countyscore
51.7
County Score
Lawn Care 75.2Schools 70.5Safety 68.3

County Report Card

About Marquette County, Wisconsin

Marquette Beats the National Median

Marquette County scores a 51.7, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This reflects a well-rounded county with notable strengths in community services.

A Strong Wisconsin Performer

Exceeding the state average of 50.3, Marquette is a competitive choice in central Wisconsin. It balances small-town appeal with high-quality public services.

High Safety and Great Schools

Residents enjoy a safety score of 68.3 and a high school score of 70.5. These factors create a very stable environment for local residents.

Water and Tax Scores

Water quality is a weak point with a score of 20.0. The tax score of 19.0 also reflects a moderate effective tax rate of 1.347%.

The Safe Choice for Families

Marquette is the best fit for parents who prioritize safety and educational quality above all else. It offers a secure and supportive environment for raising children.

204060801001947.468.356.270.549.452.42050.6Tax19Cost47.4Safety68.3Health56.2Schools70.5Income49.4Risk52.4Water20Weather50.651.7/100
This county
National avg
2 above average2 below average

Marquette County DNA

Foverall

How Marquette County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Marquette County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Schools (70.5/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (20/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
19-33
Cost
47.4
Safety
68.3+13.299999999999997
Health
56.2
Schools
70.5+16.5
Income
49.4
Risk
52.4
Water
20-38
Weather
50.6
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Many homeowners in Marquette County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$201,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$800/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$201,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,000/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.2x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $63,471/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

6.4

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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Nearby counties

Green Lake County
Wisconsin
51.8
Waushara County
Wisconsin
54.5
Columbia County
Wisconsin
47.6
Adams County
Wisconsin
42.8
Juneau County
Wisconsin
46.2
Winnebago County
Wisconsin
45.9
Sauk County
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42.5
Dodge County
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44.5

Deep Dives

Marquette County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Marquette County

via TaxByCounty

Marquette taxes below national median

Marquette County's effective tax rate of 1.347% runs about 11% above the national median of 1.209%, placing it squarely in the middle nationally. The median property tax of $2,709 sits near the national median of $2,690, achieved on homes valued about 29% below the national average at $201,100.

Lower taxes than Wisconsin average

Marquette ranks in the lower-middle tier of Wisconsin's 72 counties at an effective tax rate of 1.347%, below the state average of 1.436%. At $2,709 in median annual property tax, Marquette falls meaningfully short of Wisconsin's state median of $3,081.

Balanced tax rates in the region

Marquette's 1.347% rate sits between Langlade County (1.335%) and Marinette (1.261%), representing one of the more affordable tax environments in the region. It runs lower than Manitowoc (1.538%), Marathon (1.512%), and Lincoln (1.424%).

Expect about $2,709 in annual taxes

On a median home value of $201,100, Marquette County homeowners pay approximately $2,709 in annual property taxes. The amount remains relatively stable whether assessed with or without mortgage considerations.

Review your assessment periodically

Marquette County homeowners should verify their property assessments align with current market conditions, as even favorable tax rates benefit from accuracy checks. Wisconsin law allows appeals through your town board of review if you believe your property is overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Marquette County

via CostByCounty

Marquette renters strain at 15.1%

Marquette County renters spend 15.1% of their $63,471 median household income on $800 monthly rent, exceeding Wisconsin's state average of 14.9% and pushing above the national affordability comfort zone. Lower household incomes make the percentage burden particularly steep here.

Below-average affordability in Wisconsin

Marquette's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio places it in Wisconsin's lower half of county affordability rankings, held back by household incomes well below the state and national medians. For renters, this is one of Wisconsin's tighter housing markets.

Higher rent, lower income than peers

At $800/month, Marquette's rent undercuts only Marinette ($749), yet its rent-to-income ratio of 15.1% ranks among the region's worst because household incomes lag peers by $5-10K. Marquette residents face a genuine affordability challenge compared to neighboring counties.

Owners carry heavier burden too

Renters spend $800 monthly (15.1%), while homeowners pay $989 monthly—about 18.8% of the $63,471 median income—for median homes valued at $201,100, the county's second-highest. Both renters and owners stretch significantly in Marquette.

Marquette: consider alternatives first

At 15.1% of income, Marquette's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Wisconsin's worst, and homeownership costs at 18.8% run even tighter. Relocators should compare Marquette against more affordable peers like Marinette, Langlade, or Menominee before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Marquette County

via IncomeByCounty

Marquette trails national income significantly

Marquette County's median household income of $63,471 falls 15.1% below the national median of $74,755, indicating a substantial income gap relative to U.S. averages. The county's per-capita income of $35,090 is notably below the state average, reflecting limited wage diversity.

Lower-earning Wisconsin county

At $63,471, Marquette ranks below Wisconsin's state median of $71,715 by $8,244, placing it in the lower-income tier statewide. The county's smaller workforce and rural character limit employment opportunities in higher-wage sectors.

Lowest-earning in north-central region

Marquette's $63,471 median ranks among the region's lowest earners, substantially behind Marathon ($76,185) and Lincoln ($67,726) but comparable to Marinette ($63,401). Despite a median home value of $201,100—the highest regionally—this represents a challenging affordability situation relative to earnings.

Home values exceed income capacity

Marquette's 15.1% rent-to-income ratio edges above the 15% affordability threshold, and the median home value of $201,100 is disproportionately high for a county earning $63,471 median income. This mismatch suggests potential affordability challenges and indicates homes may be inherited or financed through extended family resources.

Careful financial planning is essential

Marquette's median income of $63,471 requires disciplined financial management given the county's high housing costs relative to earnings. Prioritize stable employment, maximize employer retirement benefits, and consider first-time homebuyer assistance programs designed for lower-income counties.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Marquette County

via CrimeByCounty

Marquette County Leads in Public Safety

Marquette County reports a very low total crime rate of 742.7 per 100,000 residents, significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive performance earns the county a safety score of 98.8. Six reporting agencies work to maintain this high level of security.

Outperforming the Wisconsin Average

The county's safety score of 98.8 is higher than the Wisconsin state average of 98.3. This puts Marquette County in the upper tier of safe places to live in the state. Local law enforcement efforts are clearly yielding positive results for the community.

Significantly Safer than State Peers

Marquette's total crime rate of 742.7 is much lower than the Wisconsin average of 1,103.1 per 100,000 residents. This makes it one of the safest regions in its part of the state. The lower frequency of incidents sets a high bar for neighboring counties.

Record Low Violent Crime Rates

Marquette County boasts an exceptionally low violent crime rate of 25.6 per 100,000, which is over 14 times lower than the national average. Property crime stands at 717.1 per 100,000, also far below state and national norms. Personal safety is a hallmark of this county's data.

Stay Proactive to Protect Your Community

Even with record-low violent crime, maintaining property security is essential to keep theft numbers down. Simple measures like home alarm systems or motion sensors can provide added peace of mind. Your vigilance helps Marquette County maintain its status as a state leader in safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Marquette County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Learning in Central Wisconsin

Marquette County operates nine public schools for a total student population of 1,593. The landscape features four elementary schools and three high schools, providing a streamlined educational path. With only one major district, the county maintains a unified approach to student success.

High Scores and Great Graduation Rates

Marquette County's graduation rate is 92.3%, well above the national average of 87.0%. The county's school score of 57.7 outperforms the state average of 56.9, showing strong overall quality. Spending is also robust at $8,358 per pupil, exceeding the state average.

Montello and Westfield Leading the Way

The Montello School District is a key player, managing four schools and serving 593 students. Interestingly, 22.2% of the county's schools are charter institutions, offering families specialized educational choices. These charter options provide a significant degree of flexibility for a smaller county.

Exclusively Rural and Personal

Every school in Marquette County is classified as rural, reflecting the area's peaceful, open-country character. Westfield Elementary is the largest school with 336 students, while most schools maintain a very small average size of 177. Students here benefit from small classes and a high degree of individual attention.

Find Tranquility and Quality Education

If you are looking for a rural lifestyle paired with high academic scores, Marquette County is an excellent choice. The small school sizes and high graduation rates offer a safe and nurturing environment for any student. Search for homes in this central Wisconsin gem to find your perfect fit.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Marquette County

via RiskByCounty

Marquette County faces moderate risk

Marquette County's composite risk score of 47.58 sits below Wisconsin's state average of 59.08, earning a "Relatively Low" national rating. The county maintains balanced exposure across hazard types without severe concentrations.

Below-average risk in Wisconsin

At 47.58, Marquette County ranks notably below the state average of 59.08, positioning it among Wisconsin's safer counties. This reflects the county's relatively moderate exposure to all major disaster hazards.

Safer than surrounding high-risk areas

Marquette County's 47.58 score compares favorably to nearby Marathon County (87.15) and outperforms most central Wisconsin peers. The county benefits from lower flood and tornado exposure than surrounding regions.

Tornadoes present the primary threat

Tornado risk reaches 52.93 in Marquette County, making it the leading hazard concern, followed by flood risk at 43.54 and wildfire risk at 36.74. Earthquake and hurricane risks remain minimal.

