countyscore
60.7
County Score
Health 90.8Safety 78.3Lawn Care 77.8

County Report Card

About Jones County, Iowa

Outperforming Most Counties Nationwide

Jones County's composite score of 60.7 is a strong showing against the national median of 50.0. This puts the county in a high percentile for overall quality of life and community stability.

Exceeding the Iowa State Average

The county beats the Iowa state average of 55.6 by a solid margin. Its score of 60.7 highlights a high standard of living that ranks it among the state's more desirable locations.

Exemplary Safety and Physical Health

The county boasts an impressive health score of 90.8 and a safety score of 78.3. Residents thrive on high incomes, reflected in a score of 74.1 and a median household income of $73,071.

Water Quality and Educational Gaps

The water quality score of 44.5 is the primary area for improvement. Additionally, schools score 56.4, suggesting they are functional but do not match the elite levels of the county's health metrics.

A Premier Choice for Families

Jones County is a standout for families seeking a safe, wealthy, and healthy environment. It offers one of the best balances of security and income in the region.

Score breakdown

Tax20.8Cost53Safety78.3Health90.8Schools56.4Income74.1Risk67.4Water44.5Weather49.1
🏛20.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠53
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼74.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡78.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡67.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧44.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨70.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱77.8
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Jones County?

Many homeowners in Jones 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 Jones County with Clarke County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Clarke County
Mississippi
Median income: $46,054
60.7
Perry County
Mississippi
Median income: $50,435
60.7
Brown County
Nebraska
Median income: $51,538
60.7
McIntosh County
North Dakota
Median income: $64,236
60.7
Mountrail County
North Dakota
Median income: $81,292
60.7
Williamson County
Tennessee
Median income: $131,202
60.7
Aleutians East Borough
Alaska
Median income: $72,692
60.8
Dolores County
Colorado
Median income: $70,490
60.8

Nearby counties

Linn County
Iowa
40.7
Cedar County
Iowa
58
Delaware County
Iowa
60.2
Dubuque County
Iowa
45.4
Jackson County
Iowa
55.6
Clinton County
Iowa
38.7
Jo Daviess County
Illinois
60.8
Johnson County
Iowa
41.1

Deep Dives

Jones County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jones County

via TaxByCounty

Jones County taxes: moderate nationally

Jones County's effective tax rate of 1.298% sits just below the national median, offering homeowners a slight tax advantage compared to the rest of the country. The median property tax of $2,381 trails the national median by $309, despite homes being worth 35% less than the national average.

Slightly below Iowa average

Jones County's 1.298% effective rate ranks in the middle-to-lower range of Iowa's 99 counties, performing better than the state average of 1.344%. The median property tax of $2,381 exceeds Iowa's state median of $2,160 by $221 annually.

Moderate taxes among regional peers

Jones County's 1.298% rate sits between Jackson County (1.252%) and Jasper County (1.424%), positioning it as a moderate-tax option in the region. It offers better rates than Jefferson (1.487%) and Johnson (1.565%) but higher than Kossuth (1.064%).

What $183,400 home costs annually

On Jones County's median home value of $183,400, you'll pay approximately $2,381 in annual property taxes. For homeowners with mortgages, escrow arrangements add roughly $217 more annually, bringing the typical bill to about $2,598.

You might be overpaying on taxes

Many Iowa homeowners are assessed above fair market value and don't realize they can appeal their assessments. If you believe your home's valuation is too high, a formal appeal could reduce your tax burden significantly—it's free to file.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jones County

via CostByCounty

Jones County delivers genuine affordability

Jones County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.5% ranks among the nation's most affordable, well below the 30% affordability threshold and lower than nearly all U.S. counties. With median household income at $73,071—nearly matching the national average of $74,755—renters enjoy strong purchasing power and manageable monthly housing costs.

Jones leads Iowa's affordability rankings

At 12.5%, Jones County's rent-to-income ratio beats Iowa's 14.1% state average by 1.6 percentage points, making it among the state's most affordable counties. The $759 median monthly rent is the lowest in the region, and the combination of lower rents and above-average income creates an exceptional affordability profile.

Jones is the region's affordability champion

Jones County's $759 rent and 12.5% ratio significantly outperform all nearby competitors: Jackson ($800, 13.4%), Jasper ($822, 14.1%), and Johnson ($1,104, 17.7%). For families and renters prioritizing housing affordability in Iowa, Jones offers the clearest advantage in this eight-county comparison.

Jones keeps housing costs manageable

Renters allocate just $759 monthly (12.5% of $73,071 income), leaving substantial resources for savings, healthcare, and other essentials. Homeowners spend $983 monthly, maintaining the county's reputation for balanced ownership costs relative to median home value of $183,400.

