countyscore
60.2
County Score
Health 91.1Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 78.8

County Report Card

About Delaware County, Iowa

Superior National Percentile Ranking

Delaware County earns a strong composite score of 60.2, placing it far above the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the top tier of American counties for overall livability.

A Top Performer in Iowa

The county's score of 60.2 is significantly higher than the Iowa state average of 55.6. It maintains a competitive edge through its high health standards and reliable school systems.

Health and Education Excellence

Delaware County boasts a Health Score of 91.1 and an Income Score of 78.8. A median household income of $76,205 combined with a solid School Score of 75.3 makes it a well-rounded community.

Managing the Tax Load

The county’s Tax Score of 19.2 is its lowest dimension, reflecting the fiscal pressures felt by residents. While the 1.343% effective tax rate is lower than some neighbors, it remains the primary area for potential improvement.

Ideal for Health-Conscious Families

Delaware County is perfect for those seeking a healthy lifestyle and quality education in a stable economic environment. It provides a high-quality, balanced life for families and professionals alike.

Score breakdown

Tax19.2Cost55.4Safety56.3Health91.1Schools75.3Income78.8Risk50.3Water86Weather50.8
🏛19.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠55.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼78.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡56.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤91.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓75.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡50.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨68.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱77.1
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

Buchanan County
Iowa
62.4
Jones County
Iowa
60.7
Linn County
Iowa
40.7
Clayton County
Iowa
59.9
Dubuque County
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Fayette County
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Grant County
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Benton County
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56

Deep Dives

Delaware County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Delaware County

via TaxByCounty

Delaware County taxes near national average

Delaware County's effective tax rate of 1.343% sits just slightly above the national median of 1.1%, placing it squarely in the middle of U.S. county rankings. The median property tax of $2,266 falls below the national median of $2,690, reflecting moderate rates applied to modestly valued properties.

Delaware County nearly matches state average

At 1.343%, Delaware County's effective rate essentially mirrors Iowa's state average of 1.344%, showing it's a textbook example of typical Iowa property taxation. The median tax bill of $2,266 sits above the state median of $2,160, though only by a slim margin.

Delaware County sits in regional middle

Delaware County's 1.343% rate places it squarely between regional high-taxers like Decatur (1.695%) and Davis (1.518%), and lower-taxers like Dickinson (0.977%) and Dubuque (1.260%). It represents the most moderate tax burden in the northeastern Iowa corridor.

Your annual Delaware County tax bill

On a median home valued at $168,700, Delaware County homeowners pay approximately $2,266 per year in property taxes. For those with a mortgage, the annual escrow typically reaches $2,364; those without a mortgage pay around $2,116.

Your tax bill may be too high

Even in a moderate-tax county like Delaware, many homeowners find themselves overassessed relative to current market conditions. A periodic assessment review or appeal could reveal tax reduction opportunities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Delaware County

via CostByCounty

Delaware County: Iowa's affordability sweet spot

Delaware County achieves a remarkable 11.7% rent-to-income ratio, the best in this entire comparison and well below the national average of 14%. With median household income of $76,205 and monthly rent of just $743, Delaware offers genuine housing affordability paired with respectable earning potential.

Best rental affordability in Iowa

Delaware County's rent-to-income ratio of 11.7% significantly outperforms Iowa's state average of 14.1%, making it the most affordable county for renters in this analysis. The median rent of $743 sits slightly below the state average of $812, while median income of $76,205 provides reliable household economics.

Delaware beats every nearby county

Delaware County's 11.7% rent-to-income ratio surpasses all regional peers: Dickinson (15.0%), Dubuque (14.9%), Davis (13.3%), and Decatur (13.9%). The combination of moderate rents and solid incomes gives Delaware an unmatched affordability advantage in northeast Iowa.

Money left over in Delaware

Renters dedicate just 11.7% of their $76,205 income to $743 monthly rent, while homeowners spend 15.2% on $966 owner costs for $168,700 properties. Delaware County residents enjoy the healthiest affordability cushion of any county examined, with room for savings and life flexibility.

Delaware: Iowa's affordability champion

If housing affordability drives your relocation decision, Delaware County offers Iowa's best value: moderate rents, manageable home prices, and income levels that don't require compromise. The county's 11.7% rent-to-income ratio leaves families with genuine financial breathing room.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Delaware County

via IncomeByCounty

Delaware County keeps pace nationally

Delaware County's median household income of $76,205 slightly exceeds the national median of $74,755, positioning the county just above the American middle-income benchmark. This performance demonstrates solid economic footing relative to national standards.

Above-average earner in Iowa

At $76,205, Delaware County exceeds Iowa's state average of $69,830 by 9%, ranking it among the state's stronger-performing counties economically. The county attracts residents seeking above-average income potential within Iowa's borders.

Solid regional position

Delaware County's $76,205 income places it in the middle tier of its region, between Dubuque County ($75,919) and Davis County ($79,505). The tight clustering suggests consistent economic strength across northeast Iowa.

Best rent affordability in the region

Delaware County boasts the region's lowest rent-to-income ratio at just 11.7%, meaning residents spend less than one-eighth of income on housing and retain significant spending power. The median home value of $168,700 is very accessible at local income levels.

