countyscore
61.6
County Score
Health 82.8Soil Quality 81.8Lawn Care 79.5

County Report Card

About Hancock County, Iowa

Hancock Outperforms the National Median

Hancock County earns a composite score of 61.6, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This strong performance places the county well into the upper tiers of livability nationwide.

A High Performer in Iowa

With a score of 61.6, Hancock sits comfortably above the Iowa state average of 55.6. It represents a more desirable living option than many of its regional neighbors.

Elite Health and Safety Metrics

The county excels with a health score of 82.8 and a safety score of 76.0. Residents also benefit from a solid median household income of $70,212.

Infrastructure and Tax Pressures

Hancock faces challenges with a water quality score of 36.4 and a tax score of 26.0. The effective tax rate of 1.192% is a notable burden compared to high-scoring dimensions.

Best for Health-Conscious Families

Hancock is ideal for families who prioritize safety and wellness above all else. Its strong health and safety scores outweigh the infrastructure and tax drawbacks for established households.

Score breakdown

Tax26Cost60Safety76Health82.8Schools61.8Income67Risk71.2Water36.4Weather49.9
🏛26
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠60
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡76
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤82.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡71.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧36.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨81.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱79.5
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

Winnebago County
Iowa
68.8
Cerro Gordo County
Iowa
42.5
Kossuth County
Iowa
66.6
Wright County
Iowa
59.7
Humboldt County
Iowa
63.4
Franklin County
Iowa
65.5
Worth County
Iowa
70.4
Faribault County
Minnesota
61.9

Deep Dives

Hancock County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hancock County

via TaxByCounty

Hancock taxes run well below national average

Hancock County's effective tax rate of 1.192% sits comfortably below the national median of roughly 0.85%, placing it in the middle range nationally. The median property tax here is $1,541 annually, less than 58% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting Iowa's generally lower home values and tax burdens.

Hancock ranks among Iowa's lowest-tax counties

At 1.192%, Hancock's effective rate is notably lower than Iowa's average of 1.344%, making it one of the state's more affordable property tax counties. The county's median property tax of $1,541 trails the state average of $2,160 by about $620 annually.

Lower taxes than most neighboring counties

Hancock's 1.192% rate edges out Ida County (1.064%) but undercuts Hardin (1.427%), Howard (1.302%), and Humboldt (1.286%) in the region. This positions Hancock as a moderate-tax area in north-central Iowa, appealing to homeowners seeking balance between services and affordability.

Own a median-value home? Expect $1,541 yearly

A homeowner with a $129,300 property in Hancock pays roughly $1,541 in annual property taxes at the current effective rate. Over a 30-year mortgage, that adds up to more than $46,000 in tax payments alone.

You may be able to lower your tax bill

Many Iowa homeowners—including those in Hancock—discover their properties are assessed above actual market value, creating appeal opportunities. If your home's assessment doesn't match recent sales of comparable properties nearby, requesting a reassessment could reduce your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hancock County

via CostByCounty

Hancock rents are cheaper than most

Hancock County residents spend 13.4% of income on rent, beating the national average and offering solid affordability compared to U.S. markets. The median household income of $70,212 is slightly below the national median of $74,755, yet renters here pay just $784 monthly—well below where they'd pay in much of the country.

Strongest renter affordability in Iowa

Hancock County ranks among Iowa's most affordable counties for renters, with a 13.4% rent-to-income ratio that undershoots the state average of 14.1%. At $784 per month, the median rent is $28 lower than the state average, making it an outlier in a positive direction.

Competitive with nearby counties

Hancock's $784 rent sits between Howard County ($699, the region's cheapest) and Hardin County ($814). Homebuyers here face a $814 monthly mortgage cost, placing it right in the middle of what neighbors pay, though home values at $129,300 are modest across the board.

Housing takes modest slice of income

The typical Hancock household earning $70,212 annually spends roughly $784 on rent or $814 on mortgage costs—proportions that leave room for other expenses. Both renter and owner costs hover near 11–14% of income, well within the recommended 30% housing affordability threshold.

Room to build equity here

If you're relocating to Iowa and prioritizing affordability, Hancock County deserves your consideration. The combination of low rent, reasonable home prices, and strong rent-to-income ratios makes it competitive for renters and first-time homebuyers alike.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hancock County

via IncomeByCounty

Hancock's Income: Below National Average

Hancock County's median household income of $70,212 falls short of the national median of $74,755, a gap of $4,543. This places the county in the lower-middle range nationally, reflecting Iowa's broader trend of income lagging behind wealthier coastal and metropolitan regions.

Above Average Within Iowa

At $70,212, Hancock County's median household income exceeds Iowa's state average of $69,830 by $382, ranking it above the middle of Iowa's 99 counties. This modest advantage reflects a stable local economy, though the county remains vulnerable to statewide economic trends.

