countyscore
47.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 87.1Soil Quality 84.6Lawn Care 81.7

County Report Card

About Madison County, Ohio

Close to the National Middle Ground

Madison County posts a composite score of 47.8, landing just below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balanced profile that tracks closely with broad national trends in livability.

A Typical Ohio Community

The county's 47.8 score sits nearly level with the Ohio state average of 48.6. It serves as a representative example of the state's middle-of-the-pack counties for overall quality of life.

High Incomes and Environmental Stability

Madison County excels in economic strength with an income score of 87.1 and a high median household income of $83,229. Additionally, its risk score of 75.1 suggests high resilience against natural disasters compared to other regions.

Housing Affordability Constraints

The cost score of 25.6 indicates that housing is relatively expensive compared to income levels, with a median home value of $231,400. This financial pressure is compounded by a tax score of 34.2, reflecting a moderate tax burden.

Ideal for Established Professionals

Madison County best suits high-earning households who value economic stability and environmental safety over low housing costs. It is a strong choice for those working in nearby metropolitan hubs who want a secure home base.

2040608010034.225.662.257.340.587.175.146.256.3Tax34.2Cost25.6Safety62.2Health57.3Schools40.5Income87.1Risk75.1Water46.2Weather56.347.8/100
This county
National avg
2 above average4 below average

Madison County DNA

Foverall

How Madison County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Madison County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (87.1/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (25.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
34.2-17.799999999999997
Cost
25.6-22.4
Safety
62.2
Health
57.3
Schools
40.5-13.5
Income
87.1+36.099999999999994
Risk
75.1+28.099999999999994
Water
46.2-11.799999999999997
Weather
56.3
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Compare mortgage rates in Madison County

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$231,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$944/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$231,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,760/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $83,229/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

15.9

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
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Counties with similar scores

Douglas County
Colorado
Median income: $145,737
47.8
De Witt County
Illinois
Median income: $64,802
47.8
Goodhue County
Minnesota
Median income: $82,749
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McDowell County
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Median income: $55,527
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Jefferson County
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Median income: $56,983
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Lancaster County
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Median income: $83,703
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Calhoun County
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Concho County
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Median income: $59,632
47.8

Nearby counties

Clark County
Ohio
32.3
Fayette County
Ohio
40.4
Greene County
Ohio
37.9
Champaign County
Ohio
49.2
Franklin County
Ohio
41.9
Pickaway County
Ohio
41.7
Union County
Ohio
49.6
Delaware County
Ohio
38.6

Deep Dives

Madison County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Madison County

via TaxByCounty

Madison County taxes rank below national norm

At 1.053%, Madison County's effective tax rate sits comfortably below the national median of 1.3%, placing it in the lower third of U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay $2,437 annually on a median home valued at $231,400, compared to the national median tax bill of $2,690.

Madison ranks middle of Ohio's 88 counties

Madison County's 1.053% effective rate falls slightly below Ohio's state average of 1.148%, putting it in the mid-range statewide. The county's median tax of $2,437 exceeds the state median of $2,145, reflecting its above-average home values.

More affordable than nearby Medina County

Madison County's 1.053% rate compares favorably to Medina County's 1.287%, saving homeowners roughly $600 annually on similar properties. However, Marion County next door offers even lower rates at 0.980%, making it the most tax-friendly option in the region.

Median home = $2,437 annual tax bill

On Madison County's median home value of $231,400, the effective tax rate of 1.053% translates to $2,437 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay slightly more due to escrow arrangements, while those without mortgages pay closer to $2,207.

Overassessed? You can appeal your tax

Many Madison County homeowners are paying taxes on properties valued higher than market reality, especially following recent market shifts. If your assessment seems out of line with comparable homes in your neighborhood, filing an appeal during the official challenge period could lower your bill substantially.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Madison County

via CostByCounty

Madison County rents beat national trends

Madison County renters spend 13.6% of their income on housing—below the national comfort threshold of 15%—and earn $8,474 more annually than the U.S. median. This county outperforms most of America on housing affordability for renters.

Among Ohio's most affordable counties

Madison County's 13.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks well below Ohio's 15.6% state average, placing it in the top tier for rental affordability across the state. Median rent of $944 exceeds the state average by $71, but wages here are strong enough to make it manageable.

Rent advantage over surrounding areas

Madison County's $944 median rent is competitive with neighboring Miami County ($942) but higher than more rural Mercer County ($812). Still, Madison residents earn significantly more than most peers, stretching their affordability advantage further.

Where Madison paychecks go

The typical Madison County household earning $83,229 annually allocates $944 to rent or $1,247 to mortgage payments monthly. Renters spend about 13.6% of income on housing while homeowners spend 18% on mortgage costs, both reasonable by national standards.

Madison County welcomes budget-conscious relocators

If you're considering a move to Ohio, Madison County offers solid affordability paired with above-average incomes—a rare combination. Compare its rental rates and home values against neighboring counties to find your best fit in the region.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Madison County

via IncomeByCounty

Madison earns above the national average

Madison County's median household income of $83,229 sits $8,474 above the U.S. median of $74,755, placing the county in the upper tier nationally. This stronger-than-average income reflects Madison's economic health compared to most American counties.

