countyscore
45
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 69Property Tax 60.1

County Report Card

About Indian River County, Florida

Indian River matches the national livability median

Indian River County's composite score of 45.0 sits just below the national median of 50.0, reflecting a well-rounded but unexceptional profile. Strengths in water quality and income are offset by severe housing affordability constraints typical of Florida's east coast.

Right at Florida's state average

Indian River County's 45.0 score essentially mirrors Florida's state average of 45.1, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's county rankings. This parity suggests the county offers a representative Florida experience—neither standout nor struggling.

Water, income, and schools shine

Indian River County earns an exceptional water score of 86.0 and boasts strong income metrics with a median household income of $71,049 and income score of 69.0. School quality ranks solidly at 48.0, providing families with serviceable educational options.

Housing costs squeeze the budget

Housing affordability is a major constraint with a cost score of 18.3, median home values of $314,700, and median rent at $1,284/month—among the highest in this group. Environmental risk exposure is minimal (4.4), but housing costs leave little margin for other expenses.

Suits affluent families valuing beaches

Indian River County appeals to higher-income families attracted to coastal living, good schools, and pristine water access who can absorb premium housing costs. The county is less welcoming for middle- or lower-income households unless willing to accept tight financial circumstances.

Score breakdown

Tax60.1Cost18.3Safety49.9Health55.4Schools48Income69Risk4.4Water86Weather20.9
🏛60.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠18.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼69
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡49.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤55.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡4.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤20.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨41.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30.8
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

St. Lucie County
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36.6
Okeechobee County
Florida
31.6
Martin County
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41.6
Highlands County
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Brevard County
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Osceola County
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Glades County
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Polk County
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Deep Dives

Indian River County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Indian River County

via TaxByCounty

Indian River's rate runs below national mean

Indian River County's 0.727% effective tax rate sits about 21% below the national median of 0.92%, positioning it among America's lighter-taxed counties. With a median property tax of $2,288, residents pay 15% less than the national median of $2,690.

Just below Florida's statewide average rate

Indian River County's 0.727% rate sits nearly even with Florida's 0.731% state average, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's 67 counties. Its $2,288 median tax remains $403 below Florida's $1,885 average.

Competitive Space Coast tax profile

Indian River's 0.727% rate aligns closely with Hernando (0.720%) and Highlands (0.728%), the most comparable peers in our sample. It underperforms larger Hillsborough (0.836%) but beats rural counties like Holmes (0.520%) and Jackson (0.549%).

Annual tax on $314.7K median property

An Indian River County homeowner with the county's $314,700 median-valued home pays approximately $2,288 per year in property taxes. With mortgage-related assessments, that total reaches roughly $2,233 annually.

Higher values mean bigger appeal savings

Indian River County's higher median home values mean overassessment errors carry larger dollar impacts. Residents should request a free property valuation review if local real estate sales suggest their assessed value lags behind fair market value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Indian River County

via CostByCounty

Indian River balances growth and value

Indian River County residents dedicate 21.7% of income to rent, beating Florida's 22.5% state average despite significantly higher incomes than most counties. With a median household income of $71,049 and median rent of $1,284, the county achieves respectable affordability through solid earning power.

Strong affordability for a coastal county

Indian River's 21.7% rent-to-income ratio places it comfortably above Florida's average, remarkable for a county with growing coastal appeal. The median rent of $1,284 exceeds the state median by just $51, suggesting Indian River hasn't experienced the extreme price pressures of Miami or Tampa Bay.

Premium pricing, but still reasonable

Indian River's $1,284 monthly rent sits between Hernando County ($1,209) and Hillsborough County ($1,543), reflecting its coastal location premium. Home values of $314,700 are among the region's highest but substantially less than what comparable coastal markets command, offering growth potential with restraint.

Ownership offers slight cost advantage

Renters in Indian River pay $1,284 monthly (21.7% of income) while homeowners dedicate $1,095 to mortgages and costs—a $189 monthly difference. The county's median income of $71,049 provides cushion for both pathways, making it one of the more balanced markets among these eight counties.

Indian River blends coast and affordability

Relocating to Indian River offers coastal Florida living without the extreme costs of Miami or Fort Lauderdale, with rents and homes roughly matching state averages. The 21.7% rent-to-income ratio and above-average median income of $71,049 create genuine affordability for those seeking beach-area access and lifestyle.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Indian River County

via IncomeByCounty

Indian River matches national earnings

Indian River County's median household income of $71,049 sits just $3,706 below the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the national middle-to-upper range. The county performs well relative to most American peers.

Indian River outearns Florida average

At $71,049, Indian River County's median household income exceeds Florida's state average of $65,468 by $5,581, ranking it in Florida's upper-income tier. The county punches above the state median despite its smaller size.

Indian River leads regional peers

Indian River County's $71,049 significantly exceeds nearby rural counties like Hendry ($53,044), Highlands ($55,581), and Hernando ($63,193). Only Hillsborough County ($75,011) outpaces Indian River in the region.

