countyscore
50.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 75.4Property Tax 74.8Lawn Care 67.8

County Report Card

About Kosciusko County, Indiana

Matching the National Baseline

Kosciusko County scores a 50.1, placing it exactly in line with the national median score of 50.0. It offers a quintessential American lifestyle that mirrors the broader country's average performance.

Competitive Within the Region

The county's score of 50.1 sits slightly below the Indiana average of 55.9. However, its specific strengths in wealth and taxes make it a standout for certain demographics within the state.

Low Taxes and Strong Incomes

A very low effective tax rate of 0.598% earns the county a high tax score of 74.8. This is paired with an impressive income score of 75.4, as median earnings reach $73,922.

Water Quality and Housing Prices

The county struggles with water quality, which receives a low score of 24.4. Additionally, a cost score of 32.0 reflects rising home values that now hit a median of $200,300.

A Choice for Tax-Savvy Earners

This county is perfect for families looking to keep more of their paycheck thanks to low taxes and high wages. Those who can invest in home water filtration will find the economic trade-offs very favorable.

Score breakdown

Tax74.8Cost32Safety45Health56.8Schools49.3Income75.4Risk33.7Water24.4Weather57.8
🏛74.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠32
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼75.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡45
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤56.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧24.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱67.8
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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Deep Dives

Kosciusko County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kosciusko County

via TaxByCounty

Kosciusko County taxes well below national

Kosciusko County's effective tax rate of 0.598% is one of the lowest in this group and well below the national median of 0.630%. At $1,198 in median annual taxes, residents here enjoy below-average property tax burdens despite moderate home values of $200,300.

Among Indiana's lowest tax counties

Kosciusko County's 0.598% rate is the second-lowest among these eight counties and well below Indiana's 0.671% average. This favorable rate puts Kosciusko in the lower-tax tier statewide, benefiting homeowners significantly.

Tax advantage in northern region

Kosciusko County's 0.598% rate beats nearby LaGrange County (0.542%)—wait, LaGrange is actually lower—but outperforms Johnson County (0.720%) and significantly beats Lake County (0.925%). It's a middle option among regional peers.

What $200,300 home costs annually

A typical Kosciusko County homeowner with a $200,300 home pays approximately $1,198 in annual property taxes. With mortgage, that figure rises to $1,260; without, to $1,090—notably lower than national medians despite reasonable home values.

Still opportunities to appeal assessments

Even with favorable county rates, some Kosciusko County homeowners are overassessed. A property tax appeal, filed with your local assessor's office, could reduce your bills further at no cost to you.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Kosciusko County

via CostByCounty

Kosciusko balances earnings and housing costs

Renters allocate 16.1% of income to housing, slightly above the national norm, but Kosciusko's median household income of $73,922 is nearly equal to the national average of $74,755. Median rents of $995 are moderate for the region.

Middle-of-the-pack affordability in Indiana

Kosciusko's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio is slightly higher than Indiana's 15.6% average, though its $995 median rent sits firmly between state and county extremes. This positions Kosciusko as a balanced, middle-tier option statewide.

Moderate costs between affordable and expensive counties

Kosciusko's $995 rent falls between the cheaper Knox County ($782) and pricier Johnson County ($1,208), offering a middle ground for this region. Its 16.1% rent-to-income ratio is competitive with Johnson County despite lower incomes.

Stable housing-to-income allocation

Renters spend 16.1% of income on rent, while homeowners allocate roughly 15.5% to mortgages on a median home value of $200,300. Together, these housing costs consume about one-third of typical household budgets.

Kosciusko offers balanced regional options

If you seek middle-ground housing costs and incomes around $74K, Kosciusko delivers stability without extreme affordability pressures. Compare with Johnson County (higher earnings, higher rents) or Lawrence County (lower costs, lower incomes) based on your income expectations.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kosciusko County

via IncomeByCounty

Kosciusko County slightly below national income

Kosciusko County's median household income of $73,922 sits just 1.1% below the national median of $74,755, putting it nearly at parity with US averages. Per capita income of $36,316 approaches the national benchmark, reflecting a relatively balanced local economy.

Above Indiana's average income level

Kosciusko County's median household income exceeds Indiana's state average of $68,681 by 7.6%, positioning it among the state's mid-to-upper tier earners. This places the county in a stronger position than many peers across Indiana.

Middle ground among regional peers

Kosciusko County's $73,922 income sits between LaGrange County's higher $83,741 and Knox County's lower $58,863, making it a regional middle-earner. The county outpaces Lake County ($68,985) and LaPorte County ($70,452) in household income stability.

Housing remains solidly affordable here

A rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% keeps housing costs well within the affordable zone for Kosciusko County residents, with a median home value of $200,300. Incomes here support reasonable monthly housing payments without excessive financial strain.

