countyscore
39
County Score
Property Tax 75.5Weather & Climate 64.2Cost of Living 61.5

County Report Card

About Delaware County, Oklahoma

Lower Livability Compared to National Levels

Delaware County scores 39.1 overall, falling notably below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a rural landscape with limited infrastructure and healthcare resources.

Falling Behind the Oklahoma Average

With a score of 39.1, the county sits below the state average of 43.0. It ranks as a more affordable but less serviced option compared to Oklahoma's higher-scoring regions.

Exceptional Tax and Cost Scores

A Tax Score of 75.5 is driven by a low effective rate of 0.589%, making it one of the more tax-friendly areas in the state. Housing is also accessible, with a Cost Score of 61.5 and home values averaging $164,900.

Infrastructure and Health Risks

The county struggles with water quality (10.4) and healthcare access (15.6). Environmental and economic risk also weighs heavily on the profile, with a Risk Score of only 17.3.

Suited for Those Prioritizing Low Taxes

Delaware County is best for people who prioritize low property taxes and affordable homeownership above all else. It is less suitable for those requiring frequent access to medical specialists or high-quality water infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax75.5Cost61.5Safety24.2Health15.6Schools27Income25.2Risk17.3Water10.4Weather64.2
🏛75.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠61.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡24.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤15.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓27
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡17.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧10.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤64.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨42.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱44.6
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

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44.7
Mayes County
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Craig County
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Benton County
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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 rank below average

Delaware County's effective rate of 0.589% falls well below the national median of 0.73%, placing it in the lowest 30% of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $971 is 64% lower than the national median of $2,690.

Among Oklahoma's lowest-tax counties

Delaware County's 0.589% rate ranks in Oklahoma's bottom quartile, roughly 10% below the state average of 0.652%. The median tax bill of $971 is just above the state median of $959.

Lower taxes than most of northeast Oklahoma

Delaware County's 0.589% rate is competitive with nearby Craig County (0.583%) and lower than Cotton County (0.629%). The county offers one of the region's most affordable property tax environments.

Median home taxed at $971 yearly

A homeowner with the median-valued property of $164,900 pays approximately $971 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill increases to $1,316.

Double-check your property valuation

Delaware County homeowners should ensure their assessed values reflect actual market conditions. Contact the assessor to request a review if you believe your home is overvalued relative to recent sales in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Delaware County

via CostByCounty

Delaware County rents strain household budgets

Delaware County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio approaches the threshold where housing affordability becomes a concern, particularly for residents with lower incomes. Renters earning $55,114 median income allocate nearly one-fifth of their earnings to a median rent of $868 monthly.

Above-average pressure on Delaware renters

Delaware County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's 17.0% state average, placing it among the less affordable counties for renters across the state. This gap suggests local rents have outpaced wage growth, creating affordability challenges relative to other Oklahoma communities.

Higher rents, mixed affordability advantage

Delaware County's $868 rent ranks high among the eight counties, second only to Creek County's $910, yet its 18.9% rent-to-income burden is lower than Craig County's 19.8%. The difference reflects Delaware's slightly higher median income helping offset elevated rents.

Renters carry more than homeowners

Delaware County renters bear an 18.9% housing burden with median rent of $868, while homeowners commit just 14.3% to a median monthly cost of $656. This stark difference makes homeownership significantly more accessible for those able to qualify, though lower median income may limit buyer pool.

Delaware County demands homeownership planning

For job seekers considering Delaware County, prioritize homeownership as the path to affordability—monthly mortgage costs are $212 cheaper than rents despite a $164,900 median home value. If renting, budget carefully: at $868 monthly, housing will consume nearly a fifth of household income.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Delaware County

via IncomeByCounty

Delaware County earnings lag national norms

Delaware County's median household income of $55,114 is about $19,600 below the national median of $74,755, representing a 26% gap. This is a significant shortfall shared by many rural Oklahoma counties.

Below Oklahoma's state median

Delaware County's median income of $55,114 falls approximately $3,200 short of Oklahoma's state average of $58,273. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of state earnings.

Lowest per capita income in peer group

Delaware County's $55,114 median household income exceeds Craig County ($50,182) but lags Cotton County, Custer County, and Ellis County. However, Delaware County's per capita income of $35,376 is the highest in this regional comparison, suggesting income distribution differences.

Housing takes a larger share here

Delaware County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% approaches affordability concerns, with median home values of $164,900 requiring careful budgeting. Households allocate nearly one-fifth of earnings to housing costs.

