countyscore
60.7
County Score
Disaster Risk 97.6Safety 93.4Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Brown County, Nebraska

A High Performer in America's Heartland

Brown County earns a composite score of 60.7, significantly outpacing the national median of 50.0. This score puts the county in a competitive position for quality of life across the United States.

Outperforming the Nebraska Average

The county's overall score sits comfortably above the Nebraska state average of 59.3. This indicates a strong local performance compared to its regional peers.

Exceptional Safety and Environmental Stability

The county excels in safety with a score of 93.4 and shows incredible resilience with a risk score of 97.6. High-quality water, scoring 86.0, further enhances the local living standard.

Economic Hurdles for Local Households

Economic growth remains a challenge, reflected in a low income score of 17.7 and a median household income of $51,538. The tax score of 32.5 also suggests a relatively heavy property tax burden for the region.

Safe Haven for Rural Resilience

This county is a perfect match for retirees or remote workers who prioritize extreme safety and environmental stability over high-earning corporate clusters. It offers peace of mind through low crime and disaster risk.

Score breakdown

Tax32.5Cost54.9Safety93.4Health61Schools56.1Income17.7Risk97.6Water86Weather41.2
🏛32.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠54.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼17.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡93.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤61
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡97.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤41.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨51.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱57.5
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

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71.8
Keya Paha County
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Blaine County
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Loup County
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Thomas County
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Cherry County
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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 taxes rank low nationally

Brown County's effective tax rate of 1.080% falls well below the national median, making it more affordable than most U.S. counties. At this rate, homeowners pay roughly 40% less in property taxes compared to the national median of $2,690 annually.

Below average for Nebraska

Brown County ranks in the lower half of Nebraska counties with an effective rate of 1.080%, compared to the state average of 1.281%. This makes Brown one of the state's more tax-friendly counties for property owners.

Competitive within the region

Brown County's rate of 1.080% undercuts nearby Cedar County (1.041%) and Cherry County (1.010%), but beats several neighbors. Among regional peers, Brown County offers moderate property tax relief.

Median home costs $1,082 yearly

A typical Brown County home valued at $100,200 generates $1,082 in annual property taxes. For homeowners with mortgages, that figure drops to $1,051; those without pay $1,121.

You might be overpaying taxes

Many Brown County homeowners are likely overassessed on their property valuations. If your tax bill seems high, consider filing an appeal with the county assessor's office—it's free and could save you hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Brown County

via CostByCounty

Brown County's rent crunch

Brown County residents spend 21.7% of their income on rent, well above the national average and significantly higher than Nebraska's state average of 14.2%. At a median household income of $51,538—roughly 31% below the national median of $74,755—renters here face tighter housing affordability than most Americans.

Least affordable county in Nebraska

Brown County ranks among Nebraska's least affordable housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio that exceeds the state average by 7.5 percentage points. The $932 monthly median rent is 19% higher than Nebraska's average, creating particular strain for a county with below-average incomes.

Pricier than surrounding counties

Brown County's $932 rent exceeds neighboring Burt County ($688) by 35% and Cedar County ($683) by 36%, despite comparable or lower local incomes. This makes Brown County one of the region's most expensive rental markets relative to what residents earn.

Where Brown County income goes

A typical Brown County renter earning $51,538 annually spends about $11,184 per year on housing, leaving less for other essentials. Homeowners fare slightly better at 10.2% of income toward ownership costs, but the county's overall housing burden remains significantly above healthy thresholds.

Consider neighboring alternatives

If you're eyeing Brown County, neighboring Burt and Cedar counties offer substantially lower rents—up to 36% cheaper—with similar or better employment prospects. A move of just 30 miles could free up thousands annually in housing costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Brown County

via IncomeByCounty

Brown County lags national income

Brown County's median household income of $51,538 falls 31% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower tier of U.S. counties. The gap reflects economic challenges common to rural Nebraska communities that depend on agriculture and small-scale manufacturing. Closing this income gap requires targeted workforce development and business attraction.

Below average for Nebraska

Brown County ranks below Nebraska's state median household income of $66,880, earning $15,342 less than the statewide average. This positions the county in the lower third of Nebraska's 93 counties, indicating income challenges within the state's rural northeast. However, per capita income of $37,034 remains solid relative to state average of $36,101.

Peers in rural Nebraska struggle

Brown County's income sits between Cherry County ($63,750) and Cedar County ($73,977), reflecting the income diversity across rural northeastern Nebraska. Like its neighbors, Brown County faces the economic pressures of agricultural dependence and limited urban employment centers. Cedar County earns $22,000 more per household, suggesting geographic proximity doesn't guarantee income parity.

