countyscore
61.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Soil Quality 78.2Cost of Living 73.6

County Report Card

About Emmet County, Iowa

A Top-Performing National County

Emmet County earns an impressive 61.6 composite score, placing it far above the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a highly desirable place to live based on a wide range of livability factors.

Exceeding the Iowa Standard

The county's 61.6 score easily beats the Iowa state average of 55.6. It is one of the more balanced counties in the state, offering high value across many different dimensions.

High Affordability and Safe Streets

With a Cost Score of 73.6 and a Safety Score of 72.7, Emmet County offers a secure and inexpensive lifestyle. A median home value of $106,200 makes homeownership accessible to most residents.

Managing the Local Tax Rate

The primary challenge is a Tax Score of 13.7, which reflects an effective tax rate of 1.478%. While this is the county's lowest score, it is partially offset by the very low cost of housing.

Ideal for Young Families

Emmet County is a top choice for young families looking for safety, good schools (73.3 score), and affordable housing. It offers a high quality of life for those who want their dollar to go further.

Score breakdown

Tax13.7Cost73.6Safety72.7Health68.4Schools73.3Income55.3Risk57.3Water86Weather47
🏛13.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼55.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡72.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤68.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨78.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱71
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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Counties with similar scores

Carroll County
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Larue County
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Cook County
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Kearney County
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Sanborn County
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Henderson County
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Carroll County
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Nearby counties

Martin County
Minnesota
59.2
Palo Alto County
Iowa
62.4
Dickinson County
Iowa
59.1
Jackson County
Minnesota
72.5
Kossuth County
Iowa
66.6
Clay County
Iowa
59.7
Watonwan County
Minnesota
53.6
Osceola County
Iowa
65.3

Deep Dives

Emmet County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Emmet County

via TaxByCounty

Emmet County taxes above national average

Emmet County's effective tax rate of 1.478% runs roughly 34% higher than the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the upper quartile of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,570 falls well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting the county's modest home valuations combined with an aggressive rate structure.

Emmet County among state's higher taxers

At 1.478%, Emmet County's effective rate exceeds Iowa's state average of 1.344% by about 10 percentage points, placing it in the upper third of Iowa counties. The median tax of $1,570 trails the state median of $2,160 considerably, showing that Emmet's tax burden stems entirely from its high rate, not from property values.

Emmet County ranks high regionally

Emmet County's 1.478% rate outpaces Dickinson County (0.977%), Dubuque County (1.260%), and Delaware County (1.343%), though it sits below Davis County (1.518%), Des Moines County (1.531%), and Decatur County (1.695%). In north-central Iowa, it represents a relatively elevated tax burden.

Your annual Emmet County tax bill

On a median home valued at $106,200, Emmet County homeowners pay approximately $1,570 per year in property taxes. For those with a mortgage, the annual escrow typically reaches $1,652; those without a mortgage pay around $1,453.

Your tax bill may be too high

With Emmet County's above-average rate, overassessment can significantly impact household costs, especially on lower-valued rural properties. A formal assessment appeal is worth exploring if your property has lost value or your assessment hasn't been challenged recently.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Emmet County

via CostByCounty

Emmet County rents align with national norms

Emmet County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.5% sits comfortably below the national average of 14%, offering solid affordability despite modest local wages. With median household income of $65,181 (13% below the national median) and monthly rent of just $731, Emmet demonstrates that lower-income areas can still offer reasonable housing access.

Below-average rents and costs

Emmet County's median rent of $731 sits 10% below Iowa's state average of $812, while its 13.5% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 14.1%. The county ranks among Iowa's most affordable rental markets despite earning below-state-average incomes.

Emmet offers rural affordability advantage

Emmet's $731 rent falls between Decatur ($663) and Delaware ($743), while its median income of $65,181 outpaces Decatur ($57,146) significantly. The county delivers genuine affordability that exceeds peers like Dickinson (15.0% ratio) and Dubuque (14.9% ratio) despite lower absolute wages.

