countyscore
61.3
County Score
Health 97.7Income & Jobs 95.9Property Tax 86.1

County Report Card

About Dukes County, Massachusetts

Dukes County is a National Leader

A composite score of 61.3 puts Dukes County far ahead of the 50.0 national median. It ranks among the top tier of counties for overall quality of life.

Leading the Massachusetts Rankings

Dukes County significantly outperforms the state average of 48.6. It offers a unique profile of high wealth and low taxes that is rare in the Commonwealth.

Elite Wealth and Low Taxes

The county shines with a health score of 97.7 and a tax score of 86.1, thanks to a low 0.498% effective tax rate. Incomes are also high, with a median of $102,348 and an income score of 95.9.

Extreme Housing Costs

Affordability is the main challenge, with a cost score of 5.2. The median home value is a staggering $1,104,100, which limits entry for many families.

The Ultimate High-Wealth Haven

This county is best for affluent individuals seeking a low-tax environment and incredible health resources. It is ideal for those who can afford the high cost of entry to the Vineyard.

Score breakdown

Tax86.1Cost5.2Safety37Health97.7Schools83.7Income95.9Risk83.2Water86Weather68.7
🏛86.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠5.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡37
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤97.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓83.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡83.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.9
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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Nearby counties

Newport County
Rhode Island
52.2
Barnstable County
Massachusetts
58
Bristol County
Massachusetts
45
Nantucket County
Massachusetts
55.7
Bristol County
Rhode Island
58.6
Plymouth County
Massachusetts
48.7
Kent County
Rhode Island
47.2
Washington County
Rhode Island
55.9

Deep Dives

Dukes County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Dukes County

via TaxByCounty

Dukes County offers rare low-tax luxury living

Dukes County's effective tax rate of 0.498% is among the lowest in America, far below the national median of 1.1% and among the most affordable in the country. The median property—worth a remarkable $1,104,100—carries a median tax of $5,503 annually, reflecting Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket's ultrawealthy demographics. Despite high absolute taxes, the rate places wealthy Dukes homeowners in the most tax-favored quartile nationwide.

Dukes' rate is Massachusetts' lowest by far

At 0.498%, Dukes County has the single lowest effective tax rate in Massachusetts, nearly half the state average of 1.065%. The median tax of $5,503 exceeds the state median of $5,149, but only because homes average $1,104,100—nearly double the state median. Dukes represents an exclusive enclave where America's wealthy minimize property tax burden while owning some of the nation's most valuable residential real estate.

Dukes dramatically outpaces every nearby county

Dukes' 0.498% rate is less than half that of Barnstable (0.710%), the second-lowest in Massachusetts, and a fraction of inland rates like Franklin (1.514%) and Hampden (1.568%). The island counties benefit from unique tax structures that favor high-value properties and limit municipal services' scope compared to mainland regions. No other Massachusetts county comes close to Dukes' combination of ultra-low rates and ultra-high property values.

A $1.1M home costs roughly $5,503 yearly

The median Dukes property—valued at an extraordinary $1,104,100—triggers a median annual tax of $5,503, though this varies sharply between mortgaged ($4,369) and outright ownership ($6,538). Over 30 years, that amounts to roughly $165,090 in total property taxes on a property that likely appreciated many millions. Despite the high absolute tax, Dukes' ultra-low rate means homeowners pay far less tax per dollar of value than anywhere else in Massachusetts.

Even here, assessments deserve scrutiny

Even in Dukes County's exclusive real estate markets, assessment errors can occur, particularly when comparing island properties to mainland comps or overvaluing during downturns. A formal assessment appeal costs nothing and is your right, regardless of property value. Given Dukes' ultra-high home values, even a 1% assessment reduction could save thousands annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dukes County

via CostByCounty

Martha's Vineyard premium costs less to justify

Despite the nation's highest median home values at $1.1 million, Dukes County renters spend just 16.1% of their income on housing—better than the national average. This is possible because median household income ($102,348) is among the country's highest, allowing residents to absorb premium coastal costs more easily.

Most expensive homes, smartest affordability ratio

Dukes County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in Massachusetts (16.1%), despite having the state's highest median home values at $1.1 million and median rents of $1,371. This paradox reflects Dukes' wealthy resident base and strong household incomes of $102,348—the second-highest statewide.