Housing costs manageable here

At 21.7%, Brown County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the standard 30% affordability threshold but remains reasonable for rural areas with median home values of $100,200. The median household income of $51,538 provides modest but stable housing affordability compared to counties with higher home prices. Most households can afford homeownership without severe budget strain.

Build wealth through planning

Brown County residents earning $51,538 annually can strengthen their financial future by building emergency savings and exploring retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s. Even modest monthly investments—as little as $100—compound significantly over time. Local credit unions and financial advisors can help families develop wealth-building strategies suited to rural Nebraska's economic realities.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Brown County

via CrimeByCounty

Brown County Ranks Among the Nation's Safest

Brown County is exceptionally safe, with a total crime rate of just 74.4 per 100K residents. This is a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5, earning the county a nearly perfect safety score of 99.9.

Outperforming Nebraska Safety Averages

With its 99.9 safety score, Brown County outperforms the Nebraska state average of 99.0. It ranks as one of the safest jurisdictions in the state, falling well below the state average crime rate of 626.7 per 100K.

A Regional Leader in Public Safety

Compared to nearby Cherry County, which reports 1059.8 crimes per 100K, Brown County maintains a significantly lower footprint of reported incidents. Its ultra-low crime rate sets it apart even within a region known for high safety standards.

Balanced and Minimal Crime Metrics

The local crime profile is split evenly between violent and property crime, each sitting at 37.2 per 100K. These figures are drastically lower than national norms, where violent crime alone averages 369.8 per 100K.

Maintain Your Secure Environment

While risks remain minimal, residents can maintain this safe environment through active community watch efforts. Basic security measures like outdoor lighting ensure Brown County stays one of the most secure places in America.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Brown County

via HealthByCounty

Brown County lags in life expectancy

At 75.6 years, Brown County residents live nearly 5 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 15.0% poor or fair health rate sits above the national average of 13.5%, suggesting persistent health challenges in the community.

Below Nebraska's health benchmark

Brown County's 75.6-year life expectancy trails Nebraska's state average of 77.5 years by nearly 2 years. This places Brown County among the lower-performing counties statewide for longevity metrics.

Neighboring counties fare better overall

Cherry County to the north reaches 77.2 years, while Cedar County achieves 80.2 years—outpacing Brown County by 4-5 years. Brown County's primary care provider density of 103 per 100,000 residents actually exceeds most rural neighbors, suggesting provider availability isn't the sole driver of health outcomes.

Uninsured rate tops state average

One in ten Brown County residents—10.0%—lack health insurance, compared to Nebraska's 8.1% average. Limited mental health provider capacity at 70 per 100,000 residents may compound healthcare access challenges for those seeking behavioral health support.

Finding affordable health coverage

If you're among the 10% of uninsured Brown County residents, help is available. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or employer coverage options tailored to your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Brown County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Rural Education Infrastructure

Brown County operates four public schools within a single unified school district serving 407 total students. The infrastructure is streamlined with one school dedicated to each level—elementary, middle, and high—plus a preschool facility.

Investing Above State Spending Averages

The county spends $10,995 per pupil, which exceeds the Nebraska state average of $10,521. While the 84.0% graduation rate is lower than the national average of 87.0%, the local school score of 59.0 remains competitive with the state average of 59.1.

Ainsworth Community Schools Leads the Way

Ainsworth Community Schools is the sole provider of public education in the county, managing all 407 enrolled students across four facilities. There are currently no charter schools in the county, keeping all public education under local district control.

Small-Scale Learning in a Rural Setting

Every school in the county is classified as rural, creating an intimate educational environment with an average school size of 102 students. Ainsworth Elementary is the largest campus with 134 students, while Ainsworth Little Paws Preschool provides a tiny, focused start with just 38 children.

Discover Homes Near Tight-Knit Schools

Families looking for a personalized education where every teacher knows every student will find Brown County attractive. Consider how the small-town atmosphere and dedicated per-pupil spending can benefit your children as you explore local real estate.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Brown County

via RiskByCounty

Brown County's disaster risk is exceptionally low

With a composite risk score of 2.39, Brown County ranks as Very Low risk—well below the national average. This exceptional safety profile means residents face minimal exposure to major natural hazards compared to most American counties.

Safest county in Nebraska by far

Brown County's composite score of 2.39 is dramatically lower than Nebraska's state average of 25.80, making it the safest county in the state. This protective position reflects the county's geographic isolation from major flood zones and tornado corridors.

