countyscore
60.1
County Score
Property Tax 81.1Lawn Care 74Income & Jobs 72.4

County Report Card

About Harrison County, Indiana

Harrison County Outperforms National Median

Harrison County earns a composite score of 60.1, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a well-rounded profile with strengths in both fiscal policy and safety. It ranks as a top-tier county for overall quality of life on a national scale.

A Leading Indiana County

Exceeding the state average of 55.9, Harrison County is one of the more desirable places to live in Southern Indiana. Its score of 60.1 highlights a community that is performing better than many of its neighbors. This success is driven by a balanced approach to economic health and public safety.

Favorable Taxes and High Incomes

The county excels with a tax score of 81.1, featuring a low effective tax rate of 0.545%. Its income score is also impressive at 72.4, with a healthy median household income of $72,468. This fiscal strength allows residents to keep more of what they earn.

Addressing Housing Costs and Risk

A cost score of 41.8 shows that while not expensive by national standards, housing is becoming more competitive with a median home value of $219,200. The risk score of 49.0 also suggests a need for continued focus on resilience against natural hazards. These areas represent the primary hurdles for future development.

A Top Choice for Fiscally-Minded Families

Harrison County is best suited for families and retirees looking for low taxes and a safe environment. The combination of high safety (72.1) and high income (72.4) makes it a very stable place to build a life. It offers a high-value proposition for those who want a strong return on their residency.

Score breakdown

Tax81.1Cost41.8Safety72.1Health57.9Schools46.8Income72.4Risk49Water67.1Weather61.5
🏛81.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠41.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼72.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡72.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤57.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤61.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱74
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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Deep Dives

Harrison County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harrison County

via TaxByCounty

Harrison has Indiana's lowest tax rate

Harrison County's effective tax rate of 0.545% ranks in the lowest 5% nationally—Indiana's most tax-friendly county in this analysis. At $1,195 annually on a median home of $219,200, Harrison homeowners enjoy remarkable tax efficiency on reasonably valued properties.

Lowest-taxed county statewide by far

At 0.545%, Harrison County's effective rate sits well below Indiana's average of 0.671%, the second-lowest in the state analysis. The median tax of $1,195 runs just below the state median of $1,199, showing exceptional efficiency on above-average-valued homes.

Dramatic tax savings versus surrounding counties

Harrison County's 0.545% rate beats every surrounding county, including Fulton (0.514%, which taxes only lower-valued homes). A Harrison homeowner with the county median home value would save $250–400 annually compared to residents in neighboring Hancock County.

Harrison homeowners pay efficient tax bills

A typical Harrison County home valued at $219,200 generates an annual property tax bill of just $1,195. This remarkable tax-to-value ratio makes Harrison an exceptionally affordable county for middle-class homeowners seeking tax efficiency.

Even low rates deserve assessment verification

Harrison County's favorable tax environment doesn't guarantee accurate assessments. Homeowners should verify that their assessments reflect recent neighborhood sales; even in tax-friendly counties, appeals can yield modest but meaningful savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harrison County

via CostByCounty

Harrison navigates affordability well

Harrison County residents earn $72,468—slightly below the national average of $74,755—yet maintain an excellent 14.3% rent-to-income ratio, the best among these eight counties. At $861 monthly, renters here achieve rare affordability-to-income balance for their income tier.

State's most efficient housing market

Harrison's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest statewide in this analysis and well below Indiana's 15.6% average, positioning it as the county where income stretches furthest in housing terms. The median rent of $861 equals the state typical, demonstrating genuine efficiency rather than low-cost compensation.

Best rent-to-income combo statewide

Harrison's 14.3% ratio beats all seven peer counties despite earning just $72,468—slightly below Hancock but substantially above Grant County. The $861 rent matches Fulton County but on $9,590 more annual income, shifting affordability dramatically in Harrison's favor.

Harrison's remarkably balanced budget

Renters pay $861 while homeowners commit $956, with the higher homeowner cost likely reflecting southern Indiana's scenic river-valley premium properties valued at $219,200. At $72,468 income, Harrison residents spend only 14-16% on housing, preserving maximum flexibility for other needs.

Best-kept secret for balanced living

Harrison County offers the tightest affordability ratio for your income dollar anywhere in this analysis—ideal for middle-income earners seeking rural southern Indiana character. If you're relocating on a $70-75k income and want the best housing-cost efficiency, Harrison outperforms all alternatives here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harrison County

via IncomeByCounty

Harrison nearly matches national income

Harrison County's median household income of $72,468 approaches the national median of $74,755, trailing by just $2,287—a 3% difference. The county performs near the U.S. average, suggesting solid economic health relative to national benchmarks.

