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McIntosh County, North Dakota — County Report Card

ND

#32 in North Dakota

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
60.7
County Score
Cost of Living 96.1Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 64.8

County Report Card

About McIntosh County, North Dakota

McIntosh County sits above national averages

McIntosh County earns a composite score of 60.7, ten points higher than the national median of 50.0. It offers a solid baseline of livability for those seeking a rural lifestyle.

Matching the North Dakota standard

The county's overall score of 60.7 is nearly identical to the state average of 61.5. It represents a typical, high-functioning North Dakota community.

Unbeatable affordability and clean water

With a cost score of 96.1, McIntosh is exceptionally affordable, featuring a median gross rent of just $600. The water score of 86.0 also indicates very high resource quality.

Tax burden and school investments

The tax score of 32.5 reflects a higher effective tax rate of 1.080% compared to neighboring areas. Schools also present an area for growth with a dimension score of 44.6.

The verdict: A haven for retirees

McIntosh County is perfect for retirees or remote workers who prioritize low housing costs and reliable water quality. The modest median home value of $80,300 makes homeownership very accessible.

Score breakdown

Tax32.5Cost96.1Safety58.8Health61.4Schools44.6Income51.2Risk64.8Water86Weather41.4
🏛32.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠96.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡58.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤61.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓44.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤41.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱57.6
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

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Deep Dives

McIntosh County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in McIntosh County

via TaxByCounty

McIntosh taxes still well below U.S. typical

McIntosh County's effective rate of 1.080% is still below the national median of 1.1%, placing it near the middle-to-lower tier nationally. The median property tax is $867 annually, less than a third of the national median of $2,690.

McIntosh ranks above state average

At 1.080%, McIntosh County's effective rate exceeds North Dakota's state average of 0.885%, putting it in the higher half of the state's counties. The median property tax of $867 is still below the statewide median of $1,460.

Higher rate than most neighbors

McIntosh County's 1.080% effective rate is notably higher than McKenzie County (0.412%), Mountrail County (0.527%), and McHenry County (0.663%). Only Mercer County (1.071%) matches McIntosh's tax burden in the eight-county region.

Your estimated annual property tax

On McIntosh's median home value of $80,300, you'll pay approximately $867 annually in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages should budget $1,207, while outright owners pay closer to $707.

Could your assessment be wrong?

Many North Dakota homeowners discover their property is overassessed during appeal windows. If you believe your home's valuation is inaccurate, filing a tax assessment appeal could reduce your annual bill—often with minimal paperwork and no filing fee.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McIntosh County

via CostByCounty

McIntosh County offers exceptional rental affordability

McIntosh County's 11.2% rent-to-income ratio beats both the national standard and the North Dakota state average of 12.8%, delivering measurably cheaper housing relative to income. At $600 monthly rent against the national median household income of $74,755, renters here enjoy the lowest cost base among comparison counties.

McIntosh ranks among ND's most affordable options

With an 11.2% rent-to-income ratio and a median rent of just $600—a full 22% below the state average of $770—McIntosh County stands out as a affordability leader. The county consistently undercuts state-level housing costs while maintaining solid household income of $64,236.

McIntosh wins on cost among rural peers

McIntosh County's $600 median rent is the lowest among all comparison counties, 19% cheaper than McHenry County's $737 and 48% below McKenzie County's $1,153. Its 11.2% rent-to-income ratio ties McHenry for the best affordability in this cluster.

Most income remains after housing in McIntosh

Renters pay $600 monthly while homeowners pay just $489, the lowest owner cost across all comparison counties, freeing up substantial household resources. On a median income of $64,236, just 11.2% goes to rent, leaving nearly 89% available for other expenses.

McIntosh delivers the lowest housing costs

Relocating to North Dakota? McIntosh County offers the most aggressive housing cost advantage in this county group, with rents and owner costs significantly below peers. Its combination of low housing expenses and 11.2% rent-to-income ratio makes it ideal for budget-conscious movers.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McIntosh County

via IncomeByCounty

McIntosh falls below national average

McIntosh County's median household income of $64,236 lags the national median of $74,755 by $10,519, or about 14%. The county faces income headwinds compared to the typical American household.

Below-average earnings for North Dakota

McIntosh ranks among North Dakota's lower-income counties at $64,236, falling $8,301 short of the state average of $72,537. This positions the county in the lower third of statewide earnings.

Struggling among regional peers

McIntosh's $64,236 is the lowest income among its neighboring counties—nearly $24,000 behind McKenzie County's $88,289 and $16,000 below McLean County's $81,847. Only Nelson County approaches similar income levels in the region.

Housing costs remain manageable

McIntosh households spend 11.2% of their income on rent, staying comfortably below the 30% affordability guideline. The low median home value of $80,300 further signals that housing is one of the county's affordable advantages.

