countyscore
59.7
County Score
Health 87.2Water Quality 86Soil Quality 81.4

County Report Card

About Clay County, Iowa

Steady Growth Above National Median

Clay County earns a composite score of 59.7, outperforming the national median of 50.0. It provides a balanced lifestyle with particularly strong health and educational metrics.

Outpacing the Iowa Average

At 59.7, Clay County sits comfortably above the Iowa state average of 55.6. It maintains a competitive edge through its commitment to public services and clean water.

Superior Health and Education

The county shines with a health score of 87.2 and a school score of 73.5. These scores are supported by a perfect water score of 86.0, ensuring a high quality of life for all ages.

Economic and Tax Efficiency

The tax score of 26.4 and income score of 51.0 suggest there is room for economic diversification. While the effective tax rate is a moderate 1.183%, boosting local wages could further improve the composite score.

Best for Health-Conscious Families

Clay County is ideal for families and retirees who prioritize top-tier medical access and high-performing schools. The stable housing market, with a median value of $171,500, offers long-term value.

Score breakdown

Tax26.4Cost51.3Safety61.8Health87.2Schools73.5Income51Risk63.6Water86Weather44.1
🏛26.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠51.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡61.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤87.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡63.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨81.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱64.1
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

Dickinson County
Iowa
59.1
Palo Alto County
Iowa
62.4
O'Brien County
Iowa
61.5
Buena Vista County
Iowa
46.7
Emmet County
Iowa
61.6
Osceola County
Iowa
65.3
Cherokee County
Iowa
66.8
Jackson County
Minnesota
72.5

Deep Dives

Clay County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Clay County

via TaxByCounty

Clay County sits near national average

Clay County's effective tax rate of 1.183% falls modestly below the national median of 1.347%, placing it around the 45th percentile nationally. The county's $2,028 median property tax remains 25% below the national median of $2,690.

Moderate taxes for Iowa

At 1.183%, Clay County's effective rate runs slightly below Iowa's state average of 1.344%, keeping the county in the middle range statewide. The county's $2,028 median property tax sits between the state median of $2,160 and neighboring county averages.

Balanced taxes in north-central Iowa

Clay County's 1.183% rate falls between Cherokee's low 1.076% and Cerro Gordo's high 1.496%. The county offers a middle ground for homeowners seeking reasonable taxes without the extreme burden of Clarke or Clinton counties.

Mid-range bill on median home

A home valued at $171,500—Clay County's median—generates approximately $2,028 in annual property taxes under the 1.183% rate. With a mortgage, expect closer to $2,081; without, around $1,970.

Challenge inflated assessments

Even counties with moderate tax rates benefit from homeowner appeals when assessments exceed market value. Iowa's informal review process gives you a chance to lower your assessment at zero cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clay County

via CostByCounty

Clay County rents strain household budgets

Clay County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% edges above Iowa's state average of 14.1%, squeezing renters despite below-average wages of $64,082. Housing costs consume a notably higher share here than in better-balanced markets, requiring careful financial planning.

Middle-of-the-road affordability in Iowa

Clay County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio places it slightly above Iowa's state average, ranking it in the less-affordable tier of the state's counties. Monthly rent of $798 runs close to the state median of $812, suggesting typical regional pricing.

Rents moderate, but ownership pricey

Clay County's $798 rent is middle-of-the-pack regionally, but median home values of $171,500 rank among the highest in this eight-county group. This split suggests strong homeowner demand pushing property values up while rental market remains steady.

Owner costs jump $115 above rent

Renters spend $798 monthly while homeowners allocate $913, a $115 gap reflecting the county's elevated property values. With median home values of $171,500 and median income of $64,082, homeownership requires substantial down-payment savings or outside financial support.

Clay County works best for renters with capital

If relocating to Clay County appeals, expect modest rents ($798) but expensive homeownership ($171,500 median value)—a mismatch for aspiring owners on local wages. Compare against Cherokee or Crawford if affordability is your priority, or against Chickasaw if you seek wage-to-housing balance.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clay County

via IncomeByCounty

Clay County income lags nationwide trends

Clay County's median household income of $64,082 falls 14.3% short of the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it solidly in the lower-income category nationally. This gap reflects broader rural income challenges and limited wage growth in smaller Iowa communities.

Below average within Iowa

At $64,082, Clay County ranks among Iowa's lower-income counties, trailing the state average of $69,830 by $5,748. Its per capita income of $37,963 slightly exceeds the state average of $37,136, suggesting relatively even income distribution across residents.

