countyscore
47.6
County Score
Health 70.8Soil Quality 65.3Cost of Living 63.4

County Report Card

About Burnett County, Wisconsin

Burnett County Near National Median

Burnett County earns a composite score of 47.6, placing it just slightly below the national median of 50.0. It offers a fairly typical American rural experience in terms of overall livability. Its ranking is bolstered by affordability but hindered by social services.

Tracking Closely with Wisconsin

The county’s 47.6 score is just under the Wisconsin state average of 50.3. This puts it in the middle of the pack for state counties, neither leading nor lagging significantly. It maintains a competitive position through lower-than-average tax burdens.

Low Taxes and Affordable Living

Burnett County features a strong tax score of 41.6, driven by a low effective tax rate of 0.952%. Housing is quite affordable with a cost score of 63.4 and median rent at $758. A health score of 70.8 also indicates a high quality of life for residents.

Safety and Education Gaps

The county faces hurdles in safety with a score of 25.9 and education with a score of 39.6. These areas suggest that public services and local security may require more attention. An income score of 44.1 reflects a modest median household income of $61,664.

Best for Value-Seeking Retirees

Burnett County is an excellent choice for those looking to minimize their tax burden while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is a good fit for individuals who don't rely on local schools and prefer affordable, quiet living. Its low property taxes make it highly attractive for homeowners.

Score breakdown

Tax41.6Cost63.4Safety25.9Health70.8Schools39.6Income44.1Risk50.7Water41.8Weather47.3
🏛41.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠63.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼44.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡25.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤70.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡50.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧41.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱46.7
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

Pine County
Minnesota
46.9
Polk County
Wisconsin
51.7
Chisago County
Minnesota
46.2
Washburn County
Wisconsin
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Kanabec County
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Isanti County
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Barron County
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Carlton County
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49.8

Deep Dives

Burnett County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Burnett County

via TaxByCounty

Burnett has the region's lowest tax rate

Burnett County's exceptional 0.952% effective tax rate ranks in the 10th percentile nationally, among the lowest in America. The median tax of $2,052 falls $638 below the national median, an extraordinary bargain given Burnett's median home value of $215,500.

Burnett ranks as Wisconsin's most tax-efficient county

At 0.952%, Burnett claims the lowest effective tax rate among Wisconsin's 72 counties, running 0.484 percentage points below the state average of 1.436%. The median tax of $2,052 is a stunning $1,029 below Wisconsin's median of $3,081.

Unmatched savings compared to surrounding counties

Burnett's 0.952% rate dwarfs every regional neighbor—Bayfield (1.066%), Adams (1.299%), Barron (1.424%), Ashland (1.467%), and beyond. For homeowners seeking maximum tax efficiency in Wisconsin, Burnett is unrivaled.

A $215,500 home costs just $2,052 yearly

The median Burnett County home valued at $215,500 generates an annual tax bill of approximately $2,052. With mortgage, that rises slightly to $2,070; without, it drops to $2,033.

Protect your savings with regular assessments

While Burnett offers exceptional tax rates, overassessed properties can still occur. Review your assessed value annually and file a free appeal with your assessor if it diverges from comparable properties in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Burnett County

via CostByCounty

Burnett County achieves near-perfect affordability

Burnett County's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio nearly matches Wisconsin's state average of 14.9%, representing ideal rental affordability. Despite a median household income of $61,664—below the national median of $74,755—the county's low $758 monthly rent maximizes purchasing power.

Right on Wisconsin's affordability baseline

Burnett County's 14.8% rent-to-income ratio is nearly identical to the state average of 14.9%, placing it firmly in the middle of Wisconsin's rental affordability spectrum. Its $758 monthly rent ranks among the lowest in this eight-county group.

Lowest rents, solid affordability ratio

Burnett County's $758 monthly rent is the second-lowest in the comparison (after Ashland's $665) and carries the second-best rent-to-income ratio at 14.8%. Median home values of $215,500 sit between northern rural counties and higher-priced neighbors like Brown and Calumet.

Rents consume 15% of household income

Burnett County renters earning $61,664 annually spend $758/month—14.8% of gross income—on rent, a sustainable burden that leaves room for other costs. Homeowners invest $814/month on $215,500 median-valued properties, the lowest ownership cost in this comparison.

Exceptional value for budget-conscious movers

Burnett County delivers some of Wisconsin's lowest rents and ownership costs combined with a favorable rent-to-income ratio, ideal for cost-conscious households. If you're relocating and prioritize housing affordability alongside community, Burnett's lake-country setting and economic efficiency make it a top contender.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Burnett County

via IncomeByCounty

Burnett falls short of national income standard

Burnett County's median household income of $61,664 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by $13,091, representing an 18% gap. This moderate shortfall is typical for rural Wisconsin counties with limited high-wage employment centers.

