countyscore
45.4
County Score
Health 83.3Income & Jobs 78.4Lawn Care 72

County Report Card

About Dubuque County, Iowa

Slightly Below the National Median

Dubuque County scores a 45.4, placing it just under the national median of 50.0. While it performs well in personal health and income, other factors like cost and safety limit its national standing.

Falling Short of the State Average

The county's score of 45.4 is lower than the Iowa state average of 55.6. High housing costs and environmental risk factors contribute to this lower-than-average state ranking.

Robust Health and Incomes

Dubuque County shines with a Health Score of 83.3 and an Income Score of 78.4. Residents benefit from a solid median household income of $75,919 and excellent access to medical facilities.

Cost of Living and Safety

A low Cost Score of 28.2 reflects high median home values of $226,100, while a Safety Score of 33.0 is a point of concern. These metrics suggest that affordability and public safety are the primary areas for local growth.

Best for Health-Focused Professionals

This county is a strong fit for professionals who value high income and healthcare but are willing to pay a premium for housing. It offers a urban-rural mix that appeals to those looking for career stability.

Score breakdown

Tax22.8Cost28.2Safety33Health83.3Schools55.1Income78.4Risk36.4Water67.1Weather51.7
🏛22.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠28.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼78.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡33
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓55.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡36.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72
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

Jo Daviess County
Illinois
60.8
Grant County
Wisconsin
49.2
Jackson County
Iowa
55.6
Jones County
Iowa
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Clayton County
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Delaware County
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Lafayette County
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Carroll County
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Deep Dives

Dubuque County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Dubuque County

via TaxByCounty

Dubuque County taxes slightly below average

Dubuque County's effective tax rate of 1.260% sits just above the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the moderate range nationally. The median property tax of $2,848 exceeds the national median of $2,690 by about 5.9%, reflecting above-average home values in this regional hub.

Below-average taxation within Iowa

At 1.260%, Dubuque County's effective rate runs 6.2% below Iowa's state average of 1.344%, making it one of the state's more tax-friendly counties. The median tax of $2,848 outpaces the state median of $2,160 by 31.8%, driven by Dubuque's higher home valuations rather than aggressive rates.

Dubuque County offers competitive rates

At 1.260%, Dubuque County's rate trails only Dickinson County (0.977%) among regional peers, staying well below Delaware County (1.343%), Des Moines County (1.531%), and Decatur County (1.695%). This positions Dubuque as a relatively affordable option for property owners in northeast Iowa.

Your annual Dubuque County tax bill

On a median home valued at $226,100, Dubuque County homeowners pay approximately $2,848 per year in property taxes. For those with a mortgage, the annual escrow typically reaches $2,821; those without a mortgage pay around $2,917.

Your tax bill may be too high

Despite Dubuque's moderate rate, overassessment still occurs, particularly in a market where values fluctuate seasonally around the lakes. A professional assessment review could identify savings opportunities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dubuque County

via CostByCounty

Dubuque County mirrors national rent burden

At 14.9%, Dubuque County's rent-to-income ratio sits just slightly above the national average of 14%, indicating relatively typical U.S. housing affordability pressure. The median household income of $75,919 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, while monthly rent of $944 reflects the county's position as Iowa's largest riverside metro.

Above-average costs, average incomes

Dubuque County's median rent of $944 exceeds Iowa's state average of $812 by 16%, while its 14.9% rent-to-income ratio slightly surpasses the state average of 14.1%. The county's housing market is moderately expensive by state standards, driven by its regional economic hub status.

Dubuque pricier but income-balanced

Dubuque's $944 rent sits between Dickinson ($930) and Dallas ($1,239), while its median income of $75,919 trails Dallas ($102,349) but exceeds most rural peers like Decatur ($57,146) and Des Moines ($60,662). The county balances higher housing costs with adequate earning potential.

