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Dauphin County, Pennsylvania — County Report Card

PA

#63 in Pennsylvania

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
40.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 75.9Health 63.3Lawn Care 58.9

County Report Card

About Dauphin County, Pennsylvania

Trailing the National Median

Dauphin County earns a composite score of 40.7, which falls below the national median of 50.0. This ranking indicates significant room for improvement across several livability metrics.

Below the State Average

The county's 40.7 score is over 10 points lower than the Pennsylvania average of 51.8. It faces steeper challenges than many other regions within the state.

Economic Opportunity and Health

Despite lower overall scores, the county features a strong Income Score of 75.9 and a median household income of $74,159. Access to healthcare is also a relative bright spot with a Health Score of 63.3.

Significant Risks and Educational Gaps

The county's Risk Score of 8.9 and Tax Score of 16.3 present major hurdles for long-term stability. A School Score of 41.4 suggests the public education system lags behind state leaders.

Suited for Urban-Focused Professionals

Dauphin is a fit for career-minded individuals who need to be near the state capital's economic engine. It rewards those who prioritize higher earnings and healthcare proximity over environmental and school factors.

Score breakdown

Tax16.3Cost17.2Safety58.6Health63.3Schools41.4Income75.9Risk8.9Water50.2Weather57.7
🏛16.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠17.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼75.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡58.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤63.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧50.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨42.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58.9
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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Deep Dives

Dauphin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Dauphin County

via TaxByCounty

Dauphin's rate exceeds state and national

Dauphin County's 1.427% effective tax rate exceeds both Pennsylvania's state average of 1.317% and the national median of 1.58%, placing it among the higher-tax counties nationally. The median property tax of $3,171 approaches the national median of $2,690, despite lower home values of $222,300.

Dauphin ranks among Pennsylvania's highest

At 1.427%, Dauphin County's effective tax rate ranks among Pennsylvania's highest, exceeding the state average by 8 percentage points and resulting in a median property tax of $3,171. This places the county in the upper quartile for tax burden statewide.

Dauphin charges more than most neighbors

Dauphin County's 1.427% rate significantly exceeds nearby Clearfield (1.190%), Clinton (1.143%), Columbia (1.138%), and Cumberland (1.214%), making it one of the region's most expensive. Only Delaware County's 1.984% rate surpasses Dauphin's burden among comparable regional counties.

Median homeowner pays $3,171 annually

On a median home value of $222,300, Dauphin County homeowners pay approximately $3,171 in annual property taxes at the county's 1.427% effective rate. With a mortgage, taxes rise to $3,282; without one, they total $2,974.

Appeal your assessment in high-tax county

In Dauphin's high-tax environment, correcting an overassessment yields substantial savings, potentially recovering $400-700 annually depending on your home's value. File an appeal immediately if you believe your assessed value exceeds comparable recent sales in your neighborhood.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dauphin County

via CostByCounty

Dauphin strains above national affordability norms

At 18.7%, Dauphin County's rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national average, representing one of the tighter affordability squeezes in the nation. Median rent of $1,153 per month and household income of $74,159—near the national average—combine to create substantial housing pressure on renters throughout the county.

Pennsylvania's most strained rental market

Dauphin County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.7% stands well above Pennsylvania's state average of 16.5%, making it one of the least affordable counties statewide for renters. The median rent of $1,153 ranks among the highest in the state, driven by the county's role as Harrisburg's economic hub.

Rents far exceed nearby rural counties

Dauphin's $1,153 monthly rent substantially exceeds all rural northern counties—Clearfield ($788), Clinton ($815), Crawford ($800), and Columbia ($904)—reflecting its urban-corridor status. The county's 18.7% rent-to-income ratio represents the tightest burden among regional peers, signaling the cost of development and centrality.

Renters squeezed harder than homeowners

Renters allocate roughly 19% of the $74,159 median household income to $1,153 monthly rent, while homeowners spend about 20% on mortgages averaging $1,232 on homes valued at $222,300. The housing cost burden here ranks among the most challenging in Pennsylvania.

Weigh urban amenities against housing costs

Dauphin offers Harrisburg's job market and urban services, but renters and owners should prepare for Pennsylvania's tightest affordability squeeze. If housing costs concern you, rural alternatives like Elk or Clearfield offer 25–30% lower rents; compare your salary growth opportunities against that savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dauphin County

via IncomeByCounty

Dauphin matches U.S. income median

Dauphin County's median household income of $74,159 nearly aligns with the national median of $74,755, just $596 shy. This places Dauphin squarely in the national middle class and demonstrates the county's economic health relative to the entire U.S. Dauphin's proximity to Harrisburg and diverse economy support this middle-of-the-road performance.

Just above Pennsylvania state average

Dauphin's $74,159 median household income exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of $69,614 by $4,545, ranking it in the upper-middle tier statewide. Per capita income of $41,055 similarly outpaces the state average of $37,407. These metrics place Dauphin among Pennsylvania's more prosperous counties.

