39.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 90.1Lawn Care 82.7Soil Quality 70

County Report Card

About Fairfield County, Ohio

Suburban Pressure Below National Median

Fairfield County holds a composite score of 39.9, placing it below the national median of 50.0. Rapid growth and high costs associated with the Columbus area influence this score.

Trailing the Ohio Average

At 39.9, the county falls behind the Ohio state average of 48.6. While economically strong, it faces challenges typical of developing suburban regions.

High Income and Good Schools

The county excels with an Income Score of 90.1 and a median income of $87,069. A School Score of 65.7 also points to a high quality of education.

Safety and Affordability Concerns

Rapid expansion has led to a low Cost Score of 16.4 and a Safety Score of 16.4. Median rents of $1,114 are higher than many other parts of the state.

A Strong Base for Commuters

Fairfield is ideal for upwardly mobile families who work in the metro area and prioritize high earnings. It suits those willing to pay more for suburban convenience.

Score breakdown

Tax28.4Cost16.4Safety16.4Health65.4Schools65.7Income90.1Risk27.4Water67.7Weather58.5
🏛28.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠16.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼90.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡16.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
65.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓65.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
27.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧67.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤58.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨70
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱82.7
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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Deep Dives

Fairfield County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Fairfield County

via TaxByCounty

Fairfield taxes run below national median

At 1.147%, Fairfield's effective tax rate sits just below the national median of 1.54%, placing the county near the middle nationally. The median property tax of $3,123 exceeds the national median of $2,690 by 16%, primarily due to Fairfield's higher median home value of $272,200.

Fairfield essentially matches state average

Fairfield's 1.147% effective rate nearly mirrors Ohio's state average of 1.148%, positioning the county precisely at Ohio's median tax burden. The median property tax of $3,123 exceeds the statewide average of $2,145 by 45%, reflecting Fairfield's more valuable properties.

Fairfield represents moderate prosperity

Fairfield's median home value of $272,200 substantially exceeds less prosperous neighboring counties but falls short of Delaware's $419,500. At 1.147%, Fairfield's tax rate aligns with modest regional peers while serving a more affluent population.

What a Fairfield homeowner pays

On the median Fairfield home valued at $272,200, homeowners pay approximately $3,123 per year in property taxes—roughly $260 monthly. With mortgage escrow, annual costs rise to $3,163, remaining affordable given the county's property values.

Assessment accuracy protects savings

Fairfield residents should verify their property's assessed value against recent neighborhood sales through a free abatement appeal. In a growing county, assessments may lag behind actual market conditions—a review could reveal savings.

Cost of Living in Fairfield County

via CostByCounty

Fairfield's affluence keeps housing affordable

Fairfield County's median household income of $87,069 runs 16% above the national average, making its 15.3% rent-to-income ratio exceptionally manageable despite monthly rents of $1,114. The county exemplifies how strong incomes can accommodate higher absolute housing costs while maintaining healthy affordability ratios.

Best affordability among Ohio's prosperous counties

Fairfield County ranks in Ohio's upper tier for both income and affordability, with household earnings 31% above the state average and a rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% (just below the state average). Renters pay $241 more monthly than Ohio's median rent, but high incomes make this difference negligible.

Premium prices with income to match

Fairfield's $1,114 monthly rent and $272,200 median home value exceed most surrounding counties but pale against Delaware County's costs. The county's $87,069 median income ranks second only to Delaware among regional peers, justifying its status as a prosperous suburban market.

High income absorbs premium housing costs

A typical Fairfield County renter earning $87,069 annually pays $1,114 monthly in rent, consuming just 15.3% of gross income, while homeowners commit $1,334 to $272,200 median-valued properties. The county's above-average incomes make these costs feel manageable within household budgets.

Fairfield rewards higher-earning relocators

Fairfield County's combination of strong local job markets, quality schools, and reasonable affordability ratios appeals to professionals earning above-average incomes. If you're relocating with household income above $80,000, Fairfield's prosperity and stability make it worth careful consideration.

Income & Jobs in Fairfield County

via IncomeByCounty

Fairfield earns well above national median

Fairfield County's median household income of $87,069 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 16.4%, placing the county well into the upper-income tier. The $12,314 advantage reflects Fairfield's affluent suburban growth corridor.

Second-highest income in Ohio counties

Fairfield County's median household income of $87,069 significantly exceeds Ohio's state average of $68,101 by nearly $19,000. The county ranks second statewide, behind only Delaware County, in household income levels.

Fairfield outearns most regional counties

Fairfield County ($87,069) trails only Delaware County ($130,088) but substantially outearns Erie ($68,431), Cuyahoga ($62,823), and Defiance ($73,615). The county's income reflects rapid suburban development and affluent commuter populations near Columbus.

