countyscore
57.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 90.9Cost of Living 90Safety 81.3

County Report Card

About Menominee County, Wisconsin

Menominee Ranks Among the Best

With a 57.5 composite score, Menominee County far exceeds the national median of 50.0. It is one of the highest-rated counties in the region for specific livability traits.

Top-Tier Wisconsin Livability

Menominee's 57.5 score is significantly higher than the Wisconsin average of 50.3. It offers some of the best value and safety metrics in the entire state.

Incredible Affordability and Safety

The county boasts a 90.0 cost score and a 90.9 risk score. Median home values are exceptionally low at $97,000, while safety remains high at 81.3.

Extreme Taxes and Healthcare Gaps

The 3.636% tax rate is very high, resulting in a 0.0 tax score. Health services also need improvement with a score of 36.9, and water data remains unavailable.

A Haven for Low-Cost Living

Menominee is perfect for those who want the lowest housing costs and highest safety in the state. It is a unique destination for residents who value community security over low tax rates.

Score breakdown

Tax0Cost90Safety81.3Health36.9Schools59.5Income37.6Risk90.9WaterComing SoonWeather49.9
🏛0
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠90
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼37.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡81.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤36.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓59.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡90.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨70.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.5
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

Shawano County
Wisconsin
53.2
Langlade County
Wisconsin
54.7
Oconto County
Wisconsin
56.1
Waupaca County
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Outagamie County
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Brown County
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Marinette County
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Forest County
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Deep Dives

Menominee County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Menominee County

via TaxByCounty

Menominee's taxes are exceptionally high

Menominee County's effective tax rate of 3.636% is triple the national median of 1.209%, placing it among the most heavily taxed counties in America. At $3,527 in median annual property tax, Menominee residents pay 31% above the national median of $2,690, on homes valued far below average at $97,000.

By far Wisconsin's highest tax burden

Menominee ranks dramatically above all other Wisconsin counties at an effective tax rate of 3.636%, more than 2.5 times the state average of 1.436%. The median property tax of $3,527 exceeds Wisconsin's state median by 14%, making Menominee an extreme outlier in the state.

Regional tax outlier with unique status

Menominee's 3.636% rate dwarfs all eight-county neighbors, with the next-highest being Marathon County at 1.512%. This exceptional rate reflects Menominee's unique status as a trust land county with distinct governance and revenue structures.

Menominee homes carry steep tax burden

On a median home value of $97,000, Menominee County homeowners pay approximately $3,527 in annual property taxes. With mortgage escrow, that jumps significantly to $4,476 due to additional county fees and assessments.

Challenge assessments carefully

Given Menominee's exceptionally high effective tax rate, homeowners should thoroughly review their individual property assessments for accuracy. While systemic factors drive county-wide rates, individual assessment errors may still exist and could be successfully appealed through local channels.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Menominee County

via CostByCounty

Menominee achieves exceptional affordability

Menominee County renters spend just 12.6% of their $59,528 median household income on $624 monthly rent, beating both Wisconsin's state average of 14.9% and the national affordability benchmark by a significant margin. This county offers some of the Midwest's most accessible rental housing.

Wisconsin's most affordable county

Menominee's 12.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks at or near the top of all Wisconsin counties, a remarkable achievement given its below-average household incomes and lowest median rents statewide. Menominee delivers exceptional value despite economic modesty.

Lowest rent and lowest ratio in region

Menominee's $624 rent undercuts all neighbors by $100+, and its 12.6% ratio beats every regional peer, including Lincoln (13.6%) and Marinette (14.2%). No other county in this cluster approaches Menominee's affordability advantage.

Renters and owners both get deals

Renters allocate just $624 monthly (12.6%), while homeowners pay $586 monthly—an extraordinary 11.8% of income—for median homes valued at $97,000, the lowest in Wisconsin. Menominee offers rock-bottom housing costs across both tenure types.

Menominee: Wisconsin's affordability champion

If housing costs matter most, Menominee is unbeatable: $624 rent, $97K homes, and a 12.6% affordability ratio that beats every Wisconsin county. Compare Menominee's exceptional value against higher-cost neighbors if you're relocating and budget is the priority.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Menominee County

via IncomeByCounty

Menominee significantly lags national median

Menominee County's median household income of $59,528 trails the national median of $74,755 by 20.3%, reflecting one of Wisconsin's lowest county-level incomes. The per-capita income of $22,834 is dramatically below the state average of $38,794, indicating severe income inequality within households.

