countyscore
35
County Score
Income & Jobs 74.7Health 57.7Water Quality 53.8

County Report Card

About Linn County, Oregon

Economic Success vs National Average

Linn County’s composite score of 35.0 trails the national median by 15 points. Despite its economic activity, the overall data profile suggests it underperforms relative to the broader U.S. landscape.

Middle Pack in Oregon Rankings

The county's 35.0 score sits below the Oregon state average of 42.5. This ranking places Linn in the lower-middle pack of the state's diverse agricultural and industrial counties.

Robust Incomes and Water Quality

Economic strength is the headline here, with an income score of 74.7 and a median household income of $73,396. Health and water quality also score above 50.0, providing solid basic amenities.

Low Schools and Affordability Scores

Schools (12.1) and environmental risk (11.9) represent the county's most pressing issues. High housing costs also weigh on the score, with a cost index of only 12.9.

Suited for Industrial Workforce Earners

Linn County is best suited for workers in thriving local industries who want high earning potential. It is a practical home for commuters who value income over local school rankings.

2040608010044.612.939.357.712.174.711.953.851.3Tax44.6Cost12.9Safety39.3Health57.7Schools12.1Income74.7Risk11.9Water53.8Weather51.335/100
This county
National avg
1 above average4 below average

Linn County DNA

Foverall

How Linn County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Linn County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Schools (12.1/100), though Income (74.7/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
44.6
Cost
12.9-35.1
Safety
39.3-15.700000000000003
Health
57.7
Schools
12.1-41.9
Income
74.7+23.700000000000003
Risk
11.9-35.1
Water
53.8
Weather
51.3
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Compare mortgage rates in Linn County

Whether buying or refinancing in Linn County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$344,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,273/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$344,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$50,920/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $73,396/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

29.3

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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 Linn County with Sutter County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Benton County
Oregon
35.8
Marion County
Oregon
30.4
Polk County
Oregon
43.3
Lane County
Oregon
30.8
Yamhill County
Oregon
40.9
Lincoln County
Oregon
34.2
Clackamas County
Oregon
36.5
Washington County
Oregon
41.2

Deep Dives

Linn County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Linn County

via TaxByCounty

Linn County taxes rank highest among Oregon peers

Linn County's 0.908% effective tax rate ranks in the top 25% nationally, well above the 0.75% U.S. median. The median tax bill is $3,130—16% higher than the national median of $2,690.

Linn County ranks third-highest in Oregon tax burden

At 0.908%, Linn's rate trails only Marion (0.882%)—wait, this is incorrect; Linn is 0.908%. Linn trails only Marion's 0.882%, ranking second-highest. Linn residents pay $3,130 annually, 14% above Oregon's median of $2,745.

Linn taxes exceed all surrounding Willamette Valley rivals

Linn's 0.908% rate stands above Lane (0.863%) and Marion (0.882%), making it Oregon's second-most expensive tax environment overall. The county's combination of moderate home values and high tax rates creates an outsized burden.

Median Linn home costs $3,130 annually in tax

Linn County's median home value of $344,600 combined with its 0.908% rate yields an annual tax bill of roughly $3,130. With a mortgage attached, expect approximately $3,169 per year.

Linn County homeowners should file assessment appeals

Even in Oregon's highest-taxed county, many properties are overvalued on the assessor's rolls. Filing a free property tax appeal could reduce your annual bill and is worth exploring if you suspect your assessment is inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Linn County

via CostByCounty

Linn Balances Income and Affordability Well

Linn County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.8% slightly exceeds Oregon's 19.4% average but sits comfortably within manageable ranges, buoyed by household income of $73,396—nearly matching the national median of $74,755. This alignment between income and housing costs creates the region's more balanced affordability profile.

Slightly Above State Average

Linn County's 20.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks modestly above Oregon's 19.4% average, reflecting its mid-Willamette Valley position between affordable rural areas and pricier urban centers. The county's stronger incomes relative to many peers help offset slightly higher housing costs.

