countyscore
47.5
County Score
Soil Quality 87.8Lawn Care 80.6Health 66

County Report Card

About Freeborn County, Minnesota

Below the National Median

Freeborn County’s composite score of 47.5 sits slightly below the national median of 50.0. It offers a standard lifestyle that is common for much of the country.

Lagging Behind State Standards

The county's score of 47.5 is lower than the Minnesota state average of 55.8. It faces more challenges in safety and taxation than many of its neighbors.

Balanced Health and Mid-Range Costs

Freeborn maintains a Health Score of 66.0 and an Income Score of 64.3. With a median gross rent of $837, it remains an accessible option for many workers.

Safety and Tax Burdens

A Safety Score of 36.2 and a Tax Score of 33.7 are the primary areas for improvement. The effective tax rate of 1.061% is high relative to the safety metrics provided.

Suitable for Budget-Conscious Renters

Freeborn County fits residents who need moderate housing costs and decent health services. It is best for those who can manage a higher tax environment for lower home prices.

Score breakdown

Tax33.7Cost48Safety36.2Health66Schools51Income64.3Risk49Water46.4Weather49.5
🏛33.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠48
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼64.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡36.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤66
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧46.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨87.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱80.6
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

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Deep Dives

Freeborn County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Freeborn County

via TaxByCounty

Freeborn taxes notably above national median

Freeborn County's effective rate of 1.061% exceeds the national median of roughly 0.85%, placing it in approximately the 65th percentile for property tax burden. With a median home value of $164,900—well below the national median of $281,900—residents pay $1,750 annually, less than the national median of $2,690.

Ranks 9th-highest in Minnesota

Freeborn County's 1.061% effective rate significantly exceeds Minnesota's state average of 0.968%, making it one of the state's higher-taxed counties. The median tax bill of $1,750 falls below the state median of $2,168, though the rate itself stands notably above state norms.

Heaviest tax burden in the region

Freeborn's 1.061% rate ranks as the highest among its immediate regional neighbors, outpacing Fillmore County (0.947%) and Faribault County (1.051%). Only Cottonwood County (1.128%) carries a higher burden in the broader south-central region.

What $165K home costs annually

A median-priced home in Freeborn valued at $164,900 generates approximately $1,750 in annual property taxes at the county's 1.061% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,745, while those without mortgages pay $1,758.

Appeal to contest high assessments

Freeborn County's relatively high tax rate makes accurate assessment even more critical—overvaluations carry extra sting in a higher-tax environment. Contact the county assessor's office to request a formal review of your home's value; successful appeals can deliver meaningful savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Freeborn County

via CostByCounty

Freeborn County tracks Minnesota's state average

At 14.6%, Freeborn County's rent-to-income ratio nearly mirrors Minnesota's state average of 14.5%, with renters paying $837 monthly on a $69,012 median income. This alignment places Freeborn squarely within state norms for affordability, neither advantaged nor disadvantaged regionally.

Freeborn sits at Minnesota's affordability median

Freeborn County's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio closely matches Minnesota's 14.5% average, placing it in the middle tier of state counties surveyed. Its $837 median rent and $69,012 income are typical for southern Minnesota rural communities.

Freeborn outpaced by Fillmore and Dodge

Freeborn's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio trails nearby Fillmore (12.2%) and Dodge (13.0%), though it beats Faribault (15.6%) among southern Minnesota peers. The county's $837 rent is identical to Faribault's, but slightly lower incomes make affordability more stretched here.

14.6% of income goes to rent monthly

Renters allocate $837 monthly while homeowners spend $888 on a $69,012 median income, consuming 14.6% and 15.4% respectively. Both figures sit comfortably within the 30% affordability threshold, offering households reasonable flexibility for other expenses.

Freeborn offers solid, unremarkable stability

Freeborn County suits relocators seeking typical rural Minnesota affordability without standout advantages or drawbacks. Rent runs $837 and homeownership costs $888 monthly on a $69,012 income—middle-of-the-road housing costs with middle-of-the-road incomes.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Freeborn County

via IncomeByCounty

Freeborn County slightly below U.S. median

Freeborn County's median household income of $69,012 runs 7.7% below the national median of $74,755, reflecting its rural Minnesota character. The county's manufacturing and agricultural sectors provide steady employment despite modest wage levels.

Below Minnesota's income benchmark

At $69,012, Freeborn ranks below Minnesota's state average of $75,757 by $6,745 per household. Per capita income of $38,696 falls slightly short of the state average of $39,335.

Mid-range among southern counties

Freeborn's $69,012 median income ranks between Cottonwood ($68,239) and Crow Wing ($71,343), reflecting similar rural economic structures. The county's diversified manufacturing base supports more stable wages than purely agricultural counties.

Reasonable housing cost burden

Freeborn's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% falls within acceptable ranges, indicating housing costs claim a moderate share of household income. The median home value of $164,900 offers affordable homeownership for middle-income families.

Build wealth through patient investing

Freeborn's moderate income and reasonable housing costs create a foundation for gradual wealth accumulation with disciplined saving. Explore employer benefits, establish consistent investment contributions, and consider home equity as a long-term wealth-building strategy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Freeborn County

via CrimeByCounty

Freeborn County Safety Context

Freeborn County carries a safety score of 97.7, representing a secure environment relative to national figures. Its total crime rate of 1,477.8 per 100K is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Freeborn vs the State Average

The county’s safety score is just below the Minnesota state average of 98.2. Its crime rate of 1,477.8 per 100K is higher than the statewide average of 1,123.5.

Safety Comparisons with Neighbors

Freeborn has a higher crime rate than neighboring Faribault County, which sits at 251.2. However, it remains safer than more urban areas like Dakota County.

Local Crime Breakdown

Property crime is the most common issue at 1,338.4 per 100K residents. The violent crime rate is 139.4, which is actually lower than the Minnesota state average of 153.0.

Home Security Awareness

Since property crime is the primary driver of local statistics, home security is a smart investment. Simple upgrades like video doorbells can significantly deter opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Freeborn County

via HealthByCounty

Freeborn Trails National Health Benchmarks

At 78.1 years, Freeborn County's life expectancy falls 0.8 years short of the U.S. average of 78.9 years, indicating health challenges relative to the nation. With 17.8% reporting poor or fair health—the highest rate in this analysis—Freeborn significantly exceeds the national average of 15.3%. These gaps suggest elevated chronic disease, limited preventive care access, or both.

Struggling Below Minnesota Averages

Freeborn's 78.1-year life expectancy is the lowest in Minnesota's comparison set, trailing the state average of 78.7 years by six months. The county's 17.8% poor/fair health rate far exceeds Minnesota's typical performance, the worst in this analysis. Freeborn faces systemic health challenges requiring targeted prevention and access improvements.

Lowest Performer Among Peers

Freeborn's 78.1-year life expectancy is the lowest in this regional analysis, significantly behind all neighbors including Cottonwood (78.3) and Fillmore (79.6). At 17.8% poor/fair health, Freeborn's burden is notably higher than every other county analyzed here. These metrics suggest Freeborn faces economic, healthcare access, or lifestyle challenges that demand urgent attention.

High Uninsured Rate, Moderate Access

Freeborn's uninsured rate of 8.3% is the highest in this analysis, well above Minnesota's 6.0% average and leaving many vulnerable to medical debt. With 65 primary care providers and 141 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Freeborn's access is moderate but insufficient to address population health needs. Uninsured rates combined with provider limits create a concerning care gap.

Don't Delay—Get Coverage Now

With Freeborn's 8.3% uninsured rate, coverage gaps are leaving residents at risk for catastrophic medical debt and preventable deaths. Marketplace plans with tax credits and Medicaid expansion are available; check your eligibility immediately. Call 1-800-MEDICARE, visit healthcare.gov, or contact a community health center to enroll in affordable coverage today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Freeborn County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Hub in Southern Minnesota

Freeborn County features 16 public schools across three districts, educating 4,152 students. The system includes six elementary schools and five high schools, with several specialized facilities for other needs.

Significant Investment in Student Support

Per-pupil expenditure is high at $9,960, well above the Minnesota state average of $8,463. Despite this investment, the graduation rate stands at 82.4%, suggesting a focus on helping students navigate unique challenges.

Albert Lea Schools Serve the Core

The Albert Lea Public School District is the dominant provider, managing nine schools and 3,460 students. Traditional public districts are the norm here, as the county currently has no charter schools.

Town Centers Host the Largest Schools

Nine schools are located in town locales, while seven serve rural areas, with an average enrollment of 260 students. Albert Lea Senior High is the largest campus by a wide margin, enrolling 1,218 students.

Community-Focused Living in Albert Lea

Families looking for well-funded districts should explore real estate in Albert Lea and surrounding towns. High per-pupil spending demonstrates a clear commitment to providing local students with the resources they need.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Freeborn County

via RiskByCounty

Freeborn moderately below national average

Freeborn County's composite risk score of 50.99 with Relatively Low rating sits moderately above the national average, indicating balanced but manageable natural disaster exposure. This profile reflects typical Upper Midwest hazard patterns.

Slightly above Minnesota's average

At 50.99, Freeborn County ranks above Minnesota's 42.38 average, placing it in the moderate-risk band across the state. Roughly half of Minnesota counties face comparable or lower disaster vulnerability.