Housing requires substantial income

Indian River's rent-to-income ratio of 21.7% is manageable, but the median home value of $314,700 demands household incomes well above the county median. Buyers should plan carefully for mortgage qualification.

Position yourself for long-term gains

Indian River households earning $71,000 have capacity for meaningful retirement contributions and diversified investments. At this income level, strategic tax planning and real estate investment can accelerate wealth accumulation toward six-figure net worth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Indian River County

via CrimeByCounty

Indian River's National Safety Standing

Indian River County enjoys a high safety score of 98.2, driven by a total crime rate of 1129.3 per 100K. This is remarkably lower than the national average of 2,385.5. It stands out as a safe haven when compared to national figures.

Indian River vs the Florida Average

The county's total crime rate of 1129.3 is close to the Florida state average of 1027.9. With a safety score of 98.2, it sits just 0.2 points below the state average of 98.4. Eleven agencies provide the data that keeps this county’s reporting transparent and accurate.

Regional Safety Along the Coast

Indian River is significantly safer than neighboring Hillsborough, which has a crime rate of 1480.9. However, it sees more activity than Jackson County's very low rate of 597.4. It remains a preferred location for those seeking a balance of coastal living and security.

Violent and Property Crime Analysis

Violent crime is impressively low at 123.6 per 100K, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is more prevalent at 1005.7 per 100K, yet still roughly half of the national rate of 2,015.7. These stats indicate that personal safety is a major strength of this county.

Securing Your Coastal Home

Since property crime is the primary concern here, investing in smart home security can further lower your risk. Keep exterior areas well-lit and ensure all windows have secondary locks. Being a proactive neighbor helps maintain the county’s strong safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Indian River County

via HealthByCounty

Indian River County leads nation on longevity

At 78.3 years, Indian River County residents live just 1 year less than the U.S. average of 79.3 years—among the best in the country. Only 17.1% report poor or fair health, well below the national average of 18%, reflecting sustained community wellness.

Exceeds Florida on health outcomes

Indian River County's 78.3-year life expectancy surpasses Florida's 75.8-year average by 2.5 years, ranking in Florida's top tier. The county's 14.0% uninsured rate essentially matches the state average of 14.4%, ensuring healthcare access for most residents.

Strong provider network supports longevity

Indian River County maintains 63 primary care providers and 171 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—above-average capacity that enables accessible care. This resource density supports preventive services and specialist referrals that contribute to the county's exceptional life expectancy.

Healthcare access enables preventive wellness

With 63 primary care providers per 100,000 and a 14.0% uninsured rate, most Indian River County residents access regular checkups and early disease screening. The 171 mental health providers per 100K also support integrated care addressing physical and behavioral health together.

Keep your coverage strong

Indian River County's health success depends partly on consistent insurance coverage—14% of residents still lack it. Renew coverage annually through Healthcare.gov, your employer, or your doctor's office to maintain access to the county's excellent preventive care and specialist providers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Indian River County

via SchoolsByCounty

Balanced Education Infrastructure on the Coast

Indian River County supports 17,199 students across 28 public schools managed by a single district. The landscape features 17 elementary schools, five middle schools, and four high schools, providing a robust pathway from early childhood to graduation. This coastal county offers a healthy mix of traditional and alternative learning environments.

Leading the State in Academic Success

The county achieves an impressive 93.0% graduation rate, well above the national 87.0% benchmark. Indian River also exceeds the Florida average for school scores with a 53.5 and spends $6,266 per pupil, surpassing the state spending average. These metrics indicate a high-performing district that successfully prepares its students for post-secondary life.

A Healthy Blend of District and Charters

While the Indian River School District manages the majority of campuses, five charter schools provide alternative options for nearly 18% of the student population. Vero Beach High School remains the largest traditional anchor with 2,847 students, followed by Sebastian River High with 1,843. Popular charter options like Imagine at South Vero also serve significant numbers, currently enrolling 878 students.

Suburban Charm with Significant Campus Size

Education in Indian River is mostly a suburban and city-centered experience, with 21 of the 28 schools located in these settings. Average school size is moderate at 614 students, though the major high schools create a high-energy, large-campus feel. Families can find a school character that fits their needs, from bustling city campuses in Vero Beach to quieter suburban elementary schools.

Secure Your Future in Vero Beach

With some of the highest graduation rates and school scores in Florida, Indian River County is a premier destination for families. Proximity to top-rated schools like Vero Beach High is a significant driver of local property values and a key consideration for new residents. Start your home search today to take advantage of the county's strong commitment to educational excellence.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Indian River County

via RiskByCounty

Indian River faces very high national risks

Indian River County's composite risk score of 95.64 ranks it in the Relatively High category, placing it among the riskiest counties in the United States. This score reflects a Space Coast community heavily exposed to hurricanes and multiple compounding natural hazards.

Top tier of Florida's most exposed

At 95.64, Indian River County significantly exceeds Florida's state average of 75.74 and ranks among the state's highest-risk communities. The county's Atlantic coastal position exposes it to the full force of Atlantic hurricanes and storm surge.