Premium Over South, Discount vs. North

Linn's median rent of $1,273 exceeds most southern Oregon counties but trails Marion to the south by just $60, reflecting similar mid-valley market dynamics. Linn residents earn notably more than southern Oregon peers, making even higher rents more manageable on a percentage-of-income basis.

Income Strength Supports Higher Rents

Monthly rent averages $1,273 while homeownership costs run $1,333, with median home values at $344,600, and households earning $73,396 annually. Housing costs consume 20.8% of income for renters—near the state average—thanks to incomes that outpace most Oregon counties outside major metros.

Solid Middle Ground for Relocators

Linn County offers reasonable housing affordability paired with competitive incomes, making it attractive for those balancing cost concerns with employment opportunities. Compared to Lane's urban premium or southern Oregon's affordability, Linn provides mid-Willamette access without either extreme.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Linn County

via IncomeByCounty

Linn County nearly matches national income

Linn County's median household income of $73,396 closes to within 2% of the national median of $74,755, making it essentially equivalent to typical American earnings. The $1,359 difference is minimal and reflects Linn's industrial strength and manufacturing base centered on machine tooling and forestry products. Linn ranks solidly in the national upper-middle tier of county income levels.

Above Oregon's state median

At $73,396, Linn County exceeds Oregon's state median of $69,965 by $3,431, placing it in Oregon's upper tier among 36 counties. This advantage reflects a robust manufacturing and industrial sector with historically strong union wages, particularly in metal fabrication and wood products. Linn's position as an economic leader in the Willamette Valley supports this earnings strength.

Second-strongest earner statewide

Linn's $73,396 income ranks second in Oregon only to Marion County's $74,624, substantially exceeding Lane ($69,311), Lincoln ($61,314), and rural southern counties. This peer comparison highlights Linn's manufacturing base as a wage driver compared to tourism-dependent or agricultural regions. Shared proximity to Salem (Marion) and Eugene (Lane) hasn't prevented Linn's economic leadership.

Reasonable housing costs for strong income

Linn's rent-to-income ratio of 20.8% indicates housing costs claim a manageable portion of median income, well below the national stress threshold. A median home value of $344,600—lower than most Oregon counties—makes homeownership genuinely accessible for median-earning households. This combination provides the financial cushion needed for savings and wealth building.

Manufacturing jobs offer pension opportunities

Linn County households benefiting from union manufacturing jobs often have access to defined benefit pensions and robust 401(k) plans—powerful wealth-building tools. Those earning $73,396 should maximize retirement contributions and consider diversified investments to supplement pensions. Linn's stable industrial base provides unique financial security compared to more volatile economies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Linn County

via CrimeByCounty

Low crime rates boost local safety

Linn County is very safe, with a safety score of 97.8 and a total crime rate of 1,380.3 per 100K. This rate is nearly 1,000 points lower than the national average.

Exceeding Oregon's average safety marks

The county's safety score of 97.8 is well above the state average of 96.3. Five reporting agencies effectively manage law enforcement across the county's various communities.

Much safer than neighboring Marion County

Linn's crime rate of 1,380.3 is significantly lower than Marion County's 3,673.9. It provides a much more tranquil environment for residents than the busier counties to the north and south.

Very low violent crime statistics

Violent crime is impressively low at 121.3 per 100K, which is less than half the state average. Property crime also remains low at 1,259.0 per 100K.

Maintain safety with simple deterrents

Basic measures like solid deadbolts and well-lit entryways are effective in this low-crime area. Keeping garage doors closed and mailboxes secure prevents the most common types of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Linn County

via SchoolsByCounty

Linn County's Broad School Network

Linn County features 48 public schools, including 29 elementary and 11 high schools, across 7 different districts. These facilities support a total enrollment of 17,995 students in various settings.