Wisconsin's lowest-earning county group

At $59,528, Menominee ranks among Wisconsin's lowest-earning counties, falling $12,187 below the state median of $71,715. The county faces structural economic challenges tied to tribal sovereignty, limited employment diversity, and reliance on gaming and government employment.

Significant income gap with region

Menominee's $59,528 median is the lowest among all regional peers, trailing Marathon ($76,185) by $16,657 and even Marinette ($63,401) by $3,873. The disparity reflects Menominee's unique tribal governance structure and distinct economic base.

Housing remarkably affordable despite low income

Menominee's 12.6% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in the region and well below the 15% threshold, providing strong housing affordability. The median home value of $97,000 is less than half the regional average, making homeownership financially accessible despite modest earnings.

Maximize tribal benefits and savings programs

Menominee's median income of $59,528 and low housing costs create an opportunity to build wealth through aggressive savings and tribal economic programs. Investigate tribal business enterprises, employee stock ownership plans, and community development financial institutions designed to support Menominee Nation members' long-term financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Menominee County

via CrimeByCounty

Menominee County Reports Elite Safety Levels

Menominee County shows a total crime rate of only 444.0 per 100,000 residents, more than five times lower than the national average. This results in a safety score of 99.3, though data comes from a single reporting agency. This limited reporting means the figures should be interpreted with some caution.

Leading Wisconsin in Reported Safety Scores

The county's safety score of 99.3 is significantly higher than the Wisconsin state average of 98.3. Based on the 2022 reporting, it stands as one of the safest counties in the entire state. However, the presence of only one reporting agency may influence how these numbers compare to others.

Crime Rates Well Below the State Average

Menominee's crime rate of 444.0 is far lower than the Wisconsin average of 1,103.1 per 100,000 people. This low rate is consistent with its rural profile and community-centered approach to safety. While reporting is limited, the available data is highly favorable.

Very Few Violent and Property Incidents

Violent crime is remarkably low at 46.7 per 100,000, while property crime is reported at 397.3. Both figures are just a small fraction of national averages, suggesting a very secure local environment. Residents face significantly less risk than the average American.

Promoting Safety Awareness at Home

In single-agency counties, community reporting is even more critical for accurate data and safety. Basic home security measures like outdoor lighting can help deter property crimes. Staying engaged with your local community helps maintain these exceptionally high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Menominee County

via HealthByCounty

Menominee's health crisis demands urgent action

Menominee County's 63.0-year life expectancy represents a profound public health crisis, nearly 16 years below the US national average of 78.9 years. The county's 25.5% poor/fair health rate—far exceeding the national 18%—reflects severe and widespread health disparities rooted in socioeconomic, environmental, and historical factors.

Wisconsin's lowest life expectancy by far

Menominee County's 63.0-year life expectancy is the lowest in Wisconsin by a staggering 14.8 years compared to the state average of 77.8 years. This extraordinary gap signals entrenched health inequities requiring sustained, comprehensive intervention across housing, food access, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

Crisis outpacing even struggling peers

Menominee's 63.0-year life expectancy is 11 years lower than Marquette County (74.9 years), the next-lowest in the region, and far below all other neighboring counties. Despite having 93 primary care providers and 331 mental health providers per 100K—the highest in the region—the county's health outcomes remain catastrophically poor, indicating that provider numbers alone cannot resolve systemic underlying causes.

Excellent coverage masking deeper crises

Menominee County's 3.9% uninsured rate is the lowest in Wisconsin, yet this positive metric starkly contrasts with life expectancy 16 years below the national average. The mismatch reveals that insurance coverage, while necessary, cannot alone address poverty, substance abuse, trauma, environmental hazards, and limited economic mobility driving the county's health emergency.

Coverage is just the first step

Every Menominee County resident should ensure continuous coverage through BadgerCare, tribal health programs, or other public options. Beyond insurance, residents and leaders must demand investment in prevention, mental health services, economic development, and addressing the historical and ongoing inequities that shape health in this community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Menominee County

via SchoolsByCounty

Unified Community Schools

Menominee County operates a specialized school system with four public schools serving 987 students. Managed by a single district, the system includes two elementary, one middle, and one high school. This structure provides a consistent educational journey for students within the community.

High Investment and Competitive Scores

The graduation rate stands at 87.0%, exactly matching the national average. The county invests heavily in its students, with a per-pupil expenditure of $9,827, which is much higher than the Wisconsin state average. This investment yields a strong school score of 58.1, outperforming both the state and national medians.

