countyscore
55.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.6Safety 91.2Schools 75.9

County Report Card

About Geauga County, Ohio

High-Performance National Leader

Geauga County achieves a composite score of 55.6, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. This score signals a superior level of overall livability.

A Top-Tier Ohio County

The county vastly outperforms the state average of 48.6. It serves as a regional benchmark for wealth, safety, and educational quality.

Wealth, Safety, and Top Schools

Geauga County features an elite income score of 95.6 and a safety score of 91.2. Median household incomes exceed six figures, reaching a high of $100,783.

The High Price of Entry

Affordability is the main challenge, with a cost score of 18.6 and a tax score of 13.4. Median home values are high at $305,100, reflecting the area's premium status.

The Affluent Family's Premier Choice

This county is best suited for high-net-worth families who demand top-performing schools and maximum safety. It rewards those who can afford the high cost of housing.

Score breakdown

Tax13.4Cost18.6Safety91.2Health74.2Schools75.9Income95.6Risk39.7Water35.7Weather57.6
🏛13.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠18.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡91.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤74.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓75.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡39.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧35.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.7
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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Nearby counties

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Cuyahoga County
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Trumbull County
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Ashtabula County
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Deep Dives

Geauga County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Geauga County

via TaxByCounty

Geauga ranks in top 10% for property taxes

Geauga County's effective tax rate of 1.486% far exceeds the national median of 0.95%, and the median property tax of $4,533 sits 69% above the national median of $2,690. This affluent Cleveland suburb carries one of America's highest residential property tax burdens.

Second-highest tax rate in Ohio

Geauga's effective rate of 1.486% ranks among Ohio's highest, exceeded only by Greene County's 1.690%. The median tax of $4,533 is more than double Ohio's $2,145 state average.

Premium pricing for suburban living

Geauga's $4,533 median tax significantly exceeds Franklin ($4,110) and Hamilton ($3,461), driven by the county's $305,100 median home value—the highest among these eight counties. Geauga's desirable Cleveland suburbs command both high home prices and high taxes.

Median home costs $4,533 yearly in taxes

A typical Geauga County home valued at $305,100 generates approximately $4,533 in annual property taxes. With mortgage considerations, annual taxes may reach $4,693—a substantial year-round expense.

High taxes justify careful assessment review

With median tax bills exceeding $4,500, even a 3% overassessment costs homeowners over $130 annually. Geauga County residents should strongly consider hiring a professional appraiser to challenge potentially inflated assessed values.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Geauga County

via CostByCounty

Geauga County: affluent and manageable

Geauga County residents spend just 12.1% of income on rent, beating the national average of 15.6% by over 3 percentage points. With median household income at $100,783—the highest among these eight counties—housing burdens feel lighter despite higher absolute costs.

Ohio's most affordable affluent county

Geauga County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.1% is Ohio's best, well below the state average of 15.6%. This suburban county combines high incomes and managed housing costs for genuinely easy affordability.

Premium homes, premium incomes

Geauga County's median home value of $305,100 far exceeds nearby Franklin ($265,700) and Greene ($238,000) counties, yet its rent-to-income ratio remains the lowest. Household incomes here average $100,783, enabling comfortable homeownership despite higher absolute prices.

Wealth makes housing easy

Renters pay $1,018 monthly and homeowners $1,415 against median income of $100,783, consuming just 12% and 17% respectively. Even with the state's highest home values, Geauga households dedicate the smallest share of earnings to housing.

Geauga rewards well-earning relocators

If your household income exceeds $90,000 and you seek quality suburban living, Geauga County delivers outstanding affordability despite premium housing prices. Verify your industry has strong local employment before moving, as this county's prosperity depends on high-earning sectors.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Geauga County

via IncomeByCounty

Geauga outearns nation by 35%

Geauga County's median household income of $100,783 towers $26,028 above the national median of $74,755, ranking it in the top 10% of U.S. counties. This exceptional income reflects a highly educated, affluent suburban population anchored by Cleveland's prosperous eastern suburbs.

Ohio's wealthiest county region

Geauga County's $100,783 income leads all eight counties in this dataset and ranks among Ohio's very wealthiest, outpacing the state average of $68,101 by 48%. Per capita income of $50,431 is 41% above the state average of $35,642, indicating sustained prosperity across the workforce.

Commands income lead over peers

Geauga County's $100,783 income stands $15,565 ahead of Greene County ($85,218), the second-highest earner in this group, and $28,000 above Franklin County ($73,795). Its income advantage over rural counties like Gallia ($56,455) and Guernsey ($55,756) exceeds 80%, reflecting profound regional economic disparities.

Wealth supports homeownership easily

Despite a median home value of $305,100—the highest in this dataset—Geauga County's rent-to-income ratio of only 12.1% demonstrates that even expensive homes remain highly affordable for these high-earning households. This ratio leaves substantial room for savings, investments, and discretionary spending.

