countyscore
65.4
County Score
Health 90.1Safety 87.3Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Howard County, Nebraska

Exceeding the National Benchmark

Howard County’s composite score of 65.4 sits well above the 50.0 national median. This reflects a high standard of living across most key dimensions.

Strong Positioning in Nebraska

The county outperforms the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It is a regional leader in wellness and safety, offering a robust quality of life for its residents.

Exceptional Health and Safety

Wellness is the county’s biggest asset, with a health score of 90.1 and a safety score of 87.3. Economic health is also strong, evidenced by an income score of 76.5 and a $74,508 median household income.

Moderating Housing and Taxes

Affordability is slightly lower than in neighboring counties, with a cost score of 49.2 and a median home value of $205,200. The tax score of 29.3 also indicates an effective tax rate above 1.1%.

High-Quality Life for Families

Howard County is a top choice for health-conscious families and high earners who value safety and good medical access. It offers a premium rural experience for those with a slightly higher budget.

Score breakdown

Tax29.3Cost49.2Safety87.3Health90.1Schools63Income76.5Risk75.8Water86Weather43.1
🏛29.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠49.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼76.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡87.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓63
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡75.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.9
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Howard County?

Many homeowners in Howard County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Howard County with Washington County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Washington County
Alabama
Median income: $60,503
65.4
Caribou County
Idaho
Median income: $66,653
65.4
Lake County
Minnesota
Median income: $75,621
65.4
Pope County
Minnesota
Median income: $72,205
65.4
Pierce County
Nebraska
Median income: $75,938
65.4
Oglala Lakota County
South Dakota
Median income: $34,769
65.4
Iron County
Wisconsin
Median income: $59,058
65.4
Prince of Wales-Hyder Census Area
Alaska
Median income: $59,079
65.5

Nearby counties

Sherman County
Nebraska
61.2
Greeley County
Nebraska
64
Hall County
Nebraska
35.5
Nance County
Nebraska
63.3
Merrick County
Nebraska
64.9
Valley County
Nebraska
62.5
Hamilton County
Nebraska
62.4
Boone County
Nebraska
71.2

Deep Dives

Howard County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Howard County

via TaxByCounty

Howard County taxes below national average

Howard County's effective tax rate of 1.128% sits slightly above the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the lower half nationally. The median property tax of $2,314 remains well below the national median of $2,690, showing homeowners benefit from favorable rates despite moderate home values.

Among Nebraska's most tax-friendly counties

At 1.128%, Howard County's effective rate falls well below Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, ranking it in the bottom third of the state's 93 counties. This makes Howard one of the more affordable counties for property tax purposes in Nebraska.

Competitive with rural county peers

Howard County's 1.128% matches closely with Holt County (1.139%) and slightly undercuts Harlan County (1.148%), establishing it as among the most affordable in the region. Only Hamilton County (0.958%) offers meaningfully lower rates in this area.

Median home taxes $2,314 per year

On a median home value of $205,200, Howard County homeowners pay approximately $2,314 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay $2,356.

Appeal assessments that seem too high

Even favorable county rates don't protect against individual overassessments. Review your property tax notice and file an appeal if your assessed value exceeds recent sales of comparable homes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Howard County

via CostByCounty

Howard County offers moderate affordability

Howard County renters spend 13.1% of their income on housing, slightly above national standards but reflecting stronger incomes and reasonable rural Nebraska rent levels. With a median household income of $74,508—nearly matching the national median—Howard County offers solid economic footing.

Better than Nebraska's statewide average

At 13.1%, Howard County's rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, making it one of the more affordable counties statewide. The median rent of $811 is slightly above the state average of $783, but higher median income more than compensates.

Pricier rentals, but strong incomes offset

Howard County renters pay $811 per month—higher than most neighbors—but the county's median income of $74,508 is among the strongest in the group. This combination yields a 13.1% affordability ratio that beats or matches most surrounding counties despite above-average rents.

Howard County's robust housing position

A typical Howard County renter earning $74,508 annually pays $811 per month—13.1% of their income, leaving substantial resources for other expenses. Homeowners invest in properties worth $205,200 with median monthly costs of $915, among the most valuable homes in this county group.

Howard County rewards stronger earners

If you have a stable, above-average income, Howard County offers the best housing values and homeownership opportunities in the region, with median home values around $205,000. Compare this profile to neighboring Hamilton and Holt counties to find your ideal balance of income potential and housing costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Howard County

via IncomeByCounty

Howard County income slightly below national

Howard County's median household income of $74,508 runs $247 below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it nearly at the national average. The county performs comparably to typical American households despite rural location.

Strong earner within Nebraska

Howard County ranks in the upper quartile of Nebraska's 93 counties, with a median household income $7,628 above the state average of $66,880. The county's 11.4 percent earnings advantage over typical Nebraska households reflects above-average local economic vitality.

Second-strongest earner in region

Howard County's $74,508 median trails only Hamilton County ($79,884) by $5,376 among nearby communities. The county substantially leads Harlan County ($70,536), Holt County ($67,225), and all southwestern counties, positioning it as a regional earnings center.

