countyscore
63.2
County Score
Water Quality 86Schools 83.5Health 73.9

County Report Card

About Cottonwood County, Minnesota

A Strong National Contender

Cottonwood County earns a composite score of 63.2, placing it significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a quality of life that exceeds the vast majority of U.S. counties.

Outperforming the Minnesota Average

The county's overall score of 63.2 beats the Minnesota state average of 55.8. It stands as a robust performer in the region, offering a balanced profile for residents.

Exceptional Schools and Clean Water

Cottonwood shines with a Water Score of 86.0 and an impressive School Score of 83.5. Families benefit from high-quality education and excellent natural resources.

Managing a High Tax Burden

The county's Tax Score of 29.2 is its lowest dimension, reflecting an effective tax rate of 1.128%. While services are strong, the fiscal cost of living is higher than in neighboring areas.

Ideal for Education-Focused Families

With a low median rent of $765 and top-tier schools, this county suits families who value public education. It is perfect for those seeking a safe, school-centric lifestyle in rural Minnesota.

Score breakdown

Tax29.2Cost61.2Safety64.9Health73.9Schools83.5Income62.3Risk72.3Water86Weather47.9
🏛29.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠61.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼62.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡64.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤73.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓83.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡72.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱73.1
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

Watonwan County
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53.6
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Jackson County
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Martin County
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Deep Dives

Cottonwood County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cottonwood County

via TaxByCounty

Cottonwood taxes run high nationally

Cottonwood County's effective tax rate of 1.128% sits well above the national median of 0.85%, placing it in roughly the 75th percentile for property tax burden nationwide. While homeowners here pay a median of $1,737 annually, that's less than the national median of $2,690, thanks largely to lower home values in the county.

Ranks 12th among Minnesota counties

At 1.128%, Cottonwood County's effective rate exceeds Minnesota's state average of 0.968%, making it a heavier-taxed county across the state. The county's median tax bill of $1,737 falls below the state median of $2,168, reflecting both its higher rate and lower property values.

Higher taxes than most county neighbors

Cottonwood's 1.128% rate outpaces nearby Faribault County (1.051%) and Freeborn County (1.061%), though all three counties carry rates above the state average. Property values tell the story: Cottonwood homes median at $154,000, lower than Faribault's $120,200 but similar to the broader region's rural character.

What $154K home costs annually

A median-priced home in Cottonwood valued at $154,000 generates roughly $1,737 in annual property taxes at the county's 1.128% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly more at $1,759, while those without pay $1,716.

Appeal your assessment if overvalued

Thousands of homeowners across Minnesota are reassessed at inflated values each year. If you believe your Cottonwood County home is overassessed, you can file a formal appeal with the county assessor—many successful appeals save homeowners hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cottonwood County

via CostByCounty

Cottonwood rents remain affordable nationally

At 13.4%, Cottonwood County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the national norm, meaning renters here spend less of their earnings on housing than typical Americans. This advantage reflects both modest rents—$765 monthly—and a stable income base of $68,239, though that trails the national median by $6,516.

Best rental affordability in Minnesota

Cottonwood County ranks among Minnesota's most affordable for renters, with a 13.4% rent-to-income ratio well below the state average of 14.5%. The county's $765 median rent is $150 less than Minnesota's average, making it a standout for budget-conscious households.

Southern Minnesota's affordability leader

Compared to nearby Faribault County ($837 rent) and Freeborn County ($837 rent), Cottonwood offers the lowest rental costs in the region while maintaining comparable incomes. Its $154,000 median home value is the most accessible for buyers among its southern Minnesota neighbors.

Housing takes modest 13.4% of income

Renters spend $765 monthly while homeowners pay $835, with both figures leaving substantial breathing room in Cottonwood's median $68,239 household budget. Together, housing represents only 13.4% of income for renters and 14.7% for owners—well within the sustainable 30% threshold.

Relocate here for genuine affordability

If you're priced out of Minnesota's metro areas, Cottonwood County delivers genuine affordability without sacrificing community stability or homeownership potential. Rent runs $150-170 below state average, and a $154,000 median home value makes ownership accessible on a modest income.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cottonwood County

via IncomeByCounty

Cottonwood trails national income average

Cottonwood County's median household income of $68,239 falls about 8.7% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it in the lower-middle range nationally. This gap reflects the county's rural character and smaller employment base compared to metropolitan areas.

Below Minnesota's income average

At $68,239, Cottonwood ranks below Minnesota's state average of $75,757, a difference of $7,518 per household. The county's per capita income of $34,105 also lags the state average of $39,335.