Right at Indiana's average income

At $72,468, Harrison slightly exceeds Indiana's state average of $68,681 by $3,787, placing it comfortably above the state median. The county performs better than most of Indiana's counties on household earnings.

Upper tier of this regional group

Harrison's $72,468 trails Hendricks and Hamilton but leads all other counties in this survey by $8,000-$18,000. The county benefits from proximity to Louisville metro and Ohio River commerce.

Best housing affordability in group

Harrison's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all eight counties, providing exceptional housing affordability. The $219,200 median home value pairs excellently with $72,468 median household income.

Balanced incomes fuel steady wealth

Harrison families with solid incomes and the lowest housing-cost burdens can commit comfortably to retirement savings and regular investments. The combination of above-average earning and superior affordability creates ideal conditions for building substantial long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harrison County

via CrimeByCounty

Harrison County Shows Strong Safety Profile

Harrison County features a total crime rate of 665.2 per 100,000, well under the national average of 2,385.5. The county receives a safety score of 98.9.

Matching the Indiana State Average

Harrison County's safety score of 98.9 exactly matches the Indiana state average. Two reporting agencies provide comprehensive data to keep local residents informed and safe.

Mixed Safety Comparisons with Neighbors

Harrison's crime rate of 665.2 is higher than Gibson County's 469.6. However, it maintains a much lower crime profile than several other counties in the region.

Property Crime Levels Remain Low

The property crime rate is 496.4, while violent crime is 168.8 per 100,000. Violent crime is less than half the national average, making the county safer than most U.S. regions.

Protect Your Family and Property

Security starts at the front door with reliable locks and entry sensors. Local crime data suggests that property crime is the most likely threat to residential peace of mind.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Harrison County

via HealthByCounty

Harrison struggles against national norms

Harrison County residents live to 73.7 years, falling 5.2 years short of the U.S. average of 78.9 years. One in six report poor or fair health (17.1%), indicating significant chronic disease burden and limited preventive care uptake.

Below-average health rank within Indiana

At 73.7 years, Harrison County's life expectancy trails Indiana's 75.1-year state average, placing it in the lower half of counties. The 17.1% poor/fair health rate exceeds state norms, though it's better than the worst performers like Grant.

Mid-range performer in regional comparison

Harrison's 73.7 years matches Fulton County but falls well short of Hancock's 77.2 and Hamilton's 80.7, showing the range of outcomes in south-central Indiana. The county's 48 primary care and 50 mental health providers per 100,000 are adequate but modest compared to higher-performing neighbors.

Moderate uninsured rate masks access barriers

Harrison's 6.8% uninsured rate is close to the state average of 8.4%, but limited mental health providers (50 per 100,000) may delay treatment of depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Primary care availability at 48 per 100,000 is workable but leaves little margin for demand surges.

Secure coverage and seek behavioral health support

Check Indiana's health marketplace to ensure coverage and lower your out-of-pocket costs. Prioritize mental health screenings and early intervention—behavioral health improvements in Harrison could meaningfully extend life expectancy across the county.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Harrison County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education in the Heart of Harrison County

Harrison County supports 5,964 students across 15 public schools, managed by three school districts. The system includes seven elementary, three middle, and four high schools. It provides a stable educational backbone for the county's residents.

Strong Academic Standing and Graduation

Harrison County boasts a 95.9% graduation rate, significantly higher than both state (92.6%) and national (87%) averages. The county maintains a school score of 52.4, outperforming the state median of 51.7. This success comes despite a below-average per-pupil expenditure of $5,059.

Dedicated Local School Districts

South Harrison Community Schools is the largest district, serving 3,079 students across nine schools. North Harrison Community School Corp follows with 2,141 students. Traditional public schooling is the norm here, with no charter schools operating within the county lines.

A Rural and Town-Based Academic Life

The landscape features 10 rural schools and five town schools, with an average school size of 426 students. Corydon Central High School is the largest campus, serving 749 students. This scale offers a community-focused education where students are more than just a number.

Root Your Family in a High-Performing Area

With a graduation rate nearing 96%, Harrison County is an excellent place to raise a family and invest in a home. The districts in Corydon and the surrounding areas offer reliable performance and a tight-knit community feel. Look for your next property near these high-achieving schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harrison County

via RiskByCounty

Harrison moderately above national average

Harrison County's composite risk score of 51.05 places it in the "Relatively Low" category but above the national average. Tornado exposure (82.09) and moderate flood risk (56.71) drive the county's hazard profile, while earthquake and hurricane risks remain secondary.

Above average for Indiana overall

Harrison's 51.05 score runs modestly above Indiana's 45.52 state average, placing the county in the upper-middle tier of state risk. Tornado risk at 82.09 is notably high—among the top half of Indiana counties for severe convective weather.

