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Nantucket County, Massachusetts — County Report Card

MA

#3 in Massachusetts

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
55.7
County Score
Property Tax 99.7Health 99.1Income & Jobs 98.5

County Report Card

About Nantucket County, Massachusetts

Significant Lead Over National Averages

Nantucket County boasts a composite score of 55.7, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This high ranking is driven by exceptional tax advantages and high individual wealth.

Leading the Massachusetts Rankings

With a score of 55.7, Nantucket significantly outperforms the state average of 48.6. It stands as one of the most exclusive and highly-rated jurisdictions in the Commonwealth.

Exceptional Taxes and Economic Vitality

The county achieves a Tax Score of 99.7 due to a remarkably low 0.215% effective tax rate. This is paired with an Income Score of 98.5 and a Health Score of 99.1, reflecting a thriving, affluent population.

Extreme Costs and Safety Gaps

Affordability is nearly non-existent with a Cost Score of 0.5 and median home values reaching $1,387,000. The Safety Score is also surprisingly low at 19.2, contrasting with its tranquil reputation.

Best for Ultra-Wealthy Seasonal Residents

Nantucket is a haven for those who value low property taxes and superior health environments. It suits individuals who are immune to high housing costs and seek an exclusive coastal lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax99.7Cost0.5Safety19.2Health99.1Schools66.5Income98.5Risk61.3Water86Weather68.3
🏛99.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠0.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤99.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓66.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡61.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨34.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49
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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Deep Dives

Nantucket County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Nantucket County

via TaxByCounty

Nantucket's lowest-in-state rate still exceeds national median

Despite Massachusetts' reputation for high taxes, Nantucket County's effective tax rate of 0.215% is barely above the national median, with median property taxes of just $2,985. The county's extