countyscore
72.7
County Score
Safety 87.2Water Quality 86Health 81.7

County Report Card

About Murray County, Minnesota

Murray County Reaches Elite National Standing

Boasting a composite score of 72.7, Murray County far exceeds the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the top tier of all counties in the United States for overall livability.

Outperforming the High Minnesota Standard

Murray County shines in the state, beating the Minnesota average of 55.8 by nearly 17 points. It stands out as one of the premier living destinations in the entire Midwest.

Superior Safety and Low Risk

The county excels with a safety score of 87.2 and a water quality score of 86.0. It also shows incredible resilience with a risk score of 80.2, indicating very low vulnerability to environmental hazards.

Relative Weakness in Tax Burden

While Murray scores high overall, its tax score of 56.1 is its lowest dimension. However, an effective tax rate of 0.765% remains very competitive compared to national figures.

The Ultimate Safe Haven for Families

Murray County is perfect for families seeking safety, high-quality schools, and environmental peace. Its combination of high incomes and affordable $768 median rent makes it a rare find.

Score breakdown

Tax56.1Cost60.8Safety87.2Health81.7Schools76.5Income76.5Risk80.2Water86Weather45.9
🏛56.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠60.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼76.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡87.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤81.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓76.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡80.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.1
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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Counties with similar scores

Rockcastle County
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Jackson County
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Lac qui Parle County
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Burke County
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Fallon County
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Nearby counties

Pipestone County
Minnesota
66.9
Nobles County
Minnesota
50.4
Lyon County
Minnesota
64.5
Cottonwood County
Minnesota
63.2
Rock County
Minnesota
70.7
Lincoln County
Minnesota
69.3
Redwood County
Minnesota
62.9
Moody County
South Dakota
50.5

Deep Dives

Murray County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Murray County

via TaxByCounty

Murray County offers lowest tax rates

Murray County's effective tax rate of 0.765% is among the lowest in the nation, well below the national median and protecting homeowners from heavy property tax burdens. With a median tax bill of just $1,373, Murray residents pay less than half what typical U.S. homeowners fork over annually.

Minnesota's most tax-friendly county

Murray County's 0.765% rate ranks it in the bottom tier statewide—the most favorable in Minnesota relative to the state average of 0.968%. The county's median tax of $1,373 is the lowest among the eight-county comparison group.

Clear winner in the neighborhood

Murray County's 0.765% rate beats all neighbors: Nobles County (0.934%), Norman County (0.988%), and Mower County (1.058%). No adjacent county comes close to matching Murray's tax efficiency for homeowners.

What Murray homeowners actually pay

A median Murray County home valued at $179,400 incurs an annual tax of approximately $1,373. Interestingly, renters who own outright pay slightly less ($1,243) than those with mortgages ($1,485), a reversal reflecting property classification nuances.

Already low, but verify your assessment

Even in tax-friendly Murray County, overassessments happen and cost homeowners money. Filing an appeal is free and takes minimal effort—potentially saving you hundreds even at the county's already-low rate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Murray County

via CostByCounty

Murray punches above its weight nationwide

Murray County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in this eight-county dataset at just 12.4%, meaning renters here keep more income in their pockets than typical Americans or Minnesotans. With a median household income of $74,475—nearly matching the national $74,755 median—this county delivers the rare combination of fair pay and genuinely affordable housing.

Minnesota's affordability champion here

At 12.4%, Murray County's rent-to-income ratio is the best-performing among all eight counties profiled, significantly outpacing Minnesota's 14.5% state average. Renters here spend roughly $768 monthly—$147 below the state average—while earning household incomes that align with the state median.

Clear affordability leader in the region

Murray County's $768 rent and 12.4% burden ratio beat all neighboring counties in this analysis, from Morrison's $782 to Nobles' higher $863 monthly cost. Its $74,475 median household income, combined with rock-bottom rents, makes it the region's most balanced housing market.

Both renters and owners get deals

Murray County renters allocate just 12.4% of income to housing at $768 monthly, while owners spend roughly 13.4% on mortgages for homes valued at $179,400. This county stands alone in offering genuine affordability for both housing types, a rarity in modern Minnesota.

Minnesota's best housing bargain awaits

If affordability is your priority, Murray County delivers: $768 rents, $179,400 home values, and a 12.4% rent burden—the lowest in this eight-county sample. Weigh it against pricier neighbors like Nicollet ($931 rent, $258,500 homes) or Olmsted ($1,283 rent, $304,500 homes) to see the real difference location makes.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Murray County

via IncomeByCounty

Murray County matches U.S. median exactly

Murray County's median household income of $74,475 essentially matches the national median of $74,755, placing it right at the U.S. baseline. This achievement is notable for a rural Minnesota county and reflects a resilient local economy.

