countyscore
69
County Score
Safety 90.2Water Quality 86Cost of Living 77.8

County Report Card

About Harlan County, Nebraska

Far Above the National Median

Harlan County boasts a composite score of 69.0, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This high ranking suggests a quality of life that is superior to many rural peers across the country.

A Top-Performing Nebraska County

With a score nearly ten points higher than the state average of 59.3, Harlan County is a standout in Nebraska. Its success is driven by exceptional safety and housing value.

Superior Safety and Low Costs

The county shines with a safety score of 90.2 and a cost score of 77.8. Residents enjoy very affordable living, with a median home value of $147,200 and a median gross rent of only $708.

Navigating a High Tax Burden

The tax score of 28.3 is a weak point, resulting from an effective tax rate of 1.148%. While incomes are stable at $70,536, the tax load is heavier than in some other high-scoring counties.

Perfect for Safety-Conscious Budgeters

Harlan County is a prime choice for retirees and families looking for extreme peace of mind and affordable housing. It offers one of the most secure and budget-friendly environments in the region.

Score breakdown

Tax28.3Cost77.8Safety90.2Health71Schools70.3Income67.8Risk68Water86Weather43.4
🏛28.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠77.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡90.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤71
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓70.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡68
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.3
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

Phillips County
Kansas
58.8
Franklin County
Nebraska
68.2
Furnas County
Nebraska
55.9
Phelps County
Nebraska
64.7
Norton County
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Gosper County
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Kearney County
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Smith County
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64.6

Deep Dives

Harlan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harlan County

via TaxByCounty

Harlan County taxes modestly above national median

With an effective tax rate of 1.148%, Harlan County sits just above the national median of 1.1%, placing it in roughly the 55th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $1,690 remains well below the national median of $2,690, a reflection of lower home values in rural Nebraska.

Below average for Nebraska, but not the lowest

Harlan County's 1.148% rate falls slightly below Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, ranking it in the lower-middle tier among the state's 93 counties. This positions Harlan as more affordable than most of the state.

Competitive with similar rural Nebraska counties

Harlan County's rate of 1.148% is comparable to Holt County (1.139%) and slightly lower than Hayes County (1.267%) and Hitchcock County (1.244%). All four counties cluster tightly, offering homeowners similarly moderate tax burdens.

Median home taxes run $1,690 yearly

On a median home value of $147,200, Harlan County homeowners pay approximately $1,690 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,943.

Challenge assessments to lower your bill

Even in counties with favorable rates, individual properties may be overassessed relative to market value. Filing a simple assessment appeal could save hundreds annually on your property tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harlan County

via CostByCounty

Harlan County offers accessible rents

Renters in Harlan County spend 12.0% of their income on housing—well below the national median household income threshold and competitive with national affordability standards. This puts Harlan County firmly in the affordable housing category for rural Nebraska.

Better than state average affordability

At 12.0%, Harlan County's rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's statewide average of 14.2%, making it one of the state's more accessible counties for renters. Despite having a median income of $70,536—below the state median—Harlan's low rent of $708 per month keeps housing costs manageable.

Competitive with nearby counties

Harlan County's 12.0% rent-to-income ratio matches Hamilton County (11.7%) and beats Holt County (12.9%), making it one of the most balanced housing markets in the region. Homebuyers benefit from notably lower median home values ($147,200) compared to Hamilton County ($238,700).

Rent and ownership in Harlan County

A typical Harlan County renter earning $70,536 annually pays $708 per month in rent—12% of their income. Homeowners face similar costs with a median monthly payment of just $690, making homeownership nearly equivalent to renting in this county.

Budget-conscious buyers should explore Harlan

Harlan County delivers strong housing affordability for both renters and homebuyers, with homes averaging $147,200 and rents under $750 per month. If you're comparing south-central Nebraska counties, Harlan deserves serious consideration for its balanced costs and lower entry price to homeownership.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harlan County

via IncomeByCounty

Harlan County trails the U.S. median

Harlan County's median household income of $70,536 falls $4,219 below the national median of $74,755. Despite this gap, the county still performs respectably relative to rural American communities nationally.

Middle-of-the-pack earnings in Nebraska

Harlan County ranks in the middle tier of Nebraska's 93 counties, with a median household income $3,656 above the state average of $66,880. The county holds a 5.5 percent earnings advantage over typical Nebraska households, though it's outpaced by its western neighbor, Hamilton County.

Similar to Holt County, behind Hamilton

Harlan County's $70,536 median closely matches Holt County ($67,225), though Harlan edges ahead by $3,311. Both counties fall $9,348 short of Hamilton County's earnings, reflecting geographic variation across south-central Nebraska.

Affordable housing supports local families

Harlan County's 12.0 percent rent-to-income ratio indicates strong housing affordability, with residents spending roughly one-eighth of their income on rent. The median home value of $147,200 aligns well with local earning capacity.