The Menominee Indian School District

The Menominee Indian School District manages all education in the county, serving 987 students. One of the four schools is a charter, representing 25% of the county's educational options. This unique mix ensures that tribal and community priorities are integrated into the curriculum.

A Rural and Focused Learning Environment

All schools in the county are located in rural locales, providing a quiet and focused atmosphere for learning. Keshena Primary is the largest school with 429 students, while the Kaehkenawapahtaeq charter is very small with only 30 students. The average school size of 247 ensures that students remain part of a close-knit community.

Join a High-Investment School District

Menominee County is an ideal location for those who value high per-pupil spending and a unified school community. With a school score that beats state averages, the local district is committed to student growth and success. Look for a home in this culturally rich and academically strong area.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Menominee County

via RiskByCounty

Menominee County is exceptionally safe

Menominee County's composite risk score of just 9.13 represents the lowest exposure in this Wisconsin county group and well below the national average. With a "Very Low" rating, the county faces minimal threat from most natural disaster hazards.

Wisconsin's safest natural disaster zone

At 9.13, Menominee County ranks as one of Wisconsin's lowest-risk counties, dramatically below the state average of 59.08. The county stands apart statewide for its exceptional natural disaster resilience.

Far safer than all surrounding counties

Menominee County's 9.13 score vastly outperforms all neighboring regions, including Marinette County (80.03) and Shawano County. This exceptional safety profile reflects the county's minimal exposure across virtually all hazard categories.

Tornado risk stands above others

Tornado risk of 21.47 represents Menominee County's only noteworthy hazard exposure, though even this ranks modestly compared to statewide tornado risk. Flood risk (7.41), wildfire risk (3.09), earthquake risk (1.21), and hurricane risk (0.00) are all minimal.

Basic coverage meets your needs

Menominee County residents benefit from exceptionally low disaster risk, making standard homeowners insurance with routine wind coverage adequate protection. The county's minimal hazard exposure means residents can focus insurance spending on coverage depth rather than specialized add-ons.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Menominee County

via SoilByCounty

Strongly Acidic Forest Soils

Soils here are highly acidic with a pH of 5.07, well below the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 5.63. While taxonomic data is limited, the chemical profile reflects the county's deep forest heritage.

Organic-Driven Soil Structure

The soil is composed of 32.3% sand and 15.9% silt, with a very low clay fraction of only 3.9%. This unique physical profile is heavily influenced by organic components rather than mineral sediments.

Unmatched Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter is a staggering 40.01%, the highest in the region and far beyond the state average of 11.02%. This massive organic load drives a superior available water capacity of 0.361 in/in.

High-Capacity Water Retention

While specific drainage classes aren't listed, the extreme organic content suggests a sponge-like soil. It holds vast amounts of moisture, which is excellent for native trees but can be challenging for heavy construction.

A Goldmine for Zone 5a Gardeners

In Zone 5a, the 70.4 soil score indicates high productivity potential. The rich organic matter is a goldmine for your garden; just select plants that can handle acidic and moist conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Menominee County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growth in Menominee County

Menominee County has a lawn difficulty score of 56.5, placing it in the middle tier for Wisconsin maintenance. As a Hardiness Zone 5a region, it supports a variety of cool-season grasses that can withstand typical northern winters.

Moderate Temps and Steady Rain

The county receives 33.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is just below the state average of 34.5 inches. With 5 days of extreme heat, your lawn will generally stay cool enough to avoid the worst of summer dormancy.

Acidic Soil with Low Clay

The soil pH of 5.07 is quite acidic, meaning the lawn may struggle to absorb nitrogen without soil amendments. The very low clay content of 3.9% means the soil lacks a natural nutrient reservoir, requiring a more consistent fertilization schedule.

Monitoring Abnormal Dryness

Menominee is currently 100% abnormally dry and has seen 21 weeks of drought conditions in the past year. Without specific drainage data, it is best to watch for soil cracking or grass curling as early indicators that your lawn needs a deep soak.

Adapting to Local Soil Needs

While local frost dates are not precisely recorded, following regional 5a patterns suggests starting your lawn projects in late May. Focus on acid-tolerant grass varieties and use organic mulches to compensate for the low clay and high acidity in the soil.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Menominee County's county score?
Menominee County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 57.5 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 Menominee County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Menominee County ranks #10 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 Menominee County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Menominee County is $3,527, with an effective tax rate of 3.64%. This earns Menominee County a tax score of 0/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Menominee County?
The median household income in Menominee County, Wisconsin is $59,528 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Menominee County earns an income score of 37.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Menominee County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Menominee County scores 57.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Menominee 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 Menominee 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.