countyscore
65.2
County Score
Disaster Risk 95.9Safety 88.5Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Clearwater County, Minnesota

Exceptional National Standing

Clearwater County boasts an impressive composite score of 65.2, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the most livable counties in the entire country.

A Minnesota High-Performer

The county's score is nearly 10 points higher than the Minnesota average of 55.8. It offers a unique combination of affordability and safety that is hard to find elsewhere in the state.

Elite Safety and Low Risk

Clearwater achieves a near-perfect risk score of 95.9 and a safety score of 88.5. It is also quite affordable, with a cost score of 60.0 and a median rent of just $740.

Educational and Income Gaps

The school score of 44.9 and income score of 54.2 represent the county's main weaknesses. A median income of $64,934 is lower than the state average, which may limit some professional opportunities.

A Sanctuary for Peace Seekers

This county is the ultimate destination for anyone prioritizing safety and environmental resilience above all else. It is perfect for remote workers or retirees seeking a low-cost, high-security life in the Northwoods.

Score breakdown

Tax59.5Cost60Safety88.5Health61.9Schools44.9Income54.2Risk95.9Water86Weather47.7
🏛59.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠60
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼54.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡88.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤61.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓44.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡95.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱44.8
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Clearwater County?

Many homeowners in Clearwater County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Clearwater County with Webster County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Webster County
Georgia
Median income: $40,764
65.2
Tipton County
Indiana
Median income: $78,309
65.2
Pocahontas County
Iowa
Median income: $63,423
65.2
Swift County
Minnesota
Median income: $62,601
65.2
Putnam County
Ohio
Median income: $82,785
65.2
Vilas County
Wisconsin
Median income: $67,132
65.2
Newton County
Arkansas
Median income: $47,395
65.3
Putnam County
Indiana
Median income: $76,182
65.3

Nearby counties

Mahnomen County
Minnesota
47
Beltrami County
Minnesota
36
Red Lake County
Minnesota
73.1
Pennington County
Minnesota
43.9
Hubbard County
Minnesota
50.3
Becker County
Minnesota
52.7
Polk County
Minnesota
50.9
Norman County
Minnesota
68.8

Deep Dives

Clearwater County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Clearwater County

via TaxByCounty

Clearwater's tax rate stays below national median

Clearwater County's 0.732% effective tax rate falls 27% below the national median of 1.0%, landing in the 30th percentile. Homeowners pay just $1,297 annually—52% less than the national median of $2,690.

Minnesota's third-most affordable county

Clearwater ranks 83rd among Minnesota's 87 counties by effective rate, at 0.732% versus the state average of 0.968%. The median property tax of $1,297 is the second-lowest statewide, beaten only by Cass County.

Lowest-taxing county in the north region

Clearwater's 0.732% rate offers significant relief compared to Carlton (1.169%), Clay (1.115%), and even Cook (0.790%), making it the most tax-friendly county in northwestern Minnesota. Only Cass County statewide beats this rate.

Median home taxes just $1,297 yearly

A $177,100 median home value multiplied by Clearwater's 0.732% rate yields approximately $1,297 in annual property taxes. This represents exceptional value for homeowners seeking low tax burdens.

Even low-tax counties benefit from appeals

While Clearwater offers Minnesota's most affordable taxes, homeowners should still challenge assessments if values appear inflated relative to recent local sales. Even modest reductions on already-low taxes preserve more family income.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clearwater County

via CostByCounty

Clearwater offers rural affordability value

Clearwater County residents spend just 13.7% of their $64,934 income on rent, beating the national 14.5% benchmark despite earning 13% below the national median. This rural county punches above its economic weight in housing value.

Among Minnesota's most affordable

Clearwater's 13.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the best in Minnesota, sitting below the state average of 14.5%. Combined with the lowest median rent in this group at $740, Clearwater exemplifies rural affordability.

Clearwater undercuts even cheaper counties

Clearwater's $740 median rent is the absolute lowest among these eight counties, and its 13.7% ratio bests even Chisago's premium-priced 13.6%. The trade-off: rural isolation and limited employment diversity compared to regional centers.

Extreme affordability on modest income

Clearwater residents pay just $740 rent and $887 monthly owner costs from a $64,934 income, allocating roughly 13-16% to housing. This leaves substantial room in tight household budgets.

Clearwater for remote workers and retirees

If you work remotely or are retired with a modest but stable income, Clearwater County offers unbeatable housing value with minimal affordability strain. The tradeoff is rural character and distance from major services—ideal for those seeking lower cost of living over urban convenience.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clearwater County

via IncomeByCounty

Clearwater Significantly Below National

Clearwater County's median household income of $64,934 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 13.2 percent, placing it among the lowest regionally. This $9,821 shortfall reflects rural economic constraints and limited high-wage employment opportunities.