Premium housing with solid affordability

Despite a median home value of $272,200, Fairfield County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% remains reasonable, reflecting strong earning power. Households can afford quality housing while maintaining healthy discretionary income for investing.

Fairfield residents: think beyond basics

With median incomes of $87,069, Fairfield County residents should maximize 401(k) contributions, explore Roth conversions, and consider taxable investment accounts for long-term wealth building. The county's affluence supports aggressive savings strategies and real estate investment opportunities.

Safety in Fairfield County

via CrimeByCounty

Safe Living in Fairfield

Fairfield County reports a total crime rate of 2,290.2 per 100,000, which is slightly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a respectable safety score of 96.4. Eleven reporting agencies work together to keep these figures stable.

Meeting State Safety Standards

The county's crime rate of 2,290.2 is higher than the Ohio state average of 1,412.3. However, its safety score of 96.4 remains close to the state average of 97.8. Fairfield provides a balanced safety profile for its growing population.

Fairfield vs. Nearby Counties

Fairfield County's rate of 2,290.2 is slightly higher than Fayette County's 2,062.2. While it sits above some rural neighbors, it remains significantly safer than high-incident areas like Delaware County. It offers a secure middle ground for the region.

Violent and Property Breakdown

The violent crime rate in Fairfield is 249.1 per 100,000, which is below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is more common, recorded at 2,041.1 per 100,000. Practical safety mostly involves protecting belongings and home assets.

Smart Security for Fairfield

Since property crime stands at 2,041.1, home security systems are a valuable asset for local residents. Visible deterrents like alarm signs and cameras can effectively lower the risk of theft. Staying proactive ensures Fairfield remains a safe community for all.

Health in Fairfield County

via HealthByCounty

Fairfield shows solid national standing

Fairfield County's 76.4-year life expectancy falls about 2.7 years short of the U.S. average of 79.1 years. The 19.0% poor or fair health rate closely mirrors national patterns, indicating Fairfield's health status aligns with national norms.

Outperforming Ohio's health average

Fairfield's 76.4-year life expectancy exceeds Ohio's 74.8-year state average by 1.6 years, ranking the county among Ohio's healthier regions. The 19.0% poor or fair health rate places it in the middle tier statewide.

Competitive regional health profile

Fairfield's 76.4-year life expectancy matches Defiance's (76.2 years) and exceeds Darke's (75.5 years) and Crawford's (73.4 years). The county represents solid suburban health performance in the central Ohio region.

Reasonable access with strong coverage

Fairfield offers 56 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and a 6.1% uninsured rate, both performing above state averages. With 203 mental health providers per 100K, the county supports accessible behavioral health care.

Check and confirm your coverage

Fairfield's 6.1% uninsured rate is among the lowest here, but coverage gaps affect thousands. Visit Healthcare.gov to review your options and ensure you have the insurance you need.

Schools in Fairfield County

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad Educational Reach in a Growing Region

Fairfield County manages 46 public schools serving 26,404 students across 8 districts. The system is well-distributed with 21 elementary, 11 middle, and 11 high schools.

Strong Academic Results with Lean Investment

The graduation rate is an impressive 92.8%, well above the 87.0% national benchmark. This success is achieved with per-pupil spending of $7,718, which is lower than the Ohio state average of $7,994.

Pickerington Local Leads the Suburban Surge

Pickerington Local is the county’s largest district, educating 11,362 students across 16 schools. Lancaster City follows with 6,263 students, while the county currently hosts zero charter schools.

A Balanced Blend of Suburban and Rural Schools

Fairfield offers a diverse locale mix with 18 rural and 16 suburban schools. Average enrollment stands at 574 students, though Lancaster High and Pickerington High School Central both exceed 1,800 students.

Build Your Family’s Future in Fairfield

High graduation rates and a variety of school settings make Fairfield County a top choice for home buyers. Search for homes near these districts to secure a high-quality education for your family.

Disaster Risk in Fairfield County

via RiskByCounty

Fairfield County above national risk baseline

Fairfield County scores 72.61 on the composite risk scale, earning a 'Relatively Low' rating that exceeds national averages meaningfully. The county faces elevated but manageable natural disaster exposure across multiple hazard categories.

Above-average risk for central Ohio

At 72.61, Fairfield County's risk score significantly exceeds Ohio's state average of 55.03 by about 32%. The county ranks among Ohio's higher-risk communities, driven primarily by flood and tornado hazards.