Lowest ownership costs statewide

Renters dedicate 13.5% of their $65,181 income to $731 monthly rent, while homeowners spend just 13.1% on $709 owner costs for homes valued at $106,200. Emmet County achieves Iowa's rarest combination: ownership actually costs less than renting, offering unmatched wealth-building opportunity for homebuyers.

Emmet County: rent-to-own opportunity

Moving to Emmet County unlocks a rare advantage: ownership costs ($709/month) undercut rents ($731/month), giving homebuyers an immediate financial edge. For those prioritizing wealth-building over urban amenities, Emmet's affordable ownership market represents Iowa's strongest relocation value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Emmet County

via IncomeByCounty

Emmet County moderately below national

Emmet County's median household income of $65,181 falls 13% short of the national median of $74,755, indicating economic conditions below the American average. The gap reflects agricultural and rural economic constraints typical of northwest Iowa.

Below Iowa's state average

At $65,181, Emmet County earns 7% less than Iowa's state average of $69,830, placing it in the lower-middle tier of the state's counties. The shortfall suggests limited diversified employment beyond traditional agriculture.

Mid-range among regional peers

Emmet County's $65,181 income falls between Dickinson County's $74,570 (the regional leader) and Decatur County's $57,146, showing moderate economic performance. The county maintains higher incomes than the most rural neighbors.

Housing costs well-controlled

With a rent-to-income ratio of 13.5%, Emmet County residents maintain excellent housing affordability, spending just 45% of the 30% standard threshold. The median home value of $106,200 is highly accessible at local income levels.

Use housing savings to build reserves

Emmet County's strong housing affordability frees up approximately $7,000 annually compared to national norms, providing genuine wealth-building capacity despite moderate baseline income. Direct these savings toward emergency reserves first, then automated investment plans for retirement security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Emmet County

via CrimeByCounty

High Safety Standards in Emmet

Emmet County holds a high safety score of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 652.5 per 100K is significantly lower than the national mark of 2385.5.

Exceeding Iowa's High Safety Average

The county's crime rate is nearly half the state average of 1095.3 per 100K. Its safety score of 99.0 also exceeds the Iowa statewide average of 98.3.

Quiet and Secure Northern Border

Two reporting agencies manage a low-incident environment compared to more populated neighbors. Emmet County stands as one of the most peaceful jurisdictions in its region.

Property Crime Stays Very Low

The county records 427.9 property crimes and 224.6 violent crimes per 100K. While violent crime is slightly higher than in some rural areas, overall risk remains exceptionally low.

Proactive Security Habit Building

Even in very safe areas, maintaining home security is a smart practice. Locking all entry points and using outdoor lighting ensures Emmet County remains a difficult target for crime.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Emmet County

via HealthByCounty

Emmet County faces health disadvantages

Emmet County's life expectancy of 77.0 years falls below both the national average (76.4 years)—though marginally—and Iowa's state average (77.7 years). With 16.4% of residents reporting poor or fair health, the county shows health challenges slightly below the national average of 18%.

Below-average health outcomes statewide

Emmet County's life expectancy of 77.0 years trails Iowa's state average of 77.7 years by 0.7 years, placing it among the weaker performers in Iowa. The county's 16.4% poor/fair health rate, while not the highest, still signals room for improvement.

Moderate provider access, lower longevity

Emmet County's 77.0-year life expectancy ranks below most of its neighbors except Des Moines and Decatur counties, despite having a solid 64 primary care providers per 100,000 residents. The county's 260 mental health providers per 100,000 is strong, yet the life expectancy gap suggests other barriers to health.

Uninsured rate exceeds state and regional norms

Emmet County's uninsured rate of 7.9% exceeds both the state average (5.7%) and most neighboring counties, leaving nearly 8% of residents without healthcare coverage. While the county provides 64 primary care and 260 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the uninsured population struggles to access them.