Well Below Minnesota State Norms

Clearwater ranks notably below Minnesota's state median of $75,757, earning $10,823 less per household annually. Its per capita income of $32,682—the lowest among these counties—signals particularly challenging workforce earnings in this rural area.

Among Region's Lowest Earners

Clearwater's $64,934 median virtually ties Cass County ($64,937) as the lowest here, substantially trailing Carlton ($80,042) and regional averages. The county faces deep rural economic challenges requiring targeted development and workforce strategies.

Low Income, Affordable Housing Help

Clearwater's 13.7 percent rent-to-income ratio—relatively healthy for this income level—reflects median home values of just $177,100. Low housing costs partially offset income challenges, helping households stretch limited earnings.

Focus on Expense Control First

In Clearwater, building wealth begins with controlling expenses and maximizing income stability rather than investment returns. Seek free employer retirement plans, access community development financial institutions, and prioritize debt reduction before investing.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clearwater County

via CrimeByCounty

One of America’s Safest Counties

Clearwater County boasts an elite safety score of 99.6, ranking it among the safest regions in the country. Its total crime rate of 245.9 per 100K is nearly 90% lower than the national average.

Outperforming the State Safety Average

Clearwater’s safety score of 99.6 far exceeds the Minnesota average of 98.2. The local crime rate of 245.9 per 100K is also significantly lower than the state's average of 1123.5.

A Northern Minnesota Safety Stronghold

Clearwater County stands out with one of the lowest crime rates in the state. It provides a level of security that makes it a regional leader in public safety compared to neighboring counties.

A Unique Balance of Low Crime

The violent crime rate is 117.1 per 100K, while property crime is even lower at 128.8. This rare profile shows that property theft is almost as uncommon as violent incidents in Clearwater.

Preserving a Safe Community

Even in a community with a 99.6 safety score, neighborly vigilance keeps crime low. Participating in local watch programs helps ensure property crime remains at these impressively low levels.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Clearwater County

via HealthByCounty

Clearwater faces serious health gaps

At 76.0 years, Clearwater County residents live about 2.8 years less than the U.S. average of 78.8 years. With 15.9% reporting poor or fair health—nearly double the national average—the county faces substantial health challenges.

Among Minnesota's lowest performers

Clearwater's 76.0-year life expectancy trails Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years by 2.7 years, ranking it among the state's worst-performing counties. The 15.9% poor/fair health rate significantly exceeds Minnesota's norms, indicating serious health obstacles.

Tied for lowest regional life expectancy

Clearwater's 76.0-year life expectancy matches Carlton County (76.3 years nearby) and only slightly exceeds Cass County (74.7 years), placing it among the region's worst-performing communities. Its 15.9% poor/fair health rate ranks it second-worst in the region, just behind Cass County.

Highest uninsured rate, severe gaps

Clearwater's 9.1% uninsured rate is the highest among these eight counties and far exceeds Minnesota's 6.0% state average, leaving a significant portion uninsured. The county critically lacks providers with just 35 primary care providers and 23 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among the lowest densities in Minnesota.

Coverage is urgent here

With 9.1% uninsured and severe provider shortages, getting covered is critical for Clearwater residents. Call 1-855-366-7873 or visit MNSure.org immediately to explore affordable health insurance options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Clearwater County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Rural Schooling Options

Clearwater County manages 5 schools across just 2 districts for its 1,415 students. The infrastructure includes 2 elementary schools and 3 high schools.

Close to State Performance Goals

The graduation rate is 85.9%, very close to the state average of 86.6%. Local districts spend $7,952 per pupil, which is slightly below the state average investment of $8,463.

Bagley and Clearbrook-Gonvick Schools

The Bagley Public School District is the larger of the two, serving 946 students. No charter schools operate in the county, ensuring all resources are directed to the two primary public districts.

Quiet Rural Learning Environments

Every school in Clearwater County is located in a rural setting, providing a consistent small-town feel. Bagley Elementary is the largest campus with 520 students, while the county average is 283.

Find Your Rural Retreat Near Bagley

For families who value a quiet, rural educational environment, Clearwater County is an ideal fit. Explore real estate in the Bagley or Clearbrook areas to be part of these dedicated local school communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clearwater County

via RiskByCounty

Clearwater is among America's safest counties

Clearwater County's composite risk score of just 4.17 with a "Very Low" rating places it among the nation's safest jurisdictions. This exceptionally low exposure to major natural disasters represents a significant advantage for residents and property owners.

