countyscore
32.3
County Score
Soil Quality 87.5Lawn Care 84.6Weather & Climate 55.5

County Report Card

About Clark County, Ohio

Clark County Faces Significant Headwinds

Clark County scores a 32.3 overall, trailing the national median of 50.0 by a wide margin. It ranks in the lower tier of counties nationally for composite livability.

Ranking Below State Standards

The county's 32.3 score is notably lower than the Ohio average of 48.6. This suggests that residents face more systemic challenges than those in many surrounding counties.

Accessible Housing Costs

The county’s strongest asset is its cost score of 46.5, which reflects relatively affordable housing. A median home value of $155,900 makes homeownership more attainable than in nearby urban centers.

Safety and Risk Concerns

The safety score of 7.9 and risk score of 22.9 represent the county's primary difficulties. High tax rates, signaled by a 23.4 tax score, add further financial strain on households.

A Starting Point for Budget Seekers

Clark County suits those looking for the lowest entry-level housing costs in the region. However, residents must be comfortable with the trade-offs in community safety and higher environmental risks.

Score breakdown

Tax23.4Cost46.5Safety7.9Health39Schools41.1Income41.5Risk22.9Water41.6Weather55.5
🏛23.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠46.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼41.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡7.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤39
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡22.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧41.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨87.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱84.6
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

Greene County
Ohio
37.9
Madison County
Ohio
47.8
Champaign County
Ohio
49.2
Montgomery County
Ohio
29.3
Miami County
Ohio
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Fayette County
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Clinton County
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Warren County
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Deep Dives

Clark County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Clark County

via TaxByCounty

Clark County's taxes run higher nationally

Clark County's effective tax rate of 1.246% exceeds the national median of 0.84%, placing it in roughly the 68th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $1,943 trails the national median of $2,690, though the higher rate reflects a smaller-than-average home base.

Among Ohio's highest-rate counties

Clark County's effective rate of 1.246% ranks among Ohio's steepest, exceeding the state average of 1.148% by nearly a full percentage point. The median tax bill of $1,943 sits just under Ohio's median of $2,145, reflecting lower property values despite the high rate.

Steep rates in southwestern cluster

Clark County's 1.246% rate ranks second only to Clermont County's 1.279% in southwestern Ohio, and ties closely with Butler County at 1.239%. Nearby Clinton and Champaign counties offer substantially lower burdens at 0.942% and 1.040%, respectively.

What $155.9K home costs annually

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $155,900 in Clark County pays approximately $1,943 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, that obligation rises to roughly $2,042 due to escrow assessments.

High rates make appeals worthwhile

Given Clark County's above-average effective rate, reassessing your property's valuation can yield meaningful savings for many homeowners. Consult your county auditor's office about filing an appeal if you believe your assessed value is inflated relative to recent market sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clark County

via CostByCounty

Clark County's affordability crunch exceeds national norms

Clark County residents face a 16.6% rent-to-income ratio—the highest among these eight counties and notably above the national 15% affordability benchmark. With a median household income of just $60,846, well below the national average, Clark's housing pressure is both real and widespread across the county.

Strains Ohio's average affordability slightly

Clark's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Ohio's 15.6% state average, indicating tighter housing affordability than most peers within the state. The county's median rent of $840—just 3% below Ohio's average—compounds the pressure on lower-earning households.

Higher burden than most regional counties

Clark County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio significantly outpaces affordable neighbors like Carroll County (14.5%) and Champaign County (14.3%), though it's comparable to Butler County (16.2%). For cost-conscious relocators, adjacent counties like Carroll offer notably better affordability within a similar regional context.

Housing costs strain Clark County budgets

Renters in Clark County spend roughly $840 monthly on a median income of just $60,846, consuming 16.6% of household earnings—an above-comfortable threshold. Homeowners face similar pressure with $908 monthly mortgage costs, while the median home value of $155,900 remains realistic but leaves limited financial cushion.

Compare carefully before choosing Clark

If you're relocating to this region, Clark County's 16.6% rent-to-income ratio signals tighter affordability than neighbors—test whether your income comfortably exceeds the county's $60,846 median. Explore nearby alternatives like Carroll County (14.5%) or Champaign County (14.3%) to see if a short move could meaningfully improve your housing budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clark County

via IncomeByCounty

Clark falls well behind nation

Clark County's median household income of $60,846 trails the national median of $74,755 by 18.6%, placing it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. This significant gap reflects decades of manufacturing decline and limited job diversification.

Among Ohio's lowest earners

At $60,846, Clark County ranks in the lower quartile of Ohio counties, sitting 10.6% below the state average of $68,101. Few Ohio counties report household incomes this far below the statewide median.