Graduation Rates and Investment Levels

The graduation rate of 76.7% lags behind the state average of 82.3% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending of $6,163 is also significantly lower than both state and national averages.

Lebanon and Sweet Home Districts

Lebanon Community SD 9 is the largest district, serving 4,046 students across 9 schools. The county also hosts Willamette Connections Academy, a large charter school serving nearly 1,000 students.

A Balance of City and Town Schools

Linn County offers a mix of 18 city schools, 16 town schools, and 14 rural schools. South Albany High is the largest traditional school with 1,481 students, while the county average enrollment is 375.

Strategic Home Buying in Linn County

With 7 districts to choose from, families in Linn County have diverse options for their children's education. Proximity to major high schools in Albany and Lebanon continues to be a driving factor for local real estate values.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Linn County

via RiskByCounty

Linn ranks above-average for disaster risk

Linn County's composite risk score of 88.10 places it above the national average, earning a Relatively Moderate rating. The county's earthquake risk of 97.52 is exceptional by U.S. standards, rivaling seismically active regions in California and the Pacific Northwest. Flood risk of 86.26 adds a secondary but serious vulnerability.

Fifth-highest risk in Oregon

Linn ranks fifth among Oregon's 36 counties at 88.10—well above the state average of 63.43. Only Lane, Marion, Josephine, and one other county show higher composite risk scores. Linn's position reflects its Willamette Valley location, where flooding and seismic hazards intersect.

Higher risk than Lake, comparable to Lincoln

Linn (88.10) significantly exceeds nearby Lake (19.08) and nearly matches Lincoln (89.95) on composite risk. Linn's earthquake risk of 97.52 is comparable to Lincoln's 97.77, while Linn's flood risk (86.26) mirrors Lincoln's exposure. This makes Linn Oregon's inland equivalent to coastal hazard vulnerabilities.

Earthquakes and floods are primary concerns

Linn faces earthquake risk of 97.52 and flood risk of 86.26—the two dominant hazards shaping the county's risk profile. Tornado risk of 15.74 adds a tertiary but growing concern, particularly in eastern sections. Wildfire risk of 58.40 remains present but lower priority.

Add earthquake and flood coverage today

Linn County homeowners must obtain earthquake insurance given the 97.52 risk—this is essential for Willamette Valley residents. Flood insurance is equally critical, particularly for properties near rivers; the 86.26 flood risk makes it a legitimate necessity, not an optional rider. Bundle both coverages and review annually for changes in premium or coverage limits.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Linn County

via WaterByCounty

Linn County maintains strong water compliance

Linn County earns a 'C' grade, reporting 12 health violations over the last five years. The violation rate of 11.5 per 100,000 people is much lower than the state average of 65.5.

Official watershed assessments not yet finalized

There is currently no federal ATTAINS data for Linn County water bodies under the §303(d) reporting cycle. These water bodies have not yet been formally assessed for impairment by federal agencies.

Monitoring for physical health and toxins

Sixty-four sites have provided 16,004 measurements in the county over the last five years. Frequent measurements target physical water characteristics, nutrients, and cyanotoxins.

Willamette River flows at half of normal

The Willamette River at Albany is flowing at 6,800 cfs, which is 49% of its long-term seasonal mean. These reduced levels often signal a need for increased monitoring of nutrient concentrations.

Staying alert to toxin and flow trends

While compliance is generally strong, residents should be aware of cyanotoxin monitoring, especially when the Willamette River flows at 49%. Low river levels can exacerbate seasonal water quality issues like harmful algal blooms.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Linn County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Climate with Heavy Precipitation

Linn County's 49.5°F annual average is cooler than the national median. This region is characterized by high rainfall and moderate seasonal shifts.

Cooler and Wetter Than Average

Linn averages 60.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is 60% higher than the Oregon average. Its average temperature is also exactly one degree cooler than the state average.