Clearwater is Minnesota's lowest-risk county

Clearwater County scores 4.17, far below Minnesota's state average of 42.38 and well below all neighboring counties in the state. This exceptional safety profile makes Clearwater one of Minnesota's most disaster-resistant regions.

Clearwater stands alone as region's safest haven

Clearwater County (4.17) is dramatically safer than all regional peers, including Cook (11.23), Carlton (70.07), and Clay (73.66). The county's isolated northwestern location and minimal flood and tornado exposure create a uniquely protected environment.

Wildfire is Clearwater's only notable hazard

Clearwater County's wildfire risk of 65.52 stands in sharp contrast to its minimal flood (10.94) and tornado (17.27) risks, making fire the only significant concern. Even this wildfire score is substantially lower than the county's overall risk profile suggests.

Basic insurance and wildfire awareness suffice

Clearwater residents can rely on standard homeowners insurance without requiring specialized flood or earthquake coverage, thanks to the county's exceptionally low composite risk. Maintaining defensible space around your property and a wildfire awareness plan address the county's primary natural hazard concern.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clearwater County

via WeatherByCounty

One of the Nation's Coldest Counties

Clearwater County averages only 38.7°F annually, making it one of the coldest spots in the lower 48 states. This extreme northern climate is defined by long-duration freezes and very short growing seasons.

Far Below the Already Chilly State Average

At 38.7°F, Clearwater is four degrees colder than the Minnesota state average. It is also slightly drier than average, receiving 27.6 inches of precipitation annually.

Coldest January in the Region

Clearwater’s January average of 6.3°F is significantly lower than that of southern neighbors like Chippewa. It receives 51.6 inches of snow, which is consistent with the northern forested regions of the state.

Brutal Winters and Mild, Short Summers

Winters are extreme with a 6.3°F January average and 10.2°F average for the whole winter season. Summers are mild and peak at 66.9°F in July, with only four days topping 90°F annually.

Extreme Winter Hardiness is Required

Homeowners must invest in maximum-rated insulation and backup heating sources for the 6.3°F January averages. Heavy winter gear and engine block heaters are standard requirements for living in this frigid climate.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clearwater County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic headwaters soil

Clearwater County soil has a pH of 5.71, indicating an acidic environment compared to the national median. This reflects the transition between the western prairies and the northern evergreen forests.

Sand and silt dominance

The soil is 52.6% sand and 32.9% silt, with a low clay content of 9.9%. This composition makes the soil relatively easy to work, though it may be prone to erosion if left uncovered.

Exceptional organic stores

The county features a very high organic matter content of 16.08%, well above the state average of 9.90%. With an available water capacity of 0.200 in/in, the soil is excellent at supporting plant life through dry spells.

Moderate moisture retention

Local drainage data is not currently specified in the records. However, the high organic matter and sand mix suggest a soil that absorbs water quickly while retaining enough for plant use.

Hardy growth in Zone 3b

As one of the coldest regions in Zone 3b, Clearwater requires short-season crops. Potatoes and cold-hardy greens thrive here, benefiting from the high 16.08% organic matter.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clearwater County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Growth in Zone 3b

Clearwater County faces a difficult lawn score of 44.8, reflecting the harsh realities of its Zone 3b climate. This makes it tougher to maintain a lush lawn here than in the average Minnesota county.

Short Seasons and Cool Temps

With only 1,796 growing degree days, the season for lawn recovery and growth is quite limited. The county sees 27.6 inches of rain annually and very few heat days, leading to a slow-paced mowing schedule.

Sandy Loam Needs Nutrient Boosts

The soil is 52.6% sand and has a pH of 5.71, which is slightly more acidic than most grasses prefer. Regular fertilization and light lime applications help overcome the nutrient leaching common in sandy soils.

Widespread Dryness Persistent

Every acre of Clearwater County is currently classified as abnormally dry, following 41 weeks of drought over the last year. Prioritize watering the most visible or high-traffic areas to conserve water during these lean times.

Hardy Varieties for Cold Climates

Select cold-hardy Fine Fescues that can survive the deep freezes of Zone 3b. Wait until after May 18 to start your lawn, ensuring your new grass has enough time to harden before September frosts.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clearwater County's county score?
Clearwater County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 65.2 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 Clearwater County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Clearwater County ranks #20 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 Clearwater County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Clearwater County is $1,297, with an effective tax rate of 0.73%. This earns Clearwater County a tax score of 59.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clearwater County?
The median household income in Clearwater County, Minnesota is $64,934 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clearwater County earns an income score of 54.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clearwater County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Clearwater County scores 65.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #20 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Clearwater 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 Clearwater 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.