countyscore
68.2
County Score
Safety 94.7Property Tax 88.8Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Brown County, Indiana

A National Standout

Brown County reaches a remarkable composite score of 68.2, placing it far above the national median of 50.0. This score indicates an exceptional quality of life by national standards.

Leading the Indiana Pack

The county's score of 68.2 is well above the Indiana average of 55.9. It stands as one of the most attractive counties in the state for overall livability.

Low Taxes and High Safety

A tax score of 88.8 and a safety score of 94.7 are the county's primary drivers. Its effective tax rate of 0.470% is exceptionally low, providing significant savings for homeowners.

Navigating Housing Costs

Cost is the main challenge here, with a score of 30.7. While other metrics are high, the housing market is tighter than in many neighboring rural areas.

Top Choice for Tax-Savvy Families

Brown County is an excellent fit for families and retirees looking to minimize their tax burden while maximizing safety. It is a premier destination for those who value security and financial efficiency.

Score breakdown

Tax88.8Cost30.7Safety94.7Health66.9Schools56.8Income73.1Risk80.3Water86Weather59.4
🏛88.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠30.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡94.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤66.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡80.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.4
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 →
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Nearby counties

Monroe County
Indiana
43.3
Bartholomew County
Indiana
53.6
Johnson County
Indiana
47.3
Jackson County
Indiana
51.5
Morgan County
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Lawrence County
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Shelby County
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Owen County
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61.3

Deep Dives

Brown County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Brown County

via TaxByCounty

Brown County's remarkably low tax rate

At just 0.470%, Brown County's effective tax rate is less than 55% of the national median of roughly 0.85%, making it one of America's lowest-tax counties. The median annual property tax of $1,141 is a bargain at only 42% of the national median of $2,690.

Brown County lowest-tax in Indiana

Brown County's 0.470% effective rate is the lowest in Indiana, barely 70% of the state average of 0.671%. At $1,141 in median annual taxes, Brown County homeowners pay the second-lowest tax bills statewide, despite moderate property values of $242,500.

Dramatically lower than surrounding counties

Brown County's 0.470% rate is less than two-thirds of nearby counties like Carroll (0.569%), Bartholomew (0.722%), and Boone (0.797%). Its unique tax structure makes it an outlier in the region, attracting homeowners seeking low property tax burdens.

Median home costs just $1,141 yearly

A home valued at Brown County's median of $242,500 carries an annual property tax of only $1,141. Mortgaged properties average $1,178 annually, while non-mortgaged homes average $1,077—a narrow gap reflecting the county's efficient assessment system.

Even low-rate counties benefit from appeals

Brown County's already-favorable tax environment doesn't exempt homeowners from overassessment. If your home's assessed value exceeds recent comparable sales, filing an appeal can lower an already modest bill even further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Brown County

via CostByCounty

Brown County balances arts appeal with affordability

Brown County renters spend 15.9% of income on housing—comfortably below national affordability thresholds and supported by a median household income of $72,644, competitive with the U.S. average of $74,755. At $960 monthly rent, this artistic mountain county delivers reasonable housing costs alongside cultural amenities.

Slightly above average Indiana affordability

Brown County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% exceeds Indiana's state average of 15.6% by just 0.3 percentage points, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. Median rent of $960 runs 8.7% above the state median of $883, reflecting its appeal as a tourist destination and cultural hub.

Pricier than neighbors, cheaper than urban centers

Brown County's $960 rent exceeds nearby Adams ($799) and Carroll ($874), but costs less than Allen County ($976) and substantially less than Bartholomew ($1,110). Home values of $242,500 signal Nashville's artistic reputation and tourist economy, commanding a premium over surrounding rural counties.

Arts community attracts reasonable paychecks

Renters earning $72,644 annually ($6,054 monthly) allocate $960 to rent—15.9% of gross income. Homeowners pay $1,041 monthly, consuming 17.3% of household income and suggesting ownership remains accessible despite Nashville's boutique character.

Brown County balances culture and cost

Brown County's artistic identity, mountain scenery, and tourist economy justify rents 8.7% above Indiana's state average, though the 15.9% rent-to-income ratio keeps it affordable for most. If lifestyle and cultural access matter alongside housing affordability, Brown County delivers a compelling package; compare costs to your current location and verify Nashville's job market matches your career needs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Brown County

via IncomeByCounty

Brown matches national income

Brown County's median household income of $72,644 sits just 3% below the national median of $74,755. The county ranks solidly in the upper half of American counties by household earning power.

Above Indiana average

At $72,644, Brown County's median household income exceeds Indiana's state average of $68,681 by about 6%. The county ranks in the upper quarter of Indiana's 92 counties, reflecting a stable, prosperous community.