Struggling in greater Dayton area

Clark County's $60,846 significantly underperforms neighboring Butler County ($81,194) and Champaign County ($74,239) in the same region. Among peer counties, Clark faces the steepest income headwinds.

Housing costs bite harder

Clark County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% is among the highest in the state, and median home values of $155,900 strain median-income budgets. Lower income combined with elevated housing burden creates real affordability pressure.

Seek higher-wage opportunities

Clark County households should prioritize job transitions toward higher-paying sectors like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. Even relocating within the region to higher-wage employers could significantly improve long-term financial outcomes.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clark County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime rates exceed national averages

Clark County reports a total crime rate of 2994.6 per 100K, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. The county holds a safety score of 95.3 out of 100.

Trailing behind Ohio's safety benchmarks

The county's safety score of 95.3 falls below the Ohio state average of 97.8. Its violent crime rate of 554.9 per 100K is significantly higher than the state average of 180.9.

Facing higher crime than neighboring counties

Clark County has more reported crime than nearby Butler County, which sits at 1628.6 per 100K. It also shows a much higher incident rate than Champaign County to the north.

Property crime is the primary concern

Property crimes occur at a rate of 2439.7 per 100K, making up the vast majority of local offenses. Violent crime also remains elevated relative to the state at 554.9 per 100K.

Enhanced vigilance for property owners

With property crime rates above average, homeowners should utilize comprehensive security systems. Monitoring deliveries and securing entries are critical steps for local residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Clark County

via HealthByCounty

Clark County faces significant health challenges

At 72.3 years, Clark County's life expectancy falls 1.2 years below the national average of 73.5 years, making it one of Ohio's shorter-lived counties. With 21.6% of residents reporting poor or fair health—in line with national averages—the county confronts real health headwinds.

Well below Ohio average on longevity

Clark County's 72.3-year life expectancy is 2.5 years shorter than Ohio's state average of 74.8 years, ranking it among the state's least healthy counties. Its 21.6% poor/fair health rate compounds these challenges.

Significant gap separates Clark from healthier neighbors

Clark County trails nearby Champaign County (75.7 years) by over 3 years and underperforms Butler and Carroll counties by similar margins. Its 7.8% uninsured rate is above the state average of 7.5%, further limiting health access.

Moderate providers, persistent coverage gaps

Clark County has 45 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 214 mental health providers per 100,000—respectable numbers but insufficient to address the county's health burden. With 7.8% of residents uninsured, about 1 in 13 people lack coverage, making preventive care harder to access.

Health insurance is critical for recovery

Clark County's shorter lifespan and higher health burden make insurance coverage essential—it's the foundation for regular checkups and managing chronic conditions. Contact healthcare.gov or a local health department to find affordable plans and get connected to providers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Clark County

via SchoolsByCounty

Clark County's Diverse Educational Map

Clark County features a robust system of 42 public schools serving a total of 20,125 students across 11 districts. The landscape includes 21 elementary schools, seven middle schools, and 12 high schools to serve a diverse population. This wide array of districts offers families several different environments for their children's education.

Performance Trends and Financial Investment

The county's graduation rate stands at 83.3%, trailing both the state average of 88.3% and the national benchmark. Investment remains a priority, with per-pupil spending at $8,032, which is higher than the state average of $7,994. These resources support a countywide school score of 52.2.

Largest Districts and Charter Options

Springfield City School District is the largest provider, operating 17 schools for 7,099 students. Beyond traditional districts, the county hosts two charter schools that serve nearly 5% of the total school population. Northeastern Local and Tecumseh Local also serve significant student bodies, with 2,973 and 2,695 students respectively.

A Blend of City and Country Learning

Clark County offers a unique locale mix, with 20 schools in city settings and 11 each in suburban and rural areas. The average school size is 479 students, though Springfield High School serves as a major hub with ,1516 students. This variety allows families to choose between bustling urban campuses and quieter rural schoolhouses.

Find Your Home in Clark County

With a mix of urban, suburban, and rural school districts, Clark County offers housing options to fit any lifestyle preference. The diversity of the 11 school districts makes the area a versatile choice for families at all stages. Explore the real estate market to find a home that matches your preferred school environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clark County

via RiskByCounty

Clark County faces moderate disaster risk

Clark County's composite risk score of 77.10 exceeds the national average, placing it in the "Relatively Low" but still elevated risk category. This reflects meaningful exposure to multiple natural hazards that warrant attention from residents and planners.

Above-average risk for Ohio

Clark County scores 77.10, significantly above Ohio's state average of 55.03, ranking it among the state's higher-risk counties. This elevated position reflects particular vulnerability to tornado and flood events.