Leverage low housing costs aggressively

Delaware County's exceptional housing affordability—11.7% of income—frees up roughly $6,800 annually compared to the national 30% standard, providing genuine wealth-building capacity. Direct this surplus toward Roth IRAs, index funds, or debt paydown to compound financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Delaware County

via CrimeByCounty

Safe and Stable Community Living

Delaware County earns a strong safety score of 98.4. Its total crime rate of 1004.4 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2385.5.

Aligning With Iowa Averages

The county's crime rate of 1004.4 is very close to the Iowa state average of 1095.3. Its safety score of 98.4 is essentially identical to the statewide benchmark of 98.3.

Consistently Safer Than Urban Neighbors

Delaware County maintains a safer profile than neighboring urban centers like Dubuque. Three local agencies manage a consistent and manageable level of law enforcement activity.

Property Concerns Over Violence

Property crimes make up 741.9 incidents per 100K, compared to 262.5 for violent crimes. Most incidents involve non-violent theft or burglary rather than person-to-person crime.

Defending Your Property

Focusing on home security is the best way to stay safe in Delaware County. Motion-activated lighting and secure window locks are effective deterrents against common property crimes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Delaware County

via HealthByCounty

Delaware County outperforms national health trends

Delaware County residents enjoy a life expectancy of 79.3 years, exceeding the U.S. average of 76.4 years by nearly 3 years. With 13.6% reporting poor or fair health—below the national average of 18%—the county demonstrates solid population health management.

Above-average health for Iowa

Delaware County's life expectancy of 79.3 years exceeds Iowa's state average of 77.7 years, placing it among the stronger performers statewide. The county's poor/fair health rate of 13.6% is also favorable, suggesting better-than-average preventive care engagement.

Strong provider access supports outcomes

Delaware County's 79.3-year life expectancy ranks among the highest in this region, surpassed only by Dallas and Dickinson counties. The county backs this up with 46 primary care providers and 136 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, providing residents with solid access to specialists.

High insurance coverage fuels access

With just 5.3% uninsured—nearly matching Iowa's 5.7% average—Delaware County ensures most residents can seek preventive care. The strong provider-to-population ratio of 46 primary care and 136 mental health providers per 100,000 allows most residents to establish lasting care relationships.

Delaware County, keep coverage strong

Your county's low uninsured rate shows the power of coverage in maintaining health. If you lack insurance or worry about open enrollment deadlines, visit Healthcare.gov or contact Iowa's marketplace to renew or upgrade your plan.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Delaware County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Schooling Across Three Districts

Delaware County supports 2,708 students through 10 public schools and three distinct districts. The infrastructure is elementary-heavy, featuring six elementary buildings alongside two middle and two high schools.

High-Achieving Students, Strong Support

A graduation rate of 96.4% puts Delaware County well ahead of the 87% national average. The county spends $7,693 per pupil, exceeding the state average of $7,591 and contributing to an impressive 58.4 school score.

West Delaware County District Hub

The West Delaware County Community School District is the largest, educating 1,360 students. Traditional public schools make up 100% of the county's offerings as no charter schools are present.

Small Towns and Rural Settings

The county features a mix of seven rural schools and three town-based schools, with an average size of 271 students. Lambert Elementary is the largest campus at 509 students, ensuring a manageable scale for younger learners.

Excellence in Every Town

With school scores and graduation rates that outperform state averages, Delaware County is a premier choice for residential buyers. High per-pupil investment makes this an attractive market for families prioritizing quality education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Delaware County

via RiskByCounty

Delaware County: Moderate Risk, Flood-Focused

Delaware County scores 49.75 on the composite risk scale, placing it "Relatively Low" but modestly above Iowa's state average of 39.68. The county's risk profile centers on flood exposure at 61.74, one of the state's highest water-related risks, while tornado (58.46) presents secondary concern. This flood-dominant pattern reflects Delaware's position along the Turkey River and other significant tributaries.

Upper-Middle Ranking, Driven by Flooding

Delaware County ranks in Iowa's upper-middle tier for overall disaster risk, with its 61.74 flood score substantially exceeding the state average and positioning it among the state's most flood-exposed counties. Tornado risk at 58.46 adds secondary hazard exposure, while wildfire and earthquake risks remain below state norms. This combination creates a distinctive flooding-first risk profile within northeastern Iowa.

Flood Risk Exceeds Regional Peers

Delaware County's flood score of 61.74 substantially exceeds neighboring Dubuque (65.36—comparable), Buchanan, and Clayton counties, making Delaware a regional flooding hotspot. Tornado risks align closely with neighbors, but Delaware's water vulnerability stands apart in the immediate region. The county's riverine geography and tributary networks create above-average water hazard exposure.

Flooding Is Your Primary Concern Here

Flood risk at 61.74 dominates Delaware County's hazard profile, reflecting proximity to the Turkey River and multiple creek systems that regularly overflow during spring snowmelt and heavy rain. Tornado risk at 58.46 requires standard severe weather preparedness but remains secondary to flood planning. Wildfire risk at 12.44 is minimal and earthquake risk at 24.62 presents negligible concern for most residents.

