countyscore
52.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.4Health 97.1Soil Quality 82.2

County Report Card

About Hamilton County, Indiana

Hamilton County Beats National Benchmarks

Hamilton County achieves a composite score of 52.0, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This score is buoyed by elite rankings in wealth and health, though offset by high living costs. It remains one of the most high-performing affluent counties in the country.

An Indiana Wealth Hub with Unique Trade-offs

While the county score of 52.0 is slightly below the Indiana average of 55.9, this is primarily due to extreme cost and risk factors. Hamilton County leads the state in economic output and health metrics, making it a primary destination for high-earning professionals. It offers a premium lifestyle that is distinct from most other Indiana counties.

Elite Incomes and Exceptional Health

The county features a near-perfect income score of 98.4, with a median household income of $117,957. Health is equally impressive at 97.1, reflecting excellent access to care and healthy lifestyle outcomes. These scores indicate a community with immense personal and social capital.

Managing High Costs and Environmental Risk

Extreme housing costs result in a cost score of 6.2, with median home values reaching $379,100. Additionally, the risk score of 11.2 suggests high vulnerability to environmental or climate-related factors. These challenges mean residents pay a significant premium for the county's many benefits.

Tailored for High-Earning Professionals

Hamilton County is the top choice for those seeking the highest quality of health and wealth Indiana has to offer. It is best suited for established families who can manage high rents and mortgage payments. This is a destination for those who view livability through the lens of affluence and wellness.

Score breakdown

Tax46.6Cost6.2Safety65.6Health97.1Schools50Income98.4Risk11.2Water53.6Weather55.7
🏛46.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡65.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤97.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡11.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧53.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨82.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱70.1
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Tipton County
Indiana
65.2
Madison County
Indiana
41.9
Boone County
Indiana
55.4
Marion County
Indiana
26
Clinton County
Indiana
56.5
Hancock County
Indiana
52.8
Howard County
Indiana
45.3
Hendricks County
Indiana
47.5

Deep Dives

Hamilton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hamilton County

via TaxByCounty

Hamilton County taxes exceed most U.S. peers

Hamilton County's effective tax rate of 0.881% ranks in the top 20% nationally—the highest among Indiana's profiled counties. At $3,340 annually, the median tax bill significantly exceeds the national median of $2,690, driven by the county's robust median home value of $379,100.

Indiana's highest-taxed county in this group

Hamilton County's 0.881% effective rate tops Indiana's average of 0.671% by a substantial margin. The median tax of $3,340 runs nearly 3 times higher than the state median of $1,199, reflecting both higher rates and higher-valued homes.

Taxes significantly higher than neighboring areas

Hamilton County's 0.881% rate towers above Hancock County (0.680%), Hendricks County (0.833%), and all other surrounding counties. An otherwise identical $280,000 home would generate roughly $800 more in annual taxes here than in neighboring Hancock County.

What Hamilton homeowners pay annually

The median Hamilton County home valued at $379,100 generates an annual property tax bill of $3,340—the highest in this Indiana comparison. This substantial bill reflects both the county's higher effective rate and its concentration of higher-value properties.

High-value homes benefit most from appeals

In a county where median taxes exceed $3,300, overassessments can cost you hundreds or thousands annually. If your home's assessment seems inflated compared to recent neighborhood sales, filing an appeal could yield significant tax relief.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hamilton County

via CostByCounty

Hamilton's affluence defies national trends

Hamilton County residents earn $117,957—58% above the national average—and face a just-reasonable 14.9% rent-to-income ratio despite paying $1,468 monthly. This county operates in a different economic universe: high incomes make even premium housing costs feel manageable.

Indiana's prosperity leader

Hamilton's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in this analysis and well below Indiana's 15.6% state average, reflecting the county's concentration of high-earning households. At $1,468 median rent—67% above the state average—only affluence keeps affordability intact.

Wealthy enclave among rural counties

Hamilton's median income of $117,957 dwarfs nearby Hancock ($91,326) and Hendricks ($99,988), enabling rents and home values that would strain ordinary households elsewhere. The $379,100 median home value reflects Indianapolis-area suburban premium pricing inaccessible to lower-income neighbors.

Premium living on premium incomes

Hamilton renters pay $1,468 while homeowners commit $1,702—the highest monthly costs in the analysis—but incomes of $117,957 contain this comfortably within 15% of earnings. High earners can also absorb down-payment and closing-cost barriers that stop lower-income buyers elsewhere.

Hamilton: for successful relocators only

Hamilton County works if your job or business move brings six-figure income; otherwise, affordability evaporates instantly. For high-earning professionals, these stable, wealthy communities offer unmatched schools and services—just ensure your relocation income matches the premium.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hamilton County

via IncomeByCounty

Hamilton's income towers nationally

Hamilton County's median household income of $117,957 far exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $43,202—a commanding 58% advantage. The county ranks among the wealthiest in the nation, driven by affluent suburbs near Indianapolis.