Balanced housing across tenure types

Renters spend 14.9% of their $75,919 income on $944 monthly rent, while homeowners dedicate 18.0% to $1,141 owner costs for $226,100 properties. Dubuque presents reasonably balanced affordability across both rental and ownership markets, though homeownership requires greater income commitment.

Dubuque balances cost and opportunity

Relocating to Dubuque County offers Iowa's second-largest metro area with moderate affordability: rents run 16% above state average but incomes are sufficient to support both renting and homeownership. For those seeking small-city amenities without extreme housing strain, Dubuque rewards the move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dubuque County

via IncomeByCounty

Dubuque County matches national income

Dubuque County's median household income of $75,919 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 2%, placing the county in line with typical American earning patterns. This solid performance reflects a diversified regional economy anchored by healthcare and manufacturing.

Consistent above-state performance

At $75,919, Dubuque County outperforms Iowa's state average of $69,830 by 9%, ranking among the state's most economically healthy counties. The strength attracts in-migration and supports regional stability.

Part of strong northeast cluster

Dubuque County's $75,919 income clusters tightly with Dickinson County ($74,570) and Delaware County ($76,205), indicating consistent regional prosperity. The near-parity suggests similar labor market dynamics across northeast Iowa.

Reasonable housing-to-income ratio

At 14.9%, Dubuque County's rent-to-income ratio remains well below the 30% affordability standard, providing residents substantial discretionary income. The median home value of $226,100 is achievable without overextending household budgets.

Invest surplus income for security

Dubuque County residents with income surplus beyond housing can allocate funds toward diversified investments, particularly through employer retirement plans and IRAs. The county's economic stability provides an opportunity to build multi-decade wealth through consistent, discipline-based saving.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dubuque County

via CrimeByCounty

Safer Than National Averages

Dubuque County maintains a solid safety score of 97.5. Its total crime rate of 1571.7 per 100K is well below the national average of 2385.5.

Urban Safety in Dubuque

The county's crime rate is slightly higher than the Iowa average of 1095.3 per 100K. This reflects its status as a major regional population hub with more urban activity.

Comparing Dubuque to River Peers

Four reporting agencies manage a crime rate that is higher than neighboring rural Delaware County but typical for its size. It remains a safer alternative to many other Midwestern metropolitan areas.

Theft is the Most Common Issue

The local rate includes 1259.0 property crimes and 312.7 violent crimes per 100K residents. Most police activity focuses on property disputes rather than physical violence.

Smart Security for Urban Homes

Residents should focus on securing valuables and keeping outdoor areas well-lit. Motion sensors and doorbell cameras are effective at preventing the most common local property crimes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Dubuque County

via HealthByCounty

Dubuque County meets national health standards

Dubuque County's life expectancy of 78.7 years exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years by about 2.3 years, and its 16.7% poor/fair health rate is slightly better than the national average of 18%. These metrics position Dubuque as a solid performer on the national stage.

Above-average health by Iowa standards

At 78.7 years, Dubuque County's life expectancy exceeds Iowa's state average of 77.7 years by exactly 1 year, placing it among the state's healthier counties. The favorable poor/fair health rate of 16.7% further supports Dubuque's above-average standing.

Strong provider access and solid outcomes

Dubuque County's 78.7-year life expectancy ranks in the middle-to-upper range of these eight counties, supported by 77 primary care providers and 201 mental health providers per 100,000 residents. This robust provider infrastructure enables residents to pursue preventive and specialty care consistently.

Low uninsured rate with strong healthcare reach

Dubuque County's uninsured rate of 4.6% is among the lowest—well below the state average of 5.7%—ensuring broad insurance access. Combined with 77 primary care and 201 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, nearly all Dubuque residents can find and reach a doctor.

Dubuque County, keep your coverage current

With an uninsured rate of just 4.6%, Dubuque residents are largely protected by health coverage. If you're uninsured, don't delay—visit Healthcare.gov or Iowa's marketplace to find an affordable plan and join the county's healthy majority.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Dubuque County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large and Diverse Urban Network

Dubuque County manages 25 public schools serving 13,319 students across just two large districts. This infrastructure includes 16 elementary schools and five high schools to accommodate its significant population.

