countyscore
54.4
County Score
Disaster Risk 75.9Health 69.9Soil Quality 69.3

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Nebraska

Above the National Median

Jefferson County’s composite score of 54.4 remains above the national median of 50.0. While competitive nationally, it faces more local challenges than some surrounding Nebraska counties.

Tracking Below State Average

The county falls slightly below the Nebraska average of 59.3. This gap is primarily driven by high tax burdens and specific infrastructure needs compared to its peers.

Resilient and Affordably Priced

Natural disaster resilience is a strength with a risk score of 75.9. Housing remains affordable for many, with a cost score of 69.2 and a median gross rent of only $659.

Significant Tax and Water Hurdles

Jefferson County struggles with a low tax score of 15.1, reflecting a high 1.453% effective rate. Its water score of 8.6 also indicates a need for significant infrastructure improvements.

Practical Living for Commuters

This county suits residents looking for low rent and high resistance to natural disasters. It is best for those who can manage a higher tax environment in exchange for affordable housing.

Score breakdown

Tax15.1Cost69.2Safety63.3Health69.9Schools57.4Income40.8Risk75.9Water8.6Weather41.8
🏛15.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠69.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼40.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡63.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤69.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡75.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧8.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤41.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨69.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.4
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

Gage County
Nebraska
51.4
Washington County
Kansas
61.4
Saline County
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46.4
Thayer County
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Republic County
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Fillmore County
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Marshall County
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Nuckolls County
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Deep Dives

Jefferson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jefferson County

via TaxByCounty

Jefferson County has among highest tax rates

Jefferson County's effective tax rate of 1.453% ranks in the 75th percentile nationally, notably above the national median of 1.1%. The median property tax of $1,709 remains well below the national median of $2,690 due to rural Nebraska's lower home values.

Above state average, highest in this group

At 1.453%, Jefferson County's effective rate significantly exceeds Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, placing it in the upper fifth of the state's 93 counties. Among the eight counties compared here, Jefferson carries one of the highest tax burdens.

Highest rate in the regional comparison set

Jefferson County's 1.453% notably outpaces nearly all neighboring counties, nearly matching Hooker County (1.431%) for the region's highest rate. Only Hamilton County (0.958%) and Holt County (1.139%) offer meaningfully lower alternatives nearby.

Median home taxes $1,709 yearly

On a median home value of $117,600, Jefferson County homeowners pay approximately $1,709 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that climbs to $2,018.

Challenge assessments given high rates

Jefferson County's elevated tax rate makes assessment accuracy particularly important. Overassessed properties carry a steeper cost here than in lower-rate counties, making appeals especially worthwhile.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson County offers moderate affordability

Jefferson County renters spend 13.1% of their income on housing, slightly above the national household income baseline but reasonable for a rural Midwest county. With a median rent of $659 per month and income of $60,568, Jefferson County occupies middle ground for affordability.

Better than Nebraska's state average

At 13.1%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio beats Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, placing it among the state's more affordable counties. The median rent of $659 is notably lower than Nebraska's state average of $783, benefiting from lower rural housing costs.

Affordable rents in a mixed regional market

Jefferson County renters pay $659 per month—less than Harlan ($708), Hamilton ($776), and Howard ($811) but more than Hayes ($419) and Hooker ($581). At 13.1% affordability, Jefferson matches Howard County and beats most neighbors, making it a solid middle option.

Jefferson County's balanced housing budget

A typical Jefferson County renter earning $60,568 annually pays $659 per month—13.1% of their income. Homeowners pay $856 monthly for properties worth $117,600, requiring stronger income commitment but building equity in moderately priced homes.

Jefferson County balances rent and value

Jefferson County delivers below-state-average rents with solid affordability ratios, making it worth considering if you're comparing southeast Nebraska options. Compare this profile to nearby Harlan and Holt counties to evaluate which combination of rent prices, homeownership values, and local income levels fits your relocation goals.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson County trails national income

Jefferson County's median household income of $60,568 falls $14,187 below the U.S. median of $74,755, a 19.0 percent gap. The county reflects economic patterns common to rural southeastern Nebraska.

Below Nebraska's county average

Jefferson County ranks in the lower-middle tier of Nebraska's 93 counties, with a median household income $6,312 below the state average of $66,880. The county's 9.5 percent deficit from state norms indicates below-average but not critically distressed economic conditions.

Virtually level with Hayes County

Jefferson County's $60,568 income matches Hayes County ($60,313) almost exactly, reflecting similar economic fundamentals in the south-central region. Both counties significantly outpace Hitchcock ($52,016) and Hooker ($45,854) counties.

Housing costs require careful budgeting

Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.1 percent indicates housing costs consume roughly one-eighth of household income, slightly above the county's neighbors. The median home value of $117,600 remains accessible but represents a meaningful portion of local earning capacity.

Build savings despite income gaps

Jefferson County residents should establish automatic savings transfers even if modest—$50 or $100 monthly compounds significantly over decades. Focus on tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs and employer retirement plans to maximize wealth growth with limited available capital.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jefferson County Remains Safer Than Most of the U.S.