Martha's Vineyard commands island premium

Dukes' median rent of $1,371 falls between nearby Barnstable ($1,596) and Hampshire ($1,332), but its home values of $1.1 million dwarf all other surveyed counties—more than double Barnstable's $575,900. Island exclusivity and limited housing supply drive Dukes' unparalleled property values.

Renters enjoy relative bargain, buyers invest heavily

Renters allocate just 16.1% of their $102,348 income to $1,371 monthly rent, an excellent ratio for a resort community. However, homeowners dedicate 27.9% to a $2,379 monthly payment for homes worth $1.1 million—the steepest ownership burden across all surveyed counties.

Island living for the exceptionally affluent

Dukes County is accessible only to households with exceptional incomes—the $1.1 million median home value means even 20% down payments exceed $220,000. If you're relocating to Martha's Vineyard, expect to be among the state's wealthiest residents; for most others, Berkshire or Bristol offer far better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dukes County

via IncomeByCounty

Dukes County ranks among America's richest

Dukes County's median household income of $102,348 towers 37% above the national median of $74,755, placing it in the nation's top income tier. This exceptional wealth reflects the county's status as a premier destination for affluent residents and seasonal homeowners on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.

Massachusetts's wealthiest county by far

Dukes County's $102,348 median exceeds the state average of $96,546 by 6%, ranking it first among all 14 Massachusetts counties. The county's exclusive island location and high property values create an economic environment fundamentally different from mainland Massachusetts.

Significantly outearns all comparable regions

Dukes County's $102,348 median surpasses nearest competitors Essex County ($99,431) and Barnstable County ($94,452) by substantial margins. No other Massachusetts county approaches Dukes's income levels, reflecting the unique wealth concentration on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.

High income essential amid extreme housing costs

Despite strong median income, Dukes County's median home values of $1,104,100 create genuine affordability challenges, with a 16.1% rent-to-income ratio representing compression at the top. Even above-average earners face substantial housing costs relative to most other American regions.

Preserve and grow extraordinary wealth strategically

Dukes County households earning well above national medians face sophisticated financial planning challenges, including estate planning, tax optimization, and diversification. Working with qualified advisors to structure investments, minimize taxes, and preserve family wealth across generations becomes essential at this income level.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dukes County

via CrimeByCounty

Dukes County Offers a Secure Island Environment

Dukes County reports 1,455.5 total crimes per 100K, far lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 97.7, reflecting its status as a safe haven.

Matching the Massachusetts State Average

Dukes County’s safety score of 97.7 perfectly matches the state average for Massachusetts. Its total crime rate of 1,455.5 is also nearly identical to the statewide average of 1,458.6 per 100K.

Safer than the Mainland Neighbors

The island's crime rate of 1,455.5 is slightly lower than Bristol County's 1,502.6. Local law enforcement across 7 agencies effectively manages the unique seasonal population shifts that affect the area.

Understanding the Violent Crime Spike

The county has a violent crime rate of 506.3 per 100K, which is higher than the state average of 351.1. However, the property crime rate is quite low at 949.2 compared to the national average of 2,015.7.

Protecting Your Island Property

Securing seasonal homes with remote monitoring systems is a smart move for Dukes County property owners. Simple habits like locking all entry points help maintain the island's reputation for safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Dukes County

via HealthByCounty

Dukes County's exceptional longevity

Dukes County residents live to 83.1 years on average—3.6 years above the U.S. average of 79.5, the highest of all counties studied. With 12.7% reporting poor or fair health, below the national 17.8%, Dukes demonstrates strong overall health despite geographic isolation.

Highest life expectancy statewide

Dukes County's 83.1-year life expectancy far exceeds Massachusetts' 79.7-year average, the best in the state by a wide margin. Its 12.7% poor/fair health rate ranks among the lowest statewide, reflecting an unusually healthy population.

Far healthier than nearby counties

Dukes County's 83.1-year life expectancy towers above Barnstable (79.5 years), Essex (79.7 years), and all other regions examined. The 12.7% poor/fair health rate is significantly lower than Barnstable (11.9%), suggesting Dukes' residents enjoy exceptional wellness.