Riskier than neighboring Dodge County

Freeborn's 50.99 far exceeds safe Dodge County (14.22) but aligns closely with Fillmore County (49.78) and Faribault County (45.52). This positioning reflects southern Minnesota's generally moderate hazard exposure.

Tornadoes represent primary threat

Tornado risk dominates in Freeborn County at 79.64, well above state and national averages, with flood risk at 49.14 providing secondary concern. Wildfire risk remains relatively low at 24.36.

Tornado protection is priority one

Freeborn County residents must carry homeowners insurance with a dedicated tornado or severe weather rider to address the county's most significant threat. Install a weather alert system and identify or create a safe room for protection during violent storms.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Freeborn County

via WeatherByCounty

A Balanced Continental Profile

Freeborn County’s 45.2°F annual average is below the national median but typical for the Upper Midwest. It receives 35.8 inches of precipitation, making it one of the wetter counties in the region.

Warmer and Wetter than Minnesota

Freeborn is warmer than the state average of 42.8°F and receives nearly six inches more annual precipitation. This combination supports the county's productive agricultural environment.

Regional Precipitation Leader

Freeborn is wetter than Dakota County and significantly wetter than Douglas County to the northwest. Its 39.5 inches of snow is lower than many neighbors, making it slightly easier to manage in winter.

Hot Summers and Brisk Winters

Summers reach 90°F an average of eight times per year, with a July average of 72.0°F. Winter remains cold, with an average temperature of 17.9°F from December through February.

Seasonal Gear for High Moisture

Prepare for wet springs and snowy winters by maintaining reliable vehicles and waterproof boots. Homeowners should plan for significant humidity during the warm 72.0°F July peaks.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Freeborn County

via SoilByCounty

Premier Neutral Soils in Freeborn

Freeborn County soil hits the national pH median exactly at 6.56. This neutral profile is warmer and more alkaline than the state average of 6.21, creating a highly hospitable environment for diverse biology. It is a gold-standard chemical base for Midwest agriculture.

Perfect Balance of Sand and Clay

The soil consists of 33.3% sand, 41.0% silt, and 23.1% clay. This mix provides enough clay for nutrient storage and enough sand for water movement. It is a versatile texture that supports both large-scale farming and delicate home gardening.

State-Leading Soil Performance

With a Soil Score of 87.8, Freeborn has some of the highest-rated land in Minnesota. The available water capacity is a robust 0.206 in/in, and organic matter stands at a strong 7.13%. These numbers point to a highly resilient soil that can sustain intense production year after year.

Excellent Water Holding and Management

The 23.1% clay content ensures high water retention, which is backed up by an available water capacity above the state average. While specific drainage classes aren't listed, this composition is ideal for resisting drought. It is a reliable foundation for any land-based project.

Maximize Your Harvest in Zone 5a

Zone 5a provides the heat units needed for peppers, melons, and high-yield corn. The elite Soil Score means you have one of the best growing foundations in the entire state. Put these world-class soils to work by starting your own backyard farm this spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Freeborn County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Conditions for Freeborn Lawns

Freeborn County earns an 80.6 lawn difficulty score, making it a premier spot for Minnesota gardening. This Zone 5a rating reflects a climate that is much more forgiving than the national average, allowing for a vibrant lawn with moderate effort.

Wet and Warm Growing Environment

Lawns benefit from 35.8 inches of rain and 2685 growing degree days, ensuring thick, rapid turf development. This high precipitation helps counter the eight days of 90°F heat that typically occur during the summer months.

Nutrient-Rich Soil Profiles

The soil pH of 6.56 is nearly perfect, allowing grass to access essential minerals easily. With 23.1% clay and 33.3% sand, your soil has a solid texture that supports healthy root structures and retains moisture effectively during summer stretches.

Staying Ahead of Abnormal Dryness

About 31% of the county is currently abnormally dry, following eight weeks of drought in the past year. Use smart irrigation controllers or rain sensors to ensure you aren't wasting water when the frequent local rains do arrive.

An Early Start for Zone 5a

Take advantage of the early last frost on April 27 to get a head start on spring seeding. The reliable rains make this a great area for Kentucky Bluegrass, provided you get it established before the first frost on October 9.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Freeborn County's county score?
Freeborn County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 47.5 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 Freeborn County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Freeborn County ranks #68 among all counties in Minnesota 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 Freeborn County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Freeborn County is $1,750, with an effective tax rate of 1.06%. This earns Freeborn County a tax score of 33.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Freeborn County?
The median household income in Freeborn County, Minnesota is $69,012 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Freeborn County earns an income score of 64.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Freeborn County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Freeborn County scores 47.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #68 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Freeborn 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 Freeborn 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.