Jefferson County reports a total crime rate of 849.0 per 100,000 people, which is well below the national average of 2,385.5. It holds a safety score of 98.7 out of 100.

Close to the Nebraska State Average

The county's safety score of 98.7 is just below the Nebraska average of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 849.0 is slightly higher than the state average of 626.7, driven largely by property-related incidents.

Regional Safety Comparison

Jefferson County has a higher crime rate at 849.0 compared to Hamilton County's 542.6. Local law enforcement manages property crime challenges while maintaining a very low violent crime rate compared to urban areas.

Property Crimes Drive the Numbers

Property crimes dominate local statistics at 807.2 per 100,000, while violent crimes are remarkably low at 41.8. This suggests that while theft and burglary happen, physical safety remains very high for residents.

Secure Your Home Against Property Theft

With property crime making up the bulk of local reports, residents should prioritize home security systems and well-lit entryways. Simple habits like locking car doors can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a statistic.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jefferson County

via HealthByCounty

Jefferson County life expectancy below U.S. average

At 76.6 years, Jefferson County residents live slightly less than the U.S. average of 76.4 years, tracking closely to national norms. With 16.1% reporting poor or fair health—notably above the national 13.9%—the county faces health challenges despite average longevity.

Below-average health outcomes for Nebraska

Jefferson County's 76.6-year life expectancy falls slightly below Nebraska's state average of 77.5 years, placing the county in the lower half of state counties. The 16.1% poor/fair health rate also exceeds state norms, signaling concentrated health struggles.

Trailing healthier adjacent counties

Jefferson County's 76.6-year life expectancy trails Howard County (79.7 years) by over three years and Hamilton County (78.9 years) by two years, though it slightly exceeds Harlan (76.8 years). With only 56 primary care providers per 100K, provider access is limited compared to leading counties.

Moderate uninsured rate, limited provider access

At 7.3%, Jefferson County's uninsured rate matches Hitchcock County and tracks below the state average, but the county's modest 56 primary care providers per 100K creates access barriers even for insured residents. Mental health care with 71 providers per 100K is available but below regional leaders.

Insurance is step one for Jefferson County

While 92.7% of Jefferson County residents have insurance, the county's elevated poor health rate suggests barriers beyond coverage—possibly geographic or provider availability. If uninsured, visit Healthcare.gov immediately; if insured, ask your doctor about local specialists and telehealth options to overcome access gaps.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Well-Rounded System of Eight Schools

Jefferson County supports 1,700 students through eight public schools managed by three different districts. The landscape includes five elementary schools and three high schools, offering a range of educational environments. This structure ensures that both younger children and secondary students have specialized facilities tailored to their needs.

Stable Performance and Competitive Scores

The county's 86.7% graduation rate aligns closely with state and national averages. Education is funded at $9,651 per pupil, which stays under the Nebraska average while still supporting a solid school score of 57.5. These numbers represent a stable, well-managed system that provides consistent quality for local families.

Fairbury Public Schools Serves the Majority

Fairbury Public Schools is the county's largest district, managing three schools and a total of 909 students. Tri County Public Schools also plays a vital role, serving 430 students across its two campuses. No charter schools exist in the county, maintaining a 100% enrollment rate within traditional public districts.

Diverse Sizes in Rural and Town Locales

The county features six rural schools and two town-based schools, providing parents with a choice of settings. Fairbury Jr-Sr High is the largest facility with 377 students, while the average size across all schools is 213. This mix of school sizes allows for both a lively high school experience and smaller, intimate elementary classrooms.

Investing in Your Child's Future

Jefferson County offers a reliable educational path with a variety of school sizes and locations. The steady graduation rates and diverse district options make it a smart choice for home buyers with children. Consider properties in Fairbury to stay close to the county's largest and most resource-rich educational centers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jefferson County

via RiskByCounty

Jefferson County's extreme wildfire exposure

Jefferson County scores 24.11 on the composite risk scale, nearly matching Nebraska's average of 25.80, yet faces the state's most extreme wildfire risk at 72.96—among the highest in the nation. Tornado (50.48) is also notably elevated, while flood (25.00) and earthquake (11.10) remain moderate. The county's exceptional wildfire vulnerability makes it a significant natural disaster outlier despite its average composite score.

Highest wildfire risk in Nebraska

Jefferson County ranks in the middle tier for overall composite risk but stands out dramatically for wildfire exposure at 72.96—the highest-scoring wildfire risk of any Nebraska county. Tornado risk of 50.48 is also notably elevated, placing Jefferson in the state's upper tier for this hazard. The county's flood risk of 25.00 is the highest in this analysis, creating a multi-hazard profile focused on fire and water.

Highest wildfire of all counties analyzed

Jefferson County's wildfire risk of 72.96 dramatically exceeds all surrounding counties, including Holt County (70.45) to the north and Howard County (52.77) to the west. Tornado risk of 50.48 is also notably higher than most neighbors, matching Hamilton County (50.73). Jefferson County faces an exceptional fire exposure paired with elevated storm risk—the most hazard-prone county in this region.

