countyscore
59.1
County Score
Safety 89.2Health 86.2Schools 80.5

County Report Card

About Essex County, New York

A National Leader in Livability

Essex County earns a composite score of 59.1, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the top-tier counties for quality of life in the United States.

Bests the New York Average

With a score of 59.1, Essex County is a standout performer compared to the New York state average of 47.0. It provides a superior balance of safety and education for the region.

Elite Safety and Educational Standards

The county dominates with a safety score of 89.2 and a school score of 80.5. These figures make it one of the most attractive locations in the state for raising a family.

Moderate Infrastructure and Risk Concerns

The water score of 34.9 and risk score of 37.4 highlight areas where the county could improve. Maintaining infrastructure in the rugged Adirondack terrain remains a persistent challenge.

The Gold Standard for Families

Essex County is the premier choice for families seeking safety and top-notch schools. With median rents at $890, it offers an exceptionally high quality of life at a manageable cost.

Score breakdown

Tax10.5Cost36.2Safety89.2Health86.2Schools80.5Income67Risk37.4Water34.9Weather50.5
🏛10.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠36.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡89.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤86.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓80.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡37.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧34.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.3
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

Addison County
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53.8
Chittenden County
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36.9
Clinton County
New York
51.9
Warren County
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Franklin County
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Deep Dives

Essex County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Essex County

via TaxByCounty

Essex has second-lowest rate regionally

Essex County's effective tax rate of 1.556% exceeds the national median effective rate of roughly 0.71%, yet its median property tax of $3,111 is just above the national median of $2,690. This reflects Essex's rural character with home values near the national average at $200,000.

Essex rate well below state average

Essex County's effective rate of 1.556% is notably lower than New York's state average of 2.046%, and its median property tax of $3,111 is substantially below the state average of $4,709. Essex offers one of the more favorable tax profiles in New York.

Essex matches Columbia's low rate

Essex County's effective rate of 1.556% is nearly identical to Columbia County's 1.548%, making both the lowest in this regional group. Essex's median tax of $3,111 is lower than Columbia's $4,795, reflecting the Adirondack county's more modest home values.

Essex homeowners pay $3,111 tax

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $200,000 in Essex County pays an estimated $3,111 in annual property taxes, or about $260 per month. With mortgage escrow, the total typically reaches approximately $3,789.

Low rates don't guarantee fair value

Even with Essex County's favorable tax rate, homeowners should confirm their properties are assessed at fair market value—errors happen regardless of overall county rates. Requesting an assessment review from your local assessor is free and could protect your property investment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Essex County

via CostByCounty

Essex County excels at rent affordability

Essex County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% ranks among the nation's most affordable, with median rent at just $890 monthly. Despite household incomes of $70,215 running below the national average, housing costs scale remarkably low.

Most affordable county in survey

At 15.2%, Essex's rent-to-income ratio beats every other county in this analysis and significantly outpaces New York's 17.6% average. Median rents of $890 rank among the lowest statewide, making Essex genuine value territory.

Regional affordability champion

Essex's $890 rent sits just above Chenango at $819 but remains $21–$60 cheaper than most neighboring upstate counties. Median home values of $200,000 keep ownership accessible without premium pricing.

Exceptional affordability across household types

With incomes of $70,215, Essex renters paying $890 dedicate just 15.2% of income to housing—the lowest ratio in this group. Homeowners face $1,024 monthly, or 17.5% of income, maintaining affordability for both renters and buyers.

Adirondack living at unbeatable prices

Essex combines Adirondack beauty with New York's best rent affordability, making it ideal for nature lovers with modest incomes. At 15.2%, Essex's rent-to-income ratio is hard to beat anywhere in the state—if Adirondack living appeals, this county delivers.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Essex County

via IncomeByCounty

Essex keeps close to the nation

Essex County's median household income of $70,215 falls 6.1% below the national median of $74,755, placing it just slightly below the American average. This modest gap reflects a North Country economy with steady tourism, forestry, and public-sector employment.

Slightly below New York's average

At $70,215, Essex trails New York State's $76,433 average by $6,218, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of the state's 62 counties. The county's rural character and reliance on seasonal tourism and government jobs create moderate but stable household incomes.

Competitive with northern tier

Essex's $70,215 sits between neighboring Clinton ($69,208) and falls behind Columbia ($83,619) to the south, placing it squarely in the North Country income band. The region's shared reliance on Lake Champlain tourism and public employment keeps wages relatively aligned.

