countyscore
35.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 70.5Disaster Risk 64

County Report Card

About Dakota County, Nebraska

Struggling to Meet National Medians

Dakota County's composite score of 35.8 sits well below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects significant challenges in overall livability compared to other US counties.

Significant Gap Below State Average

At 35.8, the county is far behind the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It ranks as one of the more challenged areas in the state across multiple data dimensions.

Robust Incomes and Pure Water

The county maintains a strong income score of 70.5 with a median household income of $71,655. It also shines in infrastructure with a water score of 86.0.

Concerns in Safety and Taxation

Safety is a primary concern with a low score of 16.7. Furthermore, a tax score of 9.5 and an effective rate of 1.594% indicate a heavy fiscal burden on residents.

Best for High-Income Industrial Workers

Dakota County suits those who want high-quality water and competitive wages but are willing to navigate higher crime and tax rates. It is an area where economic opportunity outpaces social scores.

Score breakdown

Tax9.5Cost27.9Safety16.7Health47.3Schools56.2Income70.5Risk64Water86Weather43.1
🏛9.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠27.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼70.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤47.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨60.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.8
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 →
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Nearby counties

Woodbury County
Iowa
50.9
Dixon County
Nebraska
63.6
Thurston County
Nebraska
59.3
Union County
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51.5
Plymouth County
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Wayne County
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Monona County
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Cuming County
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Deep Dives

Dakota County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Dakota County

via TaxByCounty

Dakota's taxes rival the national average

Dakota County's 1.594% effective rate significantly exceeds the national median of 0.84%, placing it around the 75th percentile nationally. Homeowners here pay substantially more than most Americans, though median home values remain below the national median.

Among Nebraska's highest-tax counties

At 1.594%, Dakota County ranks near the top tier of Nebraska's 93 counties, crushing the statewide average of 1.281% by 24 percentage points. Only a few Nebraska counties impose higher effective rates on their residents.

Dakota leads the region in tax burden

Dakota's 1.594% is second only to Cheyenne (1.741%) in the eight-county survey, making it one of the region's highest-tax areas. It exceeds the regional median by a significant margin.

High rates mean steep annual bills

On Dakota's median home value of $168,100, homeowners pay approximately $2,680 per year in property taxes—the highest in this survey group. Those with mortgages face $2,898; mortgage-free owners pay $2,435.

High-tax counties see frequent assessment appeals

In high-tax areas like Dakota, assessment overages are common, making an appeal worthwhile for many homeowners. Requesting a reassessment takes minimal effort and could yield substantial annual savings on your largest property-tax bills in the region.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dakota County

via CostByCounty

Dakota rents outpace state and nation

Dakota County residents spend 17.6% of their median household income on rent, notably higher than Nebraska's state average of 14.2% and above most national benchmarks. With a median income of $71,655 and rent of $1,053 monthly, housing costs impose a real financial squeeze compared to statewide norms.

Among Nebraska's pricier counties

Dakota County ranks among the less affordable counties in Nebraska, with its 17.6% rent-to-income ratio well above the state average. The county's higher rents relative to local income levels signal tighter housing affordability than most of the state experiences.

The region's most expensive rents

Dakota County's median rent of $1,053 is the highest in this comparison—$152 more than Cheyenne County and $352 more than Clay County. This rental premium significantly outpaces the advantages of Dakota's solid $71,655 median income.

Renters face heavier burden than owners

Monthly rent of $1,053 consumes 17.6% of the median income, while homeownership costs $992—nearly as high but spread across a median home value of $168,100. Renters here experience notably tighter affordability than homeowners.

Factor in above-average housing costs

Dakota County's cost of living rises noticeably above statewide averages, particularly for renters. If relocating here, verify your salary reflects the regional rent premium—rents are among Nebraska's highest.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dakota County

via IncomeByCounty

Dakota near national income mark

Dakota County's median household income of $71,655 falls modestly below the national median of $74,755 by $3,100, or 4.1%. This places Dakota just shy of the U.S. average, positioning it in the middle ranks of American counties.

Slightly above Nebraska baseline

Dakota County earns $71,655, exceeding Nebraska's state median of $66,880 by $4,775. The county ranks comfortably in the upper-middle tier of Nebraska counties, reflecting economic performance above the state norm.

Solid performer among peers

Dakota's $71,655 surpasses Custer ($66,310), Dawson ($65,383), and Dawes ($54,381), while trailing Colfax ($79,720) and Clay ($75,938). The county demonstrates solid economic footing in a mixed rural region.

Rent burden moderately elevated

Dakota's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% exceeds the state average but remains comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. Renters spend roughly one-sixth of income on housing, leaving reasonable capacity for other expenses and modest savings.