Higher risk than Greene, lower than Grant

Harrison County's 51.05 sits between nearby Greene County's 42.49 and Grant County's 69.40, reflecting moderate tornado and flood exposure. The county's southeastern location brings higher tornado exposure compared to Greene, but less severe than Grant or Hamilton.

Tornadoes and flooding warrant preparation

Tornado risk at 82.09 makes severe thunderstorms a serious concern for Harrison County, ranking it in the state's higher-exposure tier. Flooding (56.71) poses a secondary threat, particularly in areas near the Ohio River and tributary valleys.

Prioritize storm and flood readiness

Homeowners need comprehensive wind and hail coverage as a baseline, plus a safe room or basement shelter plan for tornado season. Flood insurance is recommended for properties near waterways; regularly review and update coverage to match current property values.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harrison County

via WeatherByCounty

A High-Precipitation Regional Climate

While specific temperature data is limited, Harrison County receives a high 47.3 inches of annual precipitation. This rainfall total exceeds many national averages for temperate regions.

Damp Conditions in Southern Indiana

The county’s 47.3 inches of rain is notably higher than the Indiana state average of 43.9 inches. Residents experience a wetter climate than many of their northern state counterparts.

Wetter Than the Central State

Compared to nearby Jackson County's 49.3 inches, Harrison is slightly drier but still more humid than central Indiana. The region generally trends warmer and wetter than the state's northern tier.

Moist Seasons and Transitional Weather

While specific seasonal temperature averages are missing, the high annual rainfall suggests very wet springs and autumns. Residents typically navigate a transition zone between the Midwest and the Upland South.

Focus on Moisture and Rain Readiness

Homeowners should focus on moisture control and high-quality rain gear given the 47.3 inches of annual precipitation. Monitor local forecasts for river-valley humidity and sudden summer storms.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harrison County

via SoilByCounty

Silt-rich profiles in the Southern Hills

Harrison County has an average pH of 5.93, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and slightly below the state average of 6.08. While taxonomic details are unavailable, the low sand content suggests a unique mineral profile. This acidity may require monitoring for sensitive garden plants.

Massive silt content defines the texture

With a staggering 68.5% silt and only 12.7% sand, Harrison County's soil is exceptionally smooth and fine-grained. The 18.8% clay content provides necessary structure, though the dominant silt can make the soil prone to erosion. It is a highly moisture-retentive mix that feels like flour when dry.

High water capacity despite low organic matter

Organic matter sits at 2.14%, which is lower than the Indiana average of 4.90% but slightly above the national average. Remarkably, the available water capacity is 0.207 in/in, surpassing the state average. This indicates that the silt-heavy texture is doing the heavy lifting for water storage.

Consistent moisture in a 63.8-rated soil

Harrison County earns a soil score of 63.8, reflecting its position in the more rugged terrain of southern Indiana. While specific drainage classes are not provided, the high silt and water capacity suggest the ground stays moist. This can be a benefit during the hot, dry summers typical of the region.

Extended growing seasons in Zone 6b

Located in hardiness zone 6b, Harrison County enjoys a slightly milder climate for gardening and farming. The silt-heavy soil is excellent for moisture-loving plants like berries and leafy greens. Consider adding compost to boost the organic matter and unlock this soil's full potential.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harrison County

via LawnByCounty

Easier growing on the southern border

Harrison County is one of Indiana's easier regions for lawn care, scoring a 74.0 on our difficulty scale. Located in Zone 6b, it enjoys a milder climate and higher score than the state average of 71.0.

High rainfall boosts natural health

The county receives a healthy 47.3 inches of annual rainfall, significantly above the national ideal of 30-50 inches. This consistent moisture helps maintain turf density and color with less supplemental irrigation than northern counties.

Slight acidity may require lime

The soil pH of 5.93 is slightly acidic, meaning a light application of lime may be necessary to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. With a low sand content of 12.7%, the soil likely retains moisture well throughout the growing season.

Strong resilience against drought cycles

This county shows excellent resilience, with only three weeks of drought recorded over the past year. Current conditions show about 56.8% of the area is abnormally dry, which is a much lower risk profile than the state average.

Heat-tolerant choices for Zone 6b

For this environment, heat-tolerant Tall Fescue is a standout performer that stays green even as summer temperatures rise. Check local soil conditions in early April to begin your spring planting before the humidity sets in.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harrison County's county score?
Harrison County, Indiana has a composite county score of 60.1 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 Harrison County rank among counties in Indiana?
Harrison County ranks #39 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 Harrison County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Harrison County is $1,195, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Harrison County a tax score of 81.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harrison County?
The median household income in Harrison County, Indiana is $72,468 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harrison County earns an income score of 72.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harrison County, Indiana a good place to live?
Harrison County scores 60.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #39 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Harrison 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 Harrison 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.