countyscore
41.3
County Score
Water Quality 86Lawn Care 79.4Health 76.7

County Report Card

About Muscatine County, Iowa

Trailing the National Median Score

Muscatine County records a composite score of 41.3, falling below the national median of 50.0. This score highlights several areas where the county faces more challenges than the typical U.S. county.

Below Iowa's High Quality Standards

At 41.3, Muscatine ranks significantly lower than the Iowa state average of 55.6. It struggles to match the livability benchmarks set by other counties across the state.

Reliable Water and Health Access

The county maintains high water quality with a score of 86.0 and a solid health score of 76.7. An income score of 65.2 shows a respectable earning base of $69,512 per household.

Education and Safety Needs

The school score of 31.7 and risk score of 42.3 indicate significant room for local improvement. High rents at $966 and a 1.547% tax rate result in a low cost score of 30.6.

Suited for Niche Industrial Workers

Muscatine County is best for those with stable local employment who prioritize healthcare over school rankings. It offers a solid infrastructure for residents focused on income and health.

Score breakdown

Tax10.9Cost30.6Safety41Health76.7Schools31.7Income65.2Risk42.3Water86Weather50.8
🏛10.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠30.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼65.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡41
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤76.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡42.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨69.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱79.4
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

Louisa County
Iowa
61.3
Mercer County
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63.1
Cedar County
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58
Scott County
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37.2
Rock Island County
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Johnson County
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Washington County
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Des Moines County
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Deep Dives

Muscatine County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Muscatine County

via TaxByCounty

Muscatine County above national tax norm

Muscatine County's effective tax rate of 1.547% significantly exceeds the 1.1% national median, placing it in roughly the 78th percentile nationwide. The median property tax of $2,667 nearly matches the national median of $2,690 despite a lower median home value of $172,400.

High effective rate for Iowa

Muscatine County's 1.547% effective tax rate ranks well above Iowa's state average of 1.344%, making it one of the state's higher-tax counties. The median tax bill of $2,667 exceeds Iowa's statewide median of $2,160 by 23%.

Steeper taxes than most surrounding counties

Muscatine County's 1.547% rate exceeds Mitchell County (1.156%), Monona County (1.152%), and O'Brien County (0.989%), though it falls below Montgomery County (1.791%). Among counties with comparable home values, Muscatine residents face notably elevated effective rates.

Muscatine median home tax hits $2,667 yearly

A median-valued home in Muscatine County at $172,400 carries an estimated annual property tax of $2,667 under the county's 1.547% rate. This tax bill approaches what many national homeowners pay despite living in a region with lower median values.

Tax appeals offer real savings opportunity

With above-average effective rates, Muscatine County residents should prioritize assessment reviews to ensure valuations are accurate and defensible. Successful appeals in high-rate counties deliver years of cumulative tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Muscatine County

via CostByCounty

Muscatine County faces housing affordability crisis

Muscatine County renters spend 16.7% of income on housing—well into the national stress zone and above the healthy 12-15% range—indicating genuine affordability strain. With a median household income of $69,512, residents are stretched thin by rents averaging $966 monthly, the region's highest.

Worst affordability in Iowa among eight counties

Muscatine County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% significantly exceeds Iowa's state average of 14.1%, making it the least affordable county in this eight-county cohort. Renters here pay $966 monthly—the region's highest rent by a substantial margin—pushing housing costs into genuinely difficult territory.

Regional leader in housing stress

Muscatine County renters spend 16.7% of income on housing compared to 12.1% in Mills County and 12.9% in Mitchell County—a 4-6 percentage point gap that translates to real monthly struggle. Only Monona County (15.2%) approaches Muscatine's affordability crisis, making both outliers in the region.

Both rents and mortgages strain budgets

Muscatine County renters pay 16.7% of their $69,512 income toward $966 monthly rent, while homebuyers invest $1,030 monthly on properties worth $172,400. Both pathways demand substantial income percentages, suggesting systemic housing affordability challenges across the county's entire market.

Compare carefully before relocating here

Muscatine County demands caution: housing costs consume a larger share of income than any neighboring county, and both renting and buying strain household budgets significantly. If considering relocation to Iowa, the seven surrounding counties offer substantially better affordability profiles for your money.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Muscatine County

via IncomeByCounty

Muscatine County inches below national average

Muscatine County's median household income of $69,512 falls $5,243 short of the national median of $74,755, a 7% gap. The county remains relatively close to typical American household income despite rural headwinds.

Just below average in Iowa

Muscatine County ranks just below the state average with a median household income of $69,512, compared to Iowa's $69,830 state median. The county sits squarely within Iowa's typical income range.