High earners must maximize tax-advantaged investing

Geauga County households earning $100,783 can leverage their income advantage through maxed-out 401(k) contributions ($23,000 annually), backdoor Roth IRAs, and taxable brokerage accounts to build generational wealth. Strategic tax planning with a financial advisor becomes increasingly valuable at this income level, potentially saving tens of thousands annually.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Geauga County

via CrimeByCounty

Geauga County Among the Nation's Safest

Geauga County features an exceptional safety score of 99.8, making it one of the safest areas in the United States. Its total crime rate of 153.0 per 100,000 is a tiny fraction of the national average of 2,385.5. Residents here live in an environment with remarkably low criminal activity.

Leading the Way in Ohio Safety

Geauga County far exceeds the Ohio average safety score of 97.8 with its near-perfect 99.8 rating. Its total crime rate of 153.0 is roughly nine times lower than the state average of 1,412.3. It stands as a premier example of public safety within the state of Ohio.

Setting the Standard for Neighbors

Geauga County's crime rate of 153.0 is significantly lower than Franklin County (557.7) and Hancock County (1,402.7). No other county in this regional analysis comes close to Geauga's low incident rates. It remains a tranquil outlier even among other safe Ohio counties.

Minimal Crime Across All Categories

Violent crime in Geauga County is extremely rare at just 12.6 per 100,000 residents. Property crime is also minimal, recorded at only 140.4 per 100,000, compared to a national rate of over 2,000. These statistics highlight a community where crime is an exception rather than the rule.

Maintaining Peace in Geauga County

While crime is very low, maintaining awareness helps keep these numbers down. Ensure your home is well-lit at night and continue reporting suspicious activity to one of the nine local agencies. Constant community vigilance is the foundation of Geauga's impressive safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Geauga County

via HealthByCounty

Geauga County defies Ohio health trends

Geauga County's life expectancy of 80 years ranks among the nation's best, exceeding the U.S. average by 3.9 years and Ohio's average by 5.2 years. With only 15.6% reporting poor or fair health, the county represents one of Ohio's healthiest pockets.

Geauga County's health stands out statewide

At 80 years, Geauga County's life expectancy ranks among Ohio's highest, outpacing the state average of 74.8 years by 5.2 years. The county's 15.6% poor/fair health rate indicates strong population wellness and access to preventive care.

Geauga leads Greater Cleveland health outcomes

Geauga County's 80-year life expectancy significantly exceeds neighboring Franklin County (75.5 years) and Hamilton County (75.5 years), reflecting suburban affluence and healthcare access. The county's smaller provider network (69 primary care per 100K) works effectively, suggesting high health literacy and preventive care culture.

Geauga's uninsured rate remains elevated

Despite its strong health outcomes, Geauga County's 9.2% uninsured rate exceeds Ohio's average of 7.5%, suggesting coverage gaps persist even in wealthy areas. The county provides adequate provider density (69 primary care and 270 mental health per 100K), making insurance access the primary barrier to care.

Close coverage gaps in Geauga County

Even in a healthier county, 9.2% of Geauga residents lack health insurance—a gap worth closing immediately. Visit healthcare.gov or contact your employer's benefits office to secure coverage and maintain the county's strong health trajectory.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Geauga County

via SchoolsByCounty

Exceptional Quality in a Compact System

Geauga County maintains 21 public schools across five districts, serving approximately 9,932 students. The infrastructure is well-balanced with 10 elementary, six middle, and five high schools.

Top-Tier Results and Efficient Spending

With a stellar 94.5% graduation rate, Geauga County significantly outperforms the national average of 87%. The county’s 58.6 school score is one of the highest in the region, achieved with a per-pupil spend of $8,230.

The Strength of Chardon and Kenston

Chardon Local is the largest district with 2,645 students, followed closely by Kenston Local at 2,565 students. The county relies entirely on traditional public districts, with no charter schools in operation.

A Perfect Blend of Town and Country

Schools are spread across town, rural, and suburban locales, offering families various living environments. Chardon High School is the largest in the county with 1,143 students, while the overall average school size is 473.

Invest in Geauga’s Premier Education

Geauga County's impressive academic scores make it a magnet for home buyers prioritizing school quality. Look for properties in the Chardon or Kenston areas to secure access to these high-performing public schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Geauga County

via RiskByCounty

Geauga County modestly exceeds national risk average

With a composite risk score of 60.27, Geauga County sits slightly above the typical U.S. county profile, indicating relatively low but measurable hazard exposure. The county faces well-distributed risks across multiple disaster types rather than concentrated vulnerability.

Slightly elevated risk within Ohio

Geauga County's score of 60.27 marginally exceeds Ohio's state average of 55.03, placing it in the middle range of state counties. The northeast location and Lake Erie proximity contribute to its specific risk profile.

