countyscore
49.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 83.9Health 80.9

County Report Card

About Carlton County, Minnesota

A Mirror of the National Average

Carlton County earns a composite score of 49.8, placing it almost exactly at the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a quality of life that is representative of the middle of the pack across all U.S. counties.

Falling Short of the Minnesota Standard

While competitive nationally, the county trails the Minnesota state average composite score of 55.8. It faces stiff competition from higher-scoring neighbors in a state known for exceptional livability.

Exceptional Income and Clean Water

The county boasts a strong income score of 83.9, supported by a median household income of $80,042. Residents also enjoy high-quality resources, reflected in a water score of 86.0 and a health score of 80.9.

Cost Pressures and Environmental Risk

The local cost score of 23.1 suggests a lack of affordable housing options compared to regional peers. Additionally, a risk score of 29.9 indicates higher vulnerability to environmental or economic disruptions than other Minnesota counties.

The Ideal Fit for Established Earners

This county suits high-earning households who prioritize personal health and water quality over housing deals. Families with stable incomes of at least $80,000 will find the most success navigating the local market.

204060801002723.154.980.957.483.929.98647.5Tax27Cost23.1Safety54.9Health80.9Schools57.4Income83.9Risk29.9Water86Weather47.549.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Carlton County DNA

Foverall

How Carlton County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Carlton County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (83.9/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (27/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
27-25
Cost
23.1-24.9
Safety
54.9
Health
80.9+30.900000000000006
Schools
57.4
Income
83.9+32.900000000000006
Risk
29.9-17.1
Water
86+28
Weather
47.5-8.5
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$232,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$967/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$232,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$38,680/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $80,042/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

63.1

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
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Nearby counties

Aitkin County
Minnesota
53.3
Douglas County
Wisconsin
40
Pine County
Minnesota
46.9
Kanabec County
Minnesota
52.6
Burnett County
Wisconsin
47.6
Mille Lacs County
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42.6
Washburn County
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58.2
Crow Wing County
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49.3

Deep Dives

Carlton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Carlton County

via TaxByCounty

Carlton's taxes rank above national median

Carlton County's effective tax rate of 1.169% sits well above the national median of 1.0%, placing it in the 68th percentile nationally. Homeowners here pay a median of $2,712 annually, nearly matching the national median of $2,690 despite properties being worth 18% less than the U.S. average.

Among Minnesota's higher-taxing counties

Carlton ranks 18th highest for effective tax rates among Minnesota's 87 counties, with a 1.169% rate compared to the state average of 0.968%. The county's median property tax of $2,712 exceeds Minnesota's average of $2,168 by $544 annually.

Higher than nearby northeastern counties

Carlton's 1.169% rate significantly outpaces neighboring Cass County (0.576%), making it one of the region's steepest tax burdens. Among northern Minnesota peers, only Clay County (1.115%) comes close to Carlton's effective rate.

Median home costs $2,712 yearly in taxes

With a median home value of $232,000 and a 1.169% effective rate, Carlton homeowners pay approximately $2,712 in annual property taxes. For mortgaged properties, expect an additional $93 in escrow payments, bringing the total to $2,805.

Many Carlton homeowners could appeal assessments

Studies show 10–15% of properties nationwide are overassessed relative to market value, and Carlton's higher-than-average tax rate suggests similar potential for overvaluation. Homeowners questioning their assessment can file an appeal with the county assessor—a free process that often results in lower taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Carlton County

via CostByCounty

Carlton matches the national affordability norm

Carlton County residents spend 14.5% of their income on rent, matching the national benchmark exactly. With a median household income of $80,042—well above the national median of $74,755—renters here enjoy better income cushion than many Americans.

Right in the Minnesota middle

Carlton's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio ties it exactly with Minnesota's state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the affordability spectrum across Minnesota's 87 counties. This stability reflects a balanced relationship between local wages and housing costs.

More affordable than nearby Carver

Carlton's median rent of $967 is $477 cheaper than Carver County's $1,444, though Carlton residents earn $43,102 less annually. Cook County to the north offers similar rent ($886) and comparable affordability at 14.8%.

Housing costs stay in balance here

Carlton renters average $967 monthly while homeowners spend $1,312, with both representing manageable shares of the $80,042 median income. Combined rental and ownership costs suggest roughly 14-20% of household budgets go to housing.

Carlton offers stable, balanced living

If you're seeking housing stability without dramatic cost burdens, Carlton's balanced affordability metrics and income levels make it a practical choice. The county's rental parity with national standards means your housing costs won't surprise you—they'll be predictable.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Carlton County

via IncomeByCounty

Carlton Outearns the Nation

Carlton County's median household income of $80,042 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by more than 7 percent, placing it firmly in the upper-middle tier nationally. This $5,287 advantage reflects the county's stronger economic base relative to the average American household.

