boone County is an extremely secure community. Residents can help maintain this standard by staying observant and securing their properties against opportunistic property crimes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Boone County

via HealthByCounty

Boone County leads national life expectancy

At 79.4 years, Boone County residents live nearly 3 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years, placing the county in the health elite. Despite 15.2% reporting poor or fair health, the county's strong longevity suggests successful management of chronic disease in later years.

Top-tier longevity within Nebraska

Boone County's 79.4-year life expectancy ranks in Nebraska's top tier, outpacing the state average of 77.5 years by nearly 2 years. The county achieves this performance with solid primary care infrastructure: 149 providers per 100,000 residents, suggesting well-coordinated preventive and chronic disease care.

Second-best longevity in the region

Boone County's 79.4-year life expectancy trails only Antelope County's exceptional 79.8 years, but substantially outpaces Adams County (76.8) and Boyd County (75.4). The county's 149 primary care providers per 100,000 rank among the highest regionally, likely supporting its superior outcomes.

Strong primary care, lean mental health

Boone County's 149 primary care providers per 100,000 residents rank above state and regional peers, providing robust access to preventive screening and chronic disease management. At 6.1% uninsured—the lowest in the region—nearly all residents have coverage, though mental health providers (94 per 100,000) are relatively sparse compared to physical health capacity.

Keep coverage universal and strong

Boone County's 6.1% uninsured rate is exceptional, but protecting that achievement requires continuous outreach during open enrollment at healthcare.gov. With neighbors already living longer, ensuring complete coverage means all can access the preventive care and provider density that drives the county's longevity advantage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Boone County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Flourishing Multi-District Network

Boone County supports 968 students through seven public schools, including three elementary and three high schools. Three distinct districts manage the county’s education, providing families with local options for their children’s development. This structure ensures that both primary and secondary students have dedicated facilities nearby.

Leading the State in Graduation Rates

Boone County achieves a remarkable 91.9% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the national average of 87% and the state's 86.9%. Even with a modest per-pupil expenditure of $9,308, the county maintains a school score of 59.5, slightly above the state average. These results demonstrate a community that turns every dollar into student success.

Boone Central Schools at the Forefront

Boone Central Schools is the largest district, serving 649 students across three schools. Riverside Public Schools also maintains a strong presence with four schools and 242 students. With zero charter schools in the county, the public districts remain the exclusive and trusted choice for local education.

Rural Focus with Large-School Quality

The county's schools are 100% rural, yet they offer diverse campus sizes ranging from small high schools to the 284-student Boone Central Elementary. The average school size is 138 students, striking a balance between intimate settings and broad social opportunities. It is a classic Nebraska rural education experience.

Find Your Future in a Top-Graduating County

For families looking for a proven track record of student success, Boone County's high graduation rates are a major draw. Searching for homes in the Boone Central or Riverside districts provides access to a stable, high-performing environment. Invest in a home where the community consistently prioritizes educational attainment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Boone County

via RiskByCounty

Boone County faces moderate tornado risk

With a composite risk score of 43.35, Boone County rates as relatively low nationally but well above Nebraska's state average of 25.80. Tornadoes (51.97) and flooding (32.03) combine to elevate the county's overall profile.

Moderate tornado and flood threat

Boone County's composite score of 43.35 places it mid-range for Nebraska; its tornado risk of 51.97 is above-average statewide, and flood risk of 32.03 is a notable secondary concern. Together, these hazards outpace the county's wildfire and earthquake risks.

Riskier than western county neighbors

Boone County's score of 43.35 is substantially higher than Arthur County (0.29), Banner County (0.80), and Blaine County (0.45), reflecting its eastern location in Nebraska's more active weather zone. It ranks somewhat below Adams County (64.31).

Tornadoes and flooding top concerns

Tornadoes (51.97) present the greatest risk, followed closely by flooding (32.03)—both hazards frequently strike central Nebraska. Wildfire (43.10) and earthquake (12.95) threats are comparatively minor.

Ensure comprehensive storm coverage

Comprehensive homeowners insurance with tornado, wind, and hail riders is essential for Boone County residents. Consider flood insurance separately through the National Flood Insurance Program if you're in or near a floodplain; standard policies exclude flood damage entirely.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Boone County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Great Plains Weather

Boone County averages 48.3°F, placing it below the national median temperature. It receives 26.7 inches of annual precipitation, typical for the American heartland.

Consistent with Nebraska Norms

The county's 48.3°F average is just slightly cooler than the 49.7°F state average. Its 26.7 inches of rain and snow closely matches the state's typical 25.9-inch profile.

Middle Ground for Heat

Boone's 22 extreme heat days make it warmer than Antelope to the north but much cooler than Banner to the west. It averages a moderate 30.3 inches of snow annually.

Cold Winters, Steady Rain

Winter temperatures average 24.3°F and deliver 30.3 inches of snowfall. Summers are warm and humid, with a July average of 73.7°F and three weeks of 90-degree heat.

Balanced Seasonal Preparation

Residents should prepare for roughly 30 inches of snow and over 20 days of extreme summer heat. Reliable heating is essential for the 21.9°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Boone County

via SoilByCounty

Silt Loam Mollisols Dominate Boone

Boone County is defined by fertile Mollisols with a silt loam texture and a pH of 6.68. This pH is very close to the 6.79 state average, providing an ideal environment for Nebraska’s primary crops.

A Balanced Silt and Sand Mix

The soil consists of 39.9% sand and 41.5% silt, with 17.5% clay. This balanced distribution creates a 'loam' feel that holds moisture well while remaining easy to cultivate.

Strong Water Storage for Crops

The available water capacity of 0.174 in/in slightly exceeds the Nebraska average, ensuring plants have access to moisture. Organic matter stands at 2.23%, which is healthy by national standards.

Well Drained for Diverse Use

Classified as well drained and belonging to hydrologic group B, this soil manages rainfall efficiently. These traits make the county excellent for both agricultural production and stable building foundations.

Prime Zone 5b Growing Conditions

With a soil score of 58.8 and a 5b hardiness zone, this is prime territory for corn, grains, and vegetable gardens. The balanced drainage and capacity make it an inviting spot for any new gardener.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Boone County

via LawnByCounty

Solid potential for Boone County

Boone County earns a 55.9 lawn difficulty score, outperforming the state average of 54.2. Its 5b hardiness zone provides a slightly milder winter than northern neighbors, supporting a wider range of grass types.

Manageable heat and moderate rain

Boone County enjoys a milder summer with only 22 extreme heat days, compared to the state average of 34. The 26.7 inches of annual precipitation provides a good baseline, though it still sits below the national ideal of 30 inches.

Productive silt loam soils

The soil features a well-drained silt loam texture with a balanced 39.9% sand and 17.5% clay. With a pH of 6.68, this is some of the better turf-growing soil in the state, requiring only standard maintenance.

Resilient during dry spells

While the county experienced 34 weeks of drought over the past year, it currently reports no areas of severe drought. Monitoring soil moisture during the 22 annual heat days ensures the grass doesn't stress during peak summer.

Spring start for lush turf

Seeding is safest after May 1, once the threat of spring frost has passed. You have a generous window until the first fall frost on October 5 to establish a healthy, resilient lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Boone County's county score?
Boone County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 71.2 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 Boone County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Boone County ranks #7 among all counties in Nebraska 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 Boone County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Boone County is $1,673, with an effective tax rate of 1.02%. This earns Boone County a tax score of 36.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Boone County?
The median household income in Boone County, Nebraska is $71,367 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Boone County earns an income score of 69.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Boone County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Boone County scores 71.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #7 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Boone 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 Boone 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.