Flood Insurance Is Essential for Delaware

If you're in or near a flood-prone area, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is critical—standard homeowner's policies explicitly exclude flood damage. Obtain an elevation certificate for your property and understand your local flood zone; many Delaware properties sit in mapped flood zones requiring mandatory coverage. Create a family flood evacuation plan and monitor weather alerts during spring months and heavy rain events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Delaware County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler Midwestern Stronghold

Delaware County’s 46.3°F annual average is notably cooler than the national median, reflecting its northern latitude. The county receives a healthy 38.6 inches of precipitation, making it wetter than many parts of the Great Plains. This climate is characterized by long, snowy winters and mild, comfortable summers.

Below the Iowa Temperature Average

Delaware County's average temp of 46.3°F falls below the state average of 48.0°F. However, it receives more precipitation than the average Iowa county, logging 38.6 inches versus the state’s 36.1. This creates a landscape that is both cooler and moisture-rich compared to the rest of the state.

Colder Than Its River Neighbors

Compared to nearby Dubuque County, Delaware is slightly cooler, with an average of 46.3°F vs 47.8°F. It is significantly more temperate than northwestern Emmet County, which bottoms out at 44.7°F. Delaware strikes a balance, offering more snow but less extreme winter cold than the far northern border.

Mild Summers and Heavy Snowfall

Summers are remarkably pleasant, with only 9 days per year hitting 90°F and an average July temperature of 71.6°F. The trade-off is a heavy winter, bringing 34.7 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 17.1°F. This county is a haven for those who prefer cool summers over intense heat.

Prioritize Winter Readiness

Winter gear is the top priority here, as residents must navigate nearly 35 inches of snow and sub-20-degree January averages. While summer cooling needs are lower than in southern Iowa, high-performance heating is a must for the three-month winter average of 20.7°F. Outdoor enthusiasts should plan for a long snow season and a brief, mild window for summer activities.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Delaware County

via SoilByCounty

Alfisols and Silt Loams of Delaware

Delaware County is characterized by Alfisols, a taxonomic order known for being naturally productive for agriculture. The average pH of 6.29 is slightly acidic compared to the national 6.5 median but provides a healthy base for various crops. These well-developed soils are a hallmark of the region's glacial history.

The Ideal Silt Loam Mix

The dominant texture here is silt loam, composed of 49.0% silt, 30.9% sand, and 19.1% clay. This specific ratio offers excellent workability and enough sand to ensure the soil doesn't become too sticky or compacted. It is a highly desirable mix for both large-scale farmers and home gardeners.

Productive Soils with Solid Foundations

Delaware County boasts 3.24% organic matter, well above the 2.0% national average. While its available water capacity of 0.187 in/in is slightly below the state average of 0.195, the soil remains highly productive. A soil score of 68.7 indicates a strong agricultural foundation for the eastern part of the state.

Well Drained and Ready to Plant

Classified as 'well drained' and falling into Hydrologic Group B, this soil manages water efficiently without staying saturated. These Alfisols allow for early spring planting because they dry out faster than heavier clay soils. This makes the county particularly well-suited for high-yield row crops and healthy root systems.

Cooler Seasons in Zone 5a

In Zone 5a, Delaware County experiences shorter growing seasons, but the silt loam soil makes every day count. This soil is perfect for cool-weather crops like broccoli and kale, as well as traditional Iowa corn. Start your seeds early to take advantage of this well-drained, productive earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Delaware County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growth in Zone 5a

Delaware County earns a 77.1 lawn difficulty score, placing it right in line with the Iowa state average. As a Zone 5a region, it faces slightly colder winters than southern neighbors but remains much easier to manage than the national average.

Cooler Summers, Consistent Moisture

With only 9 extreme heat days per year, Delaware County lawns face less summer scorch than the state average of 16 days. The 38.6 inches of annual precipitation provide ample hydration for the 2660 growing degree days recorded here.

Superior Silt Loam Foundation

The county features well-drained silt loam soil, which is widely considered the gold standard for gardening and lawns. A soil pH of 6.29 ensures that your grass can easily access the minerals it needs to stay vibrant and green.

Monitoring Moisture Levels

The county endured 16 weeks of drought over the last year, and 100% of the area currently remains abnormally dry. Because the soil is well-drained, residents should monitor for signs of wilting and water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Plan Around a Later Spring

Wait until after the May 3 frost date to begin spring projects to ensure tender new sprouts survive. Perennial Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive here, but be sure to finish your fall work before the October 4 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Delaware County's county score?
Delaware County, Iowa has a composite county score of 60.2 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 Delaware County rank among counties in Iowa?
Delaware County ranks #35 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 Delaware County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Delaware County is $2,266, with an effective tax rate of 1.34%. This earns Delaware County a tax score of 19.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Delaware County?
The median household income in Delaware County, Iowa is $76,205 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Delaware County earns an income score of 78.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Delaware County, Iowa a good place to live?
Delaware County scores 60.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #35 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Delaware 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 Delaware 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.