countyscore
53.7
County Score
Property Tax 86.3Safety 78Health 62.4

County Report Card

About Madison County, Idaho

Madison Outperforms the National Median

Madison County earns a composite score of 53.7, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a quality of life that remains competitive on a national scale. It reflects a stable environment for families and professionals alike.

A Top-Tier Performer in Idaho

With a 53.7 overall score, Madison exceeds the Idaho state average of 52.2. The county ranks among the more desirable locations in the state for overall livability. Its balanced metrics provide a strong foundation compared to neighboring rural districts.

Exceptional Tax and Safety Standards

The county excels with a Tax Score of 86.3, supported by a very low effective tax rate of 0.497%. Safety is another primary asset, boasting a high score of 78.0. These factors make it one of the most financially and physically secure areas in the region.

Water and Education Gains Needed

Madison faces hurdles in its water quality index, which sits at a low 17.5. The school score of 32.0 also trails behind national averages, suggesting a need for investment in local education. Improving these infrastructure components is vital for long-term growth.

The Ideal Choice for Security Seekers

Madison County is best suited for individuals who prioritize safety and low tax burdens above all else. While schools and water infrastructure are weaker points, the low crime and affordable rent of $965 create a solid value proposition. It is a haven for those seeking a predictable, low-cost lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax86.3Cost29.4Safety78Health62.4Schools32Income33.5Risk41.4Water17.5Weather40.6
🏛86.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠29.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡78
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡41.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧17.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱28.7
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

Teton County
Idaho
61.4
Bonneville County
Idaho
41.4
Jefferson County
Idaho
52.8
Fremont County
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Clark County
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Bingham County
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Teton County
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Caribou County
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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 below national median

Madison County's effective tax rate of 0.497% is well below the U.S. median of 0.71%, placing it in the lower third nationally for property tax burden. The median property tax here is $1,813, compared to the national median of $2,690—a $877 annual savings for a typical homeowner.

Among Idaho's most affordable counties

Madison County's 0.497% effective rate sits just slightly below Idaho's statewide average of 0.508%, ranking it in the middle tier among the state's 44 counties. The county's median property tax of $1,813 is $284 higher than the state median of $1,529, reflecting its higher median home values.

Lower taxes than Nez Perce, higher than Owyhee

Madison County pays significantly less than neighboring Nez Perce County, where homeowners face a 0.868% rate and $2,529 median tax. It's slightly pricier than adjacent Owyhee County at 0.481%, though both counties are considered affordable by regional standards.

Typical Madison home costs $1,813 yearly

On Madison County's median home value of $365,000, property owners pay approximately $1,813 in annual property taxes. For homeowners with mortgages, that effective tax is $1,726; without mortgages, it rises to $1,922.

Check your assessment for overvaluation

Many Madison County homeowners are paying taxes on properties assessed above true market value. If your property assessment seems high, you have the right to appeal—potentially saving hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Madison County

via CostByCounty

Madison rents outpace national affordability

Madison County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% exceeds the national baseline, meaning renters here spend nearly a fifth of their income on housing—significantly more than the typical American household. With a median household income of $58,259 compared to the national median of $74,755, Madison earners have 22% less income to cover similar or higher housing costs.

Among Idaho's least affordable counties

Madison County ranks as one of Idaho's least affordable places, with a 19.9% rent-to-income ratio well above the state average of 16.8%. Only a handful of Idaho counties face worse housing cost burdens relative to income.

Pricier than most neighboring counties

Madison County's $965 median monthly rent runs $46 higher than the state average and $55 more than nearby Power County's $729. However, median home values of $365,000 position Madison as one of the region's pricier real estate markets, though still below some neighboring areas.

Housing consumes nearly one-fifth of income

Renters here spend $965 monthly while homeowners spend $1,065, with median home values at $365,000. Against a median household income of $58,259, these costs mean housing claims roughly 20% of renter income and slightly higher for mortgage holders—a tight squeeze for household budgets.

Is Madison right for you?

If you're relocating, Madison County offers a growing community feel but demands strong income to maintain comfort. Compare your anticipated salary against the $58,259 median to gauge whether your housing budget will align with local costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Madison County

via IncomeByCounty

Madison lags U.S. income average

Madison County's median household income of $58,259 sits 22% below the national median of $74,755. This places the county in the lower-middle range nationally, though it reflects Idaho's rural character.

Below state average despite state ties

At $58,259, Madison's median income falls $7,511 short of Idaho's state average of $65,770. The county ranks in the lower half of Idaho's 44 counties.

Closest to Owyhee, trailing Minidoka

Madison's $58,259 income is nearly equal to neighboring Owyhee County's $59,773, but trails nearby Minidoka County's $70,060 by over $11,800. Regional variation in this corner of Idaho reflects differences in agricultural and industrial bases.

