38.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 99.3Health 97.8Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Delaware County, Ohio

Elite Wealth vs. National Median

Delaware County holds a composite score of 38.6, falling below the national median of 50.0. While extremely wealthy, high costs and safety scores impact its general ranking.

A Unique Economic Profile in Ohio

Its score of 38.6 trails the state average of 48.6. This reflects a trade-off between the state's highest income levels and its most expensive housing markets.

Unmatched Income and Health Metrics

The county boasts a near-perfect Income Score of 99.3 with a median income of $130,088. It also features a high Health Score of 97.8 and strong school systems.

Severe Affordability and Safety Gaps

Housing costs are high, shown by a Cost Score of 5.3 and a median home value of $419,500. A Safety Score of 0.2 represents a significant outlier in local data.

Exclusively for High-Earning Professionals

Delaware is the best fit for affluent families who value elite healthcare and top-tier educational outcomes. It suits those who can navigate a high-cost, high-tax environment.

Score breakdown

Tax8.5Cost5.3Safety0.2Health97.8Schools76Income99.3Risk21.3Water86Weather57.8
🏛8.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠5.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼99.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡0.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
97.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓76
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
21.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤57.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨74.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱78.8
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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Deep Dives

Delaware County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Delaware County

via TaxByCounty

Delaware taxes modestly above national median

At 1.644%, Delaware's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 1.54%, positioning the county in the upper-middle range nationally. The median property tax of $6,896 nearly triple the national median of $2,690, driven by Delaware's notably higher home values of $419,500.

Delaware ranks high among Ohio counties

Delaware's 1.644% effective rate substantially exceeds Ohio's state average of 1.148%, ranking among Ohio's higher-tax jurisdictions. At $6,896 in median property taxes, Delaware homeowners pay more than three times the state average of $2,145, reflecting the county's prosperous real estate market.

Delaware taxes premium properties

Unlike more modest neighboring counties, Delaware's median home value of $419,500 dramatically exceeds Crawford ($123,600) and Defiance ($150,900). This premium market commands higher absolute tax bills, though Delaware's 1.644% rate is comparable to regional peers.

What a Delaware homeowner pays

On the median Delaware home valued at $419,500, homeowners pay approximately $6,896 per year in property taxes—roughly $575 monthly. For mortgaged properties with escrow arrangements, the annual cost rises to $7,152, reflecting the substantial value and corresponding tax obligations.

High-value homes benefit most from appeals

In a high-wealth county like Delaware, even a small percentage overassessment translates to thousands in annual tax overpayment. A successful property tax abatement appeal could recover significant savings—making professional review worthwhile for premium properties.

Cost of Living in Delaware County

via CostByCounty

Delaware's wealth masks housing cost realities

Delaware County's median household income of $130,088 nearly doubles the national average, yet renters still spend 13.2% of income on rent at the higher rents of $1,433 monthly. For homebuyers, the median home value of $419,500 consumes substantial monthly costs, but the county's exceptional incomes keep affordability ratios manageable.

Ohio's wealthiest county with premium housing

Delaware County ranks as Ohio's most affluent county with incomes 75% above the state average, supporting housing costs that far exceed state medians. Rents run 64% higher than Ohio's state average at $1,433 monthly, and median home values are 2.4 times the state-typical home price.

Dramatically pricier than surrounding counties

Delaware's $1,433 monthly rent is nearly double Darke County's $747 and 43% higher than Fairfield County's $1,114, reflecting its status as Ohio's most expensive housing market. The median home value of $419,500 is 2.4 times higher than Crawford County's $123,600.

High costs supported by exceptional incomes

A typical Delaware County renter earning $130,088 annually pays $1,433 monthly in rent, consuming just 13.2% of gross income—the same affordability ratio as much poorer counties, thanks to extraordinary incomes. Homeowners commit $1,991 monthly to properties averaging $419,500, reflecting the county's status as a premium residential market.

Delaware for high-earning relocators only

Delaware County's exceptional affordability ratios mask absolute costs that dwarf other Ohio counties—this is a market for affluent relocators, not budget-seekers. If you're earning six figures and seeking Ohio's best schools, jobs, and amenities, Delaware's housing premium reflects its value proposition.

Income & Jobs in Delaware County

via IncomeByCounty

Delaware County far exceeds national average

Delaware County's median household income of $130,088 towers 74% above the national median of $74,755, making it one of America's wealthiest counties. The $55,333 income advantage reflects a highly educated, affluent suburban population.