Mid-tier earner behind Delaware and Cumberland

Dauphin's $74,159 ranks fourth in this eight-county sample, trailing only Delaware ($88,576) and Cumberland ($85,634) but well ahead of rural western counties. Columbia ($61,992) and Crawford ($60,254) trail Dauphin significantly. This gap reflects the urbanization premium of the Harrisburg metro area versus rural Pennsylvania.

Housing costs strain household budgets

Dauphin's 18.7% rent-to-income ratio—the highest in this county sample—indicates renters spend roughly $1,155 monthly on average. The median home value of $222,300 requires substantial mortgage payments relative to household income. This elevated housing burden leaves less discretionary income for savings and investing compared to western county peers.

Plan strategically around housing expenses

Dauphin residents should carefully budget around elevated housing costs while maximizing employer benefits and tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Refinancing opportunities can reduce monthly burdens; consult a mortgage advisor about options. Direct any freed-up cash flow into diversified investments to accelerate wealth accumulation despite housing constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dauphin County

via CrimeByCounty

Dauphin County holds steady against national trends

Dauphin County reports a total crime rate of 952.8 per 100,000, which is far lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 98.5. Twenty-five agencies provide the data that reflects this secure environment.

Matching the Pennsylvania state average

The county's safety score of 98.5 perfectly matches the Pennsylvania state average. While its total crime rate of 952.8 is slightly above the state average of 932.4, it remains a very safe region overall. Dauphin County provides a level of security that is typical for the state.

Regional safety in the capital area

Dauphin County has a higher crime rate at 952.8 than neighboring Cumberland County at 827.5. However, it is safer than more urbanized areas like Delaware County, which sees 1,043.4 crimes per 100,000. The county represents a middle ground for safety in Central Pennsylvania.

Violent and property crime data breakdown

Violent crime in Dauphin County is 205.9 per 100,000, which is higher than some neighbors but still below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is 746.9 per 100,000, accounting for the majority of police reports. Law enforcement efforts are largely focused on preventing theft and vandalism.

Staying proactive about home safety

Given that property crime is the most common issue, homeowners should take basic precautions to protect their assets. Home security systems and neighborhood watch programs are effective ways to keep local statistics low. Vigilance remains key to maintaining Dauphin County's safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Dauphin County

via HealthByCounty

Dauphin inches ahead of national averages

At 76.8 years, Dauphin County's life expectancy modestly exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years, though 19.3% report poor or fair health. The county's performance sits solidly in the middle—neither leading nor lagging—reflecting mixed outcomes across its urban and rural areas.

Slight advantage within Pennsylvania

Dauphin's 76.8-year life expectancy edges above Pennsylvania's 76.4-year state average, placing it in the upper-middle tier of state counties. At 6.9% uninsured, Dauphin slightly underperforms the state average of 7.0%, suggesting relatively strong coverage equity.

Urban density powers stronger provider access

Dauphin's 103 primary care providers per 100,000 residents significantly outpace rural neighbors like Clinton (35) and Clearfield (46), reflecting its more urbanized base. Though its 19.3% poor/fair health rate trails some neighbors, robust provider access and 289 mental health providers create comprehensive care infrastructure.

Urban county with strong care infrastructure

Dauphin's 103 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the second-highest in this cohort—pair with 289 mental health providers, ensuring residents rarely lack care options. The county's 6.9% uninsured rate means approximately 15,700 residents still navigate healthcare without coverage, despite strong provider availability.

Complete Dauphin's coverage picture

With strong medical infrastructure, Dauphin's remaining 15,700 uninsured residents are at risk of skipping preventive care and accruing debt from emergencies. Visit Healthcare.gov or call your county health office to confirm enrollment—coverage ensures you can access the excellent providers in your community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Dauphin County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large and Diverse Educational Hub

Dauphin County hosts 73 public schools across 18 districts, serving a massive 64,486 students. This includes 39 elementary, 15 middle, and 16 high schools, reflecting the county's role as a major regional center.

Navigating Challenges in Graduation and Scoring

The county faces a 76.2% graduation rate, which is below the state average of 90.3%. Districts spend $8,874 per pupil and maintain a composite school score of 50.3, matching the national median score.

Central Dauphin and the Charter School Impact

Central Dauphin SD is the largest traditional district with 12,393 students. However, the county also hosts 7 charter schools, including the massive Commonwealth Charter Academy which enrolls over 20,000 students.

Urban and Suburban Learning on a Large Scale

Most schools are in suburban (43) or city (17) settings, with an average enrollment of 883 students. Large campuses like Central Dauphin Senior High serve nearly 2,000 students, offering a broad range of programs and facilities.

Exploring Diverse Educational Paths in Dauphin

From massive cyber charters to traditional suburban districts, Dauphin County offers more variety than most other regions. Families should research specific school boundaries in the Central Dauphin or Lower Dauphin areas when browsing for homes.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dauphin County

via RiskByCounty

Dauphin faces high national disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 91.06, Dauphin ranks in the upper tier of U.S. counties for natural disaster exposure, earning a Relatively Moderate rating. The county faces critically high flooding (94.78), tornadoes (79.80), earthquakes (87.28), and hurricane risk (89.19) simultaneously.