Lower earner among regional peers

Clay's $64,082 median income ranks near the bottom of this eight-county cluster, just ahead of Clayton County's $62,326. Only Clayton and Cherokee (at $64,478) approach Clay's income level, while Chickasaw's $73,421 represents a nine-county income advantage.

Tight but sustainable housing costs

Clay's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio indicates manageable housing expenses with modest financial breathing room compared to national stress levels. However, with a median home value of $171,500—the highest among these eight counties—Clay households face the steepest homeownership challenge relative to income.

Smart saving strategies for Clay County

Clay households earning $64,082 must balance higher home values with moderate income, making disciplined saving essential—prioritize a fully-funded emergency fund before aggressive investing. Automate contributions to a Roth IRA or employer 401(k) to capture tax advantages and employer matching, building wealth systematically despite tighter margins.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clay County

via CrimeByCounty

Clay County Maintains a Strong Safety Score

Clay County earns a safety score of 98.6 out of 100, which is excellent by national standards. Its total crime rate of 882.9 per 100K is far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming Iowa State Safety Averages

Clay County’s safety score of 98.6 edges out the Iowa state average of 98.3. The total crime rate is also lower than the statewide average of 1,095.3 per 100K.

Mixed Comparison With Nearby Counties

Clay County's crime rate of 882.9 per 100K is higher than neighbor Cherokee County's 413.8. However, it remains significantly safer than more populous hubs like Cerro Gordo.

Violent Crime Rates Are Very Low

The violent crime rate of 134.0 per 100K is roughly one-third of the national average. Property crime stands at 748.9 per 100K, showing a strong community focus on public order.

Proactive Steps for Home Safety

Residents can maintain Clay County's safety by securing outbuildings and garages where property crime often occurs. Simple tech like smart locks can further reduce the risk of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Clay County

via HealthByCounty

Strong life expectancy and health outcomes

Clay County residents live an average of 78.4 years, about 0.1 years above the U.S. average of 78.3 years. The county's 14.8% poor or fair health rate sits below the national average of 15%, indicating strong overall health management.

Among Iowa's healthiest counties

At 78.4 years, Clay County's life expectancy exceeds Iowa's 77.7-year average, placing it in the state's top tier for health outcomes. This leadership position reflects strong healthcare infrastructure and community health practices.

Exceptional mental health provider network

Clay County stands out with 406 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in the region and nearly double Cerro Gordo's rate. Combined with 85 primary care providers per 100K, the county offers robust mental health support and preventive care access.

Best-in-class insurance coverage

Clay County's 4.9% uninsured rate is the lowest in the region and well below Iowa's 5.7% average, meaning nearly all residents have healthcare coverage. This broad insurance access, paired with abundant providers, enables residents to pursue preventive care that supports the county's strong health outcomes.

Keep your coverage strong

Even with Clay County's excellent coverage, uninsured residents should enroll through Healthcare.gov or Iowa Medicaid to access the county's outstanding provider network. Insurance ensures you benefit from the exceptional mental health and primary care resources available in your community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Clay County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Infrastructure in Clay

Clay County supports six public schools within two districts, serving a total of 2,302 students. The network includes four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. This concentrated system focuses resources on a central educational hub for the region.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates

Clay County achieves a remarkable 97.0% graduation rate, one of the highest in the state and far above the national average of 87.0%. Despite spending $7,438 per pupil—slightly less than the state average—the county maintains a high school score of 58.2. These figures demonstrate exceptional efficiency and academic success.

Spencer Community Schools Lead

The Spencer Community School District is the primary educator in the county, managing five schools and 2,230 students. In contrast, the Clay Central-Everly district operates as a very small outlier with just 72 students. The county’s public system is entirely traditional, with no charter schools currently operating.

A Lively Town School Experience

With four of its six schools located in town locales, Clay County offers a centralized, suburban-style education feel. Spencer High School is the largest campus with 712 students, while the county average school size is 384 students. This density supports a wider variety of extracurriculars and advanced placement opportunities.

Secure a Future in Clay County

Families prioritizing academic excellence will find some of the state's best graduation rates in Clay County. The strength of the Spencer district makes the area highly desirable for those seeking quality public education. Look for homes in the Spencer area to take advantage of these top-rated school facilities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clay County

via RiskByCounty

Clay County ranks very low nationally

Clay's composite risk score of 36.39 falls just below Iowa's state average of 39.68, placing it in the lower-risk tier nationally. This county experiences relatively modest natural disaster exposure compared to most American regions.

Below-average risk for Iowa

Clay ranks in the safer half of Iowa's 99 counties, with a 36.39 score that reflects below-average hazard exposure across most categories. The county sits among Iowa's more stable communities from a disaster perspective.

