countyscore
47.1
County Score
Health 84.8Soil Quality 70.1Income & Jobs 63.9

County Report Card

About Herkimer County, New York

Competitive National Profile

Herkimer County's composite score of 47.1 is just under the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced profile that remains competitive with many Midwestern and Northeast peers.

Aligning with the State

The county's 47.1 score is essentially equal to the New York state average of 47.0. It provides a standard New York living experience with typical regional trade-offs.

Strong Health and Income

Health is a major strength with a score of 84.8, while income remains solid at 63.9. Affordability is also a highlight, with median gross rents staying low at $811.

Taxes and Safety Gaps

The tax score of 1.6 is very low due to a 2.272% effective tax rate. Safety and water quality also present concerns, scoring 38.1 and 21.1 respectively.

Practical Living for Families

Herkimer County is a strong fit for residents who want affordable housing and good health services. It suits middle-income families who can navigate the state's characteristic high tax environment.

Score breakdown

Tax1.6Cost51.6Safety38.1Health84.8Schools61.4Income63.9Risk40Water21.1Weather51.6
🏛1.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠51.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼63.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡38.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤84.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡40
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨70.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.4
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

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43.2
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Montgomery County
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Hamilton County
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Deep Dives

Herkimer County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Herkimer County

via TaxByCounty

Herkimer's rate above U.S. median

Herkimer County's effective tax rate of 2.272% exceeds the national median of 2.13%, placing it in the upper third nationally. This elevated rate means Herkimer homeowners carry a heavier tax burden than most Americans.

Moderately above New York average

Herkimer's 2.272% effective rate exceeds New York's state average of 2.046%, placing it among the state's higher-tax counties. This positions Herkimer as a pricier option within an already high-tax state.

Second-highest rate in the region

Herkimer's 2.272% rate ranks only below Genesee County's 2.508%, and well above Franklin County (1.88%) and Greene County (1.658%). Compared to Hamilton County's 0.98%, Herkimer's rate is more than double.

Median annual tax bill is $3,067

The typical Herkimer County home is valued at $135,000 and generates an annual property tax of $3,067. Depending on exemptions, homeowners may pay between $2,840 and $3,300 per year.

Challenge overvalued assessments

Given Herkimer's elevated tax rates, accurate property assessments are essential to avoid overpaying. Review your assessment carefully and file an appeal if your home's assessed value exceeds its true market worth.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Herkimer County

via CostByCounty

Herkimer County: affordability champion

Herkimer County residents spend just 14.1% of income on rent—the lowest ratio in this survey and substantially below both national and state averages. With median household income of $68,858 and median rent of $811 monthly, the county represents exceptional housing value.

Most affordable rent ratio statewide

Herkimer County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio sets the standard for New York affordability, with median rent of $811 far below the state's $1,133 average. The county delivers the state's most balanced housing-to-income equation.

Clear regional leader

Herkimer County's 14.1% rent-to-income ratio outperforms all upstate neighbors, with rent at just $811 monthly. The county's median home value of $135,000 pairs with this rental affordability to create the region's most comprehensive housing value proposition.

Maximum affordable housing

Herkimer County renters earning median income of $68,858 annually pay $811 monthly, consuming just 14% of gross income and maximizing discretionary spending. For homebuyers, the median monthly owner cost of $875 and median home value of $135,000 provide the region's most accessible ownership pathway.

Herkimer: best upstate value

If housing affordability tops your relocation priorities, Herkimer County wins decisively with a 14.1% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $135,000. The county delivers maximum housing purchasing power while keeping rents at just $811 monthly.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Herkimer County

via IncomeByCounty

Herkimer income below national average

Herkimer County's median household income of $68,858 ranks 7.9% below the national median of $74,755, placing it among lower-earning regions nationally. The $5,897 annual gap limits household savings and investment capacity.

Lower-mid tier in New York rankings

Herkimer County ranks 39th of 62 New York counties for median household income, trailing the state average of $76,433 by $7,575. Per capita income of $35,959 falls 12.5% below the state average, indicating less concentrated wealth distribution than some peers.

Mid-range regional earner

Herkimer's $68,858 sits between Fulton County ($62,615) and Genesee County ($72,055), with housing costs that advantage it over higher-priced neighbors. The county offers relative affordability compared to Greene and Hamilton.

Strong housing affordability advantage

Herkimer County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio (14.1%) among the eight counties surveyed, signaling exceptional rental affordability. Median home values of just $135,000 require roughly 2 years of median household income—the most accessible homeownership threshold in the group.