Above-Average Across Minnesota

Carlton ranks solidly above Minnesota's state median of $75,757, earning $4,285 more per household annually. With a per capita income of $37,608—slightly below the state average of $39,335—the county's strength lies in multi-earner households and dual-income families.

Competitive With Regional Peers

Carlton's $80,042 median sits between Chippewa County ($69,192) and Chisago County ($98,260), reflecting a diverse regional economy. Among nearby counties, Carlton performs well, outearning Clay County ($77,664) and holding its own against regional growth centers.

Rent Stays Affordable Here

At 14.5 percent, Carlton County's rent-to-income ratio signals healthy affordability—well below the 30 percent threshold that signals housing stress. Median home values of $232,000 remain accessible for households earning $80,042, supporting both renters and homebuyers.

Build Wealth From Strong Earnings

With household incomes above national average, Carlton residents have genuine capacity to save and invest. Consider directing even 10 percent of household earnings to retirement accounts or diversified investments to compound wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Carlton County

via CrimeByCounty

Carlton County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

Carlton County reports a total crime rate of 1025.8 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive performance earns the county a high safety score of 98.4 out of 100.

Surpassing the Minnesota Safety Average

With a safety score of 98.4, Carlton County sits just above the Minnesota state average of 98.2. Local law enforcement maintains a total crime rate that is lower than the state's average of 1123.5 per 100K.

A Secure Profile in the Northland

Carlton’s crime rate of 1025.8 per 100K keeps it safer than many surrounding regions and the statewide average. The county benefits from a lower frequency of incidents compared to many similarly populated Minnesota counties.

Property Crime vs. Violent Crime Trends

Property crime accounts for the vast majority of local incidents at 874.5 per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 151.3. Residents are far more likely to experience theft than physical harm, following state and national trends.

Staying Vigilant in Carlton County

Even with high safety scores, proactive home security remains essential for deterring the 874.5 property crimes reported per 100K residents. Installing motion-sensor lights and smart locks helps maintain the county’s secure reputation.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Carlton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Solid Network of Local Schools

Carlton County maintains 23 public schools across 8 districts, serving a total of 6,236 students. The infrastructure is well-balanced with 10 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 10 high schools.

Graduation Rates Outpace National Benchmarks

The county boasts an 89.6% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 87% national average and the 86.6% state average. This success comes despite a leaner per-pupil expenditure of $8,205 compared to the state average of $8,463.

Cloquet Leads the County Districts

The Cloquet Public School District is the largest provider, enrolling 2,641 students across 8 different schools. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county's public system.

A Mix of Town and Rural Learning

Schooling here primarily happens in town settings (15 schools) and rural areas (8 schools). While Cloquet Senior High is the largest campus with 800 students, the average school size remains intimate at 283 students.

Plant Roots Near High-Performing Schools

With graduation rates exceeding state norms, Carlton County is an attractive destination for families. Explore homes near top-rated campuses like Winterquist Elementary to secure a spot in these successful districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Carlton County

via RiskByCounty

Carlton ranks in middle for U.S. disaster risk

Carlton County's composite risk score of 70.07 places it above the national average, reflecting elevated exposure to multiple natural hazards. While the county's "Relatively Low" rating suggests manageable overall risk, residents face more frequent threats than the typical American community.

Carlton's risk is well above Minnesota average

With a score of 70.07, Carlton County ranks significantly higher than Minnesota's state average of 42.38, placing it among the state's riskier counties. This elevation reflects the county's geographic vulnerability to flooding and wildfire.

Carlton faces higher risks than nearby counties

Carlton County's score of 70.07 exceeds neighboring Cass County (53.53) and Chisago County (44.53), making it the most exposed in its immediate region. The difference is driven primarily by Carlton's flood and wildfire vulnerabilities.

Flooding and wildfire dominate Carlton's threats

Flood risk scores 63.96 in Carlton, while wildfire risk reaches 41.00—both substantial concerns for residents and property owners. Tornadoes present a moderate threat with a score of 33.52, meaning Carlton residents should prepare for multiple seasonal hazards.

Flood insurance is essential for Carlton homeowners

Given Carlton's elevated flood risk of 63.96, homeowners should verify flood insurance coverage regardless of mortgage lender requirements—standard home policies do not cover flood damage. Consider also reviewing wildfire preparedness measures and having an emergency plan for severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Carlton County

via WaterByCounty

Perfect Compliance Grade for Carlton Drinking Water

Carlton County earns a Grade A for drinking water safety, reporting zero health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents stands far better than the Minnesota state average of 32.5. Residents benefit from a consistently reliable public water supply that exceeds federal standards.

Local Watersheds Await Federal Assessment

No local water bodies are currently covered under the federal Clean Water Act §303(d) assessment for Carlton County. While the state average for impaired waters is 1.5%, federal records do not yet have a confirmed snapshot of Carlton's specific impairments. This gap in data highlights a need for continued local watershed evaluation.