Riskier than Brevard, comparable to St. Lucie

Indian River County's 95.64 places it among the most exposed in the Space Coast region, with notably higher risk than western Osceola County. The score aligns with other Atlantic-facing counties like St. Lucie that face similar hurricane and surge vulnerabilities.

Hurricanes dominate, tornadoes add risk

Hurricane risk (99.17) is extreme and represents Indian River County's overwhelming primary threat, while tornado risk (72.46) and flood risk (85.88) add significant secondary exposure. Wildfire risk (88.20) completes a multi-dimensional hazard environment requiring comprehensive protection.

Maximize wind and flood insurance now

Indian River County's exceptional hurricane risk (99.17) demands maximum available wind coverage and storm surge preparation—consider impact windows and roof reinforcement. Add mandatory flood insurance given your 85.88 flood risk score, and document all valuable contents for tornado and wind damage claims.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Indian River County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistently warm with a tropical influence

Indian River County averages 74.0°F annually, well above the national median temperature. The Atlantic influence helps keep the environment humid and stable.

Warmer than the typical Florida average

The county is 2.9 degrees warmer than the state average of 71.1°F. It ranks among the warmer coastal regions on Florida's eastern shore.

Fewer extreme heat days than inland peers

While its 74.0°F average is similar to Hillsborough, Indian River only sees 64 days of extreme heat. This is nearly half the extreme heat days experienced in inland Highlands.

Mild summers and very warm winters

Summers average 82.0°F while winters are exceptionally mild at 64.8°F. The county sees zero snowfall and receives a state-average 54.8 inches of rain.

Manage consistent moisture and mild heat

Residents should plan for 54.8 inches of rain with breathable, waterproof gear. The low number of extreme heat days makes this one of the more temperate southern counties.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Indian River County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Soil Identity

Indian River County soil features a pH of 5.42, making it less acidic than the state average of 4.88. It remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5, which is common for Florida's sandy coastal plains.

Light and Airy Sands

The soil contains 82.4% sand and only 3.7% clay, creating a light texture that is very easy to work with. With only 3.0% silt, the soil provides excellent aeration for plant roots but little natural structure.

Rich Organic Matter Levels

At 9.65%, the organic matter content is well above the Florida state average of 8.03%. This boosts the water capacity to 0.111 in/in, which is higher than the state average and helps plants survive dry spells.

Excellent Coastal Drainage

While specific hydrologic data is not available, the sandy texture ensures that the soil does not stay waterlogged for long. The healthy organic matter levels help balance this drainage by holding moisture where plants need it most.

Tropical Paradise in Zone 10a

Zone 10a allows for a stunning variety of tropical plants, including mangoes and avocados. The high organic matter gives you a head start, so grab some seeds and get planting.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Indian River County

via LawnByCounty

A More Manageable Coastal Climate

Indian River County is a regional standout with a lawn difficulty score of 30.8, much easier than the Florida average of 19.2. While still more difficult than the national median of 50.0, the coastal influence provides a significant advantage for homeowners in zone 10a. Maintaining a green space here is notably simpler than in the state's interior.

Fewer Heat Extremes Near the Coast

Indian River only sees 64 extreme heat days per year, which is far below the Florida average of 92. This milder temperature profile is paired with 54.8 inches of rain, providing nearly perfect hydration for most turf types. With 8,792 growing degree days, the growing season is long but lacks the intense heat stress found elsewhere.

Coastal Sands with Acidic Tendencies

The soil composition is 82.4% sand, which creates a well-draining but nutrient-poor environment. The pH of 5.42 is acidic and will likely need lime applications to reach the preferred 6.0-7.0 range. Despite the sand, the moderate clay content of 3.7% provides a slight benefit in holding some mineral nutrients.

Navigating Severe Coastal Drought Cycles

Although the county averages high rainfall, 100% of the area is currently in severe drought. Over the past year, Indian River has spent 22 weeks in drought conditions, which can be particularly harsh in sandy coastal soils. Utilizing rain barrels and smart irrigation controllers can help maintain a green lawn through these dry periods.

Year-Round Growing in Zone 10a

Warm-season grasses like St. Augustine and Seashore Paspalum thrive in Indian River's coastal 10a environment. The risk of spring frost typically ends by January 24, allowing for an exceptionally early start to the planting season. This early start helps your lawn establish a deep root system before the summer dry months arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Indian River County's county score?
Indian River County, Florida has a composite county score of 45 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 Indian River County rank among counties in Florida?
Indian River County ranks #35 among all counties in Florida 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 Indian River County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Indian River County is $2,288, with an effective tax rate of 0.73%. This earns Indian River County a tax score of 60.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Indian River County?
The median household income in Indian River County, Florida is $71,049 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Indian River County earns an income score of 69/100 on CountyScore.
Is Indian River County, Florida a good place to live?
Indian River County scores 45/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #35 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Indian River 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 Indian River County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.