Jones County is a relocation sweet spot

If affordability drives your move to Iowa, Jones County delivers the best combination of low rents and strong incomes in this region. Compare it against Jackson (similar vibe, slightly higher costs) and nearby Kossuth County (also affordable, but with lower household incomes) to ensure the fit matches your employment and lifestyle needs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jones County

via IncomeByCounty

Jones outpaces most Americans

Jones County's median household income of $73,071 sits just $1,684 below the U.S. median of $74,755, positioning it at the 48th percentile nationally. Households here earn nearly as much as the typical American middle-class family.

Among Iowa's top earners

Jones County's $73,071 income exceeds Iowa's statewide median of $69,830 by $3,241, ranking it solidly above average within the state. The county demonstrates economic strength relative to most Iowa communities.

Strong income competitor

Jones County ($73,071) ranks second only to Johnson ($74,721) among its peers, significantly outearning Jackson ($71,605), Jasper ($70,128), and Keokuk ($60,856). It holds a confident position in its regional income hierarchy.

Lowest housing burden nearby

Jones County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.5% is among the region's lowest, meaning housing costs consume just over one-eighth of median income. A median home value of $183,400 remains accessible for most households earning near the county median.

Combine income and affordability

Jones County households benefit from both solid income and manageable housing costs—a rare combination allowing aggressive saving and investing. Direct surplus income into education savings, business ventures, or real estate investments to multiply wealth beyond wage earnings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jones County

via CrimeByCounty

Jones County Ranks Among the Nation's Safest

Jones County boasts an elite safety score of 99.2 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 516.0 per 100K is nearly five times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Jones County Outperforms Iowa State Safety Average

The county is significantly safer than the average Iowa community, with a score of 99.2 versus the state average of 98.3. Its crime rate of 516.0 is less than half the state average.

Safer than Jackson and Johnson Neighbors

Jones County is much safer than neighboring Jackson County (1284.0) and Johnson County (1847.3). It stands out as a regional leader in low crime rates.

Extremely Low Rates of Both Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime is rare in Jones County at 173.6 per 100K, while property crime is also very low at 342.4. These numbers represent some of the lowest crime figures in the region.

Maintain the High Standard of Safety in Jones

While crime is very low, maintaining community awareness keeps it that way. Continuing to look out for neighbors ensures Jones County remains one of Iowa's safest places.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jones County

via HealthByCounty

Jones County outpaces national life expectancy

At 79.8 years, Jones County residents live 3.4 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years—a substantial health advantage. The county's 14.6% poor or fair health rate bests the national average of 18%, reflecting good overall population health.

Top performer in Iowa

Jones County's 79.8-year life expectancy exceeds Iowa's state average of 77.7 years by 2.1 years, placing it among the state's healthiest counties. Its 14.6% poor or fair health rate ranks well above the state median on self-reported health.

Second-best in the region

Jones County's 79.8-year life expectancy trails only Johnson County's 82.0 years and beats all other neighbors, signaling strong community health. Its 34 primary care providers per 100K is modest compared to Johnson County's 192, but reasonable for a smaller rural community.

Strong coverage supports wellness

At 5.0%, Jones County's uninsured rate equals Iowa's lowest in this profile and sits below the state average of 5.7%. With 34 primary care providers and 110 mental health providers per 100K, residents access basic healthcare services locally, though some may travel for specialty care.

Protect your healthy community

Jones County's excellent health outcomes are built on solid insurance foundation. Check your coverage at healthcare.gov or your local health office to ensure you're maintaining the protection that supports your community's wellbeing.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jones County

via SchoolsByCounty

Quality Education Across Jones County

Ten public schools serve 2,788 students across four districts in this eastern Iowa county. The landscape features five elementary, two middle, and three high schools focused on community-based learning.

Leading the State in Graduation Rates

Jones County achieves a remarkable 94.7% graduation rate, one of the highest in the region. This success comes despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,608, which is lower than both state and national averages.

Anamosa and Monticello Drive Growth

The Anamosa Community School District is the largest, enrolling 1,183 students, while Monticello serves 1,005 students. No charter schools exist in the county, emphasizing the role of these central community districts.

Small-Town Feel with Rural Roots

With six rural schools and four town campuses, the average school size is a cozy 279 students. Strawberry Hill is the largest individual school, providing an elementary education to 442 students.

A Perfect Place for Student Success

The exceptional graduation rate in Jones County makes it a standout choice for parents. Look for homes in Anamosa or Monticello to secure a spot in these high-achieving school systems.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jones County

via RiskByCounty

Jones County maintains very low risk profile

Jones County's composite risk score of 32.67 sits well below the national average of 39.68, earning a very low risk rating. The county experiences minimal exposure to major natural hazards relative to American counties overall.

Among Iowa's safest counties statewide

Jones County scores 32.67, well below Iowa's state average of 39.68, positioning it in the lower-risk tier of state counties. The very low rating reflects balanced, moderate exposure across most hazard categories.