Madison ranks in Ohio's top tier

With a median household income of $83,229, Madison County significantly outpaces Ohio's state average of $68,101, marking it as one of the state's more affluent counties. The county's per capita income of $36,265 also edges past the state average of $35,642.

Madison outpaces most nearby counties

Madison's $83,229 median household income exceeds Mercer County ($78,036) and Miami County ($74,175), though it falls short of neighboring Medina County ($92,660). Among its peer group, Madison remains solidly in the upper-middle tier of regional earners.

Housing costs stay manageable here

Madison County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.6% keeps housing affordability in the healthy range—well below the problematic 30% threshold where renters struggle. With a median home value of $231,400 and solid incomes backing it, homeownership remains within reach for most households.

Build on Madison's economic advantage

Madison's above-average incomes create real opportunity to invest in retirement accounts, diversified portfolios, and long-term wealth. Consider consulting a financial advisor to maximize the earning power your county's strong economy provides.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Madison County

via CrimeByCounty

Madison County Outpaces National Safety Trends

Madison County earns an impressive safety score of 98.6 out of 100, indicating a very secure environment. Its total crime rate of 873.5 per 100,000 residents sits far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding the Ohio Safety Average

The county's safety score beats the Ohio average of 97.8, placing it among the state's more secure regions. Four reporting agencies work to maintain a total crime rate that is significantly lower than the state average of 1,412.3.

Comparing Madison to Regional Peers

Madison County is notably safer than nearby Marion County, which reports a much higher crime rate of 1,800.6 per 100,000. It also maintains a slight edge over Meigs County, which records 890.2 crimes per 100,000 residents.

Property Crimes Dominate Local Reports

Violent crime remains low at 159.2 per 100,000, which is better than the state average of 180.9. Property crimes make up the majority of local incidents, occurring at a rate of 714.3 per 100,000.

Simple Steps for Madison Residents

While crime rates are low, property safety remains the primary focus for local families. Installing motion-sensor lighting and smart doorbells can effectively deter opportunistic theft in your neighborhood.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Madison County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Network of Six Districts

Madison County maintains a compact education infrastructure with 18 public schools serving 7,057 students across six districts. The system includes five elementary, six middle, and six high schools, creating a balanced pipeline for local families.

Solid Graduation Rates on Lean Budgets

The county matches the state average graduation rate of 88.3%, outperforming the national benchmark of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $7,048 is lower than the state average, the 52.7 school score remains above the national median.

Jonathan Alder and London City Lead

Jonathan Alder Local is the largest district with 2,265 students, followed closely by London City's 2,117 students. Charter schools represent a small fraction of the landscape, with only one such institution serving 5.6% of total schools.

Predominantly Rural Learning Environments

Most of the county's 18 schools are located in rural settings, with average enrollment hovering around 392 students. London Elementary is the largest facility with 916 students, while five other schools operate in more centralized town locales.

Root Your Family in Madison County

With competitive graduation rates and a focus on community-based districts, this county is a strong choice for families. Explore homes in London or Plain City to benefit from these localized school systems.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Madison County

via RiskByCounty

Madison County's natural disaster risk

Madison County scores 24.90 on the composite natural disaster risk scale, earning a Very Low risk rating—well below Ohio's 55.03 state average and the national baseline. This puts the county in the lower tier for hazard exposure across all major disaster types. Residents here face substantially less overall risk than most of their state neighbors.

One of Ohio's safest counties

Madison County ranks among the lowest-risk counties in Ohio, with its 24.90 composite score placing it well beneath the 55.03 state average. Only a handful of Ohio counties experience lower composite risk profiles. This favorable position reflects both geographic advantages and reduced exposure to the state's most common hazards.

Safer than surrounding counties

Madison County's 24.90 risk score outperforms most adjacent counties, particularly Marion County (61.10) and Mercer County (31.65) to the north. Even when compared to Meigs County (52.96) to the east, Madison County maintains a significantly lower risk profile. Its geography provides natural protection that neighboring regions don't share.

Earthquakes and tornadoes pose most threat

Earthquake risk (55.57) and tornado risk (43.92) represent Madison County's most significant hazards, though both remain below state averages. Flood risk scores 41.48, while wildfire risk remains minimal at 2.86. The county's modest hazard exposure means most residents can focus on standard weather preparedness rather than specialized disaster planning.

Basic coverage meets Madison County needs

Standard homeowners insurance covering wind and hail damage addresses Madison County's primary weather threats from tornadoes and severe storms. While earthquake insurance is optional, the 55.57 earthquake risk score suggests it's worth evaluating with your agent. Flood insurance is generally affordable here given the 41.48 flood risk, making it a practical addition to any policy.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Madison County

via WaterByCounty

Madison County Faces Drinking Water Challenges

Madison County earns a D grade for drinking water compliance, recording 7 health violations over the last five years. While the violation rate of 22.0 per 100,000 people is lower than the state average of 32.9, the frequency of violations signals persistent system stress.

