countyscore
66.6
County Score
Safety 88.8Water Quality 86Health 83.3

County Report Card

About Kossuth County, Iowa

A National Leader in Livability

Kossuth County dominates the national field with a composite score of 66.6, far exceeding the 50.0 median. It ranks as one of the most livable counties in the United States.

Far Above the Iowa Average

The county's score of 66.6 is significantly higher than the Iowa average of 55.6. It sets a high bar for the state in safety, schooling, and overall resident satisfaction.

Unmatched Safety and Water Quality

The county is remarkably safe, earning a safety score of 88.8. Water quality is also top-tier at 86.0, and a school score of 71.0 ensures a high standard for local education.

Moderate Taxes are the Main Hurdle

Even with its high ranking, the county has a tax score of 33.6, reflecting an effective tax rate of 1.064%. While high compared to some states, this remains relatively manageable within the Iowa context.

The Gold Standard for Quiet Life

Kossuth County is the ultimate destination for those seeking a safe, high-performing community for their families. Its combination of excellent schools, safety, and health is difficult to beat.

Score breakdown

Tax33.6Cost55.6Safety88.8Health83.3Schools71Income56.4Risk67.8Water86Weather46.9
🏛33.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠55.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼56.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡88.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓71
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡67.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.1
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

Palo Alto County
Iowa
62.4
Hancock County
Iowa
61.6
Emmet County
Iowa
61.6
Winnebago County
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68.8
Martin County
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Faribault County
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Humboldt County
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Pocahontas County
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65.2

Deep Dives

Kossuth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Kossuth County

via TaxByCounty

Kossuth County: lowest taxes nationally

Kossuth County's effective tax rate of 1.064% ranks among the lowest in the nation, nearly a third lower than the national median. The median property tax of $1,437 represents just 53% of the national median of $2,690, offering exceptional tax savings.

Lowest effective rate in Iowa

Kossuth County ranks at the bottom of Iowa's 99 counties with an effective rate of 1.064%, significantly below the state average of 1.344%. The median property tax of $1,437 is the lowest in this eight-county group and 33% below Iowa's state median of $2,160.

Clear tax leader in the region

Kossuth County's 1.064% rate beats every peer in the region, including Keokuk (1.329%), Jackson (1.252%), and Jones (1.298%). This makes Kossuth the most tax-friendly county among its eight-county neighbors.

What $135,100 home costs annually

On Kossuth County's median home value of $135,100, homeowners pay approximately $1,437 in annual property taxes. With mortgage escrow, the annual bill reaches about $1,544, making Kossuth one of Iowa's most affordable counties for property tax burden.

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 Kossuth County

via CostByCounty

Kossuth offers rural affordability above average

Kossuth County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% exceeds the national comfort zone but reflects rural Iowa's income-rent dynamics realistically. With median household income at $65,656—below the national average of $74,755—the county still delivers affordable rents relative to rural wage levels, though renters allocate a larger budget share than in wealthier U.S. counties.

Kossuth sits above Iowa's state average

At 15.7%, Kossuth's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Iowa's 14.1% state average, placing it in the less affordable third of state counties. The $859 monthly rent is slightly above Iowa's $812 median, compounded by below-average incomes that create a tighter affordability equation.

Kossuth affords mid-range regional comparison

Kossuth's 15.7% ratio positions it between affordable Jones (12.5%) and Jackson (13.4%), but notably better than Jefferson (18.6%) and Johnson (17.7%). The rents are modest, and Kossuth's main advantage is rock-bottom home values ($135,100) and low ownership costs ($749/month), attractive to buyers.

Kossuth's ownership costs are remarkably low

Renters allocate $859 monthly (15.7% of $65,656 income), but homeowners enjoy just $749 monthly—among the region's lowest ownership costs tied to modest home values. This inverse suggests Kossuth renters should seriously explore purchasing as a path to lower monthly housing expenses.

Kossuth is ideal for rural homebuyers

If you're seeking rural Iowa living with minimal housing costs, Kossuth delivers the lowest ownership costs ($749/month) and home values ($135,100) in this comparison. Compare rents against Jones County (better affordability) or consider purchasing if your job allows—Kossuth's homeownership advantage is substantial for qualified buyers.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Kossuth County

via IncomeByCounty

Kossuth approaches national median

Kossuth County's median household income of $65,656 sits $9,099 below the U.S. median of $74,755, equaling 88% of national household earnings. While below average, Kossuth reaches solidly into the working-class middle tier.