Emmet County, coverage is urgent

With 7.9% uninsured—above state average—Emmet residents need coverage now. Visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-855-336-8930 to explore plans; many are affordable with subsidies, and coverage directly improves your access to the primary and mental health providers your county offers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Emmet County

via SchoolsByCounty

Efficient and Focused Schooling

Emmet County maintains four public schools that serve 1,383 students. The county’s educational infrastructure is focused on a town-centered model with two high schools, one middle school, and one elementary school.

Leading the State in Investment

The county spends $8,370 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the Iowa average of $7,591. This investment pays off with a 93.1% graduation rate and a strong composite school score of 58.1.

Estherville Lincoln Central Hub

The Estherville Lincoln Central Community School District serves 1,189 students across three schools. No charter schools operate in the county, ensuring all students benefit from the high local per-pupil funding.

A Town-Centric Education Atmosphere

Three of the county's four schools are located in town settings, while one remains rural, with an average size of 346 students. Demoney Elementary is the largest local school, providing a central hub for 493 young learners.

Exceptional Support for Every Student

Emmet County's high per-pupil spending and graduation rates make it a standout choice for home buyers. Consider this area for a home where your children will benefit from some of the best-funded schools in the state.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Emmet County

via RiskByCounty

Emmet County: Low Risk, Northern Iowa Safety

Emmet County scores 42.75 on the composite risk scale, placing it "Very Low" and roughly aligned with Iowa's state average of 39.68. Tornado exposure at 43.19 is the county's highest individual hazard but remains below state norms, while flood (20.42), wildfire (23.82), and earthquake (5.18) risks all score as minimal. Hurricane risk data is unavailable, but other indicators suggest Emmet is among Iowa's safer counties overall.

Below-Average Risk in Iowa Landscape

Emmet County ranks in Iowa's lower half for disaster risk, with its 42.75 composite score slightly above the state average but well below high-risk counties like Dubuque and Dallas. Tornado risk at 43.19 is the only category exceeding state norms, while all other hazards score notably below average. This balanced, low-exposure profile positions Emmet among Iowa's safer counties for residents and property.

Safest Northern Iowa County Profile

Emmet County's 42.75 score exceeds neighboring Dickinson (36.32) but compares favorably to Winnebago and Palo Alto counties in northern Iowa. Emmet's tornado risk at 43.19 aligns with regional patterns, while earthquake exposure at 5.18 is exceptionally low for the state. The county's compact hazard profile makes it one of northern Iowa's safer communities.

Tornado Is Emmet's Primary Consideration

Tornado risk at 43.19 is Emmet's dominant natural disaster exposure but remains well below the state average, making standard spring preparedness sufficient. Flood risk at 20.42, wildfire at 23.82, and earthquake at 5.18 present minimal practical concerns for most residents. The county's overall low-risk profile simplifies emergency planning and insurance decision-making.

Standard Preparedness Meets Your Needs

Maintain a basic family tornado plan and monitor weather alerts during spring and early summer, but Emmet's moderate tornado risk does not demand an elaborate safe room. Standard homeowner's insurance with wind and fire coverage provides adequate protection for Emmet County's risk environment. Keep trees trimmed and gutters clear as routine maintenance, and review your policy annually with your agent.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Emmet County

via WeatherByCounty

One of the Nation's Coldest Pockets

Emmet County’s 44.7°F average annual temperature is among the lowest in the continental U.S., reflecting its high latitude and interior position. With 30.5 inches of precipitation, it is drier than the national average. This creates a climate of extremes, dominated by long, dry, and bitter winters.

The Coldest Frontier of Iowa

Emmet County is significantly colder than the state average, with its 44.7°F annual temp trailing the 48.0°F state norm by over three degrees. It is also drier than most of Iowa, recording only 30.5 inches of precipitation against the 36.1-inch average. This makes it one of the most rugged weather environments in the state.

Leading the North in Frigid Temps

Emmet County is the coldest in this dataset, even dropping below neighbor Dickinson County's 45.9°F average. It is over 6 degrees cooler annually than southern counties like Des Moines. This regional positioning makes Emmet a benchmark for cold-weather living in Iowa.