In line with northeastern Ohio peers

Geauga County's 60.27 score closely tracks neighboring Lake and Ashtabula Counties, which occupy similar risk bands. The region's shared topography and weather patterns create comparable hazard exposures across the county cluster.

Flooding and severe weather dominate exposure

Flood risk reaches 73.28 in Geauga County, the most significant hazard, while tornado risk scores 59.57 and wildfire risk 42.27. Earthquake risk (46.15) remains moderate but warrants attention given the county's proximity to seismic zones.

Dual coverage recommended for comprehensive protection

Geauga County residents in flood zones should obtain separate flood insurance, as standard policies exclude water damage from rising waters or heavy precipitation. A secure safe room rated for tornadoes and regular home maintenance to address wildfire defensibility around structures provide layered protection against the county's primary threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Geauga County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool Hub in the Rust Belt

At an average of 48.0°F, Geauga County is significantly cooler than the national median temperature. The humid continental climate brings some of the harshest winters in the Midwest.

Ohio's Icebox Leads in Snowfall

Geauga sits well below the state average temperature of 51.5°F. It is famous for its 113.7 inches of annual snow, a figure that dwarfs most other Ohio counties.

The Lake Effect Powerhouse

With 50.7 inches of annual precipitation, Geauga is much wetter than neighbors like Hancock. Its massive 113.7-inch snow total defines the region's winter identity compared to central Ohio.

Mild Summers and Record-Breaking Winters

Geauga enjoys cool summers with only 6 days reaching 90°F. However, winter dominates with an average temperature of 27.1°F and heavy lake-effect snow accumulation.

Prepare for the Long Winter Haul

Professional-grade snow removal equipment is a necessity for the 113.7 inches of annual snow. Insulation and winter-ready vehicle kits are more critical here than anywhere else in the state.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Geauga County

via SoilByCounty

Geauga's Acidic Alfisol Foundation

Geauga County is characterized by Alfisols with a pH of 5.48, making it more acidic than both the national median and the state average. These soils are typical for regions that developed under deciduous forests, offering a unique chemical profile for local growers.

Classic Silt Loam Texture

The dominant texture is silt loam, featuring 47.8% silt, 26.2% sand, and 16.1% clay. This specific balance provides a middle-ground workability that is highly prized for its ability to support root systems while retaining moisture.

Rich Organic Earth

Organic matter in Geauga is very high at 10.16%, significantly outperforming the state average of 4.85%. The available water capacity of 0.191 in/in also beats the state average, ensuring a healthy supply of water for thirsty crops.

Well-Drained and Productive

This soil is classified as well-drained and falls into hydrologic group C, meaning it handles rainfall efficiently without excessive pooling. Its 65.3 soil score indicates it is a solid performer for both agricultural and residential use.

Cooler Crops in Zone 6a

Geauga’s Zone 6a climate and rich silt loam are perfect for maple trees, berries, and leafy greens. Take advantage of the high organic matter to grow a lush, productive garden this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Geauga County

via LawnByCounty

Cool and Wet Conditions in Geauga

Geauga County’s lawn difficulty score of 63.7 reflects a unique challenge of high moisture and low heat. This Zone 6a county is cooler than most of Ohio, requiring different maintenance strategies than the rest of the state.

High Precipitation and Limited Summer Heat

Annual precipitation of 50.7 inches is among the highest in the state, well above the 41.2-inch average. With only 6 extreme heat days and 2,535 growing degree days, the primary challenge is managing moisture rather than fighting heat stress.

Acidic Silt Loam with Good Drainage

The soil is classified as a well-drained silt loam, but its 5.48 pH is quite acidic for standard turf. You will likely need to apply lime to raise the pH toward the 6.0 target for a healthy, green appearance.

Abundant Water Supply Minimizes Stress

Drought is rarely a concern here, with 0% abnormal dryness currently and only 6 weeks of drought in the past year. Your main goal should be ensuring proper drainage to prevent fungal issues in the exceptionally wet soil.

Focus on Moisture-Tolerant Varieties

Perennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in these cooler, wetter 6a conditions. Wait until after the late spring frost on May 5 to ensure your new lawn isn't damaged by a late-season freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Geauga County's county score?
Geauga County, Ohio has a composite county score of 55.7 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 Geauga County rank among counties in Ohio?
Geauga County ranks #19 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 Geauga County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Geauga County is $4,533, with an effective tax rate of 1.49%. This earns Geauga County a tax score of 13.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Geauga County?
The median household income in Geauga County, Ohio is $100,783 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Geauga County earns an income score of 95.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Geauga County, Ohio a good place to live?
Geauga County scores 55.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #19 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Geauga 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 Geauga 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.