countyscore
54.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 88.6Lawn Care 77.4Safety 75.1

County Report Card

About Harrison County, Ohio

Harrison County Outpaces National Benchmarks

With a composite score of 54.5, Harrison County sits comfortably above the national median of 50.0. It ranks in the upper half of U.S. counties for overall livability.

A Top Performer in Eastern Ohio

The county's 54.5 score significantly exceeds the Ohio average of 48.6. It stands out as a strong choice compared to many of its immediate regional neighbors.

Safety and High Environmental Resilience

The county shines with a high Risk Score of 88.6 and a Safety Score of 75.1. Real estate remains highly accessible, evidenced by a median home value of just $118,000.

Income and Infrastructure Hurdles

Low scores in Income (22.5) and Water quality (24.5) present the most significant hurdles for the county. The median household income of $53,851 is notably lower than many other parts of the state.

Ideal for Secure Rural Living

Harrison County is a prime location for retirees or remote workers who value safety and extremely low property prices. It rewards those who are less dependent on the local job market.

Score breakdown

Tax35.2Cost74.9Safety75.1Health39.9Schools39.9Income22.5Risk88.6Water24.5Weather63.8
🏛35.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠74.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼22.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡75.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤39.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡88.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧24.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱77.4
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

Tuscarawas County
Ohio
47.3
Carroll County
Ohio
56.7
Belmont County
Ohio
58.5
Jefferson County
Ohio
47.8
Guernsey County
Ohio
52.2
Ohio County
West Virginia
66.6
Brooke County
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70.7
Hancock County
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67

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 County has the lowest tax burden around

At 1.039%, Harrison County's effective property tax rate ranks among the lowest in the nation, putting residents in the bottom quintile of tax burden. The county's median property tax of $1,226 is less than half the national median of $2,690, offering rare affordability for homeowners.

Well below Ohio's average effective rate

Harrison County's 1.039% effective rate beats Ohio's 1.148% average by 109 basis points. This positions Harrison among Ohio's most tax-friendly counties, in the lower quarter statewide.

The cheapest option in the regional cluster

Harrison County's 1.039% rate is the lowest in its peer group, significantly undercutting Hardin (1.122%) and Henry County (1.177%). At just $1,226 in median annual tax, Harrison residents enjoy the region's lightest property tax load.

Median home value yields $1,226 annual tax

A homeowner with a median-valued property ($118,000) in Harrison County pays roughly $1,226 in annual property taxes. This total reaches $1,280 with a mortgage and drops to $1,175 for outright owners.

Even low-tax counties see assessment errors

Even in affordable Harrison County, overassessment can occur—studies indicate 1 in 10 homeowners nationwide could reduce their burden through appeal. Review your assessment relative to recent comparable sales to verify you're getting a fair valuation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harrison County

via CostByCounty

Harrison's rent burden outpaces nation

Harrison County's 16.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national average, meaning renters here dedicate more of their income to housing than typical Americans. With a median household income of $53,851—28% below the national figure—housing costs hit harder on household budgets.

Harrison ranks among Ohio's least affordable

At 16.8%, Harrison County's rent-to-income ratio ranks near the bottom of Ohio counties, above the state average of 15.6%. This indicates tighter housing affordability relative to peers across the state.

Least affordable in the region

Harrison's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% is the highest among its peer counties, though median rent at $753 remains modest. The challenge isn't high rents but rather lower-than-average incomes, which compress the household budget more than neighbors experience.

Harrison's tight housing math

On a $53,851 median household income, renters pay $753 monthly (16.8% of income), while homeowners pay $663 (14.8% of income). Homeownership appears more affordable here, though lower median home values ($118,000) and monthly costs suggest fewer equity-building options overall.

Harrison suits budget-conscious owners

If you're relocating to Ohio on a modest income, Harrison's low home values and owner costs offer a genuine path to ownership. The county's affordability challenge stems from income levels, not runaway housing prices—a crucial distinction for buyers ready to build equity.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harrison County

via IncomeByCounty

Harrison's income trails the nation

Harrison County's median household income of $53,851 falls 28% short of the national median of $74,755. This positions Harrison among the lower-earning counties nationally, reflecting the economic challenges facing Ohio's eastern border counties.

Among Ohio's lower-income counties

At $53,851, Harrison County ranks significantly below Ohio's state average of $68,101, placing it in the bottom tier of the state's 88 counties. This gap of $14,250 underscores persistent economic headwinds in the region.

Harrison earns less than nearby peers

Harrison County's $53,851 median is the lowest among its neighbors—Hardin County ($58,001) and Jackson County ($58,409) both earn roughly $4,500–$4,700 more per household. Only shared industrial and rural challenges keep these eastern counties in similar income bands.