Wealthiest county in Ohio

Delaware County's median household income of $130,088 nearly doubles Ohio's state average of $68,101, dominating the statewide income rankings. Per capita income of $59,581 far surpasses the state average of $35,642.

Delaware vastly outearns regional peers

Delaware County ($130,088) earns dramatically more than nearby Fairfield ($87,069), Cuyahoga ($62,823), and all other counties in this analysis. The $43,000+ income gap from the second-highest county reflects Delaware's status as Ohio's premier affluent region.

Wealth enables strategic homeownership

Despite a median home value of $419,500, Delaware County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.2% remains manageable, reflecting the county's exceptional earning power. Households can comfortably afford premium housing while maintaining substantial discretionary income.

Delaware residents: optimize tax strategy

With median incomes of $130,088, Delaware County residents should work with financial advisors on tax-efficient investing, charitable giving strategies, and estate planning. The county's wealth opens doors to private equity, real estate portfolios, and substantial retirement contributions.

Safety in Delaware County

via CrimeByCounty

High Incident Rates Reported

Delaware County shows an unusually high total crime rate of 18,716.3 per 100,000, significantly exceeding the national average of 2,385.5. Consequently, its safety score is lower at 70.4. This data suggests a high volume of reported incidents across its 12 reporting agencies.

Delaware vs. State Averages

The county's safety score of 70.4 is well below the Ohio average of 97.8. With a total crime rate of 18,716.3, it faces much higher reporting levels than the state average of 1,412.3. Residents should be aware of these localized crime trends.

Regional Contrast in Crime

Delaware County's crime rate of 18,716.3 is vastly different from neighboring Fairfield's 2,290.2. This disparity highlights a significant concentration of reported activity within Delaware's borders. Law enforcement continues to manage these high figures across the county.

Significant Property Crime Volume

Property crime drives these high numbers, reaching a rate of 16,350.9 per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate is also elevated at 2,365.4 compared to the national average of 369.8. These figures indicate a high frequency of both property and personal safety incidents.

Essential Security for Delaware

Given the property crime rate of 16,350.9, professional security systems are highly recommended for Delaware residents. Ensuring high-quality locks and perimeter alarms can help mitigate the risk of theft. Taking proactive security measures is critical in this high-activity environment.

Health in Delaware County

via HealthByCounty

Delaware stands among America's healthiest

At 81.1 years, Delaware County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 79.1 years by a remarkable 2 years. With just 11.9% of residents in poor or fair health—well below the national 18%—the county demonstrates exceptional population health.

Ohio's clear health performance leader

Delaware's 81.1-year life expectancy towers 6.3 years above Ohio's 74.8-year state average, ranking the county among the healthiest in the state. Only 11.9% report poor or fair health, dramatically outperforming the broader state.

Outlier with superior health outcomes

Delaware's 81.1-year life expectancy far exceeds all nearby counties—Defiance (76.2 years), Fairfield (76.4 years), and others pale in comparison. The county represents an exceptional regional health outlier, suggesting distinct socioeconomic and healthcare advantages.

Excellent coverage and provider availability

Delaware's 4.0% uninsured rate ranks lowest among these eight counties, reflecting strong employment and insurance infrastructure. With 148 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Delaware offers exceptional healthcare access.

Maintain your excellent coverage

Delaware's outstanding 4.0% uninsured rate shows the power of insurance access. If your coverage has gaps, visit Healthcare.gov to explore supplemental options that protect your family's health and financial security.

Schools in Delaware County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rapidly Growing Suburban School Powerhouse

Delaware County supports 43,304 students through 57 public schools across 6 districts. The landscape is dominated by 32 elementary schools and a highly developed suburban infrastructure.

Elite Graduation Rates and High Efficiency

The county achieves a stellar 94.8% graduation rate, one of the highest in Ohio and well above the 87.0% national average. Per-pupil spending of $8,198 produces a strong composite school score of 58.6.

Olentangy and Dublin Lead Suburban Growth

Olentangy Local is the largest district, serving 23,281 students across 27 schools. Massive high schools like Orange High and Olentangy Liberty each enroll over 1,800 students to accommodate the growing population.