Best rent affordability in the region

Essex boasts the region's lowest rent-to-income ratio at 15.2%, well below the national 30% benchmark, and a median home value of $200,000. This exceptional housing affordability means households in Essex stretch their $70,215 income further than counterparts elsewhere.

Save aggressively while costs stay low

With $70,215 in median income and just 15.2% going to rent, Essex residents have genuine room to build wealth—the nation's best affordability ratio in this cohort. Automate 15–20% of your income into savings and investments while this advantage holds.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Essex County

via CrimeByCounty

Essex County: A National Safety Leader

Essex County is incredibly safe, boasting a near-perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 225.1 per 100K is 90% lower than the national average.

Setting the State Standard

With a crime rate of only 225.1, Essex is far safer than the New York state average of 1,074.4. Its 99.6 safety score makes it one of the most secure counties in the Empire State.

Unmatched Security in the Adirondacks

Essex County is significantly safer than neighboring Clinton County, which is itself very secure. Five local reporting agencies manage a very low volume of incidents across the region.

Minimal Crime Across All Categories

Violent crime is almost non-existent at 37.5 per 100K residents. Property crime is also exceptionally low, recorded at just 187.6 per 100K people.

Preserving Your Peace and Quiet

While risk is minimal, residents should still practice basic safety by locking doors and lighting entryways. In a county this safe, even small precautions ensure continued peace of mind.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Essex County

via HealthByCounty

Essex matches the national standard

At 78.4 years, Essex County residents live about 2 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. A 14.7% poor/fair health rate places Essex in the healthier range of this cohort.

Above state average, solid standing

Essex's 78.4-year life expectancy exceeds New York's state average of 77.9 years by 0.5 years. The county ranks in the upper half statewide for health outcomes.

Strong northern Adirondack health profile

Essex (78.4 years) outpaces Clinton County (77.8 years) but trails Columbia County (79.2 years) and Dutchess County (79.3 years). As an Adirondack county, Essex shows the region's variable health profile.

Moderate provider access, good coverage

Essex offers 51 primary care and 204 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, representing moderate access in a rural county. At 5.4% uninsured, Essex is slightly above the state average, but most residents can connect with available providers.

Ensure coverage for preventive care

Essex's moderate health outcomes can improve when residents maintain consistent insurance and preventive relationships. Explore your options at NY State of Health to strengthen coverage and access.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Essex County

via SchoolsByCounty

Exceptional Quality in a Rural Setting

Essex County manages 16 public schools across 11 school districts, serving a student population of 3,834. The infrastructure includes six elementary and four high schools, with several 'other' level buildings spanning K-12. This small-scale system is highly focused on providing quality education to the Adirondack region's residents.

Premier Academic Outcomes and Investment

Essex County leads the region with a staggering 91.4% graduation rate, far exceeding both state and national averages. This success is fueled by an industry-leading per-pupil expenditure of $18,638, ensuring students have access to world-class resources. The composite school score of 79.4 is the highest in this group, signaling elite performance.

Elite Districts in the Heart of the Mountains

AuSable Valley Central is the largest district, serving 1,182 students across four schools. Lake Placid and Moriah also maintain strong local presences, contributing to the county's reputation for academic excellence. Traditional public schools are the sole focus here, with zero charter schools operating in the county.

The State's Most Intimate Learning Environment

With 13 of 16 schools located in rural areas and an average school size of only 240, Essex County offers unmatched individual attention. Moriah Elementary is the largest school with just 385 students, creating a tight-knit environment where no child is anonymous. This rural character provides a peaceful, focused backdrop for student development.

Secure an Elite Education for Your Family

If you are looking for the best academic outcomes in the region, Essex County's 91% graduation rate is a compelling reason to move here. Homes in AuSable Valley or Lake Placid offer access to some of the highest-funded and highest-scoring schools in New York. Prioritize your family's future by finding a home in these top-tier districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Essex County

via RiskByCounty

Essex County ranks among the safest

Essex County's composite risk score of 62.66 places it below the national average, earning a relatively low risk rating. The county benefits from notably low tornado (23.79) and wildfire (24.81) risks, though earthquake (72.84) and flood (76.94) exposures merit attention. This favorable overall positioning reflects Essex's geographic advantages for disaster safety.

Below-average risk within New York

At 62.66, Essex County scores below New York's state average of 69.42, placing it among the state's safer counties for natural disaster exposure. This below-average standing means Essex residents face significantly lower vulnerability compared to most New York neighbors. The county's risk profile provides substantial peace of mind compared to statewide patterns.

