countyscore
58.6
County Score
Health 93.7Income & Jobs 91.8Safety 88

County Report Card

About Madison County, Iowa

Strong National Standing

Madison County earns a composite score of 58.6, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high quality of life that ranks well above the midpoint for U.S. counties.

Beating the State Average

At 58.6, the county sits comfortably above the Iowa state average of 55.6. It offers a more prosperous profile than many of its peers across the state.

Wealth, Health, and Safety

Madison County is a powerhouse in Income (91.8) and Health (93.7), with a high median household income of $89,542. A Safety Score of 88.0 further cements its reputation as a secure and thriving community.

Taxes and Housing Costs

A Tax Score of 10.7 and a Cost Score of 23.9 represent the county's primary hurdles. High median home values of $236,900 and a 1.554% tax rate make this one of the more expensive areas in Iowa.

A Premium Choice for High Earners

This county is best for affluent professionals who want a safe, healthy environment and can afford the higher entry price. It is the premier choice for those working in the Des Moines metro who seek a high-end rural retreat.

Score breakdown

Tax10.7Cost23.9Safety88Health93.7Schools62.2Income91.8Risk64.5Water86Weather49.5
🏛10.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠23.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡88
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤93.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱80.9
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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Counties with similar scores

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De Baca County
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Wyoming County
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Bristol County
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Nearby counties

Clarke County
Iowa
43.7
Union County
Iowa
53.6
Dallas County
Iowa
42
Warren County
Iowa
51.7
Adair County
Iowa
62.5
Polk County
Iowa
36.6
Guthrie County
Iowa
60.2
Lucas County
Iowa
55.8

Deep Dives

Madison County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Madison County

via TaxByCounty

Madison taxes rank well above average

Madison County's effective tax rate of 1.554% substantially exceeds the national median of 1.099%, placing it around the 70th percentile across U.S. counties. With a median home value of $236,900 and a median property tax of $3,681, Madison residents face one of the higher combined tax burdens in the nation.

Madison's taxes among Iowa's highest

At 1.554%, Madison County's effective rate ranks second-highest in Iowa, exceeded only by Linn County's 1.661%, and well above the state average of 1.344%. The median property tax of $3,681 is 70% higher than Iowa's average of $2,160, reflecting the county's steep tax burden.

Madison taxes tied for regional peak

Madison County's 1.554% rate rivals Linn County (1.661%) as the highest in its region, substantially outpacing Marshall (1.514%), Lucas (1.480%), and Louisa (1.273%). With a median home value of $236,900, Madison residents pay the highest median tax bill of $3,681 in their peer group.

What homeowners pay annually

A typical Madison County homeowner with a median-valued house of $236,900 pays approximately $3,681 per year in property taxes. Those with mortgages face bills averaging $3,719, while those who own outright average $3,597 annually.

You may be paying too much

Madison County homeowners should carefully review their assessed values, as the county's high tax burden makes overassessment particularly costly. Consult with your county assessor or a property tax professional to determine if an appeal is warranted.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Madison County

via CostByCounty

Madison: Highest Incomes in the Region

Madison County boasts the region's highest median household income at $89,542—$14,787 above the national average—which helps offset higher housing costs. With a rent-to-income ratio of 12.6%, Madison renters have among the most breathing room in the eight-county comparison.

Top Earners, Manageable Housing

Madison County's 12.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks in Iowa's top tier for affordability, and median income of $89,542 is substantially above the state median. Renters here spend $938 monthly—well above state average of $812—but earn enough to keep the burden light.

Premium Rents, Premium Incomes

Madison's median rent of $938 ranks highest in the region after Linn County ($915), yet median income also tops all eight counties. This concentration of higher earners means housing costs, while elevated, remain proportionally manageable.

Income Advantage Offsets Higher Costs

Madison households earning $89,542 pay $938 in median rent (12.6% of income) or $1,378 in mortgages (18.4% of income). Strong incomes allow homeowners to manage $1,378 monthly costs that would stress households in lower-income counties.

Madison for Growing Professionals

If you're earning solid income and seeking a county with economic vitality, Madison County delivers with the region's highest median income and strong home values at $236,900. Higher housing costs reflect the area's prosperity and quality of life.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Madison County

via IncomeByCounty

Madison County earns well above national median

Madison County's median household income of $89,542 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by $14,787—a 19.8% premium. This substantial advantage makes Madison one of Iowa's most prosperous counties.

Madison ranks highest in Iowa

At $89,542, Madison County's median household income ranks among the very top in Iowa, exceeding the state average of $69,830 by $19,712. The county consistently claims the highest or near-highest income ranking among all Iowa counties.

