countyscore
42
County Score
Water Quality 86Lawn Care 82.2Income & Jobs 73.4

County Report Card

About Marshall County, Iowa

Below the National Median

Marshall County earns a composite score of 42.0, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This suggests there are significant opportunities for improvement in its overall livability profile.

A Challenging State Ranking

The county's score of 42.0 is substantially lower than the Iowa state average of 55.6. It ranks among the lower tier of Iowa counties in terms of the composite index metrics.

Reliable Resources and Steady Income

The county's brightest spots are its Water Score of 86.0 and an Income Score of 73.4. A median household income of $72,785 provides a decent financial foundation for its residents.

Safety and Environmental Risks

Low scores in Safety (29.7) and Risk (37.5) indicate that the county faces more challenges than its neighbors in these areas. The Tax Score of 12.3 also reflects a relatively high 1.514% effective tax rate.

Best for Industrial Professionals

Marshall County suits individuals who are focused on local employment and steady wages. Prospective residents should consider the higher tax and risk scores when comparing it to other options in central Iowa.

Score breakdown

Tax12.3Cost43Safety29.7Health58.3Schools50.8Income73.4Risk37.5Water86Weather50.4
🏛12.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠43
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡29.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤58.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓50.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡37.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱82.2
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

Story County
Iowa
46.9
Tama County
Iowa
56.6
Grundy County
Iowa
69.1
Hardin County
Iowa
48.1
Jasper County
Iowa
54.1
Poweshiek County
Iowa
46.8
Polk County
Iowa
36.6
Hamilton County
Iowa
57.6

Deep Dives

Marshall County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Marshall County

via TaxByCounty

Marshall's rate exceeds national norm

Marshall County's effective tax rate of 1.514% surpasses the national median of 1.099%, placing it around the 65th percentile across U.S. counties. With a median home value of $134,100 and a median property tax of $2,030, the county imposes a substantial rate on modestly valued properties.

Marshall ranks above state average

At 1.514%, Marshall County's effective rate exceeds Iowa's state average of 1.344%, placing it in the upper tier of taxing counties statewide. The median property tax of $2,030 is 6% below Iowa's average of $2,160, held down by lower median home values.

Marshall moderately taxed regionally

Marshall County's 1.514% rate ranks third-highest among its peer group, behind Linn (1.661%) and Madison (1.554%), but above Lucas (1.480%) and Louisa (1.273%). At $134,100, its median home value is among the lowest in the region, keeping actual tax bills competitive.

What homeowners pay annually

A typical Marshall County homeowner with a median-valued house of $134,100 pays approximately $2,030 per year in property taxes. Those with mortgages face slightly higher bills at $2,143, while those who own outright average $1,923 annually.

You may be paying too much

Marshall County homeowners should review their assessed values carefully. If you believe your property is overassessed relative to current market sales, contact your county assessor about filing a property tax appeal.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Marshall County

via CostByCounty

Marshall's Rents Track with National

Marshall County renters spend 14.2% of their income on rent, essentially at the national average and just above Iowa's state average of 14.1%. With median income of $72,785 and median rent of $860, the county sits right on the border of affordability.

Slightly Above State Average

Marshall County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio edges above Iowa's state average, while median rent of $860 exceeds the state average of $812 by $48. This positions Marshall in the mid-to-upper range of housing costs statewide.

Above Average for the Region

Marshall's $860 median rent ranks fifth among the eight counties, trailing only Linn ($915) and Madison ($938) but beating Lucas and Louisa significantly. Home values of $134,100 are modest, suggesting housing demand isn't driving premium prices.

Housing Consumes More Here

Marshall households earning $72,785 spend $860 on median rent (14.2% of income) or $934 on mortgages (15.4% of income). These ratios represent some of the tighter housing burdens in the region, leaving less discretionary income than neighboring counties.

Marshall Works for Budget-Conscious

If you're relocating to Iowa and prioritize affordability, Marshall County's moderate income and rents work better than Linn or Madison but offer less value than Louisa or Lucas. Visit to assess job markets and community fit, as housing costs alone don't tell the full story.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Marshall County

via IncomeByCounty

Marshall County income slightly below national

Marshall County's median household income of $72,785 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by $1,970. This 2.6% gap places Marshall just below the national benchmark, reflecting economic conditions typical of rural agricultural counties.

Marshall slightly exceeds state average

At $72,785, Marshall County falls $1,949 short of Iowa's state average of $69,830, positioning it slightly above the state midpoint. The county's modest income advantage reflects stable manufacturing and agricultural employment.

Marshall competitive with regional peers

Marshall County's $72,785 income tracks closely with Lyon County ($72,881) and Linn County ($76,421) to its south. Within north-central Iowa, Marshall holds middle ground, outpacing only Lucas County ($67,921) among nearby comparisons.

