countyscore
49.2
County Score
Lawn Care 81.1Soil Quality 79.8Income & Jobs 76.2

County Report Card

About Champaign County, Ohio

Champaign County Matches National Trends

Champaign County earns a composite score of 49.2, sitting just a fraction below the national median of 50.0. It offers a lifestyle that aligns closely with the typical American experience.

Leading the Ohio Average

With a score of 49.2, the county edges out the Ohio state average of 48.6. It remains a competitive choice for those looking to stay within the Buckeye State.

High Income and Resilient Environment

The county boasts a strong income score of 76.2, anchored by a median household income of $74,239. It also manages environmental hazards well, earning a risk score of 73.3.

Navigating Tax and Housing Costs

Lower scores in tax (35.2) and cost (39.7) indicate that affordability is a growing concern for residents. While income is high, a larger portion of it goes toward local property taxes and housing.

Balanced Stability for Middle-Class Families

This county is ideal for established families who have solid earnings and want a safe, low-risk environment. It provides a reliable balance of economic opportunity and physical security.

Score breakdown

Tax35.2Cost39.7Safety45.7Health62Schools48.7Income76.2Risk73.3Water61.5Weather55.3
🏛35.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠39.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼76.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡45.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡73.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧61.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨79.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱81.1
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

Logan County
Ohio
56
Clark County
Ohio
32.3
Union County
Ohio
49.6
Madison County
Ohio
47.8
Miami County
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45.8
Shelby County
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Greene County
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Hardin County
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Deep Dives

Champaign County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Champaign County

via TaxByCounty

Champaign County below national average

Champaign County's effective tax rate of 1.040% falls below the national median of 0.84%, positioning the county near the 45th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $1,938 trails the national median of $2,690, offering a modest advantage for homeowners.

Slightly below Ohio's statewide average

Champaign County's effective rate of 1.040% sits just below Ohio's state average of 1.148%, marking it among the more affordable counties. The median tax bill of $1,938 falls roughly $200 shy of the state median of $2,145.

Competitive with nearby central Ohio

Champaign County's 1.040% rate places it squarely in the middle of central and western Ohio's tax landscape, slightly higher than Clinton County at 0.942% but lower than Clark County at 1.246%. Butler County to the southwest carries a noticeably steeper 1.239% burden.

What $186.3K home costs annually

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $186,300 in Champaign County pays approximately $1,938 per year in property taxes. The amount remains relatively stable whether financed with a mortgage or owned outright, at roughly $1,931 to $1,947.

Review assessment accuracy yearly

Property values in Champaign County fluctuate, and assessments don't always keep pace with market conditions. Homeowners should compare their assessed value to recent comparable sales and file an appeal if significantly overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Champaign County

via CostByCounty

Champaign County offers national affordability advantage

Champaign County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the strongest nationally, beating the U.S. affordability threshold of 15% by a comfortable margin. With a median household income nearly identical to the national average at $74,239, Champaign delivers housing relief that most American counties cannot match.

One of Ohio's most livable housing markets

Champaign's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio edges out Ohio's state average of 15.6%, positioning it as a genuinely affordable option within a competitive state housing market. At $884 monthly, median rent sits just 1% above Ohio's state average despite the county's strong income-to-cost balance.

Balanced affordability among peer counties

Champaign County's $884 median rent and 14.3% ratio place it squarely in the middle of regional comparables like Clinton County ($893 rent, 15.7% ratio) and Carroll County ($780 rent, 14.5% ratio). The county offers a sweet spot for families seeking moderate housing costs without sacrificing community resources.

14.3% of income covers housing costs

Typical Champaign County renters spend $884 monthly on a median household income of $74,239, keeping housing within the comfortable affordability zone. Homeowners carry mortgage costs around $953, while median home values of $186,300 remain accessible for middle-income buyers.

Champaign offers balanced relocation economics

If you earn near the $74,239 county median, Champaign's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio provides genuine breathing room compared to national averages. Test your own income against Champaign's costs: at $884 rent, you'd need roughly $74,000 annually to stay within the affordable 15% threshold.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Champaign County

via IncomeByCounty

Champaign matches national average

Champaign County's median household income of $74,239 virtually matches the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely at the 50th percentile of U.S. counties. This parity reflects a diversified local economy balancing agriculture, light manufacturing, and services.

Middle of Ohio's pack

At $74,239, Champaign County runs 9.0% above Ohio's county average of $68,101, positioning it in the upper-middle tier of the state. This standing suggests stronger-than-average economic stability within Ohio.

Solid performer regionally

Champaign's $74,239 exceeds Carroll County ($64,675) to the south and Clinton County ($68,125) but lags neighboring Butler ($81,194) and Clermont ($83,178). Within its peer group, Champaign holds steady as a middle-income anchor.

Low housing burden

Champaign County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.3% is among the lowest in the state, and median home values of $186,300 remain affordable for median-income households. Housing costs consume a healthy portion of the county budget.

Solid foundation for savings

With national-average household income and below-average housing costs, Champaign residents can redirect savings to retirement accounts and investment portfolios. Building a 6-month emergency fund and contributing to 401(k)s are realistic first steps.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Champaign County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong safety ratings for Champaign County

Champaign County achieves a safety score of 98.1, outperforming the national benchmark. Its total crime rate of 1216.6 per 100K is roughly half of the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the state average in security

The county's safety score of 98.1 exceeds the Ohio state average of 97.8. Local law enforcement maintains a total crime rate that is lower than the statewide average of 1412.3 per 100K.

Significant safety advantage over Clark County

Champaign County is much safer than neighboring Clark County, where the crime rate reaches 2994.6 per 100K. It also maintains a slight edge over nearby Clinton County.

Property crimes outnumber violent incidents

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 178.2 per 100K, while property crime is more common at 1038.4. Residents should be most mindful of protecting physical assets and personal property.

Focus on deterring property-related crime

Investing in outdoor lighting and alarm systems addresses the county's primary crime category. Simple preventative measures keep this high safety score stable for all residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Champaign County

via HealthByCounty

Champaign County leads on life expectancy

At 75.7 years, Champaign County residents live nearly 2.2 years longer than the U.S. average of 73.5 years. Just 18.7% report poor or fair health—below both the national average (21%) and most peer counties—reflecting consistently strong health outcomes.

Among Ohio's healthiest counties

Champaign County's 75.7-year life expectancy is one of the highest in Ohio, clearly surpassing the state average of 74.8 years. Its low 18.7% poor/fair health rate ranks it among the state's health leaders.

Best longevity in region by significant margin

Champaign County boasts the highest life expectancy among nearby counties, outlasting Butler (75.4), Carroll (75.0), and Clark (72.3) by meaningful margins. Its 6.6% uninsured rate is also below the state average, ensuring most residents have coverage.

Primary care challenge despite good health outcomes

Champaign County has only 16 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—one of the lowest in the region—yet maintains excellent health metrics, suggesting strong community health practices. With 6.6% uninsured and 111 mental health providers per 100,000, residents have reasonable access to behavioral health care.

Keep excellent health outcomes on track

Champaign County's strong longevity means residents are doing something right—maintaining consistent health insurance is key to sustaining these gains. Visit healthcare.gov or a local provider to confirm your coverage and stay engaged with preventive care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Champaign County

via SchoolsByCounty

Champaign's Balanced Public School System

Champaign County supports 6,394 students through a balanced network of 15 public schools divided among five districts. The infrastructure is perfectly split with five elementary, five middle, and five high schools across the county. This structure ensures a consistent educational path for students from kindergarten through graduation.

Academic Excellence in Rural Ohio

The county boasts an impressive 88.6% graduation rate, exceeding both the state average of 88.3% and the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $7,633 is lower than the state and national averages, the results remain strong. The county's school score of 54.2 reflects a solid educational foundation for local residents.

Spotlight on Urbana and Graham Districts

Urbana City is the largest district, serving 1,854 students across three schools, followed closely by Graham Local with 1,665 students. These traditional districts manage all public education in the county, as there are no charter schools currently operating. Smaller districts like Mechanicsburg Exempted Village also contribute to the local academic landscape.

Rural Roots and Community Schools

Nearly all schools in Champaign County are classified as rural, creating a consistent community-driven atmosphere for students. The average school size is 426 students, making for manageable and familiar learning environments. Urbana Elementary School is the largest facility in the county, currently enrolling 871 students.

Investing in Champaign County Education

Homebuyers in Champaign County benefit from high graduation rates and a stable, rural school environment. Whether looking in Urbana or the surrounding countryside, school quality is a key factor in local home values. We invite you to explore housing options near these high-performing rural schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Champaign County

via RiskByCounty

Champaign County has minimal natural disaster risk

Champaign County's composite risk score of 26.75 places it well below national averages, earning a "Very Low" disaster risk rating. This indicates substantially reduced exposure to the natural hazards that threaten many other American communities.

One of Ohio's safest counties

Champaign County scores 26.75 against Ohio's state average of 55.03, ranking it among the state's lowest-risk counties. Residents benefit from natural geographic and climatic factors that minimize exposure to multiple hazard types.