Invest in steady wealth accumulation

Dakota households with above-state-average income are well-positioned for balanced wealth strategies: prioritizing employer retirement matches, building an emergency fund, and exploring low-cost mutual funds. Even modest consistent contributions compound meaningfully over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dakota County

via CrimeByCounty

Dakota County Tracks Near National Average

Dakota County reports a total crime rate of 2,266.7 per 100,000, which is just slightly below the national average of 2,385.5. Despite being busier than its neighbors, it still maintains a safety score of 96.4.

Higher Crime Density Than State Average

The county faces more challenges than the typical Nebraska community, as its crime rate is over three times the state average of 626.7. Its 96.4 safety score sits below the 99.0 state average.

Regional Comparison Shows Higher Activity

Dakota County has the highest crime rate among this group of eight counties. It experiences significantly more activity than peaceful neighbors like Cuming and Colfax.

Property Crime is the Main Local Factor

Property crime occurs at 2,088.4 per 100,000, which slightly exceeds the national average of 2,015.7. Conversely, the violent crime rate of 178.3 is less than half the national figure of 369.8.

Essential Home Security for Dakota Residents

Higher property crime rates make home security and community watch programs essential. Visible deterrents can significantly lower the risk of becoming a statistic in Dakota County.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Dakota County

via HealthByCounty

Dakota County falls behind on longevity

Dakota County residents live 76.5 years on average—3.2 years below the U.S. average of 79.7 years. The county's elevated 20.9% poor/fair health rate ranks among the highest in this group, signaling substantial chronic disease burden.

Significant health gaps in Dakota County

Dakota County's 76.5-year life expectancy falls 1.0 year below Nebraska's 77.5-year average, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. Its 10.5% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 8.1%, compounding health access challenges.

Severe primary care shortage

Dakota County has only 14 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—critically low compared to peers like Dawes (74) and Custer (57). Mental health access is a bright spot at 254 providers per 100,000, but physical health care access remains severely constrained.

Access crisis: Few doctors, many uninsured

Dakota County faces a dual crisis: just 14 primary care providers per 100,000 (fewer than any neighboring county) combined with 10.5% uninsured residents creates significant healthcare barriers. Many residents likely travel 30+ miles for routine care or delay seeking treatment.

Insurance is your lifeline here

With sparse local primary care options, the 10.5% of uninsured Dakota County residents face dangerous gaps in preventive and emergency care. Enroll through Healthcare.gov immediately and explore telehealth and regional provider networks to bridge access gaps.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Dakota County

via SchoolsByCounty

Suburban Connectivity in Dakota County Schools

Dakota County manages 11 public schools across three districts, serving a large student population of 4,338. The infrastructure is geared toward younger learners with seven elementary schools, complemented by one middle school, two high schools, and one alternative facility. This county features more suburban campuses than its neighbors, reflecting its position near regional hubs.

Solid Performance in Larger School Settings

The graduation rate stands at 86.3%, trailing the state average by just 0.6% and the national average by 0.7%. Dakota County spends $9,507 per pupil and maintains a school score of 57.0, which is comfortably above the national median of 50. The county manages to maintain these competitive scores while overseeing much larger student populations than nearby rural areas.

South Sioux City Leads Regional Education

South Sioux City Community Schools is the primary district, serving a significant 3,783 students across eight schools. Ponca and Homer districts provide smaller alternatives, serving 442 and 428 students respectively. The county relies exclusively on traditional public schools, with no charter schools present in the current data.

Suburban Energy and Larger Campuses

Eight of the county's schools are in suburban locales, contributing to a higher average school size of 394 students. South Sioux High School is a major regional hub with 1,149 students, followed by the middle school at 773. This creates a more traditional, high-energy school environment with more diverse extracurricular opportunities.

Join a Vibrant Suburban School District

If you are looking for a more robust, suburban school experience for your children, Dakota County is an excellent choice. The large South Sioux City district offers facilities and programs that are often only found in bigger metropolitan areas. Look for homes in the South Sioux City suburbs to be at the heart of this active educational community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dakota County

via RiskByCounty

Dakota County's Moderate Risk Profile

Dakota County has a composite risk score of 36.01 and a Very Low rating, slightly exceeding the national average for natural disaster risk. The county experiences significant tornado (75.57) and wildfire (78.05) exposure that drives its score above regional baseline.

Elevated Compared to Nebraska Average

At 36.01, Dakota County's composite risk score is about 40% higher than Nebraska's state average of 25.80, reflecting above-average hazard exposure. Tornado risk (75.57) stands well above statewide norms, indicating vulnerability to severe convective storms.

