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Lawrence County, Pennsylvania — County Report Card

PA

#38 in Pennsylvania

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
52.2
County Score
Schools 83.1Lawn Care 73.3Cost of Living 57

County Report Card

About Lawrence County, Pennsylvania

Above the National Average

Lawrence County earns a composite score of 52.2, positioning it above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balanced quality of life with notable strengths in public education.

Matching the State Baseline

With a score of 52.2, Lawrence County sits right at the Pennsylvania state average of 51.8. It offers a standard of living that is representative of the best the state has to offer for its size.

Exceptional Schools and Value

The county shines with a school score of 83.1, among the highest in the region. Housing remains a great value with a cost score of 57.0 and a median rent of only $778 per month.

Tax Burdens and Economic Growth

The tax score of 15.2 highlights a challenge, driven by an effective tax rate of 1.451%. Meanwhile, the income score of 41.4 suggests that local wage growth hasn't yet caught up to the quality of local schools.

Perfect for Young Families

Lawrence County is a hidden gem for young families who want elite public schools without the price tag of a major city. It is best suited for those looking to maximize their housing dollar in a stable community.

Score breakdown

Tax15.2Cost57Safety55.8Health55.9Schools83.1Income41.4Risk33.9Water52.5Weather51.9
🏛15.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼41.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡55.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤55.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓83.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧52.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨55.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱73.3
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

Lawrence County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lawrence County

via TaxByCounty

Lawrence's taxes run 10% above U.S. median

Lawrence County's effective tax rate of 1.451% exceeds the national median of 1.31% by 10%, landing it in the upper-middle range nationwide. The median property tax of $1,983 falls short of the national median of $2,690, reflecting Lawrence's lower home values.

Above average for Pennsylvania overall

Lawrence ranks in the upper third of Pennsylvania's 67 counties with an effective rate of 1.451%, about 10% above the state average of 1.317%. This positions it among the more tax-burdened communities in the Commonwealth.

Higher taxes on lower-priced homes

Lawrence's 1.451% rate exceeds Jefferson County (1.114%) and Juniata County (1.050%) but stays slightly below Lackawanna County (1.532%) and Lehigh County (1.663%). With a median home value of just $136,700, Lawrence homeowners face above-average rates on below-average properties.

Median home costs $1,983 in annual taxes

A homeowner with Lawrence County's median home value of $136,700 pays approximately $1,983 per year in property taxes at the 1.451% rate. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $2,159; without one, it drops to $1,768.

Appeal to reduce your tax burden

Lawrence County homeowners facing above-average tax rates should check whether their assessments are inflated relative to comparable sales in the area. Filing an appeal with the county assessor can challenge overvalued properties and ease your annual burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lawrence County

via CostByCounty

Lawrence offers solid affordability below national norms

Lawrence County renters spend just 15.4% of their $60,779 median household income on rent, landing well below both the 30% affordability threshold and the national income benchmark of $74,755. This favorable ratio reflects Lawrence's low rental costs relative to local wages.

Below Pennsylvania's state rental burden

Lawrence County's 15.4% rent-to-income ratio undershoots the state average of 16.5%, positioning it among Pennsylvania's more affordable rental markets. The $778 median rent trails the state average of $960 by $182 monthly, offering meaningful savings.

Competitive with Jefferson and Juniata

Lawrence County rents at $778 monthly place it squarely in the affordability zone alongside Jefferson ($746) and Juniata ($730), though slightly higher than both. Homeowners find similar value: the $865 monthly ownership cost and $136,700 median home value rival Jefferson's budget-friendly profile.

Lawrence income allocation

On a $60,779 annual income ($5,065 monthly), Lawrence households allocate $778 to rent and $865 to ownership costs, leaving over 67% of income for other necessities and savings. This balance reflects a community where housing remains proportional to earnings.

Lawrence delivers quiet affordability

Lawrence County renters save $182 monthly on rent compared to Pennsylvania's average, totaling $2,184 annually—funds that can go toward savings or quality of life. Consider Lawrence if you value affordable housing in a stable community without the premium costs of prosperous counties like Lancaster.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lawrence County

via IncomeByCounty

Lawrence trails U.S. income median

Lawrence County's median household income of $60,779 runs 19% below the national median of $74,755, reflecting the county's reliance on declining industrial sectors. The $13,976 gap positions Lawrence in the bottom third of U.S. counties.

Below Pennsylvania average statewide

At $60,779, Lawrence County ranks below the Pennsylvania median of $69,614 by $8,835 annually. The county's per capita income of $34,283 trails the state average of $37,407, indicating broader economic challenges.

Among the region's lower earners

Lawrence households earn $2,944 less than Jefferson County and $3,144 less than Luzerne County, placing it fourth-lowest in the eight-county comparison. Only Jefferson, Luzerne, and Lawrence fall significantly below the state average.

Modest housing costs offer relief

Lawrence's 15.4% rent-to-income ratio is among the region's most affordable, and median home values of $136,700 align reasonably with household incomes. However, the modest income base limits discretionary spending for families.