Highest-risk county in Pennsylvania

Dauphin's 91.06 score marginally exceeds Delaware County (92.91) to place it among Pennsylvania's two most hazard-exposed counties, far surpassing the state average of 67.45. This exceptional risk concentration results from the county's central geography, seismic proximity, and vulnerability to multiple severe weather corridors.

Risk epicenter of central Pennsylvania

Dauphin (91.06) faces catastrophically higher composite risk than neighboring Clearfield (67.11) or Columbia (62.05) counties, making it the hazard hotspot of the central region. Only adjacent Delaware County matches or exceeds Dauphin's multifaceted disaster exposure profile.

Flooding and tornadoes pose extreme threats

Flood risk of 94.78 represents the county's single greatest natural hazard, while tornado risk of 79.80 and earthquake risk of 87.28 create compounding seasonal and geological threats. Together with hurricane risk of 89.19, Dauphin residents face a hazardscape more complex than nearly any other Pennsylvania county.

Comprehensive disaster preparedness is critical

Flood insurance is non-negotiable at the 94.78 flood risk score; this is your single most important protection in Dauphin County. Add earthquake coverage (87.28 risk) and reinforce your roof and foundation for tornadoes (79.80 risk), then develop a multi-hazard family evacuation plan and maintain emergency supplies for extended isolation.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Dauphin County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate valley weather patterns

Dauphin County averages 52.3°F annually, aligning it with the warmer half of the continental United States. It features a humid subtropical influence that brings hot summers and variable winters.

Warmer than the state median

Dauphin’s average temperature is over two degrees higher than the Pennsylvania state average of 49.9°F. It ranks as one of the warmer urban corridors in the Commonwealth.

Similar to its valley peers

Dauphin mirrors Cumberland County’s 52.3°F average, though it receives slightly more precipitation at 46.8 inches. It is significantly warmer and less snowy than Columbia County to its north.

Significant heat and light snow

Summers are hot with 18 extreme heat days and a July average of 74.7°F. Winters are relatively light on snow, averaging only 27.1 inches per year.

Ready for summer humidity

High summer temperatures and 46.8 inches of annual rain create humid conditions that require reliable HVAC systems. Residents enjoy a shorter, milder winter season compared to northern Pennsylvania.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Dauphin County

via SoilByCounty

Sweet Soils of the Capital

Dauphin County's soil pH of 5.43 is significantly higher than the state average of 5.22. While still acidic compared to the national 6.5 median, these Alfisols are well-positioned for high-yield gardening.

Very Fine Sandy Loam

The soil is characterized as a very fine sandy loam, containing 42.9% silt, 34.5% sand, and 16.0% clay. This high sand percentage makes for excellent aeration and easy tilling, perfect for delicate root systems.

Steady Growth Potential

Organic matter levels reach 5.07%, which is more than double the national average. While the water capacity of 0.138 in/in is slightly below the state average, it still provides enough moisture for most residential crops.

Exceptional Rainfall Management

The county's well-drained soils and hydrologic group B status mean the land handles heavy storms without significant ponding. This natural efficiency simplifies building and landscaping projects across the county.

Thriving in Zone 7a

With the mild climate of zone 7a and sandy loam soil, you can successfully grow everything from carrots to ornamental flowers. Start your seeds early to take full advantage of the long growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dauphin County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Results in the Capital

Dauphin County’s lawn difficulty score of 58.9 sits very close to the state average, offering a predictable environment for homeowners. This Zone 7a region provides ample warmth for a robust and vibrant lawn.

Steady Rain and Summer Heat

The county receives 46.8 inches of precipitation, which is higher than the state average and helps offset the 18 extreme heat days. With 3,252 growing degree days, expect a fast-growing lawn that needs consistent attention throughout the spring.

Sandy Loam for Easy Roots

The very fine sandy loam soil allows for excellent root penetration and water movement. Correcting the 5.43 pH level with lime will help unlock nutrients that are otherwise trapped by the soil's natural acidity.

Navigating 28 Weeks of Dryness

Dauphin County experienced 28 weeks of drought in the past year, and 100.0% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Keep your grass at least 3 inches tall to protect the crown and keep the soil surface cool during these dry spells.

A Long Window for Success

Dauphin’s warm climate supports a variety of cool-season grasses, with Tall Fescue being a top performer against summer heat. You can begin seeding as early as April 15 and expect growth to continue until the first frost on October 23.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dauphin County's county score?
Dauphin County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 40.7 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 Dauphin County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Dauphin County ranks #63 among all counties in Pennsylvania 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 Dauphin County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Dauphin County is $3,171, with an effective tax rate of 1.43%. This earns Dauphin County a tax score of 16.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dauphin County?
The median household income in Dauphin County, Pennsylvania is $74,159 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dauphin County earns an income score of 75.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dauphin County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Dauphin County scores 40.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #63 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Dauphin 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 Dauphin County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.