Stronger Than Most Regional Peers

Hancock County outearns several neighboring counties, including Hardin ($64,906) and Henry ($64,604), while trailing Harrison County ($77,027). Among this cluster of north-central Iowa counties, Hancock represents solid middle-tier earning power.

Housing Costs Are Very Manageable

At just 13.4%, Hancock County's rent-to-income ratio is well below the 30% affordability threshold, meaning housing remains truly affordable for most households. With a median home value of $129,300 and robust household income, residents enjoy strong financial breathing room.

Build Your Financial Future Here

Hancock County's affordable housing and stable income create an excellent foundation for saving and investing. Consider opening a high-yield savings account or exploring low-cost index funds to grow wealth on top of your $70,212 median income.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hancock County

via CrimeByCounty

Hancock County Ranks Among Nation's Safest

Hancock County boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.1, significantly outperforming national benchmarks. Its total crime rate of 574.6 per 100K is just a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the Iowa Average

With a safety score of 99.1, Hancock County sits comfortably above the Iowa state average of 98.3. Its total crime rate of 574.6 per 100K is nearly half the state average of 1,095.3.

Low Crime Rates Compared to Regional Peers

Hancock County maintains a crime rate of 574.6 per 100K, which is notably lower than neighboring Hardin County's 1,856.4. This puts it in a strong position relative to Humboldt County, which reports a similar rate of 593.4.

Property Crime Leads Local Offenses

Property crimes account for 435.6 incidents per 100K, while violent crimes remain low at 139.0. Residents experience significantly lower violent crime rates than the national average of 369.8.

Stay Vigilant in Hancock County

Even in a safe area with a 99.1 score, property crime remains the primary concern for residents. Installing a basic security system can further reduce the risk from the 435.6 property crimes reported per 100K people.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hancock County

via HealthByCounty

Hancock outlives the nation

At 78.6 years, Hancock County residents live nearly a year longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. The county's 15.9% poor or fair health rate also sits below the national average of 18%, suggesting residents here experience better overall health outcomes than most Americans.

Top health outcomes in Iowa

Hancock County ranks among Iowa's healthiest, with a life expectancy of 78.6 years compared to the state average of 77.7 years. This 0.9-year advantage reflects strong community health management and preventive care practices across the county.

Stronger than surrounding counties

Hancock's 78.6-year life expectancy outpaces neighboring Hardin County (77.3 years) and Howard County (77.7 years). The county also leads in health perception, with only 15.9% reporting poor or fair health versus 17% in Hardin.

Access gaps despite good health

Just 5.7% of Hancock residents lack health insurance, matching Iowa's state average, but primary care is scarce at only 9 providers per 100,000 residents—well below the state median. Mental health providers are more available at 47 per 100,000, yet residents may travel far for routine medical care.

Stay covered in Hancock County

With nearly all Hancock residents insured, health coverage is strong here—but don't let gaps emerge. Visit healthcare.gov or contact the Iowa Department of Human Services to confirm your coverage and explore options if circumstances change.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hancock County

via SchoolsByCounty

Six Schools Support Two Local Districts

Hancock County's education infrastructure consists of six public schools serving 1,542 total students. The system is perfectly balanced with two elementary, two middle, and two high schools split between two districts.

Graduation Rates Outpace National Benchmarks

The county boasts a 96.2% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 87% national average and the 92.3% state average. Despite spending just $6,697 per pupil, Hancock achieves a school score of 56.1, which aligns with the Iowa state average.

Garner-Hayfield-Ventura Leads Enrollment

Garner-Hayfield-Ventura Community School District is the largest in the county, serving 943 students across three schools. No charter schools operate in the area, leaving all 1,542 students enrolled in traditional public districts.

Rural and Town Settings Define Student Life

Schools are split evenly between three rural and three town locales, with an average size of 257 students. Garner-Hayfield-Ventura Elementary is the largest at 374 students, while West Hancock Middle offers a smaller environment with 165 students.

Find a Home Near High-Achieving Schools

High graduation rates and manageable school sizes make this county a prime target for education-focused homebuyers. Explore local listings to find a residence within these high-performing Iowa districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hancock County

via RiskByCounty

Hancock: Well Below National Risk

Hancock County's composite risk score of 28.79 puts it in the Very Low category, significantly safer than the national average. This score reflects relatively modest natural disaster threats across most hazard types, making it one of Iowa's lower-risk communities.

Among Iowa's Safest Counties

Hancock ranks favorably within Iowa, where the state average composite risk score is 39.68. The county's 28.79 score places it well below the state median, indicating lower-than-typical exposure to natural disasters for the region.

Comparing Risk With Nearby Counties

Hancock's neighbors show mixed risk profiles: Howard County (15.59) is even safer, while Hardin County (58.40) faces substantially higher tornado and flood risks. Hancock sits in the middle-to-low range of its regional peers, with notably lower flood exposure than Harrison County.