Indiana's highest earners live here

Hamilton's $117,957 nearly doubles Indiana's state average of $68,681, making it by far the highest-income county in this survey. The county dominates Indiana's income rankings, reflecting its status as the state's most prosperous region.

Dramatically outpaces surrounding counties

Hamilton's $117,957 towers over Hendricks County ($99,988) and all other regional peers, with incomes 18-58% higher. The stark contrast reflects Hamilton's position as Indianapolis's wealthy exurban hub.

High incomes, premium housing costs

A 14.9% rent-to-income ratio shows housing remains highly affordable even at Hamilton's $379,100 median home value. The county's wealth absorbs even substantial housing investments comfortably.

Wealth-building accelerates here

Hamilton County households should leverage high incomes for aggressive retirement savings, diversified investments, and wealth preservation strategies. With median incomes exceeding $117,000, maxing 401(k)s and investing in taxable accounts compounds generational wealth rapidly.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hamilton County

via CrimeByCounty

Hamilton County Boasts Low Crime Rates

Hamilton County maintains a total crime rate of 807.1 per 100,000, far below the national average of 2,385.5. These statistics lead to a high safety score of 98.7.

A Model for Indiana Safety

The county safety score of 98.7 nearly matches the Indiana state average of 98.9. Eight separate reporting agencies work together to provide a secure environment for residents.

Safer than Most Regional Neighbors

Hamilton’s crime rate of 807.1 is significantly lower than Hancock County’s 1,183.7 and Hendricks County’s 1,289.5. It stands out as one of the most secure counties in the metropolitan area.

Focusing on Local Crime Trends

Property crime sits at 729.6 per 100,000, while the violent crime rate is very low at 77.5. Property crime accounts for over 90% of all reported incidents in the county.

Keeping Hamilton County Safe

High-value property often attracts interest, so robust home security remains a priority. Modern alarm systems and community watch programs help maintain this county’s strong safety profile.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hamilton County

via HealthByCounty

Hamilton County sets state health standard

At 80.7 years, Hamilton County residents live nearly 2 years longer than the U.S. average of 78.9 years—a remarkable achievement. Just 11% report poor or fair health, the lowest rate in this comparison, reflecting excellent disease management and preventive care.

Indiana's healthiest county stands out

Hamilton's 80.7-year life expectancy towers over Indiana's 75.1-year state average, a gap of 5.6 years that places it among the state's healthiest counties. The county's 11% poor/fair health rate is dramatically better than state norms, demonstrating what health equity can achieve.

Vastly outperforms peer counties

Hamilton's residents live 3–10 years longer than neighbors Grant, Harrison, or Fulton counties. The county's robust provider network—139 primary care and 199 mental health providers per 100,000—is 2–3 times higher than rural neighbors, creating a clear link between access and outcomes.

Universal insurance and abundant providers

With only 4.5% uninsured—among the lowest nationally—Hamilton has achieved near-universal coverage, removing financial barriers to care. The county's exceptional provider density means residents access preventive care, mental health services, and specialist referrals without delay or travel burden.

Maintain coverage and preventive care habits

Hamilton County's health success stems from high insurance coverage and dense provider networks. If you live in or near Hamilton, prioritize preventive screenings and mental health care—the systems are in place to catch problems early.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hamilton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Indiana's Premier Educational Hub

Hamilton County operates a massive infrastructure of 69 public schools, serving 62,259 students across nine districts. The landscape includes 39 elementary, 16 middle, and 12 high schools. It is one of the most robust and well-funded educational systems in the state.

Top-Tier Spending and Success

Hamilton County leads with a 95.0% graduation rate and a high school score of 53.9. The county invests $5,940 per pupil, significantly outspending the Indiana state average of $5,507. These investments consistently translate into academic performance that exceeds national standards.

Massive Districts and School Choices

Hamilton Southeastern Schools is the largest district with 21,612 students, followed by Carmel Clay with 16,072. The county also offers school choice through five charter schools, making up about 7% of the total school count. These large districts provide extensive extracurricular and academic opportunities.

Suburban Excellence and Large Campuses

With 43 suburban and 16 city-based schools, the county has an average school size of 916 students. Carmel High School is a standout, serving 5,192 students and making it one of the largest in the nation. This environment offers a high-energy, collegiate feel for students in the Indianapolis metro area.

Invest in a Community with Elite Schools

Hamilton County is the destination for families seeking the best public education in Indiana. From Carmel to Fishers, the high per-pupil spending and 95% graduation rates make these neighborhoods highly sought after. Secure your family's future by finding a home in one of these top-rated districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hamilton County

via RiskByCounty

Hamilton faces notably high risk

Hamilton County's composite risk score of 88.80 places it in the "Relatively Moderate" category—well above the national average. The county confronts severe tornado exposure (96.76) and exceptional flood risk (91.06), among Indiana's highest levels in both hazards.

Indiana's most hazardous county

Hamilton's 88.80 composite score nearly doubles Indiana's 45.52 state average, making it the highest-risk county in the state by a substantial margin. The county's tornado (96.76) and flood (91.06) exposure far exceed any peer, reflecting its geography and weather patterns.

Significantly riskier than all neighbors

Hamilton County's 88.80 risk towers over adjacent Hancock (44.02) and Hendricks counties (76.81), reflecting uniquely severe tornado and flood hazards. Even Hendricks County, the second-highest-risk neighbor, falls well below Hamilton's threat level.

Tornadoes and flooding define exposure

Tornado risk at 96.76 is the state's highest, making severe convective storms a defining hazard for Hamilton County residents. Flood risk at 91.06 compounds this threat, particularly in bottomland areas vulnerable to river and stormwater inundation.

Invest in multiple protective layers

Homeowners must prioritize safe room construction or basement shelter for tornado protection—this is essential, not optional. Separate flood insurance is critical; elevate HVAC systems and utilities, maintain sump pumps, and review insurance annually given the county's exceptional hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hamilton County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Midwestern Continental Climate

Hamilton County's average annual temperature of 51.6°F is slightly cooler than the national median. It experiences a classic continental climate with four distinct seasons and moderate precipitation.

Cooler and Drier Than Indiana Averages

The county’s 51.6°F average sits just below the Indiana state average of 52.2°F. It is also slightly drier than the state norm, receiving 43.2 inches of precipitation annually compared to 43.9 inches statewide.

Consistent Weather Across the Metro North

Hamilton’s 51.6°F average is nearly identical to neighboring Hancock’s 51.9°F. Both counties share similar weather patterns, though Hamilton is slightly drier than its neighbor to the southeast.

Warm July Days and Snowy Januarys

Summers reach an average of 72.6°F with 18 days topping 90°F annually. Winters are brisk at 29.4°F, delivering about 20.3 inches of snow to the region.

Prepare for Humidity and Winter Chills

Residents should optimize HVAC systems for the 18 high-heat days and the 26.6°F January lows. Proper snow removal gear is essential for handling the 20 inches of annual accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hamilton County

via SoilByCounty

High-performing soils in a central hub

Hamilton County boasts a superior soil score of 82.2, significantly higher than the Indiana average of 71.4. Its average pH of 6.21 is slightly acidic but remains closer to the 6.5 national median than many other counties. While texture and taxonomic data are limited, the chemical profile indicates elite growing conditions.

Silt-heavy mix creates a fertile foundation

The soil composition is 51.9% silt, 22.7% sand, and 20.6% clay. This balanced distribution provides excellent moisture retention without the extreme density of pure clay. It creates a medium-textured soil that supports robust root development and nutrient storage.

Rich organic matter and superior hydration

At 5.72%, the organic matter content in Hamilton County beats the state average of 4.90% and nearly triples the national average. The available water capacity of 0.213 in/in is also higher than the state average of 0.202. This means the soil is exceptionally resilient during Indiana's summer dry spells.

Productive land with high water storage

Though specific drainage classifications are not listed, the high water capacity and silt content suggest a moisture-retentive landscape. This soil is capable of supporting intensive agriculture or lush residential landscaping. The high soil score reflects a landscape that is naturally primed for high performance.

Lush landscapes flourish in Zone 6a

Hamilton County's 6a hardiness zone is perfect for everything from turfgrass to heirloom tomatoes. The high organic matter means you can grow nutrient-dense vegetables with less supplemental fertilizer. It is an ideal environment to establish a high-yield home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hamilton County

via LawnByCounty

Standard Indiana conditions for suburban lawns

Hamilton County scores 70.1 on our difficulty scale, matching the Indiana state average almost perfectly. Homeowners in this Zone 6a region find maintenance straightforward compared to the national difficulty median of 50.0.

Consistent growth through the season

The local climate provides 43.2 inches of annual precipitation and 18 days of extreme heat. With 3,326 growing degree days, the environment supports a robust and active growing season for most cool-season turf varieties.

Balanced soil with ideal pH

A soil pH of 6.21 provides an ideal chemical foundation for nutrient uptake without requiring heavy amendments. The soil composition of 20.6% clay and 22.7% sand suggests a standard Midwestern profile that responds well to routine fertilization.

Severe drought requires smart watering

Over 70% of the county is currently experiencing severe drought conditions after 30 weeks of drought in the past year. Installing smart irrigation controllers can help manage your lawn effectively during these increasingly dry cycles.

Best types for the Indy suburbs

Fine Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are the top recommendations for Zone 6a lawns in this area. Target the window between the April 21 last frost and the October 21 first frost for the most successful results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamilton County's county score?
Hamilton County, Indiana has a composite county score of 52.1 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 Hamilton County rank among counties in Indiana?
Hamilton County ranks #66 among all counties in Indiana 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 Hamilton County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Hamilton County is $3,340, with an effective tax rate of 0.88%. This earns Hamilton County a tax score of 46.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hamilton County?
The median household income in Hamilton County, Indiana is $117,957 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hamilton County earns an income score of 98.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hamilton County, Indiana a good place to live?
Hamilton County scores 52.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #66 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Hamilton 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 Hamilton 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.