Riskier than most surrounding areas

Clark County's score of 77.10 exceeds Clinton County (34.00) and Coshocton County (49.08), placing it among the riskier counties in its region. Only Clermont County (77.86) and Columbiana County (69.05) approach similar risk levels.

Tornadoes and floods are primary threats

Clark County faces tornado risk of 82.32 and flood risk of 84.16—both substantially elevated compared to state averages. Earthquake risk (78.78) is also concerning, though wildfire risk remains manageable at 25.03.

Add flood and storm protection now

Clark County residents should secure comprehensive homeowner's insurance that specifically covers tornado, hail, and flood damage. A designated safe room and updated emergency contact plan can save lives during severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clark County

via WeatherByCounty

Typical Temperate Weather Patterns

Clark County’s annual average of 51.5°F aligns closely with the national median for the temperate Midwest. The region experiences a standard humid continental cycle of warm summers and cold winters.

Matching the Ohio Baseline

The county’s 51.5°F average perfectly matches the Ohio state average. Its 41.1 inches of annual precipitation is nearly identical to the state average of 41.2 inches, making it a climate bellwether for the region.

Stable Central Ohio Climate

Clark is notably cooler than Butler County to the southwest, which sees 14 more extreme heat days per year. It shares a very similar precipitation and temperature profile with its neighbor, Champaign County.

Steady Rainfall and Moderate Snow

The county sees 18.7 inches of snow annually, balanced by a modest 18 days of heat reaching 90°F or higher. July averages stay comfortable at 73.3°F, while January dips to a cold 27.3°F.

Prepare for Moderate Snowfall

Residents should maintain standard snow removal tools for the nearly 19 inches of annual accumulation. A dual-focus on summer insulation and winter heating ensures comfort through the county's balanced seasonal extremes.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clark County

via SoilByCounty

High-Scoring Inceptisols in Clark

Clark County earns a stellar soil score of 87.5, fueled by a healthy pH of 6.39. This is much closer to the national median of 6.5 than the state average of 5.97, indicating high nutrient availability.

Balanced Silt Loam Mix

The soil contains 50.0% silt, 22.7% sand, and 21.8% clay, resulting in a classic silt loam. This texture is highly prized by farmers for its balance of drainage, nutrient retention, and ease of tilling.

Above Average Organic Wealth

Organic matter reaches a robust 6.64%, far exceeding the state average of 4.85%. Coupled with a high water capacity of 0.211 in/in, this soil is among the most productive in the region.

Naturally Well Drained Ground

Unlike many neighbors, Clark County’s soil is well drained and falls into hydrologic group B. This means water moves through the profile efficiently, making it excellent for both large-scale farming and home basements.

A Gardener's Dream in 6a

USDA zone 6a combined with top-tier soil allows for almost any temperate crop to flourish here. From sweet corn to delicate perennials, Clark County provides the perfect foundation for a bountiful harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clark County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Lawn Conditions in Clark County

Clark County is a standout for lawn enthusiasts with a high difficulty score of 84.6, significantly higher than the state average of 76.0. Located in Zone 6a, it offers one of the most favorable growing environments in the region. Homeowners here can expect great results with standard maintenance practices.

The Perfect Balance of Sun and Rain

Annual precipitation of 41.1 inches provides the steady moisture that cool-season grasses crave without the risk of oversaturation. The county sees 18 extreme heat days, which is manageable for well-established turf. With 3188 growing degree days, the environment supports robust, steady growth throughout the season.

Working with Well-Drained Loam

The local soil is a well-drained silt loam with a pH of 6.39, putting it squarely in the ideal range for grass. The 21.8% clay and 22.7% sand balance allows for excellent root penetration and water movement. This soil foundation is arguably the county's best asset for maintaining a resilient, green lawn.

Recovering from Brief Dry Spells

The county experienced 7 weeks of drought in the past year, but currently sits at 0% drought coverage. Because the soil is well-drained, lawns may dry out faster than in poorly drained areas during heat waves. Using a smart irrigation controller can help maintain the 1 inch of water per week needed during dry periods.

Seeding for Success in Clark County

Hardy mixtures of Kentucky bluegrass and turf-type tall fescue are excellent choices for this zone. Your primary growing window opens after the April 25 last frost and stays strong until the October 19 first frost. Given the excellent soil and climate score, this is a prime location for professional-grade landscaping.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clark County's county score?
Clark County, Ohio has a composite county score of 32.3 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 Clark County rank among counties in Ohio?
Clark County ranks #84 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 Clark County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Clark County is $1,943, with an effective tax rate of 1.25%. This earns Clark County a tax score of 23.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clark County?
The median household income in Clark County, Ohio is $60,846 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clark County earns an income score of 41.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clark County, Ohio a good place to live?
Clark County scores 32.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #84 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Clark 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 Clark 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.