Maximize modest earnings strategically

With below-average household income, every dollar counts for McIntosh families. Prioritize building an emergency fund first, then explore low-cost investment options like employer retirement plans or automatic savings programs to grow wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McIntosh County

via CrimeByCounty

McIntosh County Far Safer Than National Average

McIntosh County earns a safety score of 98.5, which aligns with North Dakota's high standards. Its total crime rate of 949.0 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This performance highlights the county's relative security on the national stage.

Matching the State Average for Safety

The county's safety score of 98.5 matches the North Dakota average exactly. Its total crime rate of 949.0 per 100K is also slightly better than the state average of 976.6. Two reporting agencies provide a consistent and reliable look at local public safety.

Consistent Performance Among Neighbors

McIntosh County's rate of 949.0 per 100K is notably higher than Nelson County's 595.1. However, it maintains a much lower violent crime rate of 79.1 compared to McHenry's 169.0. This balance places McIntosh comfortably within the range of its North Dakota peers.

A Closer Look at Local Incidents

Violent crime is very rare here, occurring at a rate of just 79.1 per 100K compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime makes up nearly all reported incidents at 869.9 per 100K, though this remains far below the national average of 2,015.7. These numbers suggest a community where personal safety is a high priority.

Simple Habits Keep McIntosh Secure

Maintaining a secure home starts with simple habits like locking all entry points and garages. Even in high-safety areas, basic home security provides an extra layer of defense against property theft. Staying informed about local activity helps keep the county secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in McIntosh County

via HealthByCounty

McIntosh life expectancy trails US benchmark

At 76.0 years, McIntosh County falls short of the US average of 76.4 years by less than half a year. However, 17.0% reporting poor or fair health exceeds the national average of 18%, signaling modest health concerns across the population.

Below state average on multiple health metrics

McIntosh's 76.0-year life expectancy lags North Dakota's 77.5-year average, ranking the county in the lower half statewide. The 17.0% poor/fair health rate also exceeds the state pattern, suggesting residents face more health challenges than typical North Dakota peers.

Lower life expectancy than surrounding counties

McIntosh's 76.0 years falls below McHenry (76.1) and McLean (76.8), placing it among the lower-performing neighbors. Its 8.2% uninsured rate is higher than McHenry's 5.5% but close to the state average of 7.5%.

Provider access available; uninsured rate rising

McIntosh has 80 primary care providers and 40 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, offering solid access to care. Yet 8.2% remain uninsured, slightly above the state average, leaving roughly 1 in 12 residents without coverage protections.

One in twelve McIntosh residents lacks coverage

With 8.2% uninsured, McIntosh has room to improve coverage rates—and healthcare.gov makes enrollment simple. Reach out to the county health department or a local navigator to explore plans; coverage can start as soon as next month.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in McIntosh County

via SchoolsByCounty

Close-Knit Education Across Three Local Districts

McIntosh County manages a small, focused educational system consisting of 6 public schools and 405 total students. Three districts oversee these facilities, which include three elementary and three high schools. This balanced structure supports students from their first day of kindergarten through high school graduation.

Steady Investment in Small Student Cohorts

The county spends $9,756 per pupil, which is higher than the North Dakota average of $9,385 but below the national average of $13,000. McIntosh faces challenges with a 75.0% graduation rate, trailing the state's 84.8% average. However, its composite school score of 51.6 remains competitive with the national median of 50.0.

Wishek 19 and Ashley 9 Drive Enrollment

Wishek 19 is the county's largest district, serving 234 students across two schools. Ashley 9 follows closely, educating 142 students in its elementary and high school facilities. No charter schools operate within the county, meaning education remains centered around these established community districts.

Small-Town Schools with Deep Roots

Education here feels personal, with an average school size of only 68 students across entirely rural locales. Wishek Elementary is the largest school with 142 students, while Zeeland High School provides an incredibly small environment with just 15 students. These tiny cohorts ensure that no student gets lost in the crowd.

Discover a Quiet Pace of Life

If you value a community where everyone knows your name, McIntosh County's school districts offer a welcoming environment for families. Explore homes near Wishek and Ashley to enjoy the benefits of small-town North Dakota living. School quality remains a vital consideration for families seeking a grounded upbringing for their children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McIntosh County

via RiskByCounty

McIntosh sits below national disaster risk

McIntosh County's composite risk score of 35.21 puts it in the Very Low category, indicating substantially safer conditions than the typical U.S. county. While higher than its northwestern neighbors, McIntosh remains well-protected from severe multi-hazard exposure.