Housing costs well within budget

Howard County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.1 percent means residents spend roughly one-eighth of income on housing, solidly within affordability norms. The median home value of $205,200 aligns well with local earning capacity.

Capitalize on income stability

Howard County residents enjoy near-national-average incomes with strong housing affordability—ideal conditions for wealth building. Max out employer 401(k) matches, establish individual investment accounts, and diversify holdings to create meaningful long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Howard County

via CrimeByCounty

Howard County maintains a high safety profile

Howard County's total crime rate of 277.9 per 100,000 residents is nearly 90% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a top-tier safety score of 99.6.

Beating the State Safety Average

Howard County’s safety score of 99.6 is higher than the Nebraska state average of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 277.9 is also much lower than the state's typical 626.7 per 100,000 residents.

Strong Public Safety Results

Howard County’s crime rate of 277.9 is significantly lower than Hitchcock County's rate of 648.9. The three reporting agencies in the county manage to keep incident numbers consistently low compared to regional peers.

Violent Crimes Are Rarely Reported

Violent crime is almost non-existent in Howard County, with a rate of just 15.4 per 100,000 residents. Property crime stands at 262.5, meaning almost all local incidents involve property rather than personal threats.

Protecting Your Property in Howard County

Since property crime is the main focus here, securing sheds and outdoor equipment is a smart move for homeowners. Simple deterrents like motion sensors help maintain the county's peaceful atmosphere.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Howard County

via HealthByCounty

Howard County leads national health rankings

At 79.7 years, Howard County's life expectancy ranks among America's highest, exceeding the U.S. average of 76.4 years by more than three years. With just 13.9% reporting poor or fair health—right at the national average—the county demonstrates sustained wellness.

Nebraska's healthiest county by longevity

Howard County's 79.7-year life expectancy is the highest in Nebraska, surpassing the state average of 77.5 years by 2.2 years and leading all peers. The county's 13.9% poor/fair health rate matches state norms while longevity trends higher.

Region's longest life expectancy and lowest uninsured

Howard County's 79.7-year life expectancy exceeds all surrounding counties by at least a year, with Hamilton and Holt tied at 78.9 years and Hitchcock at 75.6 years. At 5.7%, Howard's uninsured rate is the lowest in the region, enabling broad access to care.

Exceptional coverage drives health outcomes

Howard County's 5.7% uninsured rate—1.4 percentage points below Nebraska's average and the best in the region—means 94.3% of residents have coverage for preventive and emergency care. With 77 primary care providers and 107 mental health providers per 100K, the county balances coverage with accessible care.

Howard's success starts with coverage

Howard County's exceptional longevity is no accident—widespread insurance coverage enables early care and prevention. If you're among the 5.7% uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov now to secure coverage and join the vast majority of Howard residents with access to the care that keeps the county thriving.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Howard County

via SchoolsByCounty

Strong Public Education Across Seven Schools

Howard County manages a robust network of seven public schools across three districts. The system serves 1,475 students through four elementary schools and three high schools. This infrastructure provides comprehensive coverage for the county, ensuring that students in all corners of the region have access to local education.

Exceeding Benchmarks with Efficient Funding

Howard County achieves an 89.6% graduation rate, beating both state and national averages. The county maintains this high performance with a per-pupil expenditure of $9,050, which is significantly lower than the state average of $10,521. A school score of 57.7 indicates that the county is successfully translating its budget into strong student outcomes.

St Paul Public Schools Leads the Way

St Paul Public Schools is the county's largest district, educating 705 students across its two campuses. Centura Public Schools and Elba Public Schools also serve significant portions of the population with 481 and 122 students respectively. The county does not host any charter schools, keeping all students within the traditional public system.

Personalized Learning in All-Rural Schools

Every school in Howard County is classified as rural, offering a consistent atmosphere of quiet, focused study. St Paul Elementary is the largest individual school with 387 students, while several others maintain much smaller enrollments. The average school size of 211 students provides a healthy balance of social opportunities and personal instruction.

Quality Education in a Rural Setting

Howard County's high graduation rates make it a top choice for families moving to central Nebraska. The efficient school system delivers great results, making the area attractive for those who value academic performance. Look for homes in St Paul or near the Centura campuses to take advantage of these established districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Howard County

via RiskByCounty

Howard County's moderate overall risk

Howard County scores 24.20 on the composite risk scale, nearly identical to Nebraska's average of 25.80, placing it in the Very Low risk category nationally. Wildfire (52.77) and tornado (35.88) are the primary hazards, while flood (14.73) and earthquake (8.14) remain secondary. The county's risk profile is representative of central Nebraska's typical natural disaster exposure.

Typical risk for central Nebraska

Howard County ranks near the middle of Nebraska's 93 counties for overall disaster risk, with a composite score almost exactly equal to the state average of 25.80. Wildfire risk of 52.77 is notably elevated, placing the county in the upper range of state wildfire exposure. Tornado risk of 35.88 is moderate compared to neighboring counties, creating a balanced dual-hazard profile.