Housing costs slightly tight here

At 14.2%, Marshall County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Iowa's higher ratios, consuming nearly three weeks of monthly earnings. The median home value of $134,100 is affordable, but tighter housing costs leave less financial flexibility than higher-income counties.

Steady planning supports Marshall wealth

Marshall County households should focus on consistent employment and careful budgeting given tighter housing costs relative to income. Building an emergency fund and pursuing career development that increases earning potential are essential steps toward long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Marshall County

via CrimeByCounty

Marshall County Safer Than National Average

Marshall County reports a total crime rate of 1,675.4 per 100K, staying well below the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county a solid safety score of 97.4.

Trailing Iowa's Safety Benchmarks

Marshall's crime rate exceeds the Iowa state average of 1,095.3 per 100K. This is driven by both property crime and a violent crime rate that is significantly higher than the state mean.

Regional Comparisons Show Active Profile

Marshall County experiences more crime than its smaller neighbor, Tama County, according to data from three reporting agencies. It remains a safer alternative to Iowa's largest metro areas but faces more local pressure than rural neighbors.

Elevated Violent Crime Rates

The violent crime rate is 459.4 per 100K, which is higher than the national average of 369.8. Property crime is lower than the national average but remains the primary local concern at 1,216.0 incidents per 100K.

Enhanced Security for Homeowners

Since both violent and property crime rates are elevated relative to the state, home security systems are a wise investment. Staying alert and locking all windows and doors provides an essential first line of defense.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Marshall County

via HealthByCounty

Marshall County faces serious health gaps

At 74.9 years, Marshall County residents live 1.5 years less than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. The county's 18.5% poor/fair health rate significantly exceeds the national average of 16.8%. Marshall County grapples with above-average health challenges across multiple measures.

Among Iowa's lowest life expectancies

Marshall County's 74.9-year life expectancy ranks among the lowest in Iowa, trailing the state average of 77.7 by nearly three years. The county's 18.5% poor/fair health rate runs well above Iowa's average. Marshall County's residents face significantly worse health outcomes than typical Iowans.

Moderate primary care, strong mental health

Marshall County has 43 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—a moderate supply—but 227 mental health providers per 100,000, the highest among all its neighbors. This imbalance suggests the county has invested in behavioral health but may struggle with primary care capacity. The mental health investment hints at substantial community mental health needs.

Coverage gaps compound access problems

At 6.9% uninsured, Marshall County ties with Louisa for the highest uninsured rate in this county set, exceeding Iowa's 5.7% average. With just 43 primary care providers per 100,000, many residents face both coverage and access barriers. Marshall County's health crisis stems from multiple system failures.

Marshall County needs coverage now

Nearly 1 in 14 Marshall County residents lack health insurance—the highest rate in this region. Visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 immediately to find coverage options. With 227 mental health providers per 100,000, the county recognizes behavioral health needs—now ensure you're covered to access those services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Marshall County

via SchoolsByCounty

Robust Infrastructure in Marshall

Marshall County operates 17 public schools across 3 districts, providing education to 7,028 students. The system includes 9 elementary, 4 middle, and 3 high schools, along with one alternative learning center. This sizable network makes it one of the more significant educational hubs in central Iowa.

Competitive Graduation in a Town Setting

The graduation rate in Marshall County is 91.7%, comfortably beating the national average of 87.0%. Local schools operate with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,022, which is lower than the Iowa state average of $7,591. While the school score is 54.5, it remains competitive with national medians.

Marshalltown's Major Educational Impact

The Marshalltown Community School District is the county's largest by far, serving 5,078 students in 10 schools. West Marshall and East Marshall districts serve the remaining population with 970 and 713 students respectively. No charter schools exist in the county, keeping the focus on its three core public districts.

A Vibrant Mix of Town and Rural Locales

The county features 10 schools in town settings and 7 in rural areas, offering diverse environments for students. Marshalltown High School is a major regional campus with 1,582 students, while the overall average school size is 413. This scale allows for a wide range of extracurriculars and specialized academic programs.

Your Future in Marshall County

For families looking for a mix of town amenities and solid school performance, Marshall County is a strong contender. Real estate in the Marshalltown or West Marshall districts offers direct access to these established educational programs. Find a home today in a community that values its students.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Marshall County

via RiskByCounty

Marshall County faces elevated risk profile

Marshall County's composite risk score of 62.47 exceeds Iowa's state average of 39.68 by 57 percent, placing it in the relatively low risk category but well above typical. This elevated positioning reflects significant exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly tornadoes and flooding.