Comparable to surrounding counties

Clay's 36.39 score aligns with Cherokee (34.13) and Chickasaw (31.74), reflecting consistent low-risk patterns across north-central Iowa. All three counties share similar protective geographic and climatic advantages.

Tornado and flood are main concerns

Clay faces tornado risk of 53.78 and flood risk of 53.75—nearly equal exposures that drive the county's modest composite score. Wildfire (29.64) and earthquake (14.19) risks remain significantly lower.

Secure tornado and flood coverage

Clay residents should add windstorm and flood insurance to standard homeowners policies, as both hazards represent meaningful exposure. Identify or construct a basement safe room for tornado season protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clay County

via WeatherByCounty

A cool and dry continental climate

Clay County's annual average temperature of 46.5°F reflects a typical northern Midwest climate. It is cooler than the national median and notably drier than many other humid continental regions.

Among the driest counties in Iowa

Clay County receives just 28.9 inches of annual precipitation, well below the state average of 36.1 inches. The average temperature of 46.5°F also sits 1.5 degrees below the state norm.

Significant snowfall despite lower total precipitation

While total moisture is low, Clay County receives a high 43.3 inches of annual snowfall. This exceeds the snowfall in several neighboring counties and highlights a winter-heavy precipitation pattern.

Intense winters and standard Iowa summers

Summer averages 71.0°F with 17 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F. Winter is defined by an average temperature of 19.8°F and consistent snow accumulation throughout the season.

Snow management is a winter priority

Residents must plan for 43.3 inches of snow, necessitating heavy-duty blowers or plows. Because the area is relatively dry at 28.9 inches of total rain, xeriscaping or drought-resistant lawns may be beneficial during the summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clay County

via SoilByCounty

High Performance Soils in Clay

The soil hits the national pH target of 6.50, providing an ideal chemical environment for most crops. With a stellar soil score of 81.4, this county contains some of the highest-rated land in the state.

Balanced and Workable Mix

The composition is a balanced blend of 33.0% sand, 38.9% silt, and 25.8% clay. This specific texture is prized for being both easy to manage and highly effective at retaining essential nutrients.

Abundant Organic Resources

At 5.57%, the organic matter content here crushes the state average of 3.81%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.192 in/in, these soils offer massive natural fertility for gardening and farming.

Strong Natural Structure

Official drainage and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this area. However, the exceptionally high organic content typically fosters excellent soil structure and healthy water infiltration.

Maximize Your Harvest in 5a

Zone 5a gardeners can take full advantage of this high-scoring soil to produce impressive yields. It is the perfect environment for establishing a permanent fruit orchard or a dense, productive vegetable garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clay County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Tough Turf in Clay County

Clay County is one of Iowa's more difficult areas for lawn care, with a score of 64.1 compared to the state average of 77.2. While still easier than the national median of 50.0, the local climate requires more strategy. This 5a zone demands a focus on water management and heat protection.

Dry Skies and Average Heat

Annual precipitation is only 28.9 inches, falling below the ideal 30-inch threshold for effortless lawns. The county endures 17 extreme heat days annually, creating a high-stress environment for non-irrigated grass. With 2840 growing degree days, the grass grows steadily but faces frequent threats of moisture-related dormancy.

Standard pH with Moderate Clay

The soil pH is a healthy 6.50, which is right in the sweet spot for nutrient availability. Clay content stands at 25.8%, balanced by 33.0% sand, providing moderate water-holding capacity. Because specific drainage data is unavailable, homeowners should perform a simple jar test to determine their specific yard's drainage speed.

Recovering from Prolonged Dryness

The county has spent 27 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100% of the land remains abnormally dry. These conditions make supplemental irrigation a necessity rather than an option for maintaining green grass. Prioritize watering the 'stress points' of your lawn, like south-facing slopes, to prevent permanent turf loss.

Success Starts with the Right Seed

Drought-resistant Fine Fescues are the best bet for Clay County's lower rainfall and 5a hardiness. Get your seeds in the ground after the May 2 frost or during the prime window before the October 3 first frost. Using a starter fertilizer with high phosphorus can help those young roots dive deep before the dry summer hits.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clay County's county score?
Clay County, Iowa has a composite county score of 59.7 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 Clay County rank among counties in Iowa?
Clay County ranks #39 among all counties in Iowa 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 Clay County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Clay County is $2,028, with an effective tax rate of 1.18%. This earns Clay County a tax score of 26.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clay County?
The median household income in Clay County, Iowa is $64,082 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clay County earns an income score of 51/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clay County, Iowa a good place to live?
Clay County scores 59.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #39 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Clay 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 Clay 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.