Cottonwood among county income peers

Cottonwood's $68,239 median income sits between Faribault County ($64,391) and Freeborn County ($69,012), reflecting similar rural Minnesota economies. The county's affordable housing and lower cost of living partially offset lower wage levels.

Housing costs remain manageable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 13.4%, Cottonwood households spend well below the national 30% affordability threshold, making housing highly accessible. The median home value of $154,000 is among the most affordable in the region.

Build wealth on rural incomes

Cottonwood's affordable housing and lower living costs create an opportunity to direct more household resources toward savings and investments. Consider maximizing 401(k) contributions and exploring real estate investment in this appreciating market.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cottonwood County

via CrimeByCounty

Cottonwood County's High Safety Rating

Cottonwood County earns an impressive safety score of 98.7, reflecting a very secure environment. Its total crime rate of 818.7 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the Minnesota Average

The county ranks above the Minnesota average safety score of 98.2. Its total crime rate of 818.7 per 100K is also well below the state average of 1,123.5.

Local Comparison Trends

Cottonwood is safer than nearby Freeborn County, which reports a crime rate of 1,477.8. It also maintains a lower rate than Crow Wing County's 1,322.2 per 100K residents.

Violent vs Property Crime

Property crimes make up the majority of incidents at 609.7 per 100K. While the violent crime rate of 209.0 is higher than the state average, it remains below the national violent crime average of 369.8.

Securing Cottonwood Homes

Maintaining this safe environment requires residents to stay proactive with home security. Simple measures like exterior lighting can help keep property crime rates low across the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cottonwood County

via HealthByCounty

Cottonwood's Life Expectancy vs Nation

At 78.3 years, Cottonwood County residents live slightly shorter lives than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. About 16.8% of the county reports poor or fair health, compared to the national rate of 15.3%, signaling higher rates of chronic illness and disability. These gaps suggest health challenges that deserve focused attention.

Middle of the Pack in Minnesota

Cottonwood's 78.3-year life expectancy trails Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years by four months. The county ranks in the middle tier statewide for health outcomes, with room to improve on preventive care and chronic disease management. Minnesota overall outperforms the nation, making Cottonwood's gap more notable.

Comparing Cottonwood to Nearby Counties

Cottonwood's 78.3-year life expectancy lags behind Crow Wing County (78.7 years) and Faribault County (78.5 years) in the region. With 16.8% reporting poor/fair health, Cottonwood faces higher rates than most neighbors, though mental health provider density of 141 per 100K is competitive. Primary care access at 61 per 100K matches regional averages.

Healthcare Access and Daily Reality

Cottonwood's uninsured rate of 7.1% exceeds the state average of 6.0%, leaving more residents vulnerable to medical debt and delayed care. With 61 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 141 mental health providers per 100,000, the county has adequate basic coverage but faces gaps in specialist services. Rural residents often travel 30+ minutes for appointments.

Explore Your Health Insurance Options

If you're among Cottonwood's uninsured residents, marketplace plans and Medicaid expansion may offer affordable coverage. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local enrollment counselor to compare plans and find tax credits you may qualify for. Don't let cost be a barrier to the care that could extend and improve your life.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cottonwood County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Network Focused on Results

Cottonwood County manages a focused education system of 13 public schools across three districts, serving 1,932 students. The infrastructure includes three elementary, two middle, and six high schools to support its local communities.

Exceptional Graduation Rates Outpace the State

The county boasts an impressive 95.3% graduation rate, far exceeding the state average of 86.6% and the national average of 87%. Investment remains steady at $8,898 per pupil, which is higher than the Minnesota average of $8,463.

Windom Public Schools Lead the County

Windom Public School District is the largest provider, enrolling 1,166 students across its four campuses. There are currently no charter schools in the county, with the vast majority of students attending traditional public schools.

Cozy Learning Environments in Town Settings

With nine schools in town locales and four in rural areas, the average school size is just 193 students. Windom Area Elementary is the largest campus with 547 students, offering a more intimate feel than urban districts.

Find Your Home in High-Performing Districts

Families seeking high graduation rates and personalized learning should explore real estate in Windom and Mountain Lake. Quality local schools remain a top priority for home buyers in this community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cottonwood County

via RiskByCounty

Cottonwood ranks among safest counties

With a composite risk score of 27.70 and a Very Low rating, Cottonwood County sits well below the national average for natural disaster risk. This means residents face significantly fewer threats from major hazards compared to most American counties.

Far below Minnesota's disaster risk

Cottonwood's 27.70 score places it among the lowest-risk counties in Minnesota, substantially safer than the state average of 42.38. Few Minnesota counties enjoy this level of natural disaster resilience.