Invest steadily despite modest gaps

Though Harlan County trails national income averages, affordable housing costs free up capital for savings and investment. Local financial institutions can help residents build emergency funds, college savings accounts, and retirement portfolios that compound over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harlan County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety Records in Harlan County

Harlan County boasts a total crime rate of just 193.9 per 100,000 residents, which is a fraction of the national 2,385.5 average. This remarkable data results in a safety score of 99.7 out of 100.

A Top Performer in the Cornhusker State

Harlan County ranks well above the Nebraska average safety score of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 193.9 per 100,000 is less than one-third of the state's average rate of 626.7.

Setting the Standard for Rural Safety

Harlan County's crime rate of 193.9 is far lower than Hamilton County's 542.6. Local authorities across two reporting agencies maintain a level of public safety that outpaces most similar-sized Nebraska counties.

Low Crime Volume Across All Categories

The county reports a violent crime rate of 129.3 and a property crime rate of 64.6 per 100,000 people. While the violent rate is slightly higher than the state average of 96.4, the overall crime volume remains extremely low.

Proactive Habits for Continued Safety

With property crime rates at a low 64.6, Harlan County remains very secure, but basic security measures shouldn't be ignored. Even in high-safety areas, securing windows and joining a neighborhood watch can keep community risk at a minimum.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Harlan County

via HealthByCounty

Harlan County health lags national average

At 76.8 years, Harlan County's life expectancy falls 1.6 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years, signaling health challenges relative to most Americans. With 13.8% reporting poor or fair health, the county tracks slightly above the national 13.9% rate.

Below-average health outcomes for Nebraska

Harlan County's 76.8-year life expectancy ranks below Nebraska's state average of 77.5 years, placing it in the lower tier of Nebraska counties. The county faces health headwinds that require targeted intervention and support.

Struggling compared to nearby counties

Harlan County's 76.8-year life expectancy trails Hamilton County (78.9 years) by more than two years, though it exceeds Hitchcock County (75.6 years). With only 65 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, the county has limited provider access compared to better-resourced neighbors.

Uninsured rate drives healthcare gaps

At 8.9%, Harlan County's uninsured rate exceeds Nebraska's average of 8.1%, leaving nearly 1 in 11 residents without coverage for routine care. The county's limited primary care provider capacity of 65 per 100K compounds access challenges for those seeking medical help.

Close the coverage gap in Harlan

With 8.9% of Harlan residents uninsured, now is the time to explore affordable health insurance options that fit your budget and health needs. Visit Healthcare.gov or call Nebraska's marketplace at 1-855-270-2511 to find plans that provide doctor access and preventive care without breaking your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Harlan County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Education Through Alma Public Schools

Harlan County operates a focused educational system consisting of two primary schools within a single school district. This consolidated approach serves a total enrollment of 359 students across the elementary and high school levels. The streamlined infrastructure ensures that all county resources remain concentrated on a unified student body.

Stellar Graduation Success in Harlan County

The county reports a 90.0% graduation rate, which is three points higher than the national average. Investment in students is steady, with per-pupil spending at $10,456, nearly matching the Nebraska state average of $10,521. A composite school score of 61.0 puts the county ahead of the state median, indicating high quality.

A Unified Community at Alma Public Schools

Alma Public Schools manages the entire county student population across its two specialized facilities. The district currently operates no charter schools, maintaining a traditional public school focus for all 359 enrolled students. This single-district model fosters a tight-knit community where every student is part of the same educational journey.

Small Rural Schools Offer Personal Attention

Both schools in the county are classified as rural, creating a consistent and quiet learning environment for all children. Alma Elementary is the larger of the two with 192 students, while Alma High School serves 167 students in grades 7-12. With an average size of 180 students, these schools offer a personalized experience where teachers know every face.

A Tight-Knit Setting for Your Family

Harlan County is an ideal choice for buyers who prioritize small school sizes and high graduation rates. The unified district provides a sense of continuity that is rare in larger metropolitan areas. Consider homes near Alma to give your children the benefit of this focused, high-performing educational environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harlan County

via RiskByCounty

Harlan County's modest national risk profile

Harlan County scores 32.03 on the composite risk scale, only slightly above Nebraska's state average of 25.80, and is rated Very Low nationally. Tornado and wildfire risks are the main contributors, both in the 35-point range, while flood and earthquake risks remain minimal. Compared to the most hazard-prone U.S. counties, Harlan remains in a relatively safe position overall.

Lower risk than many Nebraska neighbors

Harlan County ranks below the middle of Nebraska's 93 counties in overall natural disaster risk, with a composite score only 24% above the state average. Its tornado risk of 35.81 is moderate for the state, while its wildfire risk of 35.02 reflects the semi-arid landscape typical of southwestern Nebraska. The county's flood risk of just 9.26 is among the lowest in the state.

Lower tornado risk than Hamilton County

Harlan County's composite risk of 32.03 sits below its eastern neighbor Hamilton County (42.62) but slightly exceeds Hitchcock County to the south (6.84). Tornado exposure is notably lower here than in Hamilton (35.81 vs. 50.73), reflecting less favorable atmospheric patterns. Wildfire risk is comparable across all three counties, around 28–35 points.

