countyscore
47.8
County Score
Soil Quality 80.7Health 80.6Income & Jobs 74.3

County Report Card

About Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin

Trailing the National Median

Fond du Lac County scores 47.8 on the composite index, falling just short of the 50.0 national median. While competitive in several metrics, it lags behind the typical American county overall.

Below the Wisconsin Average

The county's score of 47.8 sits below the state average of 50.3. This suggests that while it offers standard Wisconsin amenities, other counties in the state currently provide a more balanced profile.

Earning Potential and Wellness

The county excels in income with a score of 74.3 and a median household income of $73,154. Residents also benefit from a strong health score of 80.6, indicating a well-supported and healthy population.

Tax Burden and Risk Factors

A very low tax score of 9.7 reflects a high effective tax rate of 1.578%. Environmental and natural risk also weighs on the score, as evidenced by a risk ranking of 23.7.

Best for High-Earning Career Seekers

This county is well-suited for workers in high-paying industries who want good health services. It appeals most to those who are willing to trade higher tax rates for strong local income opportunities.

204060801009.731.349.580.66774.323.760.452.9Tax9.7Cost31.3Safety49.5Health80.6Schools67Income74.3Risk23.7Water60.4Weather52.947.8/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Fond du Lac County DNA

Foverall

How Fond du Lac County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Fond du Lac County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (80.6/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (9.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
9.7-42.3
Cost
31.3-16.7
Safety
49.5
Health
80.6+30.599999999999994
Schools
67+13
Income
74.3+23.299999999999997
Risk
23.7-23.3
Water
60.4
Weather
52.9
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Fond du Lac County?

Many homeowners in Fond du Lac County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$209,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$926/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$209,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $73,154/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

9.6

per 100K

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Fond du Lac County with Douglas County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Douglas County
Colorado
Median income: $145,737
47.8
De Witt County
Illinois
Median income: $64,802
47.8
Goodhue County
Minnesota
Median income: $82,749
47.8
McDowell County
North Carolina
Median income: $55,527
47.8
Jefferson County
Ohio
Median income: $56,983
47.8
Madison County
Ohio
Median income: $83,229
47.8
Lancaster County
Pennsylvania
Median income: $83,703
47.8
Calhoun County
South Carolina
Median income: $56,690
47.8

Nearby counties

Calumet County
Wisconsin
39.2
Winnebago County
Wisconsin
45.9
Dodge County
Wisconsin
44.5
Sheboygan County
Wisconsin
49.4
Washington County
Wisconsin
52.5
Green Lake County
Wisconsin
51.8
Ozaukee County
Wisconsin
56.1
Marquette County
Wisconsin
51.7

Deep Dives

Fond du Lac County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Fond du Lac County

via TaxByCounty

Fond du Lac has Wisconsin's highest rate

Fond du Lac County's 1.58% effective tax rate is Wisconsin's highest, significantly exceeding both the national median of 1.08% and most county peers. Homeowners here pay roughly $891 more than the national median annually.

Highest effective rate in Wisconsin

Fond du Lac County ranks 1st among Wisconsin's 72 counties with a 1.58% effective tax rate, nearly 0.14 percentage points above the state average. The median property tax of $3,311 is $230 above the state median, driven by both high rates and moderate home values.

Significantly higher than nearby Green Lake

Fond du Lac County's 1.58% rate far exceeds Green Lake County's 1.31%, despite similar median home values around $206,000–$210,000. Fond du Lac residents carry Wisconsin's heaviest tax burden relative to property wealth.

A $209,800 home costs $3,311 yearly

The median Fond du Lac County homeowner with a $209,800 property pays $3,311 in annual taxes, or roughly $276 per month. This represents the highest median tax bill among all eight counties profiled.

Assessment appeals critical at this rate

With Wisconsin's highest tax rate, Fond du Lac County homeowners should prioritize assessment appeals to catch any overvaluations. Even modest success in reducing assessed value yields substantial annual savings given the county's elevated rate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Fond du Lac County

via CostByCounty

Fond du Lac offers solid rental affordability

Renters in Fond du Lac County spend 15.2% of their income on housing, just below the national average of 14.9%. With a median household income of $73,154 and median rent of $926, the county delivers balanced, manageable housing costs.

Near-average affordability for Wisconsin

Fond du Lac's 15.2% rent-to-income ratio sits just slightly above Wisconsin's state average of 14.9%, placing it squarely in the middle of Wisconsin's affordability spectrum. The county's $926 median rent is nearly identical to the state average of $891, reflecting mainstream Wisconsin housing prices.

Balanced option between extremes

Fond du Lac's $926 rent falls comfortably between Forest County's bargain $585 and Eau Claire's higher $977. Among this regional group, Fond du Lac represents true middle-ground pricing and affordability metrics.

Housing takes a fair share of earnings

Fond du Lac renters allocate $926 monthly while homeowners commit $1,083 to mortgages against a $73,154 median income. Combined, housing consumes roughly 27% of household earnings—a balanced allocation that leaves room for other necessities.