Safest county in its region

Cottonwood's very low risk stands out sharply against neighboring Faribault County (49.78) and Fillmore County (49.78), making it one of the most secure areas in southwestern Minnesota. This relative safety is a notable advantage for residents and businesses.

Tornadoes pose the primary threat

While Cottonwood's overall risk is very low, tornado risk scores 42.81—the county's highest hazard exposure. Wildfire risk is also present at 32.57, though neither threat compares to those faced by residents in riskier Minnesota counties.

Basic coverage protects your family

Even in low-risk Cottonwood, a homeowners insurance policy with tornado and severe weather riders is essential. Consider a safe room or storm shelter and a weather radio to prepare for the occasional severe storm.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cottonwood County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Midwestern Continental Climate

Cottonwood County’s 46.8°F average annual temperature sits roughly seven degrees below the national median. This humid continental climate features wide seasonal swings and significant annual precipitation of 31.7 inches.

Leading the State in Warmth

The county is significantly warmer than the Minnesota state average of 42.8°F. Its position in the southern tier makes it one of the state's more temperate areas despite its cold winters.

A Warm Spot in Southern Minnesota

Cottonwood is warmer than its neighbors to the north, showing a July average of 73.8°F. It maintains higher annual precipitation than Douglas County, which sees nearly eight inches less rain and snow.

Thirteen Days of Extreme Heat

Summer brings an average of 13 days above 90°F, significantly higher than the state median. Winters remain challenging with 43.5 inches of snow and a January average of just 16.7°F.

Prepare for Seasonal Extremes

Residents require robust air conditioning to handle the frequent 90°F summer days. Winter planning should prioritize heavy-duty snow removal equipment for the 43.5 inches of annual accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cottonwood County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Alkaline Entisols in Cottonwood

Cottonwood County is characterized by Entisols that feature an average pH of 6.93. This sits slightly higher than the national median of 6.5 and the Minnesota state average of 6.21. These soils offer a neutral to slightly alkaline foundation for local agriculture.

A Balanced Blend of Sand and Silt

The soil composition consists of 36.4% sand, 38.5% silt, and 25.1% clay. This balanced mix provides moderate workability and decent nutrient retention for field crops. The clay content ensures the soil holds together well during the growing season.

High Organic Matter Boosts Potential

With 6.00% organic matter, these soils triple the national average of 2.0%. While the available water capacity of 0.193 in/in is slightly below the state average, the high fertility supports robust crop yields. This combination creates a productive environment for southern Minnesota farming.

Well Drained Land for Steady Growth

The dominant drainage class is categorized as well drained, which prevents most roots from becoming waterlogged. Although specific hydrologic group data is unavailable, the natural drainage supports healthy plant respiration. This makes the land suitable for both traditional farming and residential landscaping.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a

Falling within USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, Cottonwood is ideal for corn, soybeans, and hardy perennials. The soil's neutral pH allows for a wide variety of vegetables and flowers to flourish. Grab a trowel and start your garden today in this fertile southern Minnesota soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cottonwood County

via LawnByCounty

A Favorable Forecast for Cottonwood Lawns

With a lawn difficulty score of 73.1, maintaining grass here is significantly easier than the national median of 50.0 and the Minnesota average of 63.9. This Zone 5a region offers a hospitable environment for standard cool-season turf, requiring less intensive intervention than neighboring counties.

Ideal Rainfall Meets Summer Heat

Cottonwood receives 31.7 inches of annual precipitation, which falls right within the 30-50 inch ideal range for healthy lawns. However, with 13 extreme heat days per year—five more than the state average—you will need to monitor for heat stress during peak summer weeks.

Nearly Perfect Soil pH Levels

The soil pH of 6.93 sits at the top of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, meaning nutrients are readily available to your grass. The well-drained soil structure, featuring 25.1% clay and 36.4% sand, ensures that roots stay hydrated without drowning after heavy rains.

Managing Moderate Dry Spells

The county experienced six weeks of drought over the past year, and currently, the entire area is classified as abnormally dry. Focus on deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to encourage deep root growth while conservation measures are in place.

Seize the Zone 5a Season

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescues thrive here, especially when seeded near the last spring frost on April 30. Aim to finish your fall overseeding before the first frost arrives around October 10 to ensure the turf is established before winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cottonwood County's county score?
Cottonwood County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 63.2 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 Cottonwood County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Cottonwood County ranks #25 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 Cottonwood County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Cottonwood County is $1,737, with an effective tax rate of 1.13%. This earns Cottonwood County a tax score of 29.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cottonwood County?
The median household income in Cottonwood County, Minnesota is $68,239 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cottonwood County earns an income score of 62.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cottonwood County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Cottonwood County scores 63.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #25 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Cottonwood 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 Cottonwood County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.