Capitalize on Kosciusko's stable income base

With household income near the national average, Kosciusko County residents are positioned to invest in IRAs, 401(k)s, and diversified savings vehicles. Now is the time to lock in long-term wealth-building habits before life's bigger expenses arrive.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kosciusko County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong safety ratings for Kosciusko County

Kosciusko County maintains a high safety score of 98.1, outperforming many regions across the country. The total crime rate of 1224.5 per 100K is roughly half of the national average of 2,385.5. Eight reporting agencies work together to keep the community secure.

Measuring up against Indiana averages

The county's total crime rate of 1224.5 per 100K is higher than the Indiana state average of 693.8. Its safety score of 98.1 is just under the state average of 98.9. However, it remains a stable and relatively safe region for Hoosier families.

Local trends in Northern Indiana

Kosciusko County reports a violent crime rate of 198.9 per 100K, which is higher than the state average of 102.9. While it is safer than larger neighboring urban areas, this figure is higher than some of its rural peers. Property crime remains the most common issue facing local residents.

A closer look at the numbers

Violent crime in the county stands at 198.9 per 100K, while property crime is much more frequent at 1025.6. These rates are well below national levels, where property crime reaches 2,015.7. Residents mostly encounter non-violent offenses such as theft or larceny.

Enhance your home security today

With property crime as the primary concern, visible deterrents are highly effective in Kosciusko County. Install motion-sensing lights and keep valuables out of sight from windows. Community awareness and reporting suspicious activity help maintain the county's high safety score.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kosciusko County

via HealthByCounty

Kosciusko County slightly above average

Kosciusko County's life expectancy of 76.0 years edges above the national average of 74.9 years. At 17.2% reporting poor or fair health, the county performs better than the national rate of 21%.

Solid health position in Indiana

With a life expectancy of 76.0 years, Kosciusko County runs 0.9 years ahead of Indiana's 75.1-year average. The county's 17.2% poor/fair health rate indicates relatively strong population health compared to state trends.

Strong health but tight doctor access

Kosciusko County's 76.0-year life expectancy matches the regional high but masks a provider shortage—just 44 primary care providers per 100,000 residents. Mental health services are more robust at 190 per 100,000.

Uninsured rate rising, providers limited

Kosciusko County's 9.8% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 8.4%, the highest concern in the county. Primary care access is particularly strained at 44 providers per 100,000, making advance scheduling critical.

Address the insurance gap

Nearly 1 in 10 Kosciusko County residents lack health insurance. Explore affordable coverage at healthcare.gov or speak with a navigator at your local health department to find a plan that works for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kosciusko County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Comprehensive Network of Public Schools

Kosciusko County supports 11,352 students through 20 public schools distributed among four districts. The infrastructure features 13 elementary schools, four middle schools, and three high schools. This high ratio of elementary schools ensures localized early childhood education across the county.

State-Leading Graduation Rates

With a 96.4% graduation rate, Kosciusko County significantly outperforms the Indiana average of 92.6% and the national rate of 87.0%. The county maintains an above-average school score of 53.5 despite per-pupil spending of $5,428, which is slightly lower than the state average. These metrics highlight a high-performing system that delivers excellent results.

Warsaw Community Schools Drive Enrollment

Warsaw Community Schools is the dominant district, managing 11 schools and 6,734 students. Wawasee Community School Corp also plays a major role with five schools serving nearly 3,000 students. The county relies entirely on traditional public districts, with 0% of its schools operating under charter status.

Small-Town Feel with Major High Schools

The county features 12 rural schools and 8 town-based schools, providing a quintessential Midwestern educational environment. While the average school size is 568, Warsaw Community High School stands out as a large-scale institution with 2,104 students. Most students experience a mix of quiet rural settings and vibrant town centers.

Find Your Home in a Top-Tier District

Families looking for academic excellence will find some of the state's highest graduation rates in Kosciusko County. From the lakeside communities of Wawasee to the residential streets of Warsaw, school quality is a cornerstone of local real estate. Invest in a home here to give your children access to a proven educational system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kosciusko County

via RiskByCounty

Kosciusko County faces moderate risk

Kosciusko County scores 66.32 on the composite risk scale, rating as relatively low but standing 20.8 points above Indiana's state average of 45.52. This moderate elevation reflects scattered vulnerability across multiple hazard types rather than concentrated danger.

Mid-range risk within Indiana

Kosciusko County's 66.32 score places it solidly in the middle tier of Indiana's risk distribution, ranking notably higher than Lawrence County but lower than Lake County. The county faces above-average statewide exposure across several disaster categories.

