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.

2040608010028.416.416.465.465.790.127.467.758.5Tax28.4Cost16.4Safety16.4Health65.4Schools65.7Income90.1Risk27.4Water67.7Weather58.539.9/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Fairfield County DNA

Foverall

How Fairfield County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Fairfield County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (90.1/100) but notably weak in Safety (16.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
28.4-23.6
Cost
16.4-31.6
Safety
16.4-38.6
Health
65.4+15.400000000000006
Schools
65.7+11.700000000000003
Income
90.1+39.099999999999994
Risk
27.4-19.6
Water
67.7+9.700000000000003
Weather
58.5
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Fairfield County

Whether buying or refinancing in Fairfield County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$272,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,114/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$272,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$44,560/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $87,069/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

14.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Deep Dives

Fairfield County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 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.

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.

Water Quality in Fairfield County

via WaterByCounty

Fairfield County Earns Solid Grade B Rating

Fairfield County reports a strong drinking water record with only two health violations in the past five years. The resulting violation rate of 2.1 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the Ohio state average of 32.9. This high level of compliance suggests reliable management across the county's public water systems.

Six Assessed Water Bodies Meet All Standards

The 2022 ATTAINS cycle shows that 100% of the six assessed water bodies in Fairfield County are in attainment. There are currently no impaired water bodies listed under Clean Water Act §303(d) for this county. Local watersheds continue to support their ecological and recreational goals.

Broad Monitoring Across Fifty-Five Local Sites

Fairfield County utilizes 55 monitoring sites to track water quality, recording 2,604 measurements over the last five years. The most common data points include physical properties, inorganics, and nutrients. This consistent monitoring provides the data needed to protect the headwaters of the Hocking River.

Hocking River Flow Drops Below 50% Typical

At Lancaster, the Hocking River is currently discharging 20 cfs, which is only 47% of its long-term mean of 43 cfs. This small 48-square-mile drainage area is particularly sensitive to dry weather patterns. Low flow levels can reduce the river's ability to dilute treated wastewater and runoff.

Maintain Awareness During Periods of Low Flow

Fairfield County residents benefit from high drinking water compliance, but should remain aware of the extremely low flows in the Hocking River. When river levels drop below 50% of the mean, source water may require more intensive treatment for dissolved minerals. No emergency filtration is needed, but staying informed on local water reports is always beneficial.

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.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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