A Short Summer and Frozen Winter

Winters are harsh, with a January average of just 14.7°F and a seasonal average of 18.0°F. Summers are short and mild, with only 10 days hitting 90°F and a July average of 70.9°F. While specific snowfall totals are unavailable, the extremely low winter temperatures ensure a persistent snowpack.

Focus on Winter Survival Gear

Heating efficiency is the primary concern for Emmet County residents, as January temperatures rarely rise far above freezing. While the 10 days of heat are manageable, the three-month winter average of 18.0°F requires extreme-cold gear and home weatherization. Residents should prepare for a landscape that stays frozen for a significant portion of the year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Emmet County

via SoilByCounty

Rich, Alkaline Northern Soils

Emmet County features an average pH of 6.74, placing it well above the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.43. This slightly alkaline environment is highly favorable for nutrient availability in row crops. With a soil score of 78.2, this is some of the highest-quality agricultural land in Iowa.

A Gritty, Sandier Texture

The soil is composed of 39.7% sand, 35.2% silt, and 22.3% clay, making it sandier than many of its southern neighbors. This high sand content improves drainage and aeration, which is essential for healthy root development. The balanced clay and silt portions ensure the soil remains cohesive and fertile.

Massive Organic Wealth in the Soil

Emmet County boasts a staggering 6.62% organic matter, nearly double the state average of 3.81%. This high level of decomposed organic material acts as a massive nutrient bank for plants. Coupled with an available water capacity of 0.195 in/in, the soil provides a perfect environment for high-yield farming.

Optimized Moisture Management

The county's available water capacity perfectly matches the state average of 0.195, indicating a highly reliable moisture profile. Though specific drainage classes are not listed, the sandier texture suggests that water moves through the soil efficiently. This balance prevents the soil from becoming waterlogged during the wet Iowa spring.

A Gardener’s Paradise in Zone 5a

Even in the chilly Zone 5a, Emmet County's incredible 6.62% organic matter makes gardening easy and productive. The soil is naturally rich enough to support heavy-feeding vegetables like pumpkins, corn, and tomatoes with minimal help. Start a garden here and you will be working with some of the finest earth in the nation.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Emmet County

via LawnByCounty

Northern Resilience in Emmet County

Emmet County carries a lawn difficulty score of 71.0, the lowest in this set but still significantly better than the national median of 50.0. This Zone 5a county requires a strategic approach to handle shorter growing seasons and lower precipitation.

A Short and Crisp Growing Season

With only 2527 growing degree days and 10 heat days, the pace of growth is noticeably slower here than in southern Iowa. The 30.5 inches of annual rain is below the state average, requiring supplemental watering during dry summer weeks.

Sandy Soil with Neutral pH

The soil pH of 6.74 is nearly perfect for turf health, and the 39.7% sand content is the highest in this group. While this prevents compaction, you may need to fertilize more often as nutrients can leach through sandy soil more quickly.

Managing Dry Conditions

The county saw 7 weeks of drought last year and currently faces 100% abnormally dry conditions. Adding a thin layer of top-dressing or peat moss can help the sandy soil retain the 30.5 inches of rain the county receives.

A Brief but Bright Window

The growing season starts late with a final frost on May 2 and ends early with a first frost on October 3. Prioritize fast-germinating seeds like Perennial Ryegrass to make the most of this condensed northern Iowa summer.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Emmet County's county score?
Emmet County, Iowa has a composite county score of 61.6 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 Emmet County rank among counties in Iowa?
Emmet County ranks #25 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 Emmet County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Emmet County is $1,570, with an effective tax rate of 1.48%. This earns Emmet County a tax score of 13.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Emmet County?
The median household income in Emmet County, Iowa is $65,181 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Emmet County earns an income score of 55.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Emmet County, Iowa a good place to live?
Emmet County scores 61.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #25 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Emmet 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 Emmet 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.