Tornado Risk Dominates Hancock's Hazards

Tornado risk is Hancock's primary concern, scoring 50.51—the county's most significant natural hazard threat. Flood risk (21.60) and wildfire risk (6.58) pose much lower dangers, while earthquake and hurricane risks are minimal to nonexistent.

Secure Your Home Against Tornadoes

Hancock residents should prioritize tornado coverage through homeowners or specialized policies, given the county's moderate tornado exposure. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage, but verify your specific coverage limits and consider a safe room or shelter to maximize family protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hancock County

via WeatherByCounty

Hancock’s Cool Continental Climate

With an average annual temperature of 45.5°F, Hancock County sits significantly cooler than the national median. This humid continental climate features sharp seasonal shifts and stays roughly 2.5 degrees below the Iowa state average.

Below the Iowa Temperature Average

Hancock ranks as one of the cooler territories in the state, falling below the Iowa average annual temperature of 48.0°F. The county also sees slightly less precipitation than the state norm, recording 34.7 inches annually compared to the statewide 36.1 inches.

Coldest Among North-Central Neighbors

Hancock remains colder than neighboring Humboldt County, which averages 46.2°F annually. While both regions face harsh winters, Hancock’s annual average reflects its position as a more northern, frigid pocket of the Iowa plains.

Deep Freezes and Mild Summers

Winters are intense with a January average of 15.0°F and 35.3 inches of annual snowfall. Summers remain relatively comfortable, seeing only 8 days above 90°F and an average July temperature of 72.2°F.

Prioritize Insulation and Winter Readiness

Residents should invest in high-efficiency heating systems to handle winter averages of 18.5°F. While extreme heat is rare, the 34.7 inches of rain and significant snowfall require robust gutter systems and reliable snow removal equipment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hancock County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Alkaline Soils Near the National Median

Hancock County features an average soil pH of 6.72, which sits just above the national median of 6.5. This measurement is higher than the Iowa state average of 6.43, providing a less acidic environment for local crops. While specific taxonomic classifications are currently unavailable, the overall soil score of 81.8 is significantly higher than the state average.

A Balanced Blend of Sand and Silt

The soil contains 34.8% sand, 37.2% silt, and 23.9% clay. This relatively even distribution supports good workability while maintaining enough clay to hold necessary nutrients. The sand content helps prevent total compaction, allowing roots to penetrate the soil more easily.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

This county boasts an impressive 7.53% organic matter, nearly double the Iowa state average of 3.81%. The available water capacity reaches 0.200 in/in, which is higher than the state mean of 0.195. These figures indicate a highly fertile landscape that retains moisture and nutrients effectively.

High Soil Score Suggests Reliable Stability

Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are unavailable for this region. However, the high soil score of 81.8 suggests that the land is exceptionally well-suited for intensive agricultural production. Farmers should still monitor local fields for ponding given the high organic content and water capacity.

Ready for Hardiness Zone 5a Success

In USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, these high-fertility soils are perfect for growing corn, soybeans, and hearty cool-season vegetables. With organic matter levels far exceeding national averages, your garden will require less supplemental fertilizer than most. Start your beds early to take advantage of this rich, nutrient-dense ground.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hancock County

via LawnByCounty

A High Success Rate for Hancock Lawns

Hancock County earns a lawn difficulty score of 79.5, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0 and slightly above the Iowa state average of 77.2. Homeowners in Hardiness Zone 5a find maintaining a lush turf easier here than in most other parts of the country.

Cooler Summers Benefit Northern Iowa Turf

With only 8 extreme heat days per year compared to the state average of 16, lawns here escape much of the mid-summer stress. The county receives 34.7 inches of annual precipitation, which sits comfortably within the ideal 30-50 inch range for cool-season grasses.

Perfectly Balanced Soil for Optimal Growth

The soil pH in Hancock County averages a near-perfect 6.72, falling right in the middle of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. While specific drainage data is limited, the blend of 23.9% clay and 34.8% sand provides a solid foundation that rarely requires heavy chemical adjustments.

Managing Moderate Dry Spells

Current data shows 27.7% of the county is abnormally dry, though the region saw only 3 weeks of drought over the past year. Since there is no severe drought presently, deep and infrequent watering remains the best strategy to encourage deep root growth.

Starting Strong in the North

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive in this 5a zone and should be seeded after the last spring frost on April 29. Aim for early fall renovation before the first frost arrives around October 7 to ensure roots establish before the cold Iowa winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hancock County's county score?
Hancock County, Iowa has a composite county score of 61.6 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 Hancock County rank among counties in Iowa?
Hancock County ranks #26 among all counties in Iowa 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 Hancock County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Hancock County is $1,541, with an effective tax rate of 1.19%. This earns Hancock County a tax score of 26/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hancock County?
The median household income in Hancock County, Iowa is $70,212 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hancock County earns an income score of 67/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hancock County, Iowa a good place to live?
Hancock County scores 61.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #26 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Hancock 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 Hancock County with other counties side by side.

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