Neighbors face similar challenges

Kosciusko County (66.32) sits between LaGrange County (62.40) to the north and Johnson County (74.65) to the south, occupying middle ground regionally. All three counties share elevated tornado and earthquake vulnerabilities that dominate the northern Indiana landscape.

Tornadoes lead; hurricanes rising

Tornado risk at 85.94 represents Kosciusko County's primary hazard, with the county experiencing nearly as much exposure as Johnson County's 89.31. Hurricane risk at 41.59 is notably elevated—the second-highest among county hazards—making tropical storm preparation increasingly important.

Invest in storm and wind coverage

Kosciusko County residents should prioritize comprehensive homeowners policies with robust tornado, hail, and wind damage provisions given the 85.94 tornado score. Consider flood insurance as well, since the 63.68 flood risk suggests meaningful precipitation and drainage concerns.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kosciusko County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Northern Latitude Climate

Kosciusko County averages 50.0°F annually, making it significantly cooler than the national median. Its humid continental climate is heavily influenced by its northern latitude.

Among Indiana's Coldest Counties

The county is over two degrees cooler than the Indiana state average of 52.2°F. It ranks as one of the colder jurisdictions in the state's northern tier.

A Regional Heavyweight for Snowfall

While it shares a border with Elkhart, Kosciusko is known for its high snowfall, averaging nearly 40 inches. Its 39.9 inches of rain is lower than the state average.

Harsh Winters and Mild Summers

Summers stay mild with only 10 days of extreme heat and a 71.0°F average. However, winters are harsh, featuring 39.6 inches of snow and a 27.5°F average temperature.

Invest in Heavy-Duty Snow Gear

Residents must own reliable snow blowers and winterize their homes thoroughly against the 40-inch annual snowfalls. Air conditioning is less of a priority with only 10 extreme heat days per year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kosciusko County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Alfisols Form the Northern Foundation

Kosciusko County features Alfisols with a notable average pH of 5.90. This is more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Indiana state average of 6.08, which affects which nutrients are most available to plants.

Fine Sandy Loam Provides Quick Drainage

The soil profile is 51.8% sand, leading to a fine sandy loam texture that warms up quickly in the spring. While easy to dig, the low 11.3% clay content means the soil does not hold onto nutrients as tightly as heavier soils.

Explosive Organic Matter Levels

The county boasts an impressive 8.03% organic matter, nearly double the state average of 4.90%. This richness helps compensate for a lower available water capacity of 0.179 in/in, providing a fertile base for agriculture.

Well Drained and Ready for Rain

Classified as well-drained and part of Hydrologic Group B, these soils absorb rainfall efficiently. This minimizes runoff and makes the land ideal for building foundations that stay dry throughout the year.

Thriving in Zone 6a Sandy Soils

Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes absolutely love the loose, sandy texture of Kosciusko County soil. Despite a soil score of 66.7, the high organic matter provides a fantastic jumpstart for any home gardener.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kosciusko County

via LawnByCounty

Sandy Soils Lower Maintenance Scores

Kosciusko County’s lawn difficulty score of 67.8 is slightly below the state average, reflecting more challenging growing conditions. Homeowners in this 6a hardiness zone must contend with soil that loses moisture rapidly compared to central Indiana.

Cool Summers Benefit Cool-Season Grass

While the county only sees 10 extreme heat days per year, its 39.9 inches of annual precipitation is lower than the state average of 44.2. Low heat stress is a major advantage, but the shorter 3,025 growing degree days means slower recovery from foot traffic.

Fine Sandy Loam Requires Frequent Water

With a high sand content of 51.8%, these well-drained soils do not hold water or nutrients well. The slightly acidic pH of 5.90 suggests a light application of lime could help move the soil toward the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range.

Extended Drought Vulnerability

The county spent 34 weeks in drought over the past year, and 96.2% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Because the sandy soil drains so quickly, lawns here require more consistent irrigation during these dry spells than those in clay-heavy counties.

Maximize the Northern Growing Season

The window between the last frost on April 28 and the first frost on October 24 is your time to shine. Perennial Ryegrass and Fine Fescues perform well in this cooler climate and sandy texture.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kosciusko County's county score?
Kosciusko County, Indiana has a composite county score of 50.1 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 Kosciusko County rank among counties in Indiana?
Kosciusko County ranks #72 among all counties in Indiana 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 Kosciusko County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Kosciusko County is $1,198, with an effective tax rate of 0.60%. This earns Kosciusko County a tax score of 74.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kosciusko County?
The median household income in Kosciusko County, Indiana is $73,922 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kosciusko County earns an income score of 75.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kosciusko County, Indiana a good place to live?
Kosciusko County scores 50.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #72 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Kosciusko 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 Kosciusko 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.