Affordability creates savings opportunity

Herkimer County's low housing costs free up household income for wealth building; residents can prioritize retirement contributions, education savings, or investment accounts. With below-average expenses, even modest income can compound meaningfully over time through disciplined saving.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Herkimer County

via CrimeByCounty

Herkimer County Safer Than Most U.S. Areas

Herkimer County’s total crime rate of 1,421.3 per 100K is well below the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 97.8, indicating a generally secure community. Eight local agencies provide consistent reporting to monitor public safety.

Trailing Slightly Behind State Safety Averages

The county's crime rate of 1,421.3 is higher than the New York state average of 1,074.4. This puts Herkimer’s safety score of 97.8 just below the statewide mark of 98.3. Local officials focus on bridging this gap through community-based policing initiatives.

Regional Comparisons Show Varied Safety

Herkimer County is more active than Greene County, which sits at a low 376.5 per 100K. However, it remains safer than the national average, showing a moderate crime profile for the region. It serves as a middle-ground county for safety in Central New York.

Property Crime is the Primary Issue

Property crime makes up the vast majority of local offenses at 1,267.1 per 100K residents. Violent crime is relatively low at 154.2 per 100K, though it is slightly higher than the state average of 125.0. Most law enforcement efforts are directed toward preventing theft and burglary.

Secure Your Property in Herkimer

Given that property crime is the main concern, high-quality locks and motion lighting are effective tools. Ensure that vehicles are locked and valuables are out of sight to deter theft. Staying vigilant helps lower these local rates and improves community safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Herkimer County

via HealthByCounty

Herkimer County's health mirrors national norms

At 77.5 years, Herkimer County's life expectancy is just 0.7 years below the U.S. average of 78.2 years. The county's 15.0% poor or fair health rate ties it for the best in this eight-county group.

Healthy middle performer in New York

Herkimer County's 77.5-year life expectancy trails New York's 77.9-year state average by just 0.4 years, placing it near the statewide median. The county ranks among the healthier half of New York's 62 counties.

Competitive health profile in upstate region

Herkimer County's 77.5-year life expectancy matches Genesee County and exceeds Fulton County (75.0 years) significantly. Its 15.0% poor or fair health rate ties Greene County as one of the region's healthiest populations.

Good insurance penetration, tight provider network

Herkimer County's 4.8% uninsured rate is well below the state average of 5.3%, reflecting strong insurance coverage. However, the county has only 27 primary care providers and 96 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among the lowest in the group.

Keep coverage current and accessible

Most Herkimer County residents have insurance, but those seeking coverage changes or Medicaid enrollment should check nystateofhealth.ny.gov. Financial assistance programs can help offset out-of-pocket costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Herkimer County

via SchoolsByCounty

Herkimer's Multi-District Educational Infrastructure

Twelve school districts manage 25 public schools in Herkimer County, serving 9,620 students. The county features a diverse mix of nine elementary schools, eight high schools, and four specialized campuses.

Competitive Graduation Rates and Solid Funding

Herkimer County maintains an 85.2% graduation rate, nearly identical to the New York state average. Per-pupil spending of $13,615 exceeds the national average, supporting a composite school score of 65.3.

Central Valley and Charter School Options

The Central Valley CSD at Ilion-Mohawk is the largest traditional district with 2,086 students. Notably, the Utica Academy of Science Charter School is the largest single school in the county, enrolling 880 students.

A Blend of Rural and Town Locales

School environments are split between 15 rural locations and 10 town settings, with an average school size of 385 students. Facilities like Central Valley Academy and Herkimer High School provide the hub for student life in these communities.

Find Your Community in Herkimer County

Whether you prefer the specialized focus of a charter school or the tradition of a central district, Herkimer County offers diverse choices. Explore homes in Ilion or Little Falls to be near the county's largest and most active school hubs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Herkimer County

via RiskByCounty

Herkimer County faces above-moderate U.S. risk

Herkimer County's composite risk score of 60.02 places it above the typical American county, driven by significant flood, hurricane, and tornado exposure. The county's Mohawk Valley location and elevation make it vulnerable to multiple seasonal weather hazards.

Below New York average but upper-middle tier

At 60.02, Herkimer County scores about 14% below New York's 69.42 average, ranking it in the safer-than-average but still vulnerable category statewide. Approximately half of New York's counties carry lower risk, while the other half face greater exposure.

Riskier than upstate neighbors, safer than southeast

Herkimer County (60.02) substantially exceeds Franklin (48.85), Fulton (48.63), and Hamilton (15.11), but falls below Greene County (68.29). This positions Herkimer in the middle of the region, sharing characteristics with both safer Adirondack counties and riskier Hudson Valley communities.

Flooding threatens more than other hazards

Flood risk of 78.53 stands as Herkimer County's dominant natural disaster threat, reflecting Mohawk River and tributary exposure during spring and heavy rain events. Tornado risk of 38.65 and hurricane risk of 62.45 rank second and third, both requiring seasonal vigilance.