Strong Investment and Competitive Results

With $8,024 spent per pupil, Dubuque County invests more than the state average of $7,591. The graduation rate of 89.4% exceeds the national average, though it remains slightly behind the Iowa state benchmark.

The Dominance of Dubuque Community Schools

The Dubuque Community School District oversees 18 schools and 10,024 students, making it one of the largest in the region. No charter schools exist here, keeping the focus entirely on the two major public districts.

A Mix of City and Country

The county features 17 city-based schools and eight rural ones, with a relatively large average school size of 533 students. Hempstead High School is the county's largest campus, serving ,1584 students in an urban environment.

Urban Living Near Major Schools

Families seeking an urban school experience with high per-pupil funding will find Dubuque County an excellent fit. Look for homes in the city of Dubuque to be near the county's most diverse and largest educational centers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dubuque County

via RiskByCounty

Dubuque County: Iowa's Highest-Risk County

Dubuque County scores 63.58 on the composite risk scale, earning a "Relatively Low" rating but ranking as Iowa's highest-risk county and substantially above the state average of 39.68. Tornado exposure at 84.03 is among the nation's most severe, while flood risk at 65.36 reflects the county's Mississippi River location. This dual-hazard concentration creates an exceptionally challenging natural disaster environment.

Highest Overall Risk in All of Iowa

Dubuque County consistently ranks as Iowa's most disaster-prone county, with a 63.58 composite score significantly exceeding all peers. Tornado risk at 84.03 matches the state's most extreme exposure, while flood risk at 65.36 ranks third statewide, creating a formidable combination. No other Iowa county concentrates such extreme hazard exposure across two major disaster categories.

Significantly More Vulnerable Than Region

Dubuque County's 63.58 score dramatically exceeds neighboring Delaware (49.75), Jackson, and Grant counties, establishing Dubuque as the northeastern Iowa danger zone. The county's tornado risk at 84.03 matches Dallas County as the state's joint-highest, while its flood score (65.36) surpasses all neighbors. Residents of Dubuque face substantially elevated disaster risk compared to the immediate surrounding region.

Extreme Tornado and Flood Exposure

Tornado risk at 84.03 is among the nation's highest, requiring comprehensive family preparedness including a reinforced safe room and weather alert system. Flood risk at 65.36 reflects the county's proximity to the Mississippi River and tributary networks, creating seasonal inundation hazards affecting many properties. Earthquake (31.14) and wildfire (22.81) risks are comparatively minimal but warrant standard precautions.

Dual Focus: Tornado Shelters and Flood Insurance

Install or designate a basement safe room with reinforced walls and stock emergency supplies; this is essential, not optional, in Dubuque County. Secure flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) immediately if in a flood zone—standard policies exclude flood damage entirely. Meet with a structural engineer about your home's tornado resilience and earthquake preparedness, and review insurance annually with your agent.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Dubuque County

via WeatherByCounty

Mississippi River Valley Climate

Dubuque County’s 47.8°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median, typical for its latitude along the Mississippi River. The county is quite moist, receiving 38.8 inches of precipitation annually. This creates a lush landscape with dramatic seasonal changes and frequent winter weather.

Mirroring the State Average

Dubuque County sits almost exactly at the Iowa state average for temperature, averaging 47.8°F compared to the state's 48.0°F. It is wetter than average, however, receiving nearly 3 inches more precipitation than the 36.1-inch state norm. This makes it a prototypical but damp example of the Iowa climate.

The Most Moderate in the North

Dubuque is notably warmer than its western neighbor Delaware County (46.3°F) and far more temperate than Dickinson County (45.9°F). Its location along the river helps moderate temperatures compared to the more exposed plains of northwest Iowa. It offers a balanced climate within the colder northern half of the state.