Brown leads mid-tier performers

Brown County's $72,644 income outperforms Allen ($68,839), Bartholomew ($80,365), and most surrounding counties. Only Boone County ($104,865) clearly surpasses Brown in the broader region.

Comfortable housing affordability

Brown County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% indicates housing costs are very manageable, and the $72,644 median income supports comfortable living standards. The median home value of $242,500 is well within reach for local households.

Strong position for investing

Brown County residents have above-average income to invest in retirement accounts, home equity, and diversified portfolios. Taking advantage of employer benefits and starting a disciplined investment plan now positions families for long-term wealth growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Brown County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety in Brown County

Brown County reports a perfect 100.0 safety score with a tiny total crime rate of 6.4 per 100,000. This is remarkably lower than the national average crime rate of 2,385.5.

A Note on County Data Reporting

Only one agency reports for the county, so these numbers should be viewed with caution. Even so, the reported rate of 6.4 is a fraction of the Indiana state average of 693.8.

Quieter Than Neighboring Areas

Brown is significantly quieter than Bartholomew County, which has a rate of 190.6. It stands out as one of the least active areas for crime in the entire region.

Violent Crime is Non-Existent Here

There were no violent crimes reported, resulting in a 0.0 rate. Property crime is also extremely rare, appearing at just 6.4 incidents per 100,000 people.

Self-Reliance and Safety Habits

In areas with limited law enforcement reporting, self-reliance and neighborly check-ins are vital. Ensure your home is secure and stay connected with local community watch groups.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Brown County

via HealthByCounty

Brown County maintains solid health performance

Life expectancy in Brown County reaches 76.7 years, exceeding Indiana's state average of 75.1 years and nearly matching the national average of 76.4 years. With 16.6% of residents reporting poor or fair health, the county shows strong health outcomes relative to broader regional trends.

Upper-middle tier health rank statewide

Brown County ranks comfortably above Indiana's state average, outperforming most counties despite its small size and rural character. The county's performance reflects effective community health engagement and access to care in the Nashville area.

Outperforms rural neighbors significantly

Brown County's 76.7-year life expectancy exceeds Benton (74.5 years), Blackford (71.8 years), and Adams (77.0 years by a narrow margin), positioning it as a health leader in south-central Indiana. The county demonstrates that smaller rural areas can achieve strong health outcomes with engaged communities.

Moderate access with low uninsured rates

Brown County offers 32 primary care providers and 96 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—solid but not abundant—paired with just 7.8% uninsured, below Indiana's 8.4% state average. This suggests good coverage, though some residents may need to travel for specialized care.

Health coverage ensures access to local care

Brown County's strong coverage rate (7.8% uninsured) shows that most residents prioritize health insurance. If you're among those without it, use the Health Insurance Marketplace to find a plan—keeping coverage active ensures you can access the local care your county offers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Brown County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Rural Learning in Brown County

Brown County operates a small, highly integrated school system consisting of five public schools. The landscape features three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, all serving a total of 1,653 students. This compact structure reflects the county's scenic, rural character and emphasizes local community connections.

Superior Graduation Rates and School Scores

Brown County stands out with a 97.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the state and national averages. The county invests heavily in its students, spending $6,126 per pupil, which is over $600 more than the Indiana average. These efforts result in a high composite school score of 55.3, signaling excellent academic quality.

One Unified District for All Students

The Brown County School Corporation is the sole district provider, managing the entire educational path for all 1,653 students. There are no charter schools in the county, meaning 100% of students attend traditional district facilities. This creates a unified educational culture where every student is part of the same central system.

Small Schools in a Scenic Rural Setting

Every single school in the county is classified as rural, providing a peaceful learning environment surrounded by nature. With an average school size of just 331 students, the county offers an exceptionally intimate feel where teachers can focus on individual needs. Brown County High School is the largest campus, yet still remains modest with only 509 students.

Find Your Home in a Top Rural District

Brown County is ideal for families who value small class sizes and a high-performing rural school environment. With graduation rates near the top of the state, the local schools are a significant draw for homebuyers seeking quality and community. Explore properties nestled in the hills to enjoy both natural beauty and academic excellence.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Brown County

via RiskByCounty

Brown County faces minimal exposure

Brown County scores 19.69 on the composite risk scale, placing it firmly in the very low risk category and well below national averages. Your county enjoys substantially lower disaster vulnerability than typical U.S. regions.

Among Indiana's safest counties

Brown County ranks in Indiana's safest tier with a score of 19.69, well below the state average of 45.52. Only a handful of counties statewide present lower natural disaster risk than Brown.