Flood insurance and storm prep are essential

Herkimer County residents in or near floodplains must obtain flood insurance—the 78.53 risk score makes this non-negotiable. Additionally, prepare for spring tornadoes and late-summer hurricanes by maintaining an emergency supply kit and ensuring your homeowner's policy covers wind damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Herkimer County

via WeatherByCounty

A National Leader in Snowfall

Herkimer's climate is defined by an incredible 155.7 inches of annual snowfall, far exceeding national averages. Its 42.8°F annual temperature reflects a cool, continental environment with long-lasting winters.

A Peak for State Snow Totals

Herkimer is much colder than the 47.4°F state average and is one of the snowiest counties in New York. Its 155.7 inches of snow is more than triple what many southern state counties receive.

Dominating the Snow Belt

Herkimer receives significantly more snow than neighbors Hamilton (115.2") and Jefferson (116.4"). Its 42.8°F average temperature sits in the middle of these northern neighbors.

Mild Summers vs Intense Winters

Winters are long and snowy, averaging 19.9°F from December to February. July is pleasant and mild at 66.4°F, with only 2 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F per year.

Prepare for Heavy Snow Loads

Ensure your roof is rated for heavy snow loads to handle the 155.7 inches of annual accumulation. A reliable 4WD vehicle and professional-grade snow removal gear are daily essentials in winter.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Herkimer County

via SoilByCounty

A Typical New York Soil Profile

Herkimer County's soil pH averages 5.10, matching the state average of 5.11 almost perfectly. This is significantly more acidic than the national median pH of 6.5. This acidity level supports the mixed hardwood and coniferous forests common throughout the county.

Sandy Mix with Stable Structure

The soil is 34.4% sand, 27.2% silt, and 8.9% clay. This texture provides a good balance between drainage and stability, making it versatile for different uses. The low clay percentage ensures that the soil remains easy to work and does not get too heavy when wet.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The soil boasts 37.76% organic matter, more than double the state average of 17.01%. Consequently, the available water capacity is 0.232 in/in, which is significantly higher than the New York average. These conditions create a highly fertile environment that naturally holds both water and nutrients.

Inferred Drainage and Hydrologic Health

There is no dominant drainage class or hydrologic group currently recorded for Herkimer County. However, the high organic matter and moderate sand levels suggest a soil that handles water effectively while resisting drought. Gardeners can expect high performance from these naturally sponge-like soils.

Abundant Potential in Zone 5b

Herkimer County sits in hardiness zone 5b, suitable for a wide variety of vegetables and perennial flowers. The high organic content makes this soil ideal for intensive vegetable gardening and fruit production. Start a garden here to take full advantage of these superior moisture-holding properties.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Herkimer County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating the Middle Ground in Herkimer

Herkimer County has a lawn difficulty score of 51.4, which is lower than the state average of 61.1 but slightly above the national median. This indicates a moderate level of effort is required to keep a lawn healthy in Hardiness Zone 5b. Homeowners must balance high rainfall with acidic soil conditions to find success.

Abundant Moisture for Cool-Season Grass

Annual precipitation averages 49.9 inches, nearly 7 inches more than the New York state average. With only 2 extreme heat days and 1,894 growing degree days, the climate is mostly gentle on cool-season turf. These conditions support a long, steady growing season with minimal risk of summer dormancy.

Balancing Soil pH and Texture

The local soil has a pH of 5.10 and a sand content of 34.4%, requiring lime to neutralize the acidity. With only 8.9% clay, the soil lacks the natural mineral richness found in other parts of the state. Regular top-dressing with compost can help improve the soil's ability to hold onto the 49.9 inches of annual rain.

Managing High Coverage of Dryness

About 76.0% of the county is currently under abnormally dry conditions, following 17 weeks of drought over the past year. During these periods, avoid heavy foot traffic on the lawn to prevent physical damage to the grass blades. Watering deeply once a week is more effective than light daily sprinkling for deep root growth.

Seeding for Success in Herkimer

Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass are the best performers for this 5b hardiness zone. Plan your major lawn work between the last frost on May 18 and the first frost on October 2. Early fall is the most effective time to overseed, as the soil is warm and the 49.9 inches of rain provide natural irrigation.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Herkimer County's county score?
Herkimer County, New York has a composite county score of 47.1 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 Herkimer County rank among counties in New York?
Herkimer County ranks #28 among all counties in New York 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 Herkimer County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Herkimer County is $3,067, with an effective tax rate of 2.27%. This earns Herkimer County a tax score of 1.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Herkimer County?
The median household income in Herkimer County, New York is $68,858 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Herkimer County earns an income score of 63.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Herkimer County, New York a good place to live?
Herkimer County scores 47.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #28 in New York. The best way to evaluate Herkimer 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 Herkimer 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.