Below state average but stable

Kossuth's $65,656 income trails Iowa's statewide median of $69,830 by $4,174, placing it in the lower-middle tier of Iowa counties. The shortfall is modest compared to some struggling rural counties.

Mid-range among surrounding areas

Kossuth ($65,656) sits between stronger neighbors Johnson ($74,721) and Jackson ($71,605), and weaker ones Keokuk ($60,856) and Lee ($59,803). The county occupies a stable middle position in its economic region.

Rental costs reasonable

Kossuth's rent-to-income ratio of 15.7% indicates housing absorbs roughly one-sixth of median income, a manageable burden. The median home value of $135,100 positions homeownership within reach for households near the county median.

Build wealth through discipline

Kossuth County households earning the median income should prioritize setting aside 10–15% for retirement and emergency savings. Taking advantage of employer 401(k) matches and opening a Roth IRA creates compound growth that bridges Kossuth's income gap over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Kossuth County

via CrimeByCounty

Kossuth County is One of America's Safest

Kossuth County achieves a near-perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 237.8 per 100K is ten times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Kossuth County Leads Iowa in Public Safety

Kossuth County significantly outperforms the Iowa state safety average of 98.3. Its total crime rate of 237.8 is among the lowest recorded in the state.

Kossuth County Sets the Regional Safety Standard

Compared to any other county in this group, Kossuth County is the safest by a wide margin. Its crime rate is roughly half that of the next-safest neighbor, Jones County.

Violent Crime is Nearly Non-Existent in Kossuth

The county reports a tiny violent crime rate of 67.9 per 100K residents. Property crime is also exceptionally low at 169.9, making it a very secure place for residents.

Preserve Kossuth's Exceptional Safety Record

While crime is rare, maintaining a visible security presence can deter the few incidents that do occur. Basic motion lighting is often all that is needed to maintain this elite level of safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Kossuth County

via HealthByCounty

Kossuth County holds near-national health levels

At 78.7 years, Kossuth County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years by 2.3 years, showing solid population longevity. The county's 16.1% poor or fair health rate approaches but slightly beats the national average of 18%, indicating moderate self-reported health status.

Slightly above Iowa average

Kossuth County's 78.7-year life expectancy tops Iowa's state average of 77.7 years by 1.0 year, placing it in the upper-middle tier of Iowa counties. Its 16.1% poor or fair health rate sits near the state median on self-reported wellness.

Mid-pack among regional peers

Kossuth County's 78.7-year life expectancy sits comfortably above Jackson County's 77.9 years and trails only Jones County's 79.8 years among neighbors. Its 48 primary care providers per 100K is better than Jackson County's 36 but pales against Johnson County's 192.

Good coverage, moderate provider access

At 5.4%, Kossuth County's uninsured rate slightly exceeds Iowa's 5.7% average but remains reasonable. The county provides 48 primary care providers and 63 mental health providers per 100K, enabling residents to access routine care locally while specialists may require travel.

Maintain your health insurance

Kossuth County's solid outcomes depend on residents staying covered. Review your plan at healthcare.gov and confirm your mental health benefits are robust—the county's mental health provider capacity, while present, is more limited than primary care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Kossuth County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Infrastructure in Northern Iowa

Kossuth County manages nine public schools across four districts, serving 1,987 total students. The network includes six elementary schools and two middle schools, providing a strong early-education focus.

Exceptional Scores and Student Funding

The county earns an impressive school score of 58.3, one of the highest in the state. Local districts spend a robust $8,712 per pupil, significantly exceeding the state average of $7,591.

Algona Community Schools as a Cornerstone

The Algona Community School District dominates the county’s education scene with five schools and 1,563 students. North Union and North Kossuth districts provide additional local options for the remaining students.

Spacious Districts with Small Classes

Six schools are rural and three are in town, resulting in a small average school size of 221 students. Algona High School is the largest in the county, yet enrolls only 463 students for a personalized experience.

High-Value Education for Homeowners

Kossuth County’s high school score and significant per-pupil investment make it a smart choice for families. Consider a home near Algona to take advantage of the county's most comprehensive school district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Kossuth County

via RiskByCounty

Kossuth County maintains very low overall risk

Kossuth County's composite risk score of 32.25 sits below the national average of 39.68, earning a very low risk rating. The county experiences minimal exposure to most major natural hazards compared to American counties overall.

Among Iowa's safest counties overall

Kossuth County scores 32.25, 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 assessed hazard categories.

Comparable risk to nearby counties

Kossuth County's score of 32.25 is similar to neighboring Jackson County (36.07) and Jones County (32.67). The county experiences relatively consistent hazard exposure patterns with other north-central Iowa areas.