Island life challenges healthcare access

Despite excellent health outcomes, Dukes County has only 47 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—among the lowest statewide. The 4.1% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 3.0%, a higher-than-expected figure for such a wealthy, healthy county.

Maintain insurance for island health

Dukes County's 4.1% uninsured rate means 410 residents likely lack coverage, a concern on an island with limited provider options. Confirm your health insurance and consider a marketplace plan if uninsured to ensure continuity of care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Dukes County

via SchoolsByCounty

Elite Island Schooling on Martha's Vineyard

Dukes County operates a specialized island education system consisting of 8 public schools and 7 districts. Despite the small scale, the system serves 2,464 students through 5 elementary schools and one central high school. This structure provides a highly localized and community-focused learning experience.

Unmatched Investment and Academic Excellence

With a staggering per-pupil expenditure of $21,423, Dukes County invests nearly double the national average in its students. This commitment results in a 92.0% graduation rate and an elite composite school score of 85.7. Residents here benefit from one of the highest-performing educational systems in the Commonwealth.

Small Districts with Individual Focus

The Martha's Vineyard Regional High School is the county's largest institution, enrolling 757 students from across the island. The unique Martha's Vineyard Charter Public School represents 12.5% of the total schools, offering a distinct choice for 181 students. Most districts, like Oak Bluffs and Edgartown, focus on a single, high-quality elementary school.

A Rural and Town-Based Island Vibe

Attending school in Dukes County feels intimate, with 5 rural and 3 town-based schools and an average size of 352 students. The environment is dominated by small PK-8 primary schools, like Tisbury Elementary with just 272 students. The regional high school serves as the central hub where the island's diverse youth come together.

Secure an Island Home with Elite Education

Dukes County offers some of the most well-funded and high-performing schools in the nation. For families considering an island lifestyle, the exceptional graduation rates and per-pupil spending are significant relocation incentives. Explore homes on Martha's Vineyard where academic excellence is a standard of living.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dukes County

via RiskByCounty

Dukes enjoys exceptional national safety standing

Dukes County's composite risk score of 16.79 places it among the safest counties in America, far below both the national average and typical disaster-prone regions. This very low rating reflects Dukes' island geography and relative isolation from mainland disaster pathways. Residents here enjoy significantly lower overall disaster exposure than most Americans.

Safest county in Massachusetts by far

Dukes County's 16.79 composite score dramatically outperforms all other Massachusetts counties and sits far below the state average of 78.84. Franklin County (60.72), the second-safest in the state, scores more than 3.5 times higher than Dukes. Island geography and distance from major hazard corridors make Dukes an exceptional outlier.

Dramatically safer than mainland counterparts

Dukes County's 16.79 score stands in stark contrast to every nearby or comparable Massachusetts county—Franklin (60.72), Hampshire (69.88), Berkshire (84.00), and Barnstable (89.09) all carry substantially higher risk. Even the state average (78.84) is nearly five times Dukes' score. Island location provides unmatched protection from tornadoes, earthquakes, and wind hazards.

Hurricane risk still registers; tornadoes rare

Despite overall safety, Dukes residents do face moderate hurricane risk (80.77), reflecting Atlantic exposure even on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket. Tornado (10.66) and earthquake (33.49) risks remain exceptionally low, and flood (55.40) and wildfire (27.86) threats are manageable. Hurricanes are your only significant hazard; most other county concerns barely register here.

Focus coverage narrowly on hurricane risk

While flood and earthquake insurance might feel unnecessary here, hurricane coverage should remain a priority given the 80.77 risk score and Atlantic exposure. Your homeowners policy should include robust wind/hurricane riders to cover storm damage. Compared to mainland counties, your insurance needs are refreshingly straightforward.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Dukes County

via WeatherByCounty

Martha’s Vineyard Maritime Trends

Dukes County features a 51.3°F average annual temperature, which is the warmest in the state but still below the national median. The island climate provides a buffered environment compared to the Massachusetts mainland.

Leading the State in Warmth

At 51.3°F, Dukes County sits 1.8 degrees above the state average of 49.5°F. This makes it the warmest county in Massachusetts, largely due to the insulating effect of the surrounding ocean.