Standard coverage with wind protection

Marquette County residents should ensure homeowners insurance includes wind and hail coverage to address tornado exposure, and consider flood insurance if in a mapped risk zone. The county's relatively moderate overall risk profile makes standard policies with these provisions effective.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Marquette County

via WaterByCounty

Severe Violation Rate Earns F

Marquette County receives a grade of F due to a high health violation rate of 132.0 per 100K residents. This rate is nearly double the Wisconsin state average of 76.3.

Watershed Impairments Below State Mean

In the 2022 cycle, 4.8% of assessed water bodies were found to be impaired, compared to the state average of 7.6%. Phosphorus and PCBs are the primary contaminants affecting these waters.

Steady Monitoring of Local Water

Eighty-five monitoring sites provided 33,660 measurements over the last five years. The most-measured groups include physical characteristics, organics, and pesticides.

Chaffee Creek Near Typical Levels

Chaffee Creek is currently flowing at 12 cfs, which is 98% of its long-term mean. This small gauge tracks a 4 square mile drainage area near Coloma.

High Violation Risk Requires Testing

The extremely high violation rate makes regular professional water testing a necessity for residents. While streamflow is stable, phosphorus in the watershed remains a key target for local environmental protection.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Marquette County

via WeatherByCounty

A Typical Upper Midwest Profile

Marquette County’s 45.6°F annual average is typical for the Upper Midwest but cooler than the national median. Its climate is defined by distinct seasonal shifts and moderate moisture.

Warmer and Wetter than Average

The county is warmer than the state average of 44.4°F and notably wetter than many peers. It averages 36.3 inches of precipitation, nearly two inches above the Wisconsin average.

A Warmer Tier than the Northwoods

Marquette is significantly warmer and wetter than northern Marathon County. It also experiences more heat, with 8 days over 90°F compared to Marathon's 5.

Robust Summers and Cold Winters

Summer is robust with a 70.8°F July average and 8 extreme heat days. Winters are cold but see less snow than the north, averaging 42.0 inches annually.

Managing Humidity and Summer Spikes

Residents should prepare for significant summer humidity and heat given the 68.8°F summer average. Proper attic insulation is key to managing the 20.5°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Marquette County

via SoilByCounty

Fine Sandy Loam Alfisols

These Alfisols feature a pH of 5.80, which is less acidic than the state average of 5.63 but below the national 6.5 median. Fine sandy loam is the characteristic texture found across this landscape.

High Sand for Quick Tilling

With a high sand content of 60.6%, these soils are very light and easy to till for early spring planting. Silt and clay are lower at 20.7% and 8.9%, meaning the soil drains quickly but holds fewer nutrients.

Lower Water Retention Capacity

Organic matter is 5.96%, roughly half the state average of 11.02% but well above the national 2.0% average. The available water capacity of 0.159 in/in is significantly lower than the Wisconsin benchmark of 0.204 in/in.

Well Drained and Rapidly Infiltrating

The soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group B. This is excellent for preventing root rot but means crops may need more frequent irrigation during the peak of summer.

Drought-Tolerant Planting in Zone 5a

Marquette County falls into Zone 5a, making it suitable for a wide range of temperate plants. Focus on drought-tolerant species or install a watering system to keep your home garden lush.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Marquette County

via LawnByCounty

Marquette County’s High Lawn Score

Marquette County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 75.2, making it one of the easiest places in Wisconsin to grow a lawn. The Hardiness Zone 5a climate offers a perfect balance of warmth and cold for traditional turfgrasses.

Excellent Rainfall for Grass Growth

With 36.3 inches of annual precipitation and 2,497 growing degree days, conditions are nearly optimal for vigorous growth. However, the 8 days of extreme heat exceed the state average, so summer irrigation is still a vital part of the routine.

Sandy Loam and Great Drainage

The soil features a well-drained fine sandy loam texture with a high 60.6% sand content. While the pH of 5.80 is slightly below the ideal 6.0, the excellent drainage makes it easy to manage soil health and prevent root rot.

Strong Resilience to Drought

Remarkably, Marquette County had zero weeks in drought over the past year, though 61.9% of the area is currently abnormally dry. This strong track record makes it easier to maintain a lush lawn even when temporary dry patches occur.

Maximize the May to October Window

Seeding is most successful between the May 3rd last frost and the October 5th first frost. Take advantage of the sandy loam by planting Tall Fescue, which utilizes deep roots to stay green during the county's warmer-than-average summers.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marquette County's county score?
Marquette County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 51.7 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 Marquette County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Marquette County ranks #33 among all counties in Wisconsin 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 Marquette County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Marquette County is $2,709, with an effective tax rate of 1.35%. This earns Marquette County a tax score of 19/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Marquette County?
The median household income in Marquette County, Wisconsin is $63,471 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Marquette County earns an income score of 49.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Marquette County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Marquette County scores 51.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #33 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Marquette 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 Marquette 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.