Slightly below state average income

At $74,475, Murray County trails Minnesota's state average of $75,757 by just $1,282, ranking it in the upper-middle tier of the state's 87 counties. The per capita income of $40,277 also exceeds the state average of $39,335, indicating strong individual earnings.

Strong performer among southwest peers

Murray County's $74,475 income leads Nobles County ($65,509) and rivals or exceeds most neighboring rural counties in southwest Minnesota. Its above-average per capita income of $40,277 suggests households have multiple earners or higher individual wages.

Housing costs are very manageable

Murray County's rent-to-income ratio of 12.4% is among the lowest in the region, signaling comfortable housing affordability for renters and buyers alike. The median home value of $179,400 represents excellent value relative to household income.

Strong income foundation for planning

At the national median income level, Murray County households have a solid foundation for financial planning, retirement contributions, and real estate investment. The below-average housing cost ratio creates breathing room in household budgets for savings and wealth-building vehicles.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Murray County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite National Safety Ranking

Murray County is exceptionally safe, boasting a safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 281.5 per 100K is a small fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in State Safety

This county is a leader in Minnesota safety, exceeding the state's average safety score of 98.2. It ranks among the most secure areas in the entire region according to 2022 data.

Quiet Streets in Murray

Murray’s crime rate is significantly lower than its neighbor Nobles County, which reports 878.6 incidents per 100K. This makes it one of the quietest jurisdictions in southwest Minnesota.

Minimal Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime is rare here, occurring at a rate of just 73.4 per 100K residents. Property crime is also minimal at 208.1, keeping the overall community environment very stable.

Maintaining a Safe Community

Even with such low crime rates, staying vigilant helps maintain the status quo. Joining a local neighborhood watch or securing sheds can prevent the few property crimes that occur.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Murray County

via HealthByCounty

Murray County leads on life expectancy

At 82.9 years, Murray County residents live significantly longer than the U.S. average of 80.2 years—nearly three years longer than the typical American. This outstanding performance reflects strong preventive health practices and accessible care, though 16.2% report poor or fair health, warranting continued investment in chronic disease management.

Murray County is Minnesota's longevity leader

Murray County's 82.9-year life expectancy ranks among the highest in Minnesota, surpassing the state average of 78.7 years by more than four years. The county's 7.0% uninsured rate slightly exceeds the state average of 6.0%, representing a modest coverage challenge in an otherwise high-performing county.

Dramatically outpaces regional peers on longevity

Murray County's 82.9-year life expectancy far exceeds neighboring Nobles County (79.8 years) and Mower County (78.8 years), making it a clear outlier for health outcomes. This exceptional longevity suggests effective healthcare delivery and strong community health practices.

Fewer providers, but stable health infrastructure

Murray County has just 37 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, among the lowest in Minnesota, yet residents still achieve exceptional longevity outcomes. Mental health support is limited at 75 providers per 100K, indicating potential gaps in behavioral health access that may need attention.

Murray County: keep that coverage in place

Murray County's health success depends on continuous care access, and 7.0% of residents remain uninsured. Review your coverage at MNsure.org and ensure you have a plan that protects your health year-round.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Murray County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Education with Exceptional Reach

Murray County features a streamlined education system with just 4 public schools serving 1,104 students. Two districts, Murray County Central and Fulda Public Schools, divide the county's elementary and high school responsibilities.

Elite Graduation Rates and Academic Success

The county achieves a remarkable 93.3% graduation rate, far surpassing the national average of 87%. With a composite school score of 59.0 and spending at $8,730 per student, Murray County outperforms state averages in both quality and investment.

Murray County Central Schools Takes the Lead

Murray County Central Schools is the larger of the two districts, enrolling 721 students across its primary and secondary campuses. There are no charter schools in the county, reflecting a community focus on traditional, high-performing public districts.

The Essence of the Rural Classroom

Every school in the county is situated in a rural locale, fostering a close-knit atmosphere where the average school size is 276 students. Murray Co. Central Elementary is the largest school with 386 students, ensuring no child gets lost in the crowd.

Invest in a Community Committed to Excellence

For families seeking some of the highest graduation rates in the state, Murray County is a premier destination. Real estate near Slayton or Fulda puts you in the heart of these top-tier, small-school environments.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Murray County

via RiskByCounty

Murray County among safest nationwide

With a composite risk score of just 19.82, Murray County ranks in the "Very Low" category and significantly outperforms the national average. This southwestern Minnesota county enjoys substantially lower exposure to most natural hazards compared to typical U.S. counties.