Safer than most surrounding counties

Jones County's score of 32.67 is lower than neighboring Jackson County (36.07) and substantially below Jasper County (43.67). The county benefits from relatively moderate hazard exposure compared to adjacent areas.

Flooding and tornadoes present main concerns

Flood risk scores 46.41 in Jones County, representing the primary natural disaster threat to residents. Tornado risk at 50.95 presents a secondary but notable concern during severe weather seasons.

Standard protections sufficient for Jones County

Jones County's low composite risk means standard homeowners coverage provides solid protection for most residents. Ensure your policy includes wind and hail coverage for tornado protection, and consider flood insurance for properties in flood-prone areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jones County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler and Wetter than Median

Jones County averages 47.0°F annually, making it one of the cooler areas relative to the national median. It is a damp region, receiving a significant 40.1 inches of annual precipitation.

Iowa's Rainier Northeast Corner

The county is cooler than the 48.0°F Iowa average and much wetter than the state's 36.1-inch rainfall norm. It stands out for having 40.1 inches of precipitation annually.

A Cooler Regional Neighbor

Jones is more than one degree cooler on average than Jackson County to its east. While snowfall data is limited, its high precipitation suggests a very active winter weather pattern.

Mild Summers and Crisp Winters

Summer averages are a comfortable 70.4°F with only 13 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winters are sharp, with the temperature averaging 21.4°F from December through February.

Manage Moisture and Winter Cold

Because the county receives 40 inches of precipitation, basement waterproofing and roof maintenance are vital. The low heat-day count means summer cooling costs may be lower than neighbors.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jones County

via SoilByCounty

Jones County’s Alfisol Heritage

Jones County features a dominant sandy loam texture and belongs to the Alfisol order, often found under forest cover. With an average pH of 6.36, it is slightly more acidic than the national median but aligns closely with the Iowa state average.

Sandy Loam for Easy Working

The soil contains a high sand percentage of 28.1%, paired with 52.0% silt and 19.1% clay. This composition ensures the soil is easy to work and resists the heavy compaction often found in higher-clay regions.

Rich Organic Reserves

At 3.28% organic matter, the county surpasses the national average and supports vigorous plant growth. Its available water capacity of 0.188 in/in provides a stable reservoir for crops during the heat of the Iowa summer.

Excellent Drainage and Infiltration

The county's soil is well drained and belongs to hydrologic group A, which is the highest rating for water infiltration. This makes the land excellent for preventing standing water and provides a solid base for construction.

Perfect for Zone 5a Planting

In USDA Zone 5a, this well-drained sandy loam is perfect for early-season vegetables that prefer warmer soil. Try your hand at growing crisp carrots or potatoes, which thrive in this loose, workable earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jones County

via LawnByCounty

Jones County: A High-Potential Growing Zone

Jones County scores a 77.8 for lawn difficulty, making it slightly easier than the typical Iowa county. As a Zone 5a region, it faces colder winters but enjoys a very manageable summer maintenance schedule. It remains significantly more hospitable for lawns than the national average score of 50.0.

Abundant Rain and Cool Summer Nights

The county receives a robust 40.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the state average of 36.1 inches. With only 13 extreme heat days, lawns are less likely to scorch compared to the rest of the state. This high moisture and low heat combination is nearly ideal for cool-season grass health.

Sandy Loam Provides Superior Drainage

The soil texture is a well-drained sandy loam with a healthy pH of 6.36. While the 28.1% sand content ensures excellent drainage, it may require more frequent fertilization to replace leached nutrients. The 19.1% clay content is low enough to prevent the heavy compaction common in other Iowa counties.

Navigating a Year of Dry Conditions

Despite high annual rainfall, Jones County experienced 19 weeks of drought over the last year. Currently, 100% of the county is abnormally dry, suggesting that rain is not always distributed evenly throughout the year. Utilizing rain barrels or smart irrigation can help bridge the gap during these erratic dry weeks.

Seeding for the Northern Iowa Climate

Choose cold-hardy varieties like Kentucky Bluegrass to withstand the Zone 5a winters. The safe seeding window starts after the last frost on May 1 and ends before the first frost on October 4. This shorter growing season means fall seeding must be done early to ensure survival.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jones County's county score?
Jones County, Iowa has a composite county score of 60.7 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 Jones County rank among counties in Iowa?
Jones County ranks #32 among all counties in Iowa 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 Jones County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Jones County is $2,381, with an effective tax rate of 1.30%. This earns Jones County a tax score of 20.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jones County?
The median household income in Jones County, Iowa is $73,071 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jones County earns an income score of 74.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jones County, Iowa a good place to live?
Jones County scores 60.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Jones 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 Jones 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.