Tornado and wildfire demand equal attention

Tornado risk (35.81) and wildfire risk (35.02) are nearly equal threats to Harlan County residents, both substantially outpacing flood (9.26) and earthquake (6.93) hazards. The combination of these two risks means residents face both seasonal storm and grassland fire exposure. Earthquake risk is negligible at 6.93.

Prepare for tornadoes and wildfires

Harlan County residents should establish a tornado shelter plan and maintain homeowners insurance with wind/hail riders for severe weather protection. If you live in rural or grassland areas, create defensible space around your home by clearing brush and dead vegetation to reduce wildfire exposure. A multi-hazard emergency kit covering both storm and fire scenarios is essential.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harlan County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Continental Outlook

Harlan County averages 52.0°F annually, positioned closer to the national median than many of its northern neighbors. This climate reflects a transition zone with moderate precipitation and reliable seasonal changes.

Among Nebraska’s Warmer Counties

At 52.0°F, Harlan County is significantly warmer than the state average of 49.7°F. It sits near the southern border, benefiting from slightly more mild conditions than the colder northern panhandle.

Matching State Precipitation Norms

The county receives 25.3 inches of annual rainfall, nearly identical to the Nebraska average of 25.9 inches. It maintains a drier profile than eastern counties like Hamilton but stays more hydrated than the far west.

Extended Heat and Moderate Snow

Summer heat is intense here, with 41 days per year topping 90°F and a July average of 77.2°F. Winters are manageable but cold, averaging 22.0 inches of snow annually.

Prioritize Cooling and Hydration

With over 40 days of extreme heat, robust air conditioning and consistent irrigation are vital for residents. Winter gear should focus on wind protection, as the 29.0°F winter average remains brisk.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harlan County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Mollisols of the Great Plains

Harlan County is defined by Mollisols, the world's most productive agricultural soils, with an average pH of 6.93. This puts the county slightly above the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.79. With a soil score of 73.2, these lands represent some of the best growing conditions in the state.

Classic Silt Loam Versatility

The dominant silt loam texture comes from a mix of 56.2% silt and 24% sand. This high silt content makes the soil easy to till and provides a smooth, floury feel when dry. With only 19.8% clay, the soil maintains enough structure to hold nutrients without becoming a heavy, unworkable mess.

Top-Tier Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter levels reach 3.87%, comfortably beating the Nebraska state average of 3.32%. This high fertility is paired with an available water capacity of 0.204 in/in, which is nearly 20% higher than the state average. These factors combine to create a powerhouse for plant growth and resilience.

Well Drained for Diverse Use

These soils are classified as well drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This means they have a moderate infiltration rate, making them ideal for both large-scale farming and home construction. You can expect water to move through the profile steadily, reducing the risk of standing water after storms.

Warmer Opportunities in Zone 6a

As a rare Nebraska pocket of zone 6a, Harlan County supports a slightly longer growing season than its northern neighbors. The rich Mollisol base is perfect for everything from commercial grains to lush backyard vegetable patches. Get your seeds in the ground early to maximize the potential of this high-scoring soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harlan County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Average Difficulty in South-Central Nebraska

Harlan County presents a lawn difficulty score of 56.3, placing it slightly above both the national and state averages. This Zone 6a region offers a slightly longer growing season, though it requires more active management than more temperate areas. You will find that keeping a lush green lawn here is achievable but demands attention to seasonal shifts.

Low Precipitation Requires Supplemental Watering

The county receives just 25.3 inches of rain annually, which falls short of the 30-inch ideal for most lawn types. With 41 extreme heat days each year, your grass faces more stress than the state average of 34 days. These factors mean you must rely on a disciplined irrigation schedule to prevent mid-summer dormancy.

Reliable Drainage in Silt Loam Soils

Your soil is classified as well-drained silt loam, which prevents waterlogged roots during heavy storms. The soil pH of 6.93 is nearly neutral, providing an ideal environment for grass roots to absorb necessary minerals. With 19.8% clay and 24.0% sand, your soil offers a fine-textured base that retains moisture well.

Slight Relief Following Recent Drought Cycles

Despite 27 weeks spent in drought conditions over the last year, current severe drought levels have dropped to 0.0%. However, the entire county remains abnormally dry, suggesting a need for water-wise landscaping practices. Aerating your lawn can help moisture penetrate the silt loam more effectively during dry spells.

Utilize the April to October Window

Zone 6a is perfect for heat-tolerant Tall Fescue or Buffalo Grass, which handle the 41 annual heat days effectively. Plan your seeding around the last frost on April 25 and the first frost on October 18. This generous window allows for strong root establishment before the winter dormant period begins.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harlan County's county score?
Harlan County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 69 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 Harlan County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Harlan County ranks #12 among all counties in Nebraska 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 Harlan County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Harlan County is $1,690, with an effective tax rate of 1.15%. This earns Harlan County a tax score of 28.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harlan County?
The median household income in Harlan County, Nebraska is $70,536 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harlan County earns an income score of 67.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harlan County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Harlan County scores 69/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Harlan 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 Harlan 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.