Riskier Than Most Regional Peers

Dakota County (36.01) faces higher composite risk than Colfax County (28.63) and Cheyenne County (27.80), primarily due to its severe tornado exposure. Its wildfire risk (78.05) aligns with the elevated exposure seen across northeastern Nebraska.

Tornado and Wildfire Dominate

Tornado risk (75.57) is Dakota County's most severe hazard, while wildfire risk (78.05) presents a close second threat. Together, these two hazards account for the county's elevated composite risk, with tornado exposure being one of the highest in the state.

Strong Storm and Fire Preparation

Dakota County residents should prioritize comprehensive windstorm and fire insurance, given the county's dual high-risk exposure. Installing a safe room or basement shelter for tornado events is highly advisable, and clearing vegetation near structures is essential for wildfire preparedness.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Dakota County

via WeatherByCounty

High Precipitation in the Northeast

Dakota County receives 29.6 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the national median for the interior U.S. While specific annual temperature data is limited for this county, its rainfall suggests a humid continental climate.

Wetter Than Most of Nebraska

With 29.6 inches of precipitation, Dakota County is wetter than the Nebraska state average of 25.9 inches. It also records 30.6 inches of annual snowfall, indicating active winter weather patterns.

Abundant Snowfall Near the River

The county’s 30.6 inches of snow annually is higher than that of many southern Nebraska counties. Its precipitation levels are consistent with other Missouri River border counties.

Active Winter Weather Patterns

Winter is a defining season here, delivering 30.6 inches of snow to the region. Although specific summer temperature averages are unavailable, the high precipitation suggests significant seasonal humidity.

Prioritize Snow and Moisture Care

Homeowners should focus on snow removal equipment and roof maintenance to handle the 30.6 inches of annual snowfall. The high precipitation levels also make proper yard grading and gutter maintenance essential.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Dakota County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline and Silt-Heavy Profiles

Dakota County features an average soil pH of 7.13, which is more alkaline than the state average of 6.79. This shift towards alkalinity can influence which micronutrients are available to plants in the local soil.

Dense Silt and Clay Mix

The soil is dominated by 55.0% silt and 27.4% clay, with very little sand at only 16.0%. This composition creates a heavy soil that holds moisture tightly but may be slow to warm up in the spring.

Strong Water Storage Potential

The available water capacity of 0.195 in/in is significantly higher than the state average of 0.172. Despite organic matter being 2.57%, the high silt content ensures the soil can sustain plants through dry periods.

Heavy Soil Management

With over 82% of the soil made of fine silt and clay particles, water movement is naturally restricted. This can lead to heavy, sticky mud during wet seasons, requiring patience before starting any spring tilling.

Cold-Hardy Growing in Zone 5a

The 5a hardiness zone is well-suited for brassicas and leafy greens that enjoy the moisture-retentive qualities of these heavy soils. Start seeds indoors to get a jump on the season while the heavy soils slowly thaw.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dakota County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Challenges in Northeast Nebraska

Dakota County scores a 41.8 for lawn difficulty, indicating a tougher environment than the state average of 54.2. In this hardiness zone 5a, homeowners must be proactive to maintain a healthy lawn against local stressors.

Generous Rain Balanced by Drought Risks

The county enjoys 29.6 inches of annual precipitation, which is nearly ideal for most turfgrasses. However, while specific temperature data is limited, the high annual rainfall suggests the primary challenge is moisture timing rather than total volume.

Higher Clay Content Requires Attention

The soil features a relatively high clay content of 27.4% and a pH of 7.13, which is slightly above the ideal range. This heavier soil can hold water well but may require aeration to prevent the surface from becoming too hard for new roots.

Monitoring Persistent Dry Periods

With 37 weeks spent in drought over the last year, 100% of the county currently remains abnormally dry. To preserve your lawn, avoid mowing during the hottest part of the day and keep your blades sharp to reduce grass stress.

Choosing the Right Grass for Zone 5a

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue are reliable choices for the local soil and rainfall levels. Since specific frost dates are unavailable, monitor local soil temperatures and aim for a consistent 55°F before beginning your spring seeding.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dakota County's county score?
Dakota County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 35.8 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 Dakota County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Dakota County ranks #90 among all counties in Nebraska 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 Dakota County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Dakota County is $2,680, with an effective tax rate of 1.59%. This earns Dakota County a tax score of 9.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dakota County?
The median household income in Dakota County, Nebraska is $71,655 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dakota County earns an income score of 70.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dakota County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Dakota County scores 35.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #90 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Dakota 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 Dakota 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.