Safer than nearby Clinton County

Champaign County's score of 26.75 edges out Clinton County's 34.00, making it one of the region's safest communities. Both counties enjoy significantly lower risk than Ohio's state average.

Tornado and earthquake pose limited threats

Tornado risk (46.37) and earthquake risk (56.23) are Champaign County's highest hazards, but both remain well below statewide medians. Wildfire risk is exceptionally low at just 3.37, reflecting the county's geography and land use.

Basic homeowner's coverage meets most needs

Champaign County's low overall risk means standard homeowner's insurance provides reliable protection for most properties. Residents should still maintain a basic emergency preparedness kit and know local weather alert procedures.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Champaign County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Midwestern Temperatures

Champaign County averages 51.2°F annually, sitting just below the national median for temperate zones. It represents a classic humid continental climate with four distinct seasons.

Slightly Cooler Than State Norms

At 51.2°F, the county is slightly cooler than the Ohio state average of 51.5°F. However, its 42.4 inches of annual precipitation makes it wetter than the state average of 41.2 inches.

Cooler Than Southern Neighbors

Champaign maintains a cooler profile than nearby Butler County, which averages 53.7°F. It closely mirrors Crawford County’s temperature but sees fewer extreme heat days than the counties to its immediate south.

Moderate Summers and Brisk Winters

July brings an average high of 73.5°F with only 17 days reaching the 90°F mark. Winters are chilly, with January temperatures averaging 27.2°F and winter season averages dropping to 29.7°F.

Rain Gear and Efficient Heating

With over 42 inches of rain, reliable drainage and rain gear are essential for local residents. While snowfall data is limited, the sub-freezing January average suggests keeping winter home heating systems in top shape.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Champaign County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Histosols Define the Landscape

Champaign County features unique Histosols with a pH of 6.25, sitting just below the national median of 6.5. These soils are significantly more alkaline than the Ohio average of 5.97, offering a balanced chemical profile.

The Power of Muck Soil

With a dominant texture described as muck, the mix includes 52.4% silt and 19.9% clay. This combination creates a spongy, carbon-rich environment that is rare compared to typical mineral soils.

Superior Moisture for High Yields

The county boasts a high available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, well above the state average of 0.186. With 4.38% organic matter, the soil provides a steady supply of nutrients for intensive agriculture.

Managing High Water Tables

The soil is very poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group B/D, indicating a high water table. These conditions are ideal for specialized wetland crops but require careful drainage for traditional construction.

Prime Growth in Zone 6a

Hardiness zone 6a and the moisture-rich muck make this a premier spot for root vegetables like carrots and onions. Your garden will thrive in this fertile ground as long as you manage the high moisture levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Champaign County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Growth in Champaign County

Champaign County earns a solid lawn difficulty score of 81.1, outperforming the state average of 76.0. This Zone 6a region offers a hospitable environment for turfgrass that is much easier to manage than the national median. It is a high-performing area for those who want a green lawn with manageable effort.

Ideal Rainfall and Moderate Heat

The county receives 42.4 inches of annual precipitation, which falls perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range. With 17 extreme heat days, it is only slightly warmer than the state average but remains manageable for most cool-season grass varieties. Mowing schedules should stay consistent through the 3173 growing degree days.

Managing Unique Muck Soils

Unlike many neighbors, Champaign County features a muck texture with 19.9% clay and a pH of 6.25. This soil is very poorly drained, which can lead to root rot if overwatered or during heavy rains. Proper drainage management and avoiding heavy equipment on wet soil are critical to maintaining lawn health.

Watching Out for Dry Patches

Approximately 23.5% of the county is currently abnormally dry, following 8 weeks of drought over the past year. While the muck soil retains some water, these dry spells can still stress the lawn's surface. Prioritize watering the dry zones first and consider raising mower blades to 3.5 inches to shade the soil.

Timing the Zone 6a Season

Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass thrive in these conditions, provided you manage the drainage. Aim to finish your spring seeding after the April 24 last frost, or prepare for fall planting before the October 19 first frost. The high growing score means your efforts will likely result in a thick, healthy lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Champaign County's county score?
Champaign County, Ohio has a composite county score of 49.2 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 Champaign County rank among counties in Ohio?
Champaign County ranks #46 among all counties in Ohio 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 Champaign County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Champaign County is $1,938, with an effective tax rate of 1.04%. This earns Champaign County a tax score of 35.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Champaign County?
The median household income in Champaign County, Ohio is $74,239 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Champaign County earns an income score of 76.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Champaign County, Ohio a good place to live?
Champaign County scores 49.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #46 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Champaign 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 Champaign 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.