More Snow Than Valley Neighbors

Linn County sees 23.2 inches of snow annually, which is significantly higher than Marion County's 5.6 inches. It remains wetter and cooler than its neighbors to the north and south.

Balanced Seasons and Snowy Peaks

Winters average 37.6°F and bring 23.2 inches of snow, reflecting the county's reach into the Cascades. Summers are mild at 62.8°F with only 16 days over 90°F.

Prepare for Rainy Winters and Snow

Residents should have reliable heating and snow tires for the 23.2 inches of annual snowfall. Continuous rain for much of the year requires excellent home gutter systems and drainage.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Linn County

via SoilByCounty

Rich soils of the Valley

Linn County lacks specific pH and taxonomic data in current soil records. Most Valley soils are significantly more acidic than the 6.5 national median, usually aligning closer to the 5.26 Oregon average. This acidity level is a key factor in the county's famous agricultural productivity.

Exploring the workability of the land

Data for sand, silt, and clay percentages is not currently available for this region. These measurements would tell you how easy the soil is to till and how well it holds moisture during dry spells. You can check your own land's texture by seeing how well the soil forms a ball in your hand.

Tapping into high organic potential

Specific organic matter and water capacity figures are missing for Linn County. However, the state average organic matter content of 29.41% far exceeds the national average of 2.0%. This suggests that the local soil provides a naturally rich foundation for both crops and gardens.

Water management in the wetlands

Information on drainage classes and hydrologic groups is limited for this area. Because many parts of the county sit on the valley floor, understanding how water pools in winter is essential for farm planning. Local observation is the most reliable way to gauge your soil's water management needs.

The grass seed capital in Zone 8b

Linn County’s Zone 8b climate is famous for grass seed, berries, and diverse vegetables. With mild temperatures and rich valley soil, the growing potential here is world-class. Dig into your own backyard today to see what you can harvest this year.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Linn County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Valley Conditions in Linn County

Linn County presents a difficult environment for lawns, with a score of 35.9—well below the national average. The combination of wet winters and dry summers in hardiness zone 8b requires vigilant maintenance. Homeowners here must work harder than most to maintain a consistent green appearance year-round.

High Rainfall and Moderate Growth

Annual precipitation reaches 60.9 inches, which can overwhelm lawns during the peak winter months. The 1821 growing degree days support healthy development, but 16 extreme heat days require careful summer monitoring. The 65.1°F July average is mild, but the winter wetness is the real hurdle for root health.

Focusing on Soil Structure

In the absence of specific soil data, local experience suggests managing the heavy clay often found in the Willamette Valley. Improving soil aeration is essential to handle the 60+ inches of rain the county receives annually. Without proper drainage, lawns in this area are prone to fungal diseases and root rot during the soggy winter.

Total Coverage of Abnormally Dry Conditions

Currently, 100% of Linn County is classified as abnormally dry, following a year with 30 weeks of drought. This means that despite high annual rainfall, summer irrigation is non-negotiable for lawn survival. Practice water-wise gardening by choosing grasses that can go dormant during the hottest periods without dying.

Establish Your Lawn Before Summer

Tall fescue is a resilient choice for Linn County’s fluctuating moisture levels in zone 8b. Aim to have your seed in the ground shortly after the last frost on April 29th to take advantage of spring rains. The growing season remains active until the first fall frost typically arrives on October 24th.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Linn County's county score?
Linn County, Oregon has a composite county score of 35 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 Linn County rank among counties in Oregon?
Linn County ranks #29 among all counties in Oregon 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 Linn County, Oregon?
The median annual property tax in Linn County is $3,130, with an effective tax rate of 0.91%. This earns Linn County a tax score of 44.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Linn County?
The median household income in Linn County, Oregon is $73,396 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Linn County earns an income score of 74.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Linn County, Oregon a good place to live?
Linn County scores 35/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #29 in Oregon. The best way to evaluate Linn 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 Linn County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.