Full Compliance in Local Watershed Assessments

According to the 2022 EPA ATTAINS reporting cycle, all 6 assessed water bodies in the county currently meet Clean Water Act standards. None of these assessed reaches are listed as impaired, aligning with the 0.0% impairment rate seen across the state.

Frequent Testing for Organics and Pesticides

Water quality experts manage 6 monitoring sites across the county, logging 2,237 measurements over the last five years. Data collection focuses heavily on organics and pesticides, providing a detailed look at chemical presence in the local water supply.

Deer Creek Flows Well Below Average

The primary gauge at Deer Creek near Mount Sterling currently records a discharge of 88 cfs. This represents only 35% of its long-term mean, indicating significantly drier-than-normal conditions for this 228-square-mile drainage area.

Prioritize Filtration and Drought Awareness

Given the D grade for drinking water compliance, residents should consider certified home filtration systems to address health violations. Additionally, with Deer Creek at 35% of typical flow, water conservation is vital as low levels can concentrate pollutants.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Madison County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Inland Midwestern Plains

Madison County’s 50.4°F annual average is several degrees cooler than the national median. It experiences the full range of continental extremes without the moderating influence of a Great Lake.

Among Ohio’s Cooler Counties

The average temperature of 50.4°F is well below the Ohio state average of 51.5°F. This makes Madison one of the chillier counties in the central part of the state.

Typical Central Ohio Snowfall

The county receives 20.4 inches of snow annually, which is less than Marion County’s 25.1 inches. Total precipitation is 42.3 inches, slightly higher than the state average.

Sharp Winters and Brief Heat

Winter is notably cold here, with a seasonal average of 28.6°F and 20.4 inches of snow. Summer remains moderate with 13 extreme heat days and a July average of 72.4°F.

Winterize for Cold Temps

The 28.6°F winter average necessitates high-efficiency heating systems and pipe protection. Residents should also prepare for 42.3 inches of annual rain with proper yard grading.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Madison County

via SoilByCounty

A Mucky Base with Histosols Heritage

Madison County's soil consists of Histosols with a distinctive muck texture and an average pH of 6.27. While slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, it remains significantly less acidic than the state average of 5.97. These characteristics indicate a soil rich in organic material and history.

High Silt Levels Support Soil Structure

The soil composition features 51.7% silt and 21.1% clay, mixed with 22.7% sand. This balance provides a stable structure that retains nutrients well but can feel heavy when wet. Workability depends on timing, as the high silt content makes the soil susceptible to surface crusting.

Elite Fertility Outperforms the State

With an organic matter content of 6.49%, Madison County far exceeds the Ohio average of 4.85%. The available water capacity reaches 0.212 in/in, which is significantly higher than the state benchmark of 0.186. This combination creates an exceptional environment for intensive crop production.

Navigating Very Poor Drainage Challenges

The dominant drainage class is 'very poorly drained' with an A/D hydrologic group designation. This means the soil requires careful water management, such as tiling or raised beds, to be productive for farming or building. Without proper intervention, the soil holds water for long periods.

Abundant Growth in Zone 6a

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, this county is a powerhouse for corn, soybeans, and moisture-tolerant vegetables. Gardeners should embrace the high organic matter to grow lush greens and heavy-feeding perennials. Start your garden today to take advantage of some of Ohio's highest-quality soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Madison County

via LawnByCounty

Prime conditions for a Madison County lawn

With a lawn difficulty score of 81.7, maintaining turf here is significantly easier than the national median of 50.0 and even beats the Ohio state average of 76.0. Located in hardiness zone 6a, the local environment provides a hospitable balance for traditional cool-season grasses.

Steady rain supports consistent growth

Madison County receives 42.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is well within the ideal range for healthy turf. While the area experiences 13 extreme heat days per year, 3,022 growing degree days ensure plenty of warmth for a steady mowing schedule from late April to mid-October.

Managing muck and poor drainage

The local soil is characterized as muck with a very poor drainage class, meaning standing water is a common hurdle. With a soil pH of 6.27 and roughly 21% clay, you should focus on aeration and surface drainage improvements to prevent root rot.

Low drought risk for local yards

The county spent only 7 weeks in drought over the past year and currently reports 0% abnormal dryness. Since water is rarely scarce here, conservation efforts should focus on using rain sensors to avoid overwatering already saturated muck soils.

Start seeding after the spring thaw

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in this 6a zone, especially when seeded shortly after the last frost on April 24. Aim to establish new sod before the first fall frost on October 18 to ensure deep root penetration before winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Madison County's county score?
Madison County, Ohio has a composite county score of 47.8 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 Ohio?
Madison County ranks #52 among all counties in Ohio 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, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Madison County is $2,437, with an effective tax rate of 1.05%. This earns Madison County a tax score of 34.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Madison County?
The median household income in Madison County, Ohio is $83,229 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Madison County earns an income score of 87.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Madison County, Ohio a good place to live?
Madison County scores 47.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #52 in Ohio. 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.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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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.