Muscatine matches neighboring county incomes

Muscatine County households earn $1,808 more than Mitchell County ($68,704) and $4,882 less than Monroe County ($72,518). The county sits comfortably within Iowa's regional income distribution.

Housing costs create notable affordability pressure

A 16.7% rent-to-income ratio means Muscatine County residents spend roughly $167 monthly in rent per $1,000 of income—the highest ratio among the eight counties analyzed. While below the 30% stress threshold, housing costs consume a meaningful share of limited household income.

Reduce housing burden to build wealth

With relatively modest incomes and above-average housing cost ratios, Muscatine County families should focus on reducing housing expenses to free cash for saving. Explore refinancing options, consider roommate arrangements, or investigate down payment assistance for homeownership as pathways to long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Muscatine County

via CrimeByCounty

Muscatine Safety Score Remains Strong

Muscatine County reports a total crime rate of 1,342.9 per 100,000, which is still about 43% lower than the national average. Despite being higher than its regional neighbors, it maintains a solid safety score of 97.9.

Crime Rates Above the State Average

Muscatine's crime rate exceeds the Iowa state average of 1,095.3 per 100,000. Both its violent and property crime rates are higher than the state-wide benchmarks, suggesting a more active criminal environment.

Muscatine's Comparative Safety Profile

With 1,342.9 crimes per 100,000, Muscatine is more active than neighboring O'Brien and Montgomery counties. It represents one of the busier law enforcement jurisdictions in this regional group.

Violent vs. Property Crime Realities

The county sees 253.7 violent crimes and 1,089.2 property crimes per 100,000 residents. This higher property crime rate suggests that theft and burglary are the most significant local safety challenges.

Steps for a Safer Household

Given the higher frequency of property crime, a comprehensive home security system is a worthwhile investment. Residents should also participate in neighborhood watch programs to bolster community safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Muscatine County

via HealthByCounty

Muscatine County near national health norms

At 76.7 years, Muscatine County residents live just 1.0 year below the U.S. average of 77.7 years—a relatively narrow gap. The 16.4% poor/fair health rate is close to national averages, suggesting typical health burden patterns for a county of its size.

Mid-range health outcomes statewide

Muscatine County's 76.7-year life expectancy is 1.0 year below Iowa's 77.7-year state average, placing it in the middle tier of Iowa counties. The 16.4% poor/fair health rate is moderate for the state, reflecting manageable but not exceptional population health.

Moderate performer in peer comparison

Muscatine County's 76.7-year life expectancy ranks in the middle of the region, ahead of Monona (75.0) and Monroe (75.3) but behind Mitchell (79.3). The 16.4% poor/fair health rate is comparable to peers, indicating typical health management challenges.

Good coverage with accessible mental health

Muscatine County's 5.4% uninsured rate is better than Iowa's 5.7% average, meaning most residents have insurance access. The county provides 38 primary care providers and 88 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, with particularly strong mental health capacity supporting behavioral health needs.

Secure your coverage today

At 5.4% uninsured, Muscatine County has strong baseline coverage, but individuals should verify their status. Visit healthcare.gov or call your county health department to confirm coverage and access the county's robust mental health provider network.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Muscatine County

via SchoolsByCounty

Fifteen Schools Serve a Large Student Population

Muscatine County manages a robust educational system of 15 public schools serving 6,847 students. The infrastructure includes nine elementary schools and three high schools across three distinct districts.

Opportunities for Growth in Graduation Outcomes

The county's graduation rate is 83.9%, which sits below both the Iowa state average of 92.3% and the national average of 87%. Investment per pupil stands at $7,199, trailing the state benchmark of $7,591.

Muscatine Community Schools Lead the Region

The Muscatine Community School District is the largest, educating 4,580 students in nine schools. West Liberty and Wilton districts also serve the county, managing a combined six schools for nearly 2,300 students.

Urbanized Learning in Town Settings

All 15 schools in Muscatine County are situated in town locales, providing an urbanized feel for students. Muscatine High School is the county's largest with 1,539 students, while average school enrollment is 456.

Discover Diverse Options in Muscatine

With a large selection of town-based schools, Muscatine County offers many choices for relocating families. Research homes near Wilton Elementary or Muscatine High to find the right educational fit for your children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Muscatine County

via RiskByCounty

Muscatine County above national average

With a composite risk score of 57.76, Muscatine County ranks as Relatively Low but sits well above the U.S. average. Your county faces notably higher combined exposure to multiple disaster types.