Heavy Snow and Mild Heat

Winter is active in Dubuque, delivering 36.6 inches of snow and a January average of 19.0°F. Summers are relatively mild for the region, with only 12 days exceeding 90°F and a 72.9°F July average. The winter season average remains cold at 22.3°F, requiring consistent heating for several months.

Prepare for Snowy River Bluffs

The 36.6 inches of snowfall requires robust snow tires and reliable plowing service for those navigating the county's hilly terrain. Residents should also invest in moisture control for homes due to the high 38.8-inch precipitation levels. Winter heating bills will be a significant factor given the sub-20-degree January averages.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Dubuque County

via SoilByCounty

Entisols of the Driftless Area

Dubuque County is home to Entisols, which are young soils often found on steep or shifting landscapes. The average pH of 6.38 is very close to the Iowa state average of 6.43, providing a familiar chemical environment for local farmers. Its soil score of 71.4 sits just slightly below the state average of 72.9.

Loamy Fine Sand and High Silt

The dominant texture is loamy fine sand, though the overall county average is 52.5% silt and 27.5% sand. This mixture creates a unique physical profile that is easy to till but requires careful management to prevent erosion. The 19.3% clay content is relatively low, making the soil feel lighter and more porous.

Superior Water Capacity for Growing

Despite a lower organic matter content of 2.55%, Dubuque County features an impressive available water capacity of 0.197 in/in. This exceeds the state average of 0.195, meaning the soil is excellent at storing water for plant use. This trait is vital for maintaining productivity in the county's diverse topography.

Excessively Drained for Fast Drying

Classified as 'excessively drained' and part of Hydrologic Group A, this soil sheds water very quickly. While this prevents root rot, it also means plants may need more frequent watering during dry spells. These drainage characteristics are typical for the rugged, unglaciated terrain found in this part of the state.

Elevated Gardening in Zone 5a

In Zone 5a, Dubuque's fast-draining soils are ideal for plants that hate 'wet feet,' such as lavender or Mediterranean herbs. The high water capacity ensures that once you water, the soil holds that moisture deep where roots need it. Use the natural slopes of the county to create a stunning, well-drained terraced garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dubuque County

via LawnByCounty

Sandy Terrain in Dubuque

Dubuque County scores a 72.0 on the difficulty scale, making it slightly tougher than the state average but much easier than the national norm. Homeowners in this Zone 5a region must account for unique soil drainage and significant drought history.

Consistent Rain and Mild Heat

The county sees 38.8 inches of rain annually, well above the state average, and faces only 12 extreme heat days. These moderate temperatures and 2906 growing degree days create a pleasant environment for cool-season grasses to stay green.

Fast-Draining Loamy Fine Sand

Unlike most of Iowa, Dubuque features excessively drained loamy fine sand. While the 6.38 pH is ideal, the sandy texture means the soil does not hold water well, so your lawn may require more frequent watering than neighbors to the west.

Recovering from Significant Drought

With 31 weeks of drought over the past year, Dubuque has been the hardest hit in this group. Since 100% of the area is still abnormally dry, homeowners should use organic compost to improve the water-holding capacity of the sandy soil.

Target the Late April Window

Plan to seed after the last frost on April 28 to give your lawn a strong start. Because the sand drains quickly, ensure consistent moisture during the establishment phase before the first fall frost on October 11.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dubuque County's county score?
Dubuque County, Iowa has a composite county score of 45.4 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 Dubuque County rank among counties in Iowa?
Dubuque County ranks #82 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 Dubuque County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Dubuque County is $2,848, with an effective tax rate of 1.26%. This earns Dubuque County a tax score of 22.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dubuque County?
The median household income in Dubuque County, Iowa is $75,919 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dubuque County earns an income score of 78.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dubuque County, Iowa a good place to live?
Dubuque County scores 45.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #82 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Dubuque 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 Dubuque 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.