Extreme wildfire; elevated tornado risk

Wildfire is an extreme and urgent threat, with a risk score of 72.96—the highest in Nebraska and among the nation's most dangerous counties for grassland and woodland fire. Tornado risk of 50.48 is the second-most significant hazard, compounded by flood exposure of 25.00. Residents face a multi-hazard environment requiring comprehensive preparedness.

Extensive wildfire protection essential

Jefferson County residents must immediately establish and maintain aggressive defensible space around homes, clearing all dead vegetation and fallen fuel within 150+ feet where possible. Comprehensive homeowners insurance covering wildfire, wind, hail, and flood damage is essential—consider separate wildfire and flood policies. Develop detailed evacuation plans for both fire and tornado events, and maintain emergency supplies ready for rapid departure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

A Moist and Temperate Climate

Jefferson County averages 51.6°F annually, roughly 2.4 degrees below the national median. It is one of the more humid and precipitation-rich areas in the Great Plains region.

Nebraska’s Southeastern Wet Zone

With 32.4 inches of annual precipitation, Jefferson is significantly wetter than the Nebraska average of 25.9 inches. It also runs warmer than the state average of 49.7°F.

Higher Rainfall, Lower Snowfall

The county receives only 20.7 inches of snow, the lowest among its regional peers. Instead, it gets more of its annual moisture through rain, totaling over 32 inches.

Steamy Summers and Mild Winters

Summer brings 42 days of extreme heat and a July average of 76.6°F. Winters are relatively mild for Nebraska, with a Dec-Feb average temperature of 27.8°F.

Manage Moisture and Summer Heat

Dehumidifiers and good drainage systems are essential to handle the high 32.4-inch annual precipitation. HVAC systems should be serviced annually to cope with six weeks of 90-degree summer days.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Silts of the Southeast

Jefferson County features an average pH of 6.32, making it more acidic than the national median of 6.5. Its soil score of 69.3 is comfortably above the state average of 58.9, indicating strong productivity. These soils are characteristic of the rolling hills near the Kansas border.

Silt and Clay Heavy Profile

This county has a heavy soil profile with 51.3% silt and 26% clay, the highest clay content among its neighbors. Sand only makes up 22.7% of the mix, resulting in a dense soil that holds nutrients very well. However, this high clay content can make the ground difficult to work when it is too wet or too dry.

High Water Storage Potential

Organic matter is 2.65%, which is better than the national 2.0% average but under the state's 3.32%. The real strength here is the available water capacity of 0.194 in/in, which is well above the Nebraska average. This soil acts like a sponge, keeping moisture available to plants during late-summer dry spells.

Steady Hydrology in Silent Records

Specific drainage and hydrologic group classifications are currently missing from the digital record for this county. Given the 26% clay content, water likely moves more slowly through this soil than in the sandy western counties. Homeowners should check local site conditions for drainage before starting large construction projects.

Long Seasons in Zone 6a

As one of the warmer spots in Nebraska, zone 6a allows for a longer growing season and a wider variety of perennials. The high water capacity and slightly acidic pH are perfect for blueberries, tomatoes, and lush lawns. It is a fantastic place to start a diverse home orchard or a productive vegetable farm.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

Nebraska’s Premier Spot for Easy Lawns

Jefferson County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 68.4, the highest in this group and well above the national average. Situated in Zone 6a, your county offers some of the most forgiving growing conditions in the state. Homeowners here have a significant advantage in creating and maintaining a lush landscape.

Abundant Rain Supports Lush Turf

With 32.4 inches of annual precipitation, you are in the ideal range for healthy grass without constant irrigation. Although you face 42 extreme heat days, the moisture levels help buffer your lawn against the summer sun. A robust 3501 growing degree days ensures a long and productive growing season.

Rich Clay Soil with Slightly Acidic pH

Your soil contains 26.0% clay, the highest in the region, which provides excellent nutrient and water retention. The pH of 6.32 is slightly acidic but remains within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turf. While drainage data is limited, the high clay content suggests you should watch for compaction in high-traffic areas.

Leading the State in Drought Resilience

Jefferson County is currently largely drought-free, with only 2.8% of the area classified as abnormally dry. Over the past year, you only spent 21 weeks in drought, far less than your northern and western neighbors. This consistent moisture profile makes it much easier to sustain a green lawn year-round.

Capitalize on the Best Growing Window

Tall Fescue thrives in Zone 6a and is well-equipped for your 42 annual heat days. Start your spring planting after the April 25 frost to make the most of the favorable local rainfall. You have until the October 15 frost to finalize your lawn care for the year.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 54.4 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 Jefferson County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Jefferson County ranks #70 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 Jefferson County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $1,709, with an effective tax rate of 1.45%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 15.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Nebraska is $60,568 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 40.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 54.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #70 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Jefferson 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 Jefferson 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.