Prioritize emergency savings in Delaware County

Delaware County residents should focus first on building 3-6 months of emergency reserves given tighter housing cost pressures. Once that foundation is solid, employer retirement plans and automatic payroll deductions make long-term investing achievable.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Delaware County

via CrimeByCounty

Delaware County Outpaces National Security Trends

With a crime rate of 1,890.2 per 100,000, Delaware County is safer than the average U.S. community at 2,385.5. The county earns a solid safety score of 97.0.

Safety Scores Surpass the Oklahoma Average

Delaware County’s 97.0 safety score exceeds the Oklahoma state average of 95.8. Seven reporting agencies contribute to a clear picture of a county that prioritizes public safety.

Regional Safety Leader in Oklahoma

Delaware County is notably safer than Garfield County, which has a crime rate of 2,902.9. Its rates are also lower than the Oklahoma state average of 2,647.7 per 100,000.

Crime Metrics in Delaware County

The property crime rate of 1,630.3 is well below the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime stays low at 259.9 per 100,000, indicating a generally peaceful local environment.

Enhance Your Home's Security Profile

Take advantage of Delaware County's safe atmosphere by reinforcing your home's defenses. Good outdoor lighting and modern locking mechanisms are effective deterrents against property crimes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Delaware County

via HealthByCounty

Delaware County's Health Lags Nationally

Delaware County residents live 72.5 years on average—3.5 years below the U.S. life expectancy of 76—and face higher disease burden. With 24.4% reporting poor or fair health, the county exceeds the national average of 18%, indicating significant chronic health challenges.

Delaware Struggles in Oklahoma

Delaware County's 72.5-year life expectancy sits slightly below Oklahoma's state average of 72.7 years, and its 24.4% poor/fair health rate ranks among the state's worst. The county's health outcomes place it in Oklahoma's lower-performing tier.

Delaware Among Poorest Health Outcomes

Delaware County's 24.4% poor/fair health rate ranks second-worst among comparable counties—only behind Craig County (27.3%)—while its 72.5-year life expectancy trails Dewey (73.0) and Ellis (72.8) counties. The data reveals significant health disparities in this region.

Highest Uninsured Rate in the Region

Delaware County's 17.5% uninsured rate—the highest among comparable counties—directly correlates with its poor health outcomes. The county has 39 primary care providers and 211 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, but uninsured residents struggle to access them.

Uninsured? Get Coverage Now

Nearly 1 in 6 Delaware County residents lacks health insurance, the highest rate in the region and a barrier to care. Visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to explore Medicaid expansion, marketplace plans, or free/low-cost community health services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Delaware County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Broad Network of Rural Schools

Delaware County features 19 public schools across nine districts, providing education for 6,406 total students. The system is built around nine elementary schools, five middle schools, and five high schools.

Graduation Trends and State Spending

The county's graduation rate stands at 82.5%, slightly below the Oklahoma state average of 84.3%. Per-pupil expenditure of $6,982 is higher than the state average of $6,520 but remains below the $13,000 national standard.

Grove and Jay Lead the Way

The Grove district is the largest in the county with 2,528 students, followed by the Jay district with 1,595. Traditional public schools make up the entire educational landscape, as no charter schools operate here.

Predominantly Rural Learning Spaces

Rural schools dominate the landscape, accounting for 16 of the 19 campuses in the county. Grove Lower Elementary is the largest individual school with 848 students, while average school size across the county is 337.

Finding Your Home Near Grove Schools

Families seeking a blend of rural charm and solid school districts will find Delaware County to be an ideal fit. Consider homes in the Grove or Jay districts to be part of the county's most established educational communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Delaware County

via RiskByCounty

Delaware County faces elevated national disaster risk

Delaware County's composite risk score of 82.67 and "Relatively Moderate" rating place it substantially above the national average for natural disaster exposure. Your county experiences significantly more combined hazard threat than most U.S. counties. This elevated position reflects serious vulnerabilities across multiple disaster types that demand comprehensive preparedness.

Among Oklahoma's most hazardous counties

Delaware County's 82.67 composite score ranks it among the highest-risk counties in Oklahoma, far exceeding the state average of 55.47. Only Creek County (83.24) and Garfield County (82.09) present comparable or slightly higher overall risk. Delaware County sits in Oklahoma's tier of most-hazardous counties.

Highest-risk county in this region

Delaware County's 82.67 score significantly exceeds Craig County (55.50), Custer County (62.02), and Garfield County (82.09)—making it the most hazard-prone area in its immediate region. Only Creek County to the west approaches Delaware's risk level. This concentration of multiple hazards makes Delaware a standout example of Oklahoma's most vulnerable counties.