Burnett below Wisconsin income average

At $61,664, Burnett County earns $10,051 less than Wisconsin's median of $71,715, placing it in the lower-middle tier of the state's 72 counties. Burnett's rural character and limited manufacturing base constrain local wage growth relative to urban-anchored regions.

Burnett middle-ranking among northern counties

Burnett's $61,664 median income outpaces Adams ($59,153) and Ashland ($57,645) but underperforms Barron ($64,619), Buffalo ($68,722), and Bayfield ($69,609). This positioning reflects Burnett's small-town economy—neither the most challenged nor the most prosperous.

Burnett's housing costs stay manageable

Burnett's rent-to-income ratio of 14.8% sits safely below the 15% affordability threshold, meaning housing absorbs a reasonable share of household budgets. The median home value of $215,500 represents 3.5 years of median household income—slightly above regional average.

Burnett residents can build gradual wealth

With $61,664 median income and manageable housing costs at 14.8%, Burnett households have capacity for steady retirement and education savings. Even modest monthly investing of $200 compounds to over $120,000 over three decades at historical market growth rates.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Burnett County

via CrimeByCounty

Secure Living in Burnett County

Burnett County maintains a solid safety score of 97.1, indicating a secure community. The total crime rate of 1811.5 per 100K remains well below the national mark of 2,385.5.

Burnett Compared to the State

Burnett's crime rate is higher than the Wisconsin average of 1103.1 per 100K. Consequently, its safety score sits slightly below the statewide average of 98.3.

Middle Tier of Regional Safety

The county is safer than nearby Ashland County but reports more crime than Barron County's low rate of 754.0. It falls into the middle tier of safety for North-Central Wisconsin.

Property Concerns Top the List

Property crimes make up the bulk of local reports at 1533.7 per 100K, while violent crime is 277.8. Residents should focus primarily on preventing theft and burglary.

Simple Steps for a Safer Home

Visible security measures can deter potential property crimes in Burnett County. Simple additions like deadbolts and window sensors provide peace of mind for local homeowners.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Burnett County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy surpasses national average

Burnett County residents live to 79.2 years on average, exceeding the U.S. life expectancy of roughly 78 years. However, 18.1% report poor or fair health—above national averages—suggesting underlying health challenges despite longevity gains.

Above state average but with health concerns

At 79.2 years, Burnett County's life expectancy exceeds Wisconsin's 77.8-year average by 1.4 years, yet the 18.1% poor/fair health rate ranks among the state's highest. This gap suggests residents are living longer but managing chronic conditions.

Mixed performance in north woods region

Burnett's 79.2-year life expectancy falls between stronger-performing Bayfield (79.4) and weaker Ashland (74.0), but its 18.1% poor/fair health rate is the highest in the northern peer group. The county shows longevity gains offset by substantial illness burden.

Sparse provider network challenges access

Burnett County has just 18 primary care providers and 111 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—both well below state averages. A 7.5% uninsured rate compounds these access barriers, leaving many residents without consistent healthcare partnerships.

Secure healthcare protection

7.5% of Burnett County residents lack health insurance in an area with limited provider availability. Enroll in BadgerCare+ or marketplace coverage to ensure you have access to the care you need.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Burnett County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network Serving Three Districts

Burnett County manages 10 public schools and three districts for a total of 2,819 students. This includes four elementary schools and three high schools focused on rural education.

Graduation Rates Above National Average

The county maintains an 88.9% graduation rate, which is higher than the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending is conservative at $6,902, contributing to a school score of 52.7.

Grantsburg District and iForward Charter

Grantsburg School District is the largest with 1,759 students across five schools. The district includes the iForward charter school, which alone serves nearly 900 students via an alternative format.

Rural Identity with Large Charter Presence

Every school is located in a rural setting with an average size of 282 students. The iForward charter is the largest school with 896 students, while Webster Elementary serves 257 in a traditional setting.

Explore Housing Near Burnett Schools

With a mix of traditional rural schools and a major charter option, this county offers unique flexibility. Consider these educational assets when looking for your next home in Northern Wisconsin.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Burnett County

via RiskByCounty

Burnett County moderately below state risk

Burnett County scores 49.33 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the Relatively Low category and below Wisconsin's state average of 59.08. This northwestern Wisconsin county experiences less natural disaster exposure than most peers, though some hazards warrant attention.

Lower-middle risk among state counties

Burnett County's 49.33 score ranks it in the lower half of Wisconsin's risk distribution, comfortably below the state average of 59.08. The county benefits from a less hazardous profile than many Wisconsin counterparts.