Tornado threat dominates hazard landscape

Tornado risk scores 61.13 in Kossuth County, representing the most significant natural disaster threat residents face. Other hazards remain substantially lower, with wildfire risk at just 13.30—among the state's lowest.

Prioritize tornado and storm coverage

With tornado risk at 61.13, homeowners should ensure comprehensive coverage for wind, hail, and storm damage. Kossuth County's low risk for other hazards means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection for most residents.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Kossuth County

via WeatherByCounty

Kossuth's Frigid Northern Profile

Kossuth County is significantly colder than the national median with an annual average of 44.9°F. This northern region experiences long, harsh winters and relatively dry conditions.

One of Iowa's Coldest Counties

Kossuth sits 3.1 degrees below the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. It is also drier than most of the state, receiving 33.5 inches of precipitation compared to the 36.1-inch average.

Heavier Snow than Southern Peers

With 39.7 inches of annual snow, Kossuth is much snowier than Iowa's southern and central counties. It only sees 11 extreme heat days, fewer than any other county in this group.

Severe Winters and Mild Summers

Winters are intense with a 14.3°F January average and nearly 40 inches of snow. Summers are pleasant, averaging 69.4°F with very few days reaching the 90°F mark.

Winter Readiness is Essential

Heavy-duty snow removal equipment and winter tires are mandatory for the 39.7 inches of annual snowfall. High-efficiency heating systems are a priority for the 17.8°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Kossuth County

via SoilByCounty

Kossuth's High-pH Northern Soils

Kossuth County stands out with an average pH of 6.73, which is more alkaline than the state average of 6.43 and the national median of 6.5. This unique chemistry makes it an outlier in Iowa, supporting specific nutrient availability.

A Grittier Soil Profile

The soil features a relatively high sand content of 36.9%, balanced with 38.5% silt and 23.2% clay. This creates a profile that is generally easier to drain than the heavy silt loams found in southern Iowa.

Extraordinary Organic Matter

Boasting a massive 5.72% organic matter, Kossuth far exceeds the state average of 3.81%. This exceptionally rich soil provides a natural powerhouse for plant growth, supported by a healthy 0.190 in/in water capacity.

Rich Land for Intensive Farming

Specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this county. However, the high soil score of 75.4 suggests the land is top-tier for agricultural production and general land use.

Maximize Your Zone 5a Garden

The rich organic matter in this Zone 5a county is a gardener's dream for growing heavy-feeding vegetables. Plant some brassicas or legumes to take full advantage of the most nutrient-dense soil in the region.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Kossuth County

via LawnByCounty

Kossuth County: A Cooler Northern Challenge

Kossuth County has a lawn difficulty score of 75.1, making it slightly more challenging than the Iowa average but still better than the national median. This Zone 5a county deals with a shorter growing season and colder winters. Success here requires choosing the right grass for a more northern climate.

Managing Low Precipitation and Limited Heat

At 33.5 inches of annual rain, Kossuth is drier than the state average of 36.1 inches. However, with only 11 extreme heat days, the lawn stress from temperature is quite low. The 2,588 growing degree days indicate a slower pace of growth, which may reduce the frequency of mowing.

Sandy Soil and Neutral pH

The soil pH is 6.73, which is near-perfect for grass, and the 36.9% sand content provides excellent drainage. This high sand percentage is much higher than the state average, meaning the soil may dry out faster than expected during dry spells. Adding organic matter can help improve the water-holding capacity of these sandy soils.

Low Historical Drought Risk

Kossuth County experienced only 6 weeks of drought in the past year, which is significantly lower than many other Iowa counties. While 90.8% of the area is currently abnormally dry, the overall drought pressure remains low. Homeowners should focus on targeted watering during the peak of summer to support the sandier soil.

Short Growing Window for Zone 5a

The growing season is tight, with the last frost on May 4 and the first frost on October 6. Kentucky Bluegrass is the gold standard for this region due to its excellent cold tolerance and winter dormancy. For best results, spring seeding should wait until the ground has fully warmed in mid-May.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kossuth County's county score?
Kossuth County, Iowa has a composite county score of 66.6 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 Kossuth County rank among counties in Iowa?
Kossuth County ranks #9 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 Kossuth County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Kossuth County is $1,437, with an effective tax rate of 1.06%. This earns Kossuth County a tax score of 33.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Kossuth County?
The median household income in Kossuth County, Iowa is $65,656 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Kossuth County earns an income score of 56.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Kossuth County, Iowa a good place to live?
Kossuth County scores 66.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Kossuth 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 Kossuth 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.