Island vs. Mainland Comparison

Dukes County is slightly warmer than its neighbor Barnstable and much milder in winter than Bristol County. It enjoys a January average of 32.1°F, the highest among these eight counties.

Temperate Island Seasons

The island sees only 2 days of extreme heat annually, with summers averaging a cool 68.8°F. Residents experience a manageable 25.3 inches of snow per year, less than half of what falls in Essex County.

Maritime Home Planning

HVAC systems should be optimized for humidity control rather than extreme heat, as temperatures rarely hit 90°F. The 44.9 inches of annual rain require durable roofing and coastal-grade building materials.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Dukes County

via SoilByCounty

Island Soils with Acidic Character

Dukes County features an acidic soil profile with an average pH of 4.78, which sits above the state average of 3.61 but below the national median of 6.5. The county receives a soil score of 36.3, reflecting the unique challenges of its island geography. These conditions create a specialized environment that demands careful plant selection.

The Sandiest Soils in the Region

The soil is predominantly sandy at 61.6%, mixed with 19.4% silt and 4.6% clay. This high sand fraction makes for very loose, well-draining soil that is easy to dig but struggles to hold onto nutrients. It is the sandiest profile among the southern Massachusetts counties, requiring frequent fertilization.

Managing Low Water Capacity

Organic matter levels are 14.19%, which is high compared to the 2.0% national average but well below the 29.25% state benchmark. The available water capacity of 0.127 inches per inch is significantly lower than the state average of 0.184. Gardeners must focus on moisture retention strategies to keep plants hydrated in this porous earth.

High Permeability on the Vineyard

Specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not listed in the current data for the islands. The heavy sand content implies that water moves rapidly through the ground, minimizing the risk of pooling but increasing the need for irrigation. Managing this fast drainage is key to maintaining a lush landscape in the sandy island interior.

Maritime Hardiness in Zone 7b

Located in Zone 7b, Dukes County enjoys some of the mildest winters in Massachusetts. This climate, combined with sandy soil, is ideal for maritime-adapted species like bayberry and beach plum. Residents should embrace the island's unique conditions by planting drought-resistant and salt-hardy varieties.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dukes County

via LawnByCounty

Island Living with Strong Growing Potential

Dukes County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 63.9, outperforming the state average of 56.8. The maritime climate of Hardiness Zone 7b provides the mildest winters in Massachusetts, aiding in lawn survival. Despite the island setting, maintaining a green space is easier here than in many mainland counties.

Mild Island Air and Moderate Rain

An annual precipitation of 44.9 inches provides a solid foundation for turf without the risk of frequent flooding. With only 2 extreme heat days and 2,654 growing degree days, the grass avoids the scorching temperatures found further inland. This stability allows for a consistent, albeit long, growing season.

Managing Sandy Island Soils

The soil is heavily sandy at 61.6%, which promotes excellent drainage but makes nutrient retention difficult. A low pH of 4.78 indicates that the soil is quite acidic and requires lime to reach the 6.0 ideal. Adding organic compost can help the 4.6% clay content hold onto moisture and fertilizer.

Short-Term Dryness on the Vineyard

Dukes County experienced only 9 weeks of drought in the past year, though 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Because of the high sand content, the soil dries out faster than mainland loams during these dry periods. Drip irrigation and drought-tolerant grass varieties are vital for conserving island water resources.

Planting for the 7b Zone

Fine fescues are ideal for the Vineyard because they handle the sandy soil and maritime winds with ease. Wait for the last frost on May 7 before starting spring projects to ensure success. The long autumn allows for growth well into the season until the November 3 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dukes County's county score?
Dukes County, Massachusetts has a composite county score of 61.3 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 Dukes County rank among counties in Massachusetts?
Dukes County ranks #1 among all counties in Massachusetts 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 Dukes County, Massachusetts?
The median annual property tax in Dukes County is $5,503, with an effective tax rate of 0.50%. This earns Dukes County a tax score of 86.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dukes County?
The median household income in Dukes County, Massachusetts is $102,348 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dukes County earns an income score of 95.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dukes County, Massachusetts a good place to live?
Dukes County scores 61.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Massachusetts. The best way to evaluate Dukes 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 Dukes County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.