Rent costs stretch household budgets

At 16.8%, Harrison County's rent-to-income ratio is above the 20% affordability threshold, meaning renters spend approximately $755 monthly on housing. This elevated ratio signals that renters here face tighter budgets, limiting discretionary spending and savings potential.

Prioritize emergency savings first

With median income at $53,851 and housing costs consuming a larger share, Harrison County households should prioritize building a 3-6 month emergency fund before investing. Once secured, even modest amounts directed to tax-advantaged retirement accounts or community investment opportunities create long-term financial resilience.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harrison County

via CrimeByCounty

Harrison County ranks among the nation's safest

Harrison County reports a total crime rate of just 592.0 per 100,000 residents, which is roughly one-fourth of the national average of 2,385.5. This exceptional data results in a safety score of 99.1.

Setting a high bar for Ohio safety

Harrison outperforms the state average safety score of 97.8 and maintains a crime rate less than half of the Ohio average. Four local agencies coordinate to maintain these high standards across the county.

Low crime rates compared to regional peers

At 592.0 crimes per 100,000, Harrison is significantly safer than neighboring Hardin County at 845.8. It tracks closely with Huron County, positioning this region as a bastion of security in Ohio.

Violent crime is extremely rare

The county sees only 55.1 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, a fraction of the national average of 369.8. Property crime makes up the bulk of local reports at 536.9, though it still remains remarkably low by any benchmark.

Maintain your peace of mind

Low crime rates offer residents great security, but smart doorbells and secure locks help keep those numbers down. Being proactive with home security ensures Harrison County remains a top-tier safe haven.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Harrison County

via HealthByCounty

Harrison County's health lags nationally

With a life expectancy of 72.6 years, Harrison County residents live roughly 3.5 years less than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. One in five adults report poor or fair health, exceeding national averages and signaling higher rates of chronic disease and disability. These figures reflect both individual health behaviors and systemic barriers to care.

Below Ohio's health performance standard

Harrison County's 72.6-year life expectancy falls nearly 2.2 years short of Ohio's 74.8-year state average, placing it in Ohio's lower-performing counties. The 20 percent poor/fair health rate edges slightly above Ohio's median, suggesting persistent challenges in disease management and health maintenance. Residents struggle more with chronic conditions than typical Ohioans.

Access to providers remains limited

Harrison County has just 21 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—below Hardin County's 29 and well below Huron County's 55. Mental health services are equally sparse at 42 per 100,000, making depression and addiction treatment difficult to access. These shortages compound the county's already-stressed health outcomes.

One in eleven lacks health coverage

An estimated 8.8 percent of Harrison County residents—roughly one in eleven—are uninsured, outpacing Ohio's 7.5 percent average. Without insurance and with limited provider access, many residents delay care until conditions become emergencies. This cycle drives up costs and worsens health trajectories.

Find affordable coverage today

If you're uninsured in Harrison County, you have options—many at little to no cost. Visit healthcare.gov or call your local health department to learn about Medicaid, marketplace plans, or community health center services available in your area.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Harrison County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Focused Rural School Infrastructure

Harrison County manages four public schools across three districts, serving 1,599 students. The system includes one elementary, two high schools, and one specialized educational center.

Spending Above Average Despite Graduation Gaps

The county invests $8,109 per pupil, slightly above the Ohio state average of $7,994. However, the graduation rate of 82.0% currently trails both the state and national averages.

Harrison Hills City Education Hub

Harrison Hills City is the primary district, serving 1,406 students in its two main schools. The county also hosts Lakeland Academy Community School, a charter that accounts for 25% of the local school facilities.

Purely Rural Educational Settings

All four schools in Harrison County are classified as rural, offering a quiet learning environment. Harrison Central Elementary is the largest campus with 807 students, while the Harrison Career Center offers a smaller, vocational feel.

Settle Near Dedicated Rural Districts

Homebuyers in Harrison County can find value in areas surrounding the centralized Harrison Hills campuses. Use school performance data as a guide for your next home purchase in this rural community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harrison County

via RiskByCounty

Harrison County is exceptionally safe

With a composite risk score of 11.42, Harrison County ranks among the lowest-risk counties in the nation and dramatically outperforms Ohio's 55.03 state average. This very low rating reflects minimal exposure to most major natural disaster types.

Ohio's safest county overall

Harrison County's 11.42 composite score makes it the safest county in Ohio by a significant margin. This exceptional rating means residents enjoy lower natural disaster risk than virtually any other Ohioans.