Safer than Adams, riskier than Ashland

Burnett County's 49.33 score ranks it below neighboring Adams County (70.90) and Barron County (68.64), but above Ashland County (31.68). Its risk profile places it in the moderate tier of northwestern Wisconsin counties.

Wildfire emerges as unique threat

Burnett County's wildfire risk of 68.77 ranks exceptionally high—among Wisconsin's most fire-prone areas—paired with moderate flood risk of 55.47. Tornado risk (46.69) adds secondary exposure, while earthquake and hurricane threats remain minimal.

Prioritize wildfire and flood coverage

Burnett County residents should ensure homeowners insurance covers wildfire damage and consider additional coverage for areas near forests or grasslands prone to seasonal fire. Flood insurance through the NFIP should also be evaluated, particularly for properties in mapped floodplains or low-lying areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Burnett County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Northwoods Climate Profile

Burnett County averages 42.9°F annually, placing it significantly below the national median. This region is defined by its deep northern winters and relatively short growing seasons.

Colder Than the State Average

The 42.9°F average temperature is roughly 1.5 degrees colder than the Wisconsin state average. Burnett sits in a transitional zone between the warmer central plains and the colder lake regions.

Drier Than Most Western Neighbors

Burnett records 31.9 inches of annual precipitation, making it drier than neighboring Barron County. Its annual temperature is slightly higher than Barron's 42.2°F average.

Severe Freezes and Sunny Summers

January is very cold with an average of 11.8°F, contributing to a 52.4-inch annual snowfall total. Summers are warm and pleasant, featuring 7 extreme heat days above 90°F.

Prepare for Harsh Winter Lows

Home heating systems must be robust to handle winter averages of 15.7°F. Outdoor enthusiasts should stock up on cold-weather gear to manage the 52.4 inches of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Burnett County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Entisols of the Northwest

Burnett County features acidic soils with a pH of 4.83, well below the state average of 5.63 and the national median of 6.5. These are classified as Entisols, which are relatively young soils in geologic terms.

High Sand and Moderate Silt

The soil contains 48.5% sand and 21.4% silt, with only 6.8% clay. This sand-forward mix makes the soil very easy to cultivate, though it can struggle to hold onto fertilizers.

Spongy Organic Wealth

Organic matter is very high at 19.02%, significantly beating the state average of 11.02%. This helps boost the available water capacity to 0.216 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.204.

Naturally Well-Drained Land

The county is dominant in well-drained soil, allowing water to move through the profile efficiently. This makes the land ideal for building and for crops that cannot tolerate 'wet feet' or standing water.

Cold-Hardy Planting in Zone 4a

Zone 4a demands plants that can survive a deep freeze, like asparagus or rhubarb. Your well-drained soil is a huge asset for early spring planting as it warms up faster than heavier clays.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Burnett County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Landscapes in Burnett County

Burnett County presents a difficult environment for lawn enthusiasts, with a score of 46.7. This is well below the state average of 64.4 and trails the national median of 50.0. As a Zone 4a county, the combination of harsh winters and soil issues makes traditional lawn care a constant battle.

Moderate Summers with Water Needs

The county receives 31.9 inches of rain annually, which is just enough to sustain turf but leaves little margin for error. While the 2,254 growing degree days are sufficient for growth, the 7 days of extreme heat can quickly dry out the sandy soil. Mowing should be adjusted during the peak of July when temperatures average nearly 70°F.

Sandy Soil Requires Serious Prep

Burnett County is characterized by well-drained soil with a high sand content of 48.5%. With a pH of 4.83, the soil is far too acidic for most grass types, which prefer a range of 6.0-7.0. Significant lime and organic matter additions are necessary to help the soil hold onto water and nutrients.

Severe Drought Risks for Turf

Drought is a major concern here, with 22.5% of the county currently in severe drought (D2+) and 100% classified as abnormally dry. Having endured 27 weeks of drought in the past year, lawns in Burnett County often require significant supplemental irrigation. Water conservation is key, so consider drought-tolerant grass varieties to reduce the burden.

Tough Grasses for a Tough Zone

Focus on Zone 4a hardy species like Sheep Fescue or other fine fescues that can tolerate the acidic, sandy conditions. The planting season starts after May 11, but the risk of fall frost begins early on October 1. Ensure any new seeding is completed by early September to allow for root development before the ground freezes.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Burnett County's county score?
Burnett County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 47.6 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 Burnett County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Burnett County ranks #52 among all counties in Wisconsin 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 Burnett County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Burnett County is $2,052, with an effective tax rate of 0.95%. This earns Burnett County a tax score of 41.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Burnett County?
The median household income in Burnett County, Wisconsin is $61,664 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Burnett County earns an income score of 44.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Burnett County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Burnett County scores 47.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #52 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Burnett 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 Burnett 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.