Among the safest in this regional group

Essex County's 62.66 ranks it as one of the safest counties in this comparison, trailing only Cortland (51.24) and Clinton (68.80). This favorable position compared to peers like Chenango (72.33) and Columbia (68.67) reflects Essex's geographic protection. Your county enjoys notably lower disaster vulnerability than most surrounding areas.

Earthquake and flood deserve attention

Despite Essex's overall safety ranking, earthquake risk (72.84) and flood exposure (76.94) represent your primary hazard concerns, both moderately elevated. Tornado risk (23.79) and wildfire danger (24.81) remain exceptionally low for a New York county. Your hazard profile is comparatively simple and manageable.

Earthquake and flood insurance provide security

While Essex County enjoys favorable overall disaster risk, your county's moderately elevated earthquake (72.84) and flood (76.94) exposures warrant specialized coverage often overlooked. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program and seismic coverage through your homeowners insurer provide comprehensive protection. Bundle these with standard homeowners insurance for complete peace of mind.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Essex County

via WeatherByCounty

An exceptionally cold northern peak

Essex County is one of the coldest spots in the lower 48, with a 41.9°F average temperature. This is more than 13 degrees below the national median of 55°F.

At the bottom of the ranks

At 5.5 degrees below the state average, Essex ranks near the bottom of New York counties for temperature. Its 42.4 inches of precipitation is slightly below the state mean.

Colder than its northern neighbor

Essex is significantly colder than neighboring Clinton County, with a January average 2.4 degrees lower. However, it receives about 16 inches less snow than Clinton.

Deep freezes and cool summers

Winters are intense, averaging 18.8°F with nearly 91 inches of snow. Summers are the coolest in the region, peaking at a mild 65.8°F in July.

Prepare for extreme cold

Winter gear should be rated for sub-zero temperatures to handle the 16°F January nights. A backup generator is a wise choice for residents facing 90 inches of snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Essex County

via SoilByCounty

Intense Acidity of the Adirondacks

Essex County features a very acidic pH of 3.91, falling far below the New York state average of 5.11. Taxonomic records are limited, but this acidity is much lower than the national median of 6.5.

Organic Material Dominates the Mix

The mineral portion of the soil is 36.0% sand and only 5.3% clay, though high organic content dominates the texture. This unique mix creates an earth that behaves differently than the silt-heavy soils elsewhere.

Extraordinary Organic Wealth

Organic matter is incredibly high at 45.16%, which is nearly triple the state average of 17.01%. This massive organic load powers a superior water capacity of 0.227 in/in, far exceeding the state benchmark.

Spongy Ground in High Altitudes

Standard drainage and hydrologic classifications are not available for this county's soil. Users should expect spongy conditions that hold water longer than mineral-based soils in lower elevations.

Cold-Hardy Varieties for 4b

Essex sits in hardiness zone 4b, requiring plants that can withstand deep winters and a short summer. Berries and cold-hardy greens will thrive in these rich, acidic Adirondack conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Essex County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Terrain for North Country Lawns

Essex County is the most challenging on this list with a lawn score of 56.3, well below the New York average. The harsh Zone 4b winters and specialized soil conditions require a dedicated approach to maintain a traditional green lawn.

Short Seasons and Minimal Summer Heat

A brief 1,747 growing degree days mean your lawn has less time to recover from winter damage or foot traffic. However, the 42.4 inches of rain and only 2 extreme heat days mean you won't spend much time or money on irrigation.

Extremely Acidic Soils Need Heavy Correction

The soil pH of 3.91 is exceptionally low and will likely inhibit most grass growth without heavy and frequent lime applications. With only 5.3% clay, the soil lacks the ability to hold onto the very nutrients it needs to thrive.

Manage Water Despite Recent Dry Spells

Nearly 94% of the area is abnormally dry, following a year where the county spent 14 weeks in drought. Focus on building soil organic matter to help compensate for the low clay content and improve the lawn's natural water-holding capacity.

Focus on the Toughest Cold-Season Grasses

Only the hardiest grasses, such as Creeping Red Fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass, will survive the Essex County winters. Your window for success is narrow, starting after the May 21 frost and ending quickly with the first frost on September 26.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Essex County's county score?
Essex County, New York has a composite county score of 59.1 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 Essex County rank among counties in New York?
Essex County ranks #4 among all counties in New York 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 Essex County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Essex County is $3,111, with an effective tax rate of 1.56%. This earns Essex County a tax score of 10.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Essex County?
The median household income in Essex County, New York is $70,215 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Essex County earns an income score of 67/100 on CountyScore.
Is Essex County, New York a good place to live?
Essex County scores 59.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in New York. The best way to evaluate Essex 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 Essex 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.