High-risk profile among peers

Fairfield County (72.61) faces higher disaster risk than most surrounding counties, though slightly lower than nearby Delaware County (78.75). The county's risk reflects its central Ohio location and exposure to tornado and flood hazards common to the region.

Floods and tornadoes dominate risk profile

Flood risk (81.81) and tornado risk (71.60) represent Fairfield County's most significant natural disaster concerns, both scoring well above state averages. Earthquake risk (57.16) poses secondary concern, while wildfire (26.30) and hurricane (29.45) risks remain minimal.

Secure comprehensive flood and wind coverage

Fairfield County residents should maintain robust flood insurance and designate or construct a basement safe room rated for tornado winds. Inspect roof attachments regularly, trim tree limbs near structures, and ensure proper property drainage to minimize water damage risk.

Weather & Climate in Fairfield County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and moist temperate climate

Fairfield County's 52.7°F average annual temperature is slightly warmer than the national median. It experiences a moist continental climate with consistent rainfall throughout the year.

One of Ohio's warmer regions

The county stays warmer than the Ohio state average of 51.5°F, recording a 52.7°F mean temperature. It benefits from its central-southern positioning within the state.

Similar to the capital region

Fairfield's climate closely tracks neighbor Franklin County, though it is slightly cooler than Franklin's 53.2°F. It receives 40.2 inches of precipitation, very close to the state average of 41.2 inches.

Significant heat and mild winters

Summers are intense with 19 extreme heat days over 90°F and a summer average of 72.5°F. Winters are relatively mild for Ohio, averaging 31.9°F during the coldest months.

Budget for summer cooling costs

With 19 days of extreme heat, air conditioning is a necessity for local residents. While specific snowfall data is limited, the 29.3°F January average suggests a need for reliable winter weatherization.

Soil Quality in Fairfield County

via SoilByCounty

Standard Silt Profiles

Fairfield County records a soil score of 70.0 and a pH level of 5.93. This acidity level matches the state average of 5.97 almost perfectly, indicating standard Ohio growing conditions.

Silty Soils for Easy Tilling

The soil is predominantly silt at 53.0%, with 24.4% sand and 19.9% clay. This high silt percentage gives the soil a smooth texture and makes it very easy to till for gardening or farming.

Solid Water Capacity for Crops

Organic matter content is 3.78%, which is healthy by national standards but below the state average. However, the available water capacity of 0.201 in/in is superior to the state average of 0.186 in/in.

Reliable Nutrient Storage

While taxonomic and drainage class data are not specified, the 19.9% clay content provides a good balance for holding nutrients. The high water capacity suggests the soil can sustain plants through short dry spells effectively.

A Gardeners Dream in Zone 6a

Fairfield County sits in hardiness zone 6a, where the silty soil supports diverse agriculture. It is an excellent environment for growing root vegetables and heavy-feeding garden crops like tomatoes and peppers.

Lawn Care in Fairfield County

via LawnByCounty

Fairfield County's Top-Tier Turf

Fairfield County boasts an impressive 82.7 lawn difficulty score, making it much easier to maintain than the state average of 76.0. Located in hardiness zone 6a, it provides one of the most favorable growing environments in the region.

Abundant Water but Higher Heat

The county receives 40.2 inches of annual precipitation, which fuels 3,385 growing degree days. However, the 19 extreme heat days each year mean that cool-season grasses will need extra care during the peak of July.

Well-Balanced Growing Medium

The soil pH of 5.93 is just on the edge of the ideal range, supporting healthy grass growth with minimal amendments. With a texture of 24.4% sand and 19.9% clay, the soil offers a good balance of drainage and moisture retention.

Minimal Drought Stress

Fairfield is remarkably resilient, experiencing only 5 weeks of drought in the past year. Current conditions show 99.8% of the county is drought-free, though the high number of heat days suggests keeping a close eye on moisture in mid-summer.

Optimizing for Heat Tolerance

Tall fescue is a smart choice for Fairfield because it handles the 19 annual heat days better than other varieties. Time your seeding efforts for late April after the frost or in the early fall before the October 24 frost date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fairfield County's county score?
Fairfield County, Ohio has a composite county score of 39.9 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 Fairfield County rank among counties in Ohio?
Fairfield County ranks #70 among all counties in Ohio 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 Fairfield County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Fairfield County is $3,123, with an effective tax rate of 1.15%. This earns Fairfield County a tax score of 28.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Fairfield County?
The median household income in Fairfield County, Ohio is $87,069 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Fairfield County earns an income score of 90.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Fairfield County, Ohio a good place to live?
Fairfield County scores 39.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #70 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Fairfield 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 Fairfield County with other counties side by side.