Floods, tornadoes, wildfires, and earthquakes all major threats

Delaware County faces a rare convergence of multiple major hazards: flood risk (86.45), tornado risk (86.96), and wildfire risk (90.81) all exceed 85. Earthquake risk (60.46) and hurricane risk (44.64) compound the vulnerability. This four-hazard profile makes Delaware County one of the most multi-threat counties in Oklahoma.

Comprehensive coverage is not optional here

Delaware County residents need standard homeowners insurance, plus separate policies for flood and wildfire damage—a three-layer protection strategy essential for this high-risk county. Consider reinforcing your home's tornado resistance, maintaining flood-zone awareness, and clearing defensible space against wildfire. Meeting with a local insurance agent to review your complete coverage is the most important step you can take.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Delaware County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Warmth and Heavy Rain

Delaware County averages 59.1°F annually, staying warmer than the national median. It is significantly wetter than most U.S. counties, receiving 49.5 inches of rain.

The Rain Capital of Oklahoma

The county is one of the wettest in the state, exceeding the Oklahoma average precipitation by over 12 inches. It is slightly cooler than the 60.4°F state mean.

Wetter and Milder Than Central Oklahoma

Delaware County experiences far more rainfall than its neighbors to the west. Its summer heat is also less frequent, with only 49 extreme heat days.

Mild Summers and Wet Winters

Summer averages stay under 80°F, providing a break from the more intense Oklahoma heat. While annual snowfall data is currently unavailable, the 37.3°F January suggests chilly winters.

Invest in Rain and Mold Prevention

With nearly 50 inches of annual rain, moisture control and gutter maintenance are critical. Outdoor planning is easier here than in hotter counties with fewer extreme heat days.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Delaware County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Soils in Delaware County

Delaware County has highly acidic soil with a pH of 5.21, well below the national median of 6.5. This low pH presents challenges for traditional crops but is perfect for acid-loving plants like blueberries.

Silty Texture Requires Careful Management

The soil consists of 24.0% sand, 45.5% silt, and 16.1% clay. This silty texture provides a smooth feel and decent workability, though it requires careful management to avoid surface erosion during storms.

Massive Organic Matter Boosts Growth

This county features a remarkable 5.83% organic matter, nearly triple the national average of 2.0%. This high fertility is complemented by an available water capacity of 0.150 in/in, which is better than the state average.

Subaqueous Drainage Challenges

The dominant drainage class is listed as subaqueous, indicating soils that are frequently saturated. This unique hydrology suggests that specialized wetland gardening or intensive drainage management is necessary for success.

Forest-Style Gardening in Zone 7a

Situated in Zone 7a, the county offers a robust environment for perennial shrubs and forest-style gardening. The high organic content makes this a powerhouse for growers who can manage the acidic conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Delaware County

via LawnByCounty

High Rainfall Meets Low Soil pH

Delaware County scores 44.6 for lawn difficulty, reflecting a challenging environment for traditional turf. While it sits in the temperate Zone 7a, unique soil conditions require more attention than the national average.

Abundant Rain but Mild Summer Heat

The county receives a generous 49.5 inches of rain per year, the highest among its neighbors. With only 49 extreme heat days, the primary challenge is managing moisture and potential fungal issues rather than heat stress.

Acidic Soil Requires Significant Amending

A soil pH of 5.21 is very acidic and will likely stunt the growth of most standard lawn grasses. You will need to apply lime to bring the pH closer to the 6.0-7.0 range for a healthy, green lawn.

Full County Coverage of Severe Drought

Despite high annual rainfall, 100% of the county is currently in severe drought. Over the last year, the region has seen 15 weeks of drought, proving that even wet climates need a backup irrigation plan.

Best Grasses for the Ozark Foothills

Tall fescue loves the high rainfall of Delaware County and handles the Zone 7a winters well. Prepare your site for seeding after the last frost on April 16 to ensure your new grass survives early spring dips.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Delaware County's county score?
Delaware County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 39 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 Oklahoma?
Delaware County ranks #54 among all counties in Oklahoma 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, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Delaware County is $971, with an effective tax rate of 0.59%. This earns Delaware County a tax score of 75.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Delaware County?
The median household income in Delaware County, Oklahoma is $55,114 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Delaware County earns an income score of 25.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Delaware County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Delaware County scores 39/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in Oklahoma. 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.