McIntosh ranks mid-tier for North Dakota

With a score of 35.21 versus North Dakota's state average of 22.19, McIntosh carries above-average risk for the state but still earns a Very Low rating. It ranks in the middle band of North Dakota counties when sorted by composite risk.

Higher risk than nearby McHenry County

McIntosh's score of 35.21 exceeds McHenry County (11.74) and Mercer County (13.87), but falls below McLean County (43.10) in the region. This positions McIntosh as moderately exposed compared to its immediate neighbors.

Wildfire dominates; tornadoes secondary

Wildfire risk reaches 70.77 in McIntosh, representing the county's most significant hazard by a wide margin. Tornado risk is substantially lower at 25.57, while flood and earthquake threats remain minimal.

Focus on wildfire and emergency plans

Ensure your homeowners insurance includes wildfire coverage and create a family evacuation plan given the county's high fire exposure. Keep emergency supplies accessible and stay informed through local emergency alerts during fire season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in McIntosh County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Cold Continental Climate

McIntosh County has an annual average temperature of 41.3°F, significantly lower than the national median. This reflects a humid continental climate where temperatures fluctuate dramatically between extremes.

Slightly Warmer than the State Average

The county's 41.3°F average temperature sits just above the North Dakota state average of 41.0°F. It ranks in the middle tier of counties for warmth across the state.

Higher Precipitation than Western Neighbors

With 20.7 inches of annual precipitation, McIntosh is wetter than the state average of 19.5 inches. This makes it significantly more humid than neighboring McKenzie, which sees only 17.0 inches.

Harsh Winters and Brief Summer Heat

January temperatures average a frigid 10.9°F, and the county receives 42.4 inches of annual snowfall. Summers are mild, though the area still sees about 12 days a year where temperatures exceed 90°F.

Prepare for Deep Snow and Cold

Residents must maintain high-efficiency heating systems to handle winter averages of 14.2°F. Snow removal equipment is a necessity to manage the 42.4 inches of annual accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McIntosh County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Ground in McIntosh County

McIntosh County maintains a balanced pH of 7.01, which is more neutral than the state average of 7.18. This level provides a hospitable environment for a wide range of plants compared to the more acidic 6.5 national median.

Balanced Texture for Steady Work

The soil profile consists of 41.1% sand, 37.3% silt, and 21.6% clay. This relatively even distribution creates a workable medium that retains moisture better than sandier neighboring regions.

Consistent Water for Local Plants

At 3.48%, organic matter exceeds the national average of 2.0% but falls short of the North Dakota state benchmark. However, the available water capacity hits 0.186 in/in, matching the state average exactly for reliable growing potential.

Reliable Moisture and Soil Stability

While specific hydrologic groups are not listed in local data, the 21.6% clay content suggests moderate moisture retention. Builders and farmers should expect steady drainage that supports both stable foundations and healthy root systems.

Thriving in the 4a Climate

The Zone 4a climate is perfect for short-season crops and cool-weather vegetables like kale and potatoes. Start your garden today to take advantage of the county's consistent water-holding capacity and balanced soil score.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McIntosh County

via LawnByCounty

Easier Growing Conditions in McIntosh

McIntosh County earns a lawn difficulty score of 57.6, making it easier to maintain a yard here than in the average North Dakota county. Located in Hardiness Zone 4a, the area offers a better environment for grass than the national median score of 50.0.

Higher Precipitation Boosts Turf Health

At 20.7 inches of annual precipitation, this county is wetter than the state average of 19.5 inches. Moderate heat exposure with only 12 days above 90°F allows for a steady mowing schedule across the 2,090 growing degree days.

Balanced Soil for Better Growth

The soil pH of 7.01 is almost perfectly neutral, providing an ideal environment for grass roots to absorb nutrients. With a composition of 41.1% sand and 21.6% clay, the soil retains moisture effectively while still allowing for necessary drainage.

Strong Resilience to Dry Spells

This county faced only 7 weeks of drought in the past year, which is significantly lower than many neighboring regions. Currently, 0.0% of the county is in drought, but maintaining a taller mow height can still help protect the soil surface from evaporation.

Harness the Neutral Soil

Cold-hardy species like Perennial Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive in this neutral soil. Aim to establish your lawn between the typical last frost on May 13 and the first fall frost on September 28 for the best results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McIntosh County's county score?
McIntosh County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 60.7 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 McIntosh County rank among counties in North Dakota?
McIntosh County ranks #32 among all counties in North Dakota 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 McIntosh County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in McIntosh County is $867, with an effective tax rate of 1.08%. This earns McIntosh County a tax score of 32.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McIntosh County?
The median household income in McIntosh County, North Dakota is $64,236 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McIntosh County earns an income score of 51.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is McIntosh County, North Dakota a good place to live?
McIntosh County scores 60.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate McIntosh 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 McIntosh County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.