Minnesota's lowest-risk county tier

Murray County's risk score of 19.82 places it far below Minnesota's statewide average of 42.38—among the safest counties in the state. Its risk profile reflects minimal exposure across most major hazard categories.

Safest in a low-risk region

Murray County is the safest county in its region, with notably lower composite risk than neighbors Nobles, Lyon, and Cottonwood counties. Its stable climate and low tornado, flood, and wildfire exposure make it a relative safe haven.

Tornado the only moderate concern

Even Murray's highest-risk hazard—tornado at 39.41—remains below state average, while flood (25.80) and wildfire (20.64) are both minimal. Overall, the county faces unusually low natural disaster exposure statewide.

Standard coverage sufficient here

Murray County residents can rely on standard homeowners insurance without urgent need for specialized flood or wildfire policies. However, maintaining a basic emergency kit and staying weather-aware during severe storm season remains prudent.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Murray County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Upper Midwest Climate

Murray's 43.1°F average temperature sits nearly 9 degrees below the national median. This continental climate delivers the distinct, four-season experience common to the northern plains.

Warmer Than the Minnesota Average

At 43.1°F, the county is slightly warmer than the state average of 42.8°F. It ranks among the more temperate southern tier counties in Minnesota.

Standard Precipitation for the Region

With 30.1 inches of annual precipitation, Murray stays right on par with the state average. It is slightly cooler than neighboring Nobles County but shares similar prairie weather patterns.

Cold Winters and Brief Heatwaves

Residents face 46.3 inches of snow and a chilly 12.6°F January average. Summer brings 9 days of 90°F heat, which is slightly more intense than northern neighbors.

Preparing for Significant Snowfall

Winter preparation is essential as the winter average dips to 16.0°F. Ensure heavy insulation and reliable snow removal equipment to handle the significant annual accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Murray County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Foundations in Murray County

Murray County's soil leans slightly alkaline with an average pH of 7.02, which is higher than the national 6.5 median. This taxonomic profile provides a unique chemical base for local agriculture and landscaping.

Tillage-Friendly Silt and Clay

The soil composition is 40.8% silt and 33.9% sand, creating a silty mix that is relatively easy to till. With 25.3% clay, the soil has enough body to prevent nutrients from washing away during heavy rains.

Productive Carbon and Water Levels

Organic matter stands at 4.53%, which is about half of the state average but remains high compared to national standards. An available water capacity of 0.188 in/in indicates the soil stores slightly less water than the state average of 0.199.

Moderate Water Retention Needs Monitoring

Although formal drainage data is unavailable, the high clay content often leads to slower percolation. Farmers and builders should account for this moderate water retention when planning land use and irrigation.

Summer Success in Zone 5a

Positioned in Hardiness Zone 5a, Murray is warm enough for heat-loving crops like sweet corn and peppers. Grab some seeds and get started, as this soil is primed for a successful growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Murray County

via LawnByCounty

Consistent Growing Conditions in Murray County

Murray County holds a 62.1 lawn difficulty score, aligning closely with the Minnesota state average of 63.9. Located in Hardiness Zone 5a, it offers a slightly milder winter climate than the northern parts of the state.

Meeting the Rainfall Threshold

The county averages 30.1 inches of rain annually, hitting the state average almost exactly. However, with 9 extreme heat days and 2361 growing degree days, lawns require consistent monitoring during the mid-summer peak.

Neutral Soils Support Diverse Grasses

The soil pH sits at a neutral 7.02, which is excellent for nutrient availability. With 25.3% clay and 33.9% sand, the soil has a balanced texture that supports moisture retention without becoming waterlogged.

Battling Prolonged Dry Conditions

The county faced 18 weeks of drought over the past year, and 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry. To conserve water, prioritize irrigation for the most visible areas and allow secondary turf to go dormant during heat waves.

Starting Strong in Zone 5a

Zone 5a allows for a mix of Kentucky Bluegrass and heat-tolerant Tall Fescue. Wait until after the May 7 spring frost to seed, and ensure your lawn is established before the early fall frost on September 29.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Murray County's county score?
Murray County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 72.7 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 Murray County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Murray County ranks #3 among all counties in Minnesota 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 Murray County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Murray County is $1,373, with an effective tax rate of 0.77%. This earns Murray County a tax score of 56.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Murray County?
The median household income in Murray County, Minnesota is $74,475 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Murray County earns an income score of 76.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Murray County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Murray County scores 72.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Murray 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 Murray 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.