Low housing costs enable modest investing

With housing consuming just 15.4% of income, Lawrence households can potentially allocate $200–400 monthly toward retirement or investment accounts. Even small, consistent contributions to low-cost index funds compound meaningfully over 20–30 year horizons.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lawrence County

via CrimeByCounty

Lawrence County Safety vs. National Norms

Lawrence County reports a safety score of 98.4 and a total crime rate of 1,008.1 per 100K. This crime rate is less than half the national average of 2,385.5 per 100K residents.

Aligning With Pennsylvania Safety Standards

The county's crime rate of 1,008.1 is slightly higher than the Pennsylvania state average of 932.4. Its safety score of 98.4 is nearly identical to the state average score of 98.5.

Comparative Safety in Western Pennsylvania

Lawrence County's 18 reporting agencies show a crime rate of 1,008.1, which is higher than Jefferson County's 512.1. However, Lawrence remains significantly safer than many urban centers across the United States.

Property Crimes Outnumber Violent Incidents

Property crime accounts for 874.2 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains lower at 133.9. Local violent crime is actually lower than the Pennsylvania state average of 142.2 per 100K.

Smart Steps to Deters Theft

Securing windows and doors is an effective first step in preventing the property crimes that make up most local reports. Homeowners can enhance safety by installing outdoor lighting and joining neighborhood watch programs.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lawrence County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy crisis demands urgent attention

Lawrence County residents live to just 73.7 years on average—5.6 years less than the U.S. average of 79.3 years and the lowest in this eight-county analysis. The county's 17.9% poor/fair health rate sits at the national average, but the short life expectancy signals chronic underlying health crises.

Pennsylvania's lowest life expectancy in this region

At 73.7 years, Lawrence County's life expectancy trails the state average of 76.4 years by 2.7 years—a significant gap indicating elevated premature mortality. The county's 6.8% uninsured rate appears competitive, yet provider shortages suggest access barriers beyond insurance status alone.

Lowest longevity, mid-range insurance coverage

Lawrence County's 73.7-year life expectancy is 5.1 years below Lancaster County's 78.8 years, the region's widest gap. Its 6.8% uninsured rate is better than the regional average, but primary care availability at 41 per 100K suggests supply-side barriers that insurance alone cannot solve.

Provider scarcity compounds health crisis

Lawrence County's 41 primary care providers per 100K is among the lowest regionally, meaning residents struggle to access basic preventive care even when insured. Mental health support at 173 per 100K exists, but the upstream shortage of primary care limits early detection of chronic diseases driving premature mortality.

Ensure no one faces barriers to care

With 6.8% uninsured—roughly 4,200 residents—Lawrence County still has coverage gaps to address. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit healthcare.gov to explore enrollment options and help reverse the county's troubling health trends through improved access.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lawrence County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Districts with Big Academic Results

Lawrence County features 25 public schools organized into nine distinct school districts. These schools serve 11,203 students through a balanced mix of 10 elementary, 6 middle, and 9 high schools. The county maintains a traditional educational model with no charter schools currently in operation.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates and Strong Scores

Lawrence County excels in student success with a graduation rate of 93.1%, far surpassing the 87% national average. The county's school score of 62.5 is significantly higher than both state (60.9) and national (50.0) medians. Spending is also robust at $10,416 per pupil, exceeding the state average.

New Castle and Ellwood City Foundations

New Castle Area School District is the largest hub, enrolling 2,966 students across four specialized schools. Ellwood City Area School District also serves as a major pillar with 1,531 students in its four-school system. Together, these districts form the backbone of the county's high-performing educational landscape.

Town-Focused Schools with Intimate Classrooms

The county’s schools are largely located in towns (17) and rural areas (8), creating a close-knit feel. The average school size is 448 students, which is smaller than many neighboring counties. Schools like the Harry W Lockley Early Learning Center (775 students) provide specialized attention from the very beginning.

Invest in a County That Values Excellence

Lawrence County is a standout choice for families seeking some of the highest graduation rates and school scores in the state. The combination of strong per-pupil spending and small school sizes creates an ideal environment for student growth. Look for homes in the New Castle or Ellwood City districts to secure your child's future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lawrence County

via RiskByCounty

Lawrence County's risk slightly exceeds state average

Lawrence County scores 66.13 for composite disaster risk with a "Relatively Low" rating, just slightly below Pennsylvania's 67.45 state average. While this places it close to the state median, Lawrence remains below the national mid-range for multi-hazard exposure.

Mid-range risk among Pennsylvania counties

With a 66.13 score, Lawrence ranks near the middle of Pennsylvania's 67 counties, neither among the safest nor the most exposed. This reflects moderate exposure to multiple hazards without the extreme concentration seen in the state's highest-risk regions.

Comparable risk to nearby counties

Lawrence's score sits between Butler County (54.70) and Mercer County (71.80), reflecting the diverse hazard landscape across western Pennsylvania. Its position makes it representative of the state's broader risk profile.