Extensive Monitoring Tracks PFAS and Nutrients

Water quality experts manage 128 monitoring sites across the county, recording 33,777 measurements over the past five years. Testing focuses heavily on physical characteristics, nutrients, and emerging PFAS contaminants. This active surveillance ensures that local officials can detect shifts in water chemistry before they impact the public.

St. Louis River Flows Above Typical Levels

The St. Louis River at Scanlon is currently flowing at 3,120 cfs, which is 130% of its long-term seasonal mean. This primary gauge monitors a massive 3,430 square mile drainage area. Higher-than-average flow indicates robust runoff from recent precipitation across the regional basin.

Stay Alert to Evolving PFAS Monitoring

With a high volume of PFAS testing occurring locally, residents should stay informed about the latest groundwater results. Although drinking water compliance is perfect, the current high river flow can change the concentration of surface-level nutrients. Check annual water quality reports for any updates on industrial chemical monitoring.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Carlton County

via WeatherByCounty

Carlton County Trails the National Temperature Median

Carlton County maintains an average annual temperature of 39.7°F, placing it significantly below the United States median. This cold-continental climate reflects its northern position, making it one of the cooler regions in the country.

Cooler and Wetter than the Minnesota Average

The county's 39.7°F annual average sits roughly three degrees below the Minnesota state average of 42.8°F. However, residents see more moisture than their peers, with 31.8 inches of annual precipitation compared to the state's 30.0-inch average.

A Snowy Outlier in the North Woods

With 65.3 inches of annual snowfall, Carlton is significantly whiter than neighboring Cass or Chisago counties. It experiences a damp, cool climate that differentiates it from the drier plains found further west.

Short Summers and Deep Winter Freezes

Summer peaks in July with a mild 66.4°F average and only four days topping 90°F. Conversely, January is punishingly cold, averaging just 9.3°F as 65.3 inches of snow accumulates throughout the season.

Prioritize Heavy Insulation and Winter Preparedness

Homeowners must prioritize high-efficiency heating and snow removal equipment to handle the heavy winter loads. While air conditioning is rarely urgent given only four extreme heat days, a reliable vehicle with winter tires is essential for navigating the long snowy season.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Carlton County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic forest soils in Carlton

Carlton’s soil is highly acidic with a pH of 4.10, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This low pH suggests a mineral profile common in northern forest environments where pine and spruce dominate.

A silty and sandy mix

The soil contains 41.1% silt and 35.6% sand, with clay making up only 11.2% of the profile. This composition provides a balanced texture that allows for decent workability while maintaining some structural stability.

Exceptional organic matter levels

At 25.67%, the organic matter content is more than double the state average of 9.90%. The available water capacity of 0.276 in/in also exceeds the Minnesota benchmark, indicating superior water storage for plants.

Natural drainage trends

Standardized drainage and hydrologic records are currently unavailable for this region. However, the high sand and silt content typically suggests moderate permeability and active moisture movement.

Hardy gardening in Zone 4a

This Zone 4a region favors acid-loving plants like blueberries and evergreens. Gardeners should select varieties that thrive in cool, moist, and acidic northern soils for the best results.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Carlton County

via LawnByCounty

A Challenging Climate for Carlton Lawns

Carlton County scores a 41.2 for lawn difficulty, falling well below the state average of 63.9. Maintaining turf in this Zone 4a region requires extra effort compared to the national median of 50.0.

Cool Summers and Steady Rain

The county receives 31.8 inches of annual precipitation, which sits comfortably within the ideal range for grass health. With only 4 extreme heat days per year and 1,716 growing degree days, lawns here stay cool but grow at a slower pace than southern neighbors.

Managing High Soil Acidity

The local soil pH is quite low at 4.10, significantly more acidic than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range. While the sand content is 35.6%, homeowners likely need heavy lime applications to balance the soil for healthy root development.

Navigating Severe Local Drought

Approximately 92.2% of the county currently faces severe drought conditions, having endured 30 weeks of drought over the past year. Deep, infrequent watering is essential to sustain roots during these dry spells.

Ready for a May Start

Hardy cool-season grasses like Fine Fescue thrive in Zone 4a and tolerate the local soil conditions. Wait until after the typical last frost on May 26 to begin your seeding projects for the best results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carlton County's county score?
Carlton County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 49.8 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 Carlton County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Carlton County ranks #61 among all counties in Minnesota 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 Carlton County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Carlton County is $2,712, with an effective tax rate of 1.17%. This earns Carlton County a tax score of 27/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Carlton County?
The median household income in Carlton County, Minnesota is $80,042 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Carlton County earns an income score of 83.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Carlton County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Carlton County scores 49.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #61 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Carlton 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 Carlton 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.