Rent burden manageable at 19.9%

Madison County households spend 19.9% of income on rent, slightly above the sustainable 15% threshold but still reasonable compared to national averages. With a median home value of $365,000, homeownership remains challenging but achievable for dual-income households.

Build long-term wealth through planning

Madison County families earning $58,259 annually can accelerate wealth-building by automating retirement savings and exploring first-time homebuyer programs. Starting even modest investments early—$100–200 monthly—compounds significantly over 20–30 years.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Madison County

via CrimeByCounty

Madison County Ranks Among America’s Safest

Madison County boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.2, far exceeding the state average of 98.4. Its total crime rate of 520.2 per 100,000 residents is less than a quarter of the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the State in Public Safety

With two reporting agencies tracking data, Madison County maintains a crime rate nearly 50% lower than the Idaho state average of 1,027.1. It consistently stands out as one of the most secure counties in the Gem State.

A Regional Leader in Security

Madison’s crime rate of 520.2 per 100,000 is significantly lower than neighbors like Power County, which sits at 1,098.7. This low frequency of reported incidents makes it a regional benchmark for public safety.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

The county records a violent crime rate of 101.0 per 100,000, which is less than a third of the national benchmark. Property crime accounts for the majority of local reports at 419.2, though this remains well below the national average of 2,015.7.

Maintaining a Secure Home Environment

Even with elite safety scores, residents should remain proactive by securing entry points and using smart lighting. Madison's low rates provide a great foundation for community-based watch programs.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Madison County

via HealthByCounty

Madison County lives longer than most Americans

At 79.1 years, Madison County residents live 1.6 years longer than the U.S. average of 77.5 years. Just 20.3% report poor or fair health, a solid performance that suggests strong baseline wellness across the county.

One of Idaho's healthiest communities

Madison County's 79.1-year life expectancy ranks it well above Idaho's state average of 77.5 years. This 1.6-year advantage positions Madison among the state's top performers for longevity.

Madison leads regional health outcomes

Madison County's 79.1-year life expectancy outpaces nearby Oneida County (78.6 years) and Minidoka County (77.0 years). The county also maintains better mental health provider access at 172 per 100K compared to Minidoka's 49 per 100K.

Good access, low uninsured rates

Madison County's 8.3% uninsured rate beats the state average of 11.7%, and residents have solid primary care access at 43 providers per 100K. Strong mental health infrastructure at 172 providers per 100K supports comprehensive care across the community.

Keep Madison healthy—verify your coverage

With 8.3% of residents uninsured, even small gaps can affect neighborhood health. Visit healthcare.gov or Idaho's health insurance marketplace to confirm your coverage and explore options that fit your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Madison County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Growing Academic Hub in Eastern Idaho

Madison County supports 7,730 students across 17 public schools, including nine elementary and four high schools. Two school districts manage this network, which features two alternative education facilities to support diverse learner needs. No charter schools currently operate within the county's public system.

High Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

The county boasts a 91.9% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the state average of 83.6% and the national mark of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure is low at $4,493 compared to the $13,000 national average, the county maintains a 49.1 school score. This performance suggests a high return on educational investment for local families.

Spotlight on Madison and Sugar-Salem Districts

The Madison District is the region's largest provider, educating 5,758 students across 11 different schools. The Sugar-Salem Joint District serves as the other primary anchor, with 1,972 students enrolled in its six facilities. Both districts provide foundational stability for the county's growing student population.

A Mix of Town and Rural Learning

Most students attend one of the 11 schools located in town settings, while six schools serve rural areas. Madison Senior High School is the largest campus with 1,278 students, more than double the size of the 565-student Sugar-Salem High School. Schools here average 455 students, creating a mid-sized environment for most pupils.

Find a Home Near Top Schools

High graduation rates make Madison County a compelling choice for families seeking academic excellence. Explore local listings to find a home within the Madison or Sugar-Salem school boundaries. School quality remains a primary driver for property values in this family-oriented community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Madison County

via RiskByCounty

Madison County faces above-average disaster risk

Madison County's composite risk score of 58.62 places it well above the national average, reflecting significant exposure to multiple hazard types. The county's "Relatively Low" rating indicates moderate concern compared to the highest-risk U.S. counties, but residents should remain prepared for potential natural disasters.

Riskier than most Idaho counties

With a score of 58.62, Madison County ranks among Idaho's higher-risk counties, substantially above the state average of 38.51. This elevated positioning reflects the county's particular vulnerability to earthquakes and wildfires compared to its neighbors statewide.

Madison stands out in Southeast Idaho

Madison County's risk score of 58.62 far exceeds nearby Minidoka County (20.48) and Oneida County (1.40), making it the riskiest in its immediate region. Only Shoshone County in Idaho's panhandle registers higher overall risk at 62.85, highlighting Madison's distinct hazard profile.

Earthquakes and wildfires drive risk here

Madison County faces an earthquake risk score of 87.60—one of Idaho's highest—reflecting its location in a seismically active region where tremors pose real threats to homes and infrastructure. Wildfire risk at 70.26 compounds concerns, as vegetation in the surrounding valleys and mountains creates seasonal fire exposure that can impact air quality and property safety.

Secure earthquake and wildfire coverage now

Given Madison County's elevated earthquake risk, homeowners should verify that their insurance includes earthquake coverage, as standard policies exclude it in most states. Additionally, residents in fire-prone areas should ensure their homeowners policy covers wildfire damage and maintain defensible space around their properties by clearing debris and trimming trees.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Madison County

via WeatherByCounty

A Chilly High-Altitude Climate

Madison averages 44.4°F, notably cooler than the national median. This high-altitude region stays dry with just 12.3 inches of annual precipitation.

Cooler Than the Idaho Average

The county ranks among the colder regions of Idaho, falling below the state average of 46.5°F. Its mountain-influenced weather keeps annual temperatures strictly temperate year-round.

Eastern Idaho's Dry Cold

Madison shares a chilly profile with its eastern neighbors but remains drier than the state average of 17 inches. Nearby regions often mirror these high-elevation weather patterns.

Mild Summers and Biting Winters

Summers are mild with a July average of 68.3°F, while winters dip to a 22.7°F average. Residents experience roughly 17 days over 90°F each year.

Winterize for High-Country Living

Invest in high-quality insulation to handle the brisk 21.1°F January lows. While local snowfall data is limited, prepare for variable road conditions across the Teton foothills.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Madison County

via SoilByCounty

Madison's Regional Soil Identity

While specific local taxonomy data is limited, Madison sits in a state with an average pH of 6.04. This is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, affecting how minerals dissolve for plant uptake. Understanding this baseline helps local growers adjust for optimal nutrient availability.

The Texture of Madison Land

Detailed sand, silt, and clay percentages are not currently mapped for this county's specific acreage. These three components define how well a garden drains and how easily roots move through the earth. Local gardeners typically observe regional textures to gauge their soil's workability.

High Potential for Organic Growth

Idaho's state average organic matter is a robust 27.53%, significantly higher than the 2.0% national average. This high organic content across the region supports a strong available water capacity of 0.269 in/in. These benchmarks indicate Madison likely shares in the state's significant potential for sustainable fertility.

Managing Water Flow in Madison

Specific drainage class data is pending, yet managing water movement remains critical for local farm and home sites. Efficient drainage prevents root rot and ensures the hydrologic group can handle seasonal Idaho runoff. Check your local plot to see how quickly water disappears after a heavy rain.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a

Madison County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, favoring crops that handle cooler temperatures. You can find success with hardy vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and kale in this climate. Don't hesitate to start your garden early with cold frames to extend the short growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Madison County

via LawnByCounty

Madison County's Tough Lawn Conditions

Madison County earns a lawn difficulty score of 28.7, which is notably lower than the Idaho average of 33.3 and the national median of 50.0. Maintaining a lawn in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a requires significant effort due to the high-elevation climate. Homeowners face more challenges here than in half the country.

Dry Skies and Short Seasons

The county receives just 12.3 inches of annual precipitation, falling far short of the 30-50 inches lawns ideally need. While the 17 annual heat days are below the state average of 30, the low 1,897 growing degree days indicate a shorter window for grass development. Mowing schedules must remain flexible to accommodate the limited growing period.

Prioritizing Soil Health

While specific regional soil data is limited for this area, successful lawns usually require baseline testing to determine pH levels. Given the arid climate, adding organic matter is essential to improve moisture retention. Local gardeners should test their soil early to ensure it meets the 6.0-7.0 pH range ideal for grass.

Facing Constant Drought Pressure

Madison County spent 48 weeks in drought over the past year, with 100% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. Heavy mulching and deep, infrequent watering are necessary to keep roots alive during these dry spells. Smart irrigation controllers can help manage the scarce water resources more effectively.

Growing Success in Zone 5a

Hardy cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Fine Fescue are the best choices for the local climate. Since the last spring frost typically occurs around May 15, residents should wait until late May to begin seeding or laying sod. Start your lawn projects as the soil warms to ensure a healthy, resilient stand of grass.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Madison County's county score?
Madison County, Idaho has a composite county score of 53.7 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 Idaho?
Madison County ranks #23 among all counties in Idaho 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, Idaho?
The median annual property tax in Madison County is $1,813, with an effective tax rate of 0.50%. This earns Madison County a tax score of 86.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Madison County?
The median household income in Madison County, Idaho is $58,259 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Madison County earns an income score of 33.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Madison County, Idaho a good place to live?
Madison County scores 53.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #23 in Idaho. 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.