Second-highest risk county in Iowa

Marshall County ranks as Iowa's second-most hazard-prone county, exceeded only by Linn County's exceptional risk profile. This elevated standing places Marshall among the state's most disaster-vulnerable areas and warrants heightened preparedness.

Dramatically riskier than surrounding counties

Marshall's 62.47 score towers above neighboring Linn County (86.70) and dramatically outpaces Marion County (34.35) and other surrounding counties. This concentration of risk is driven by the county's position in Iowa's tornado belt and its exposure to the Cedar and Iowa river systems.

Tornadoes and floods your major concerns

Tornado risk at 82.67 is your most serious threat—nearly 50 percent above state average—making spring severe weather season particularly hazardous. Flood risk of 63.10 comes close behind, with river and creek systems posing regular inundation threats during high-water periods.

Comprehensive coverage is essential here

Your elevated risk profile demands robust homeowners insurance with wind and hail coverage for tornado protection. Strongly consider separate flood insurance if you're within 500 feet of the Cedar River, Iowa River, or other flood-prone waterways; standard policies exclude flood damage entirely.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Marshall County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler and temperate year-round

Marshall County's 47.7°F average temperature is cooler than the national median. Its position in central Iowa results in a classic continental climate with no dry season.

Slightly cooler than the state

Marshall County sits just below the Iowa average temperature of 48.0°F. Its annual precipitation of 35.9 inches also falls just shy of the state average of 36.1 inches.

Fewer extreme heat days

With only 13 days above 90°F, Marshall is milder in the summer than neighbors like Linn or Marion. It is also drier than Linn County, receiving about 1.2 inches less rain each year.

Predictable snow and mild summers

The county receives 26.5 inches of snow annually, paired with a 22.0°F winter average. Summer is moderate, with a July average of 72.8°F and relatively few extreme heat days.

Stable climate with winter needs

The 26.5 inches of snow requires standard removal equipment, though it is less than some eastern neighbors. Efficient heating is necessary for the January average of 18.5°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Marshall County

via SoilByCounty

Prairie 'Black Gold' in Marshall County

Marshall County features Mollisols—the iconic 'black gold' of the prairie—with a pH of 6.43 that perfectly matches the Iowa state average. This loam texture is highly sought after for its natural fertility and balanced chemical profile.

The Goldilocks of Soil Composition

A balanced blend of 50.2% silt, 26.0% sand, and 23.8% clay makes this soil exceptionally workable and productive. This mix provides enough clay for nutrients, enough silt for water, and enough sand for drainage.

Reliable Water and Organic Matter

Organic matter measures 3.22%, which is lower than the state average but remains very healthy compared to national figures. The available water capacity of 0.185 inches per inch ensures a steady supply of moisture for thirsty crops.

Excellent Infiltration and Low Runoff

The soil is moderately well-drained and carries a hydrologic group B rating, indicating good infiltration and low runoff. This makes Marshall County's land versatile for everything from high-yield corn to residential development.

A Prime Spot for Heirloom Crops

Sitting in hardiness zone 5a, this county is a prime location for heirloom tomatoes and cool-weather crops like broccoli. Take advantage of some of the state's most iconic soil and start your growing project today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Marshall County

via LawnByCounty

High Ease of Growth in Marshall

Marshall County earns a stellar 82.2 lawn difficulty score, making it easier to grow grass here than in most of the state. Its Zone 5a climate is ideal for cool-season turfs that prefer moderate temperatures over intense heat.

Cooler Summers, Steady Growth

The county only averages 13 extreme heat days, significantly lower than the state average of 16. Combined with 35.9 inches of rain, this cooler profile helps lawns stay green longer into the summer months.

Reliable Moderately Drained Loam

A 6.43 pH and moderately well-drained loam soil create a nearly perfect medium for grass. With 23.8% clay and 26.0% sand, the soil offers both the drainage needed for health and the density needed for nutrient storage.

Healthy Moisture Levels

The county spent only 6 weeks in drought over the last year and currently has only 2.9% of its area listed as abnormally dry. These statistics make Marshall County one of the most drought-resilient areas in the region.

Ideal Late-Spring Seeding

Start your lawn project after the April 30 frost to take advantage of the 2,908 growing degree days. Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive in these moderately drained soils and benefit from the early October fall frost timeline.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marshall County's county score?
Marshall County, Iowa has a composite county score of 42 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 Marshall County rank among counties in Iowa?
Marshall County ranks #88 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 Marshall County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Marshall County is $2,030, with an effective tax rate of 1.51%. This earns Marshall County a tax score of 12.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Marshall County?
The median household income in Marshall County, Iowa is $72,785 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Marshall County earns an income score of 73.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Marshall County, Iowa a good place to live?
Marshall County scores 42/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #88 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Marshall 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 Marshall 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.