Flooding poses the primary hazard

Lawrence County's dominant risk is flooding, with a score of 83.08 that far exceeds other hazards. Tornado risk (37.72), earthquake risk (36.67), and wildfire risk (27.29) remain secondary concerns, though hurricane risk (47.31) can spike during Atlantic storm season.

Prioritize flood insurance and drainage

Flood insurance is critical in Lawrence County given the 83.08 flood risk; check if your property is in a mapped floodplain and secure coverage accordingly. Invest in proper grading and drainage systems around your home to manage stormwater and reduce standing water risks.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lawrence County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Humid Continental Weather Patterns

Lawrence County maintains an average annual temperature of 51.1°F, sitting slightly below the national median. This reflects a climate of cold winters and warm, humid summers typical of the Great Lakes region.

Staying Above the State Mean

The county is warmer than the Pennsylvania state average of 49.9°F by over one degree. It avoids the harsher average cold found in the Allegheny Plateau counties to the east.

Higher Heat Than Eastern Neighbors

Lawrence experiences 21 extreme heat days per year, notably higher than Lebanon County’s 13 days. Its 41.8 inches of annual rain is slightly drier than the state average of 45.3 inches.

Defined Winters and Sunny Julys

Winter temperatures average 30.3°F with 27.5 inches of snowfall annually. Summers are active and warm, featuring a July average of 73.1°F and frequent days reaching into the 90s.

Plan for High Heat and Snow

Residents should service HVAC units early to prepare for 21 days of extreme heat. Reliable snow removal tools are also necessary to handle the 27.5 inches of winter accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lawrence County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced acidity on the western border

Lawrence County features a soil pH of 5.62, which is more alkaline than the state average of 5.22. It still trends acidic compared to the national median of 6.5, but provides a versatile base for many plants. The overall soil score of 55.5 indicates a higher-than-average quality for the state.

Fine-textured silty landscapes

Silt makes up a majority of the soil at 53.4%, paired with 26.8% sand and 17.6% clay. This high silt content creates a velvety soil that is excellent at holding onto essential plant nutrients. However, it can be prone to compaction if worked while wet.

High water capacity for steady growth

The available water capacity is 0.177 in/in, comfortably beating the state average of 0.151 in/in. Organic matter is 4.07%, which is double the national average of 2.0% but below the high state average. This suggests a soil that is reliable and drought-resistant for local gardeners.

Reliable hydrology for farming

Specific drainage classifications are missing, but the high silt and clay levels suggest the soil holds moisture well. Proper aeration will be important to prevent the silty profile from becoming too dense for delicate roots. Consider raised beds if you notice water pooling in low spots.

Hardy yields in Zone 6a

In Zone 6a, Lawrence County is well-suited for berries, brassicas, and cold-hardy perennials. The superior water capacity means you'll spend less time watering during the peak of summer. It is a fantastic environment to establish a self-sustaining backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lawrence County

via LawnByCounty

Lawrence County Leads the State in Ease

With a high score of 73.3, Lawrence County offers some of the best lawn-growing conditions in Pennsylvania. It is significantly easier to maintain a healthy lawn here than the state average of 59.2. Homeowners in this Zone 6a region enjoy a climate that minimizes the usual stressors found elsewhere.

Balanced Rain and Heat for Steady Growth

The county averages 41.8 inches of rain, which aligns well with the 30-50 inch ideal range for lawns. Although there are 21 extreme heat days, the 3,088 growing degree days indicate a very productive environment for cool-season grasses. Mowing schedules remain busy throughout the spring and early summer.

Reliable Soil Texture with Acidic Leanings

The soil pH of 5.62 is acidic but manageable with routine lime applications to reach the 6.0 target. With 17.6% clay and 26.8% sand, the soil provides a stable medium that retains moisture without becoming overly compacted. This natural balance supports the county's impressive 73.3 difficulty score.

Exceptional Resilience to Recent Drought

Lawrence County only experienced 7 weeks in drought over the past year, far fewer than its neighbors. While 99.9% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry, the historical lack of severe drought makes it a low-stress zone. Simple water-saving habits are usually enough to keep the turf green through the summer.

Maximize Success with the Right Timing

Hardiness Zone 6a favors Kentucky Bluegrass and Turf-Type Tall Fescue for a dense, green carpet. The last spring frost typically occurs on April 30, providing a safe start for spring projects, though fall remains best for seeding. With first frost not arriving until October 23, the autumn establishment window is quite generous.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lawrence County's county score?
Lawrence County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 52.2 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 Lawrence County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Lawrence County ranks #38 among all counties in Pennsylvania 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 Lawrence County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Lawrence County is $1,983, with an effective tax rate of 1.45%. This earns Lawrence County a tax score of 15.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lawrence County?
The median household income in Lawrence County, Pennsylvania is $60,779 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lawrence County earns an income score of 41.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lawrence County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Lawrence County scores 52.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #38 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Lawrence 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 Lawrence 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.