Safest in south-central Indiana

Brown County's score of 19.69 is lower than nearby Bartholomew County (70.87) and Carroll County (29.64), making it the regional safety leader. Your county represents the most secure area in its immediate vicinity.

Tornado risk is primary concern

Tornado risk of 51.08 represents Brown County's highest hazard score, though it remains below statewide tornado averages. Flooding reaches 37.98, with all other hazards scoring below 43.

Standard coverage addresses needs

Brown County's minimal disaster exposure means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection. Maintain a weather radio during severe weather season and keep basic emergency supplies on hand as routine practice.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Brown County

via WeatherByCounty

A High Precipitation Region

While specific annual temperature data is unavailable, Brown County’s high precipitation of 50.7 inches marks it as a wet humid continental zone. This exceeds the national median for annual rainfall significantly.

One of Indiana’s Wettest Counties

The county receives 50.7 inches of annual precipitation, far surpassing the Indiana state average of 43.9 inches. This makes it one of the wettest environments in the entire state.

Wetter Than Nearby Bartholomew County

Brown receives much more precipitation than its neighbor Bartholomew, which sees 47.3 inches. Snowfall is also higher here, averaging nearly 20 inches annually.

Rainy Months and Moderate Snow

Winter brings 19.7 inches of snow, though specific seasonal temperature averages are limited for this region. The heavy rainfall suggests a lush, humid environment during the growing season.

Invest in High-Quality Rain Gear

Residents should invest in high-quality drainage systems and rain gear to handle the 50-plus inches of annual precipitation. Ensure vehicles are equipped for the 19.7 inches of winter snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Brown County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Forest Soils of Brown County

Brown County features Entisols with a pH of 5.69, which is significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median. This acidity is a defining characteristic of the region's rugged, forested hills. While it ranks lower with a 61.6 soil score, it is perfectly suited for native woodland ecology.

The State's Highest Silt Percentage

With a massive 68.6% silt content, this soil has a very fine, flour-like consistency. Combined with 15.2% clay and 16.2% sand, this soil is prone to erosion on the county's famous slopes. Careful ground cover management is required to keep this silty soil in place.

Vital Moisture for Steep Terrain

Available water capacity is high at 0.209, providing a critical reservoir for the county's dense forest cover. Organic matter stands at 2.40%, which is above the 2.0% national average despite being lower than the Indiana state average. This moisture retention is the lifeline for the local ecosystem during dry periods.

Managing Runoff in the Hills

Drainage data is limited, but the combination of high silt and steep topography typically leads to rapid surface runoff. Mulching and terracing are highly recommended for any local gardening projects. Protecting the soil surface is essential for maintaining the health of your land.

Zone 6b: A Haven for Acid-Lovers

In Zone 6b, the acidic soil is perfectly suited for blueberries, azaleas, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons. Lean into the unique chemistry of the hills and plant a beautiful, acid-loving landscape. Your garden can thrive if you choose species adapted to these specific forest conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Brown County

via LawnByCounty

The Unique Challenges of Brown County

Brown County’s lawn difficulty score of 63.4 is lower than its neighbors, signaling a more challenging environment than the state average of 71.0. Its Zone 6b location requires careful attention to soil chemistry and high moisture levels.

High Rainfall Defines the Region

With 50.7 inches of annual precipitation, Brown County is wetter than most of Indiana and exceeds the ideal lawn range. While specific heat day data is unavailable, the high moisture means fungus and drainage management are key priorities.

Amending Acidic and Rocky Soils

The soil pH here is 5.69, which is more acidic than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range and may require lime applications. With only 15.2% clay and 16.2% sand, the soil structure is unique and often necessitates organic amendments to support healthy turf.

High Moisture but Occasional Dryness

Brown County is currently 98.2% abnormally dry, even though it only experienced 4 weeks of drought over the past year. Because severe drought is currently at 0%, focus on managing the county's naturally high precipitation rather than emergency irrigation.

Choosing the Right Grass for the Hills

Tall Fescue is highly recommended for Zone 6b due to its deep root system and ability to handle varying moisture. While specific frost dates are not tracked, planting in early spring when temperatures stabilize will yield the best results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brown County's county score?
Brown County, Indiana has a composite county score of 68.2 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 Brown County rank among counties in Indiana?
Brown County ranks #4 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 Brown County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Brown County is $1,141, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Brown County a tax score of 88.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Brown County?
The median household income in Brown County, Indiana is $72,644 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Brown County earns an income score of 73.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Brown County, Indiana a good place to live?
Brown County scores 68.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Brown 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 Brown 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.