Reliable middle-path Wisconsin living

Fond du Lac County delivers what most Wisconsinites experience: reasonable rents, stable incomes, and home values around $209,800. If you want mainstream Wisconsin affordability without the extremes of pricier or more rural counties, Fond du Lac deserves serious consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Fond du Lac County

via IncomeByCounty

Fond du Lac beats national average

Fond du Lac County's median household income of $73,154 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by only a small margin, placing it just slightly below the national 50th percentile. The county still ranks in the upper half of U.S. counties by earnings.

Fond du Lac leads Wisconsin

At $73,154, Fond du Lac County tops Wisconsin's state median of $71,715 and ranks among the state's top earners. With per-capita income of $38,436, the county matches the state average precisely.

Regional income leader

Fond du Lac ($73,154) significantly outearns nearby Dunn ($71,785), Eau Claire ($71,834), Green Lake ($66,917), and Grant ($64,349). The county's strong position reflects a robust local economy and stable employment.

Best housing affordability in cohort

Fond du Lac's rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% is the lowest among the region, signaling excellent housing affordability for renters. Median home values of $209,800 make homeownership realistic for many local households.

Maximize Fond du Lac advantage

With above-average median income and the region's best housing affordability, Fond du Lac households have genuine capacity to save and invest. Directing even 15% of household income toward retirement or brokerage accounts can compound significantly over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Fond du Lac County

via CrimeByCounty

Fond du Lac County is significantly safer than US average

Fond du Lac County reports 1135.3 crimes per 100,000 people, which is well below the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a strong safety score of 98.2.

Aligning closely with Wisconsin state standards

The county's safety score of 98.2 is nearly identical to the Wisconsin state average of 98.3. Its crime rate of 1135.3 sits slightly above the state average of 1103.1 per 100,000 residents.

Higher crime rates than rural Green Lake neighbor

Compared to neighboring Green Lake County's rate of 701.8, Fond du Lac County's rate of 1135.3 is notably higher. This difference often reflects the higher population density and more urbanized areas within Fond du Lac.

Theft and property offenses lead local data

Property crime accounts for 951.7 incidents per 100,000 people, overshadowing the violent crime rate of 183.6. Local law enforcement manages a total of nine reporting agencies to monitor these trends.

Secure your property in Fond du Lac

With property crime being the primary concern, residents should focus on securing valuables and locking doors. Installing a modern home security system is a proactive step to deter the most common local offenses.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Fond du Lac County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive Education Network in Fond du Lac

Fond du Lac County features a robust system of 41 public schools across six districts, serving 13,302 total students. The landscape includes 21 elementary schools and eight high schools, reflecting a well-distributed academic network.

High Achievement and Educational Choice

Students here excel with a 93.6% graduation rate, surpassing both state and national benchmarks. The county offers significant variety through five charter schools, even while maintaining a leaner per-pupil expenditure of $7,619.

Regional Leaders in Student Success

The Fond du Lac School District is the largest, supporting 6,603 students across 15 different schools. Ripon Area and North Fond du Lac also provide substantial capacity, collectively serving over 3,200 students.

Diverse Locales from City to Country

The county offers a diverse mix of 16 city schools and 11 rural schools, providing options for every preference. While Fond du Lac High is a major hub with 2,006 students, the county-wide average school size remains manageable at 324.

Your Home Near Top-Tier Districts

Whether you prefer a home in the city or a house with acreage, Fond du Lac County districts offer high-performing schools for your family. Researching properties near these successful schools is a smart move for long-term value and student growth.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Fond du Lac County

via RiskByCounty

Fond du Lac faces substantial national risk

Fond du Lac County scores 76.30 on the composite risk scale, placing it well above the national average and indicating elevated disaster exposure. This county experiences natural hazards at rates significantly higher than most of the nation.

Among Wisconsin's riskier counties

At 76.30, Fond du Lac County substantially exceeds Wisconsin's state average of 59.08, ranking near the top of the state's highest-risk communities. Only the most vulnerable Wisconsin counties face comparable multi-hazard exposure.

Region's most hazard-exposed area

Fond du Lac County's 76.30 score far exceeds neighboring Green Lake County (58.05) and Grant County (61.07), making it the region's most vulnerable community. This elevated profile reflects unique exposure across multiple hazard types.

Tornadoes dominate multiple threats

Tornado risk reaches 88.49—among Wisconsin's highest—making severe weather the county's primary threat, while flooding at 74.33 presents substantial secondary risk. Wildfire (50.70), earthquake (34.96), and even hurricane risk (20.65) all exceed state norms, creating compounded exposure.

Build comprehensive disaster resilience

With tornado risk at 88.49, installing a safe room or reinforced shelter is a critical investment alongside comprehensive homeowners and flood insurance. Regular emergency preparedness drills and a detailed family action plan are essential given the county's multi-hazard vulnerability profile.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Fond du Lac County

via WaterByCounty

Strong Drinking Water Compliance Record

Fond du Lac County earns a C grade for drinking water quality, with 4 health violations reported over five years. The county's violation rate of 6.2 per 100,000 residents is among the lowest in the state, well below the Wisconsin average of 76.3.