Highest risk in Iowa's group

Muscatine County's 57.76 score exceeds Iowa's state average of 39.68 by nearly 50 percent. You rank among Iowa's higher-risk counties for natural disaster exposure.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Muscatine County (57.76) faces substantially higher risk than all nearby counties, including Mitchell County (37.69) and Monona County (25.10). Your location along Iowa's river corridor drives elevated hazard exposure.

Flooding and earthquakes demand attention

Muscatine County's flood risk (62.56) and earthquake risk (54.13) are exceptionally high, ranking far above state averages. Wildfires (60.91) and tornados (54.99) also present significant local concerns.

Flood insurance and seismic prep essential

Given flood risk of 62.56 and earthquake risk of 54.13, flood insurance is critical—especially in mapped flood zones near the Mississippi River. Secure heavy furniture, install earthquake straps for appliances, and ensure your homeowners policy includes comprehensive coverage for wind, flood, and earthquake damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Muscatine County

via WeatherByCounty

Wet and Temperate for Iowa

Muscatine County averages 50.3°F annually, which is cooler than the national median but high for the state. It is relatively wet, receiving 39.1 inches of precipitation.

Warmer and Wetter Than Average

The county is 2.3 degrees warmer than the 48.0°F Iowa state average. It also exceeds the state average precipitation by 3 inches per year.

Damp and Mild Regionally

Muscatine is much wetter than Monona County and warmer than Mitchell County. Its 26.4 inches of snow is lower than most northern Iowa neighbors.

Twenty Days of Extreme Heat

Summer temperatures peak at a July average of 74.5°F with 20 days over 90°F. Winters feature a 25.6°F average and 26.4 inches of snowfall.

Manage the High Humidity

The 39.1 inches of precipitation and warm summers mean residents should plan for humidity and moisture control. Winter preparation is less about snow and more about the 22.2°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Muscatine County

via SoilByCounty

Alfisols and Silt Loams of Muscatine

Muscatine County is primarily composed of silt loam soils belonging to the Alfisol order, which often form under forest cover. The average pH of 6.24 is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. These soils are historically productive but may require pH monitoring for optimal nutrient availability.

Sandy Influence Improves Soil Texture

The soil features a mix of 53.4% silt and 24.4% sand, with 20.2% clay. This higher sand content compared to many Iowa neighbors improves aeration and makes the soil easier to till. It offers a versatile surface for both traditional farming and specialized horticulture.

Strong Organic Matter Levels

At 3.70%, the organic matter content is nearly on par with the state average of 3.81% and far exceeds the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.189 in/in is slightly below the state benchmark of 0.195 in/in. This indicates a fertile soil that may need a little extra water during peak summer heat.

Well Drained Group B Soils

The county's soils are categorized as well drained and belong to hydrologic group B. This is an ideal combination for most uses, as it allows water to move freely and reduces the risk of root rot. It is particularly well-suited for building sites and diverse gardening projects.

Zone 5b: A Gardener's Paradise

In Zone 5b, Muscatine County is famous for its melons and diverse vegetable production. The well-drained silt loam is also perfect for establishing fruit orchards or vibrant flower beds. Get outside and plant something today in this highly adaptable and well-draining soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Muscatine County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Conditions in Muscatine

At 79.4, Muscatine County’s lawn difficulty score is one of the highest in the region, making it easier to maintain than most Iowa counties. This Zone 5b area benefits from a climate that is naturally conducive to turf health.

Plentiful Rainfall and Growth

The county receives 39.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is 3 inches higher than the state average and near the top of the ideal range. This moisture supports 3,302 growing degree days, though 20 extreme heat days still require summer vigilance.

Premier Silt Loam Soils

Well-drained silt loam with a 6.24 pH creates a premier environment for root expansion. The relatively low 20.2% clay and high 24.4% sand content ensure that excess water moves away quickly, preventing fungal issues and root rot.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Spells

Despite the high rainfall, the county experienced 17 weeks of drought last year and is currently 100% abnormally dry. Implementing a smart irrigation system or rain sensor can help manage these fluctuations while conserving local water.

Planning Your Planting Window

Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue perform beautifully in these well-drained loams. The period between the April 24 spring frost and the October 22 fall frost provides a generous window for successful lawn establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Muscatine County's county score?
Muscatine County, Iowa has a composite county score of 41.3 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 Muscatine County rank among counties in Iowa?
Muscatine County ranks #90 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 Muscatine County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Muscatine County is $2,667, with an effective tax rate of 1.55%. This earns Muscatine County a tax score of 10.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Muscatine County?
The median household income in Muscatine County, Iowa is $69,512 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Muscatine County earns an income score of 65.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Muscatine County, Iowa a good place to live?
Muscatine County scores 41.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #90 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Muscatine 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 Muscatine 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.