Lower tornado risk than Hamilton

Howard County's composite risk of 24.20 is substantially lower than Hamilton County (42.62) to the east but higher than Hayes County (1.24) to the west. Wildfire risk of 52.77 exceeds all immediate neighbors except Jefferson County (72.96) to the south. Tornado risk of 35.88 is lower than Hamilton's 50.73, reflecting safer atmospheric patterns in this area.

Wildfire and tornado co-equal threats

Wildfire is the dominant hazard with a risk score of 52.77, substantially outpacing tornado (35.88) as Howard County's primary natural disaster concern. Tornado remains a meaningful secondary threat, making the county vulnerable to both grassland fire and severe storm exposure. Flood and earthquake risks are minimal.

Prepare for wildfire and severe weather

Howard County residents should create extensive defensible space around homes by clearing brush and dead vegetation, given the elevated wildfire exposure. Ensure homeowners insurance includes wind/hail coverage for tornado and severe storm damage, and maintain a weather emergency plan. For rural residents, develop a wildfire evacuation route and keep property access roads clear.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Howard County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Mid-American Weather Patterns

Howard County's annual average of 51.7°F is just under the national median. It experiences a classic four-season climate with a mix of humid and dry air masses.

Warmer and Wetter than Average

At 51.7°F, Howard is warmer than the 49.7°F Nebraska average. Its 27.3 inches of annual precipitation also beats the state average of 25.9 inches.

Moderate Snowfall and Steady Rain

The county sees 22.4 inches of snow, which is lower than many western neighbors. This makes it a more accessible region during the winter compared to the Nebraska panhandle.

Warm Summers and Brisk Winters

July is warm with a 76.9°F average and 40 days of extreme heat above 90°F. Winter remains cold but manageable, with a December-February average of 27.5°F.

Dual-Season Preparation is Key

Homeowners should prioritize efficient attic insulation for both the 40 days of 90-degree heat and the cold January nights. Standard snow shovels and salt are usually sufficient for the moderate 22.4-inch snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Howard County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Nebraska Entisols

Howard County’s soil pH of 6.79 perfectly matches the Nebraska state average. These soils are classified as Entisols and carry a soil score of 54.7, just slightly below the state benchmark. This represents a classic mid-state soil profile that is versatile but requires some management.

Balanced Loam with Sandy Tones

The dominant texture is loam, composed of 46.6% sand and 36.8% silt. This mix provides enough sand for drainage and enough silt for nutrient retention and workability. With 15.7% clay, the soil has a light structure that is less likely to crack in the summer heat than heavier soils.

Meeting State Benchmarks for Water

Organic matter sits at 2.06%, which is just above the national average but below Nebraska’s 3.32% mark. The available water capacity is 0.173 in/in, hitting the state average almost exactly. These numbers indicate a reliable, if not extraordinary, foundation for regional agriculture.

Managing Poorly Drained Lowlands

Surprisingly, the dominant drainage class is very poorly drained, categorized in hydrologic group B/D. This suggests that while the soil texture is loamy, the local topography often leads to high water tables or pooling. Gardeners should consider raised beds to avoid root rot during wet Nebraska springs.

Diverse Options in Zone 5b

Howard County’s zone 5b climate supports a wide range of Nebraska staples like sweet corn and peppers. Because of the poor drainage in some areas, choosing water-tolerant varieties can be a smart strategy. Start your garden with confidence, knowing your soil has the perfect average pH for most vegetables.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Howard County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions in Central Nebraska

Howard County earns a lawn difficulty score of 55.9, making it slightly easier to maintain a yard here than the state average. Sitting in Zone 5b, the environment is well-suited for a variety of popular turfgrasses. You have a solid foundation for a healthy lawn if you manage seasonal water needs.

Hot Summers and Balanced Rainfall

The county receives 27.3 inches of rain annually, which is slightly above the state average of 25.9 inches. However, 40 extreme heat days each year will test your lawn’s endurance during July and August. The high 3532 growing degree days mean your grass will grow vigorously and require regular mowing.

Managing Poorly Drained Loam Soils

Unlike many neighbors, your soil is classified as very poorly drained, which can lead to standing water or root rot. The 6.79 pH is nearly ideal, but the 15.7% clay and 46.6% sand mix requires careful irrigation management. You should avoid overwatering, as your soil holds onto moisture much longer than typical Nebraska sands.

Monitoring Dry Cycles in Low-Drainage Areas

The county has experienced 33 weeks of drought over the last year, though severe drought levels are currently at 0.0%. Because your soil drains slowly, your lawn may actually stay green longer during a dry spell than those in sandy areas. Watch for soil compaction, which is a common issue in poorly drained loams during dry periods.

Spring Launch for a Green Summer

Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass are excellent choices for this 5b zone. Plan to seed after the last frost on April 23 to take advantage of the long 3532 GDD growing season. Be sure to finish any major lawn projects before the first fall frost on October 14.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Howard County's county score?
Howard County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 65.4 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 Howard County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Howard County ranks #29 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 Howard County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Howard County is $2,314, with an effective tax rate of 1.13%. This earns Howard County a tax score of 29.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Howard County?
The median household income in Howard County, Nebraska is $74,508 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Howard County earns an income score of 76.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Howard County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Howard County scores 65.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #29 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Howard 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 Howard 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.