Sediment and Phosphorus Challenge Local Streams

In the 2022 cycle, 13.4% of assessed water bodies in the county were found to be impaired. High levels of phosphorus and total suspended solids are the primary drivers of these conditions, exceeding the state impairment average of 7.6%.

Massive Monitoring Effort Tracks Water Health

Fond du Lac County is a data leader with 81 monitoring sites producing an impressive 150,371 measurements over five years. This high-density data focuses on physical characteristics, organics, and pesticides to manage complex agricultural runoff.

Rock River Experiencing High Flow Surge

The South Branch Rock River at Waupun is flowing at 92 cfs, which is a significant 248% of its typical seasonal mean. These elevated levels indicate recent heavy precipitation or high runoff within its 64 square mile drainage area.

Stay Alert During High Flow Events

With river levels at 248% of the mean, residents should be cautious of increased sediment and phosphorus runoff into local waterways. While drinking water compliance is strong, surface water quality remains vulnerable to these high-flow spikes.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Fond du Lac County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Northern Climate

Fond du Lac County records an annual average temperature of 45.5°F, following the cooler-than-average trend of the Great Lakes region. Its precipitation levels of 30.4 inches sit below the national average for humid continental zones.

Warmer Than the State Median

At 45.5°F, the county is slightly warmer than the 44.4°F Wisconsin state average. However, it is drier than many of its peers, receiving about 4 inches less annual precipitation than the state average.

Drier than Green Lake

Fond du Lac receives 30.4 inches of precipitation, notably less than Green Lake’s 36.0 inches. It also sees less snow than its western neighbor, averaging 37.8 inches compared to Green Lake's 45.5 inches.

Stable Summers and Cold Winters

July averages a comfortable 70.5°F, and the county typically sees 6 days of extreme heat above 90°F. Winter temperatures average 20.8°F, which is relatively mild compared to the far northern reaches of the state.

Prepare for Lake-Effect Shifts

Heating systems should be optimized for a January average of 17.7°F. While snowfall is moderate at 37.8 inches, residents should remain prepared for sudden winter storms typical of the Fox Valley area.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Fond du Lac County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Mollisols with Near-Ideal pH

The county features high-quality Mollisols with a pH of 6.13, approaching the national median of 6.5. This profile is much less acidic than the state average, making it some of the most versatile land in Wisconsin.

Premium Silt Loam for Agriculture

The dominant texture is silt loam, characterized by a heavy 49.8% silt content and a significant 18.6% clay share. This mix provides exceptional nutrient retention and the physical structure needed for high-yield farming.

Superior Moisture and Biological Health

An available water capacity of 0.215 beats the state average, ensuring crops stay hydrated during dry spells. Organic matter sits at 5.44%, which is more than double the national average and supports vigorous growth.

Managing Poorly Drained Hydrologic Groups

The soil is classified as poorly drained and belongs to the B/D hydrologic group. This means the land holds water effectively, though home gardeners may need raised beds to prevent saturation in early spring.

Vibrant Growing Potential in Zone 5a

With an impressive soil score of 80.7 and a Zone 5a climate, this is one of the best spots in the state for a garden. You can successfully grow everything from corn and soy to delicate heirloom vegetables.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Fond du Lac County

via LawnByCounty

Moderate Care for Zone 5a Lawns

Fond du Lac County holds a lawn difficulty score of 63.0, which is slightly more demanding than the Wisconsin average of 64.4. Being in Zone 5a allows for a broader selection of grass types compared to northern counties.

Balanced Temperatures and Lean Precipitation

The county receives 30.4 inches of rain annually, which meets the minimum threshold for healthy grass but leaves little room for error. The 2,464 growing degree days support a productive season with only 6 days of extreme heat to worry about.

Managing Silt Loam and Poor Drainage

The soil pH of 6.13 is nearly perfect, but the silt loam texture and 18.6% clay content can lead to poor drainage. Avoid overwatering to prevent soil compaction and root rot in these heavier soil conditions.

Countering Current Dry Soil Conditions

With 24 weeks of drought last year and 66.9% of the county currently abnormally dry, water conservation is a priority. Morning irrigation is best for these silt loam soils to ensure deep penetration before the sun evaporates the moisture.

Spring Seeding for Fond du Lac

Kentucky Bluegrass is a staple for this 5a zone and will thrive in the local silt loam. The frost typically clears by May 1st, opening a long and successful window for spring planting.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fond du Lac County's county score?
Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 47.8 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 Fond du Lac County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Fond du Lac County ranks #51 among all counties in Wisconsin 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 Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Fond du Lac County is $3,311, with an effective tax rate of 1.58%. This earns Fond du Lac County a tax score of 9.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Fond du Lac County?
The median household income in Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin is $73,154 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Fond du Lac County earns an income score of 74.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Fond du Lac County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Fond du Lac County scores 47.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Fond du Lac 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 Fond du Lac County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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