Madison far outpaces regional peers

Madison County's $89,542 significantly exceeds Marion County ($78,059) by $11,483 and Mahaska County ($69,019) by $20,523. This regional income leadership reflects Madison's proximity to the Des Moines metro area and strong workforce quality.

Housing highly affordable in Madison

At just 12.6%, Madison County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Iowa's lowest, meaning rent consumes less than two weeks of monthly earnings. The median home value of $236,900 is very affordable for households earning $89,542 annually.

Madison offers wealth-building opportunities

Madison County's above-average incomes and favorable housing ratios position residents exceptionally well for wealth accumulation through investment and homeownership. With strong earnings and low housing costs, Madison households have substantial capacity to build emergency funds, invest, and secure long-term financial independence.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Madison County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite Safety Levels in Madison County

Madison County is remarkably safe, sporting a near-perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 258.9 per 100K is nearly ten times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Top-Tier Safety Ranking in Iowa

This county is a leader in Iowa safety, with a crime rate roughly 75% lower than the state average of 1,095.3. It easily exceeds the already high Iowa average safety score of 98.3.

Safer than Metro Neighbors

Madison County is significantly safer than neighboring Polk County to the northeast. Three local agencies contribute to this robust data, confirming the county's status as a quiet haven.

Extremely Rare Crime Incidents

Both violent crime (102.4) and property crime (156.5) are exceptionally low here. In practical terms, property crime in Madison is less than 8% of the national average of 2,015.7.

Preserving a Safe Community

Residents can maintain these incredible safety numbers by participating in local safety programs and keeping properties well-maintained. Even in such a safe area, basic precautions help ensure long-term security.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Madison County

via HealthByCounty

Madison County exceeds health benchmarks

At 78.8 years, Madison County residents live 2.4 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Just 11.7% report poor or fair health, well below the national average of 16.8%. Madison County consistently outperforms national health metrics across multiple indicators.

Healthiest county in Iowa

Madison County's 78.8-year life expectancy ranks second only to Lyon County within Iowa, exceeding the state average of 77.7 by more than a year. The county's 11.7% poor/fair health rate is the lowest in Iowa. Madison County achieves some of the best health outcomes in the state.

Balanced provider network

Madison County has 54 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 71 mental health providers per 100,000—solid numbers that exceed many rural neighbors. This moderate but adequate provider base supports the county's strong health outcomes. Access appears well-matched to population needs.

Coverage and access aligned well

At 4.6% uninsured, Madison County beats both Iowa's 5.7% and the national 10.9% averages—reflecting strong employment and income levels. With 54 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, most Madison residents access care easily. This combination of universal coverage and adequate providers enables excellent health outcomes.

Keep Madison's momentum going

Madison County's nearly universal coverage is a strength, but staying covered requires attention during life changes. Visit Healthcare.gov during open enrollment to review your plan, or contact Madison County Social Services about Medicaid eligibility. Continuous coverage helps catch health problems early.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Madison County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Districts, Big Results

Madison County supports 3,146 students through 10 public schools spread across 3 districts. The infrastructure is well-balanced with 3 elementary, 4 middle, and 3 high schools. This layout provides a steady pipeline for students as they transition through their grade levels.

Exceptional Graduation Performance

Madison County delivers an elite graduation rate of 95.4%, significantly higher than the state's 92.3% and the national 87.0%. Despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,844, the county achieves a school score of 56.0. These results demonstrate remarkable educational efficiency and student success.

Winterset Leads the Local Schools

The Winterset Community School District is the county's largest, enrolling 1,669 students across 4 schools. Interstate 35 and Earlham districts also serve the region, with 842 and 635 students respectively. Traditional public schools remain the sole option here, as there are no charter schools in the county.

The Heart of the Town and Country

Nine of the county's 10 schools are located in rural settings, with the remaining school centered in a town locale. Winterset Senior High is the largest campus, housing 565 students, while the average across the county is 315. This environment offers a classic small-town feel that many families find ideal.

Find Your Home in Madison County

If you value high graduation rates and a rural lifestyle, Madison County should be at the top of your list. Homes in this area provide access to some of the most successful schools in Iowa. Secure your family's future by exploring properties in these high-performing districts today.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Madison County

via RiskByCounty

Madison County sits slightly below state average

Madison County's composite risk score of 35.53 runs about 10 percent below Iowa's state average of 39.68, landing it in the very low risk category. This modest advantage reflects reasonable but not exceptional protection from major natural hazards.

Mid-range risk ranking for Iowa

Madison County ranks in the middle tier of Iowa's 99 counties, neither among the state's safest nor its most vulnerable. This middle-ground position reflects fairly typical exposure to the state's primary weather hazards.