Significantly safer than surrounding counties

Brown County's risk score of 2.39 is substantially lower than nearby Cherry County (13.58) and Cedar County (21.69). The county benefits from a unique geographic position that shields it from hazards affecting neighboring communities.

Wildfire presents the primary concern

Wildfire risk at 58.49 is Brown County's most significant hazard, though still manageable with basic preparedness. Tornado risk (19.34) and earthquake risk (10.91) remain secondary concerns that warrant standard home safety planning.

Standard coverage provides adequate protection

While Brown County's overall risk is exceptionally low, homeowners should maintain comprehensive property insurance including windstorm coverage for wildfires. Standard homeowners policies typically provide sufficient protection given the county's favorable risk profile.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Brown County

via WeatherByCounty

Brown County's Temperate Continental Climate

Brown County maintains an annual average temperature of 50.7°F, sitting slightly below the national median of approximately 54°F. This temperature profile places it firmly within the temperate continental zone, marked by distinct and varying seasons.

Warmer and Drier than State Averages

The county's average of 50.7°F is exactly one degree warmer than the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. Precipitation levels reach 24.7 inches annually, slightly trailing the state average of 25.9 inches.

A Milder Neighbor in the North

Compared to neighboring Cherry County at 48.4°F, Brown County experiences a noticeably milder overall climate. However, its 40.2 inches of annual snowfall is significantly higher than many of its southern and western neighbors.

Icy Winters and Sharp Summer Heat

Winter temperatures drop to an average of 28.3°F, supported by 40.2 inches of snow. Summers are hot and persistent, featuring 38 days of extreme heat where temperatures meet or exceed 90°F.

Preparing for Significant Snow and Heat

Residents should prioritize heavy-duty snow removal equipment to handle the 40-inch annual average. High-efficiency cooling systems are essential for the five-week span of extreme heat days.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Brown County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral acidity in Brown County soils

Brown County features a pH of 6.62, which sits very close to the national median of 6.5 and slightly below the state average of 6.79. While specific taxonomic data is limited, this near-neutral balance provides a stable environment for most regional plant species.

Sandy textures define the landscape

The soil is heavily sand-based, consisting of 75.4% sand and only 8.2% clay. This high-sand profile ensures excellent aeration and easy workability but may require more frequent watering to maintain moisture.

Rich organic matter meets low water storage

Organic matter content stands at 3.30%, nearly matching the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. However, the available water capacity of 0.118 in/in is significantly lower than the state benchmark of 0.172 in/in.

Rapid drainage in the local terrain

While specific drainage classes are not recorded for this area, the 75.4% sand content suggests naturally fast-moving water. This physical profile requires careful irrigation management to prevent nutrient leaching during heavy rains.

Gardening in hardiness zone 5b

Gardeners in zone 5b can leverage the 3.30% organic matter to support resilient native grasses and shrubs. The soil favors drought-tolerant species that thrive in sandy conditions and rapid-draining environments.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Brown County

via LawnByCounty

A Favorable Start in Brown County

Brown County earns a 57.5 lawn difficulty score, making it easier to maintain than the national average of 50.0 and the Nebraska average of 54.2. This Zone 5b region offers a relatively hospitable environment for homeowners despite its northern latitude.

Managing the Heat and Sun

With 38 extreme heat days per year, your lawn faces more stress than the state average of 34. The 24.7 inches of annual rainfall is below the 30-inch ideal, so you will need a consistent irrigation schedule to support the 3,246 growing degree days.

Sandy Grounds Require Nutrient Care

The soil here is 75.4% sand, which promotes fast drainage but may struggle to hold onto fertilizers. A near-perfect pH of 6.62 means you have an ideal chemical foundation, though you should focus on adding organic matter to improve water retention.

Battling Persistent Dry Spells

The county spent 29 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100% of the area remains abnormally dry today. To protect your turf, water deeply and infrequently to encourage roots to grow deeper into the sandy profile.

Time Your Seeding for Success

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue are excellent choices for this Zone 5b climate. Aim to seed after the May 6th last frost or in early September to give your lawn time to establish before the October 8th first frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brown County's county score?
Brown County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 60.7 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 Nebraska?
Brown County ranks #51 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 Brown County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Brown County is $1,082, with an effective tax rate of 1.08%. This earns Brown County a tax score of 32.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Brown County?
The median household income in Brown County, Nebraska is $51,538 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Brown County earns an income score of 17.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Brown County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Brown County scores 60.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Nebraska. 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.