Dramatically safer than surrounding counties

Harrison County's 11.42 score far outpaces all nearby counties: Hardin (24.43), Henry (33.81), Highland (43.19), and Hocking (47.30). Its position as Ohio's safest county makes it a notable outlier in its region.

All hazards remain well below average

Even Harrison County's highest-scoring risks—hurricane (34.75) and earthquake (23.79)—sit below state averages. Flood (27.32), tornado (18.23), and wildfire (16.95) risks are all minimal, making this truly one of America's safest counties.

Standard homeowners insurance provides solid protection

Residents of Harrison County can rely on basic homeowners coverage as a foundation of preparedness. A simple emergency kit and a conversation with your insurance agent about any optional coverage ensures you're protected without overextending.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harrison County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Appalachian Air and Stable Temps

Harrison County averages 50.8°F, making it cooler than the national median. The county's elevation and geography contribute to a temperate humid continental climate.

A Refreshingly Cool Ohio Locale

Harrison is cooler than the 51.5°F state average, providing relief from the heat found in southern Ohio. It receives 42.6 inches of precipitation, slightly more than the state norm.

Milder Summers than Nearby Guernsey

Harrison has only 6 days of extreme heat, compared to 18 in neighboring Guernsey. However, it deals with more annual snowfall, averaging 25.8 inches.

Consistent Cold and Temperate Summers

July averages a mild 72.4°F, which is cool for the region. Winter temperatures average 29.6°F, bringing a steady 25.8 inches of snow throughout the season.

Focus on Winter Heating Efficiency

Because extreme heat is rare here, residents can focus more on heating efficiency and winter tires. The 25.8 inches of annual snow requires reliable clearing equipment for rural roads.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harrison County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Silts with High Organic Potential

Harrison County features an acidic soil profile with a pH of 5.61, which is lower than the state average of 5.97. Despite the acidity, the county maintains a soil score of 54.7. While taxonomic data is limited, the chemical profile suggests a landscape shaped by significant organic accumulation.

Fine Silt Dominates the Landscape

The soil is half silt at 50.0%, combined with 22.1% sand and 19.2% clay. This high silt concentration creates a floury texture that is generally easy to work but susceptible to surface crusting. It holds nutrients effectively but requires care to avoid heavy compaction.

Rich Organic Reserves

At 8.01%, the organic matter content is four times the national average and significantly higher than the state's 4.85%. However, the available water capacity of 0.153 in/in is below the state average of 0.186. This means that while the soil is nutrient-rich, it may dry out faster during the peak of summer.

Managing Moisture in Silt

The high silt levels impact how water moves through the profile, necessitating careful monitoring of drainage. Without specific hydrologic data, gardeners should focus on maintaining surface breathability to prevent water from pooling. Proper mulching can help mitigate the lower-than-average water capacity.

A Haven for Acid-Loving Plants

Harrison County falls in hardiness zone 6b, which is perfect for berries and shrubs that prefer lower pH levels. The exceptional organic matter provides a lush foundation for perennials and small orchards. Start a fruit patch today to take full advantage of this unique soil chemistry.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harrison County

via LawnByCounty

Harrison County's High Lawn Quality

Harrison County boasts a 77.4 lawn score, exceeding both the national median and the state average of 76.0. Its Zone 6b classification indicates a moderate climate that supports lush, resilient turf growth with less stress.

Abundant Rain and Gentle Summers

The county receives 42.6 inches of annual rain, which is higher than the state average and perfect for maintaining soil moisture. With only 6 extreme heat days per year, grass faces significantly less heat stress than in other parts of Ohio.

Managing Acidic Local Soils

A low pH of 5.61 suggests that local soil is more acidic than the ideal 6.0 range, likely requiring lime applications to boost nutrient uptake. The mix of 19.2% clay and 22.1% sand provides a relatively light texture for root development.

Strong Natural Drought Resistance

Resilience is high here, as the county only experienced 7 weeks of drought in the past year. Current conditions show 0.0% of the area under drought stress, allowing for a more relaxed watering schedule compared to neighboring counties.

Best Grasses for Harrison County

Fine Fescue and Perennial Ryegrass are excellent choices for these Zone 6b conditions. Aim to establish new sod or seed between the April 21 last spring frost and the October 25 first fall frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harrison County's county score?
Harrison County, Ohio has a composite county score of 54.6 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 Harrison County rank among counties in Ohio?
Harrison County ranks #24 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 Harrison County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Harrison County is $1,226, with an effective tax rate of 1.04%. This earns Harrison County a tax score of 35.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harrison County?
The median household income in Harrison County, Ohio is $53,851 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harrison County earns an income score of 22.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harrison County, Ohio a good place to live?
Harrison County scores 54.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #24 in Ohio. 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.