Large-Scale Learning in a Suburban Environment

Schools here are significantly larger than state averages, with a mean enrollment of 760 students. Most education takes place in one of the 35 suburban campuses, though 21 rural schools still serve the county's outskirts.

A Top Choice for Growing Families

Delaware County is a premier destination for families who prioritize high-performing, well-funded schools. Begin your home search today to join this thriving and successful educational community.

Disaster Risk in Delaware County

via RiskByCounty

Delaware County faces elevated disaster risk

Delaware County scores 78.75 on the composite risk scale, earning a 'Relatively Low' rating that nonetheless exceeds national averages substantially. The county's composite score reflects significant exposure across multiple natural disaster categories.

High-risk county within Ohio

At 78.75, Delaware County's risk score substantially exceeds Ohio's state average of 55.03, placing it in the upper tier of the state's most hazard-prone counties. The county's composite risk is roughly 43% above the statewide average.

Regional risk leader among peers

Delaware County (78.75) faces considerably higher disaster risk than most nearby counties, including Crawford (35.24), Defiance (41.89), and Darke (52.67). Only Fairfield County (72.61) approaches comparable risk levels among surrounding communities.

Floods and tornadoes demand preparedness

Flood risk (86.36) and tornado risk (81.52) dominate Delaware County's natural disaster profile, both scoring in the high range. Earthquake risk (66.19) ranks third among county hazards, while wildfire (26.75) and hurricane (27.28) risks remain secondary concerns.

Invest in comprehensive flood and tornado protection

Delaware County residents should prioritize flood insurance and storm-rated safe rooms, given the county's elevated flood and tornado risks. Ensure proper drainage around foundations, install storm shutters, and secure a backup generator for extended power outages following severe weather events.

Soil Quality in Delaware County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality Growing Conditions

Delaware County maintains a high soil score of 74.8 and a pH of 6.17. This pH is more alkaline than the state average of 5.97, though still below the national median of 6.5.

Fine Texture for Seedbeds

The profile is largely silt-driven at 51.8%, combined with 24.4% sand and 22.3% clay. This silt-heavy mix provides a fine, floury texture that is excellent for seed-to-soil contact in the spring.

High Water Retention Potential

Organic matter stands at 3.53%, trailing the state average but remaining well above the national 2.0% benchmark. The soil's available water capacity is quite high at 0.206 in/in, outperforming the state average.

Strong Nutrient Retention

While specific drainage classifications are not listed, the 22.3% clay content suggests the soil has a high capacity for nutrient retention. Residents should monitor for slow drainage in low-lying areas during the rainy season.

Perennials Thrive in Zone 6b

Delaware County is in hardiness zone 6b, offering a slightly milder winter than northern neighbors. The high water capacity makes this soil perfect for moisture-loving perennials and productive vegetable gardens.

Lawn Care in Delaware County

via LawnByCounty

Delaware County's Lawn Advantage

Delaware County earns a 78.8 difficulty score, making it one of the easier places in Ohio to maintain a beautiful lawn. Located in zone 6b, it offers a milder winter and a friendly environment compared to the national median of 50.0.

Favorable Central Ohio Conditions

While specific local climate averages are currently limited, the high lawn score suggests environmental factors are highly favorable for growth. The county typically follows central Ohio's moderate rainfall patterns, supporting healthy 6b turf development.

Excellent Soil pH Levels

The soil pH of 6.17 is near perfect for nutrient availability, sitting right in the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The 22.3% clay content provides necessary water retention, though limited data on drainage class means homeowners should test their specific yard.

Healthy Moisture Retention

The county is currently stable, with only 5.9% of the area being abnormally dry and just 8 weeks of drought over the last year. Maintaining a mowing height of 3 inches will help shade the soil and keep your lawn resilient during the occasional dry week.

Selecting the Right Species

Hardiness zone 6b is ideal for Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue blends that can handle a variety of weather. Monitor soil temperatures in the spring; once they reach 55 degrees, you can begin seeding for a lush, green result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Delaware County's county score?
Delaware County, Ohio has a composite county score of 38.6 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 Ohio?
Delaware County ranks #73 among all counties in Ohio 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, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Delaware County is $6,896, with an effective tax rate of 1.64%. This earns Delaware County a tax score of 8.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Delaware County?
The median household income in Delaware County, Ohio is $130,088 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Delaware County earns an income score of 99.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Delaware County, Ohio a good place to live?
Delaware County scores 38.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #73 in Ohio. 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.