Comparable risk to neighboring counties

Madison's 35.53 score falls between Marion County (34.35) and Lucas County (29.68), placing it in the safer cluster of south-central Iowa. Marshall County (62.47) to the northeast experiences notably higher risk, marking a clear hazard gradient across the region.

Wildfire risk your most notable concern

Wildfire risk at 59.92 is Madison's highest hazard score, reflecting the county's prairie landscape and agricultural heritage. Tornado risk of 54.93 and flood risk of 36.58 also warrant preparedness planning during their respective seasonal peaks.

Standard coverage with wildfire provisions

Ensure your homeowners policy includes wind and hail protection for tornado exposure and maintain adequate replacement cost limits. If your property borders wildland areas, discuss additional coverage options with your agent to address grassfire and structural ignition risks.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Madison County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Midwestern temperature profile

Madison County averages 48.1°F annually, sitting below the national median for U.S. counties. The climate is defined by four distinct seasons with significant variation in monthly averages.

Typical Iowa weather patterns

Madison County's annual average of 48.1°F is almost identical to the state average of 48.0°F. Its precipitation of 34.8 inches is slightly lower than the state benchmark of 36.1 inches.

Drier than eastern neighbors

Madison is drier than neighboring Linn and Mahaska counties, receiving about 2 to 4 fewer inches of rain per year. It shares a similar temperature profile with Linn County, differing by only 0.1 degrees.

Cold winters and steady heat

The county experiences 30.7 inches of snow and a January average of 19.9°F. Summer heat peaks with 15 days above 90°F, contributing to a July average of 73.0°F.

Balanced seasonal preparation needed

Reliable heating is necessary for the 23.1°F winter average. Residents should also prepare for two weeks of extreme summer heat where temperatures regularly cross the 90°F threshold.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Madison County

via SoilByCounty

The Productive Alfisols of Madison County

Madison County features Alfisols with a pH of 6.31, slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.43. These soils are historically productive but may require monitoring for optimal pH balance in sensitive crops.

Heavy Loam with Mineral Grip

The soil is comprised of 53.9% silt and 26.9% clay, creating a heavy loam that excels at holding onto vital minerals. A 19.2% sand component is relatively low, meaning the soil can feel thick and heavy when wet.

Better-Than-Average Water Retention

Organic matter sits at 3.17%, which is healthy by national standards but below the Iowa state average of 3.81%. However, its available water capacity of 0.204 inches per inch is better than the state average, ensuring plants stay hydrated.

Slow Drainage and Runoff Potential

Classified as somewhat poorly drained with a hydrologic group D rating, this soil tends to hold water and may require tiling for commercial farming. These characteristics suggest a high runoff potential that home builders must account for.

Hydrated Gardens in Zone 5b

Gardeners in zone 5b can enjoy a wide variety of crops from leafy greens to root vegetables. With its superior water retention, your Madison County garden will thrive even during those dry Iowa summers.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Madison County

via LawnByCounty

Superior Growing in Madison County

Madison County boasts an impressive 80.9 lawn difficulty score, indicating one of the easiest regions for turf management in the state. Its Zone 5b classification and favorable environmental metrics make it a premier spot for home gardening.

Moderate Temps and Solid Rain

The county receives 34.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is just under the state average but sufficient for healthy lawns. With only 15 days of extreme heat and 2,919 growing degree days, grass avoids the worst of summer scorching.

Loam Soil Needs Drainage Care

The loam soil has a 6.31 pH and is classified as somewhat poorly drained, which may lead to standing water after heavy rains. The 26.9% clay content ensures nutrients stick around, but you should monitor for soggy patches in low-lying areas.

Unmatched Drought Resilience

In a remarkable show of resilience, Madison County saw 0 weeks of drought over the past year. While currently 100% abnormally dry, the lack of sustained drought history suggests the local ecosystem manages moisture very effectively.

Seeding for Success

Kentucky Bluegrass is a top choice here, flourishing between the April 30 last frost and the October 3 first frost. This 80.9-rated county offers a generous window to establish a thick, weed-resistant lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Madison County's county score?
Madison County, Iowa has a composite county score of 58.6 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 Madison County rank among counties in Iowa?
Madison County ranks #49 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 Madison County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Madison County is $3,681, with an effective tax rate of 1.55%. This earns Madison County a tax score of 10.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Madison County?
The median household income in Madison County, Iowa is $89,542 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Madison County earns an income score of 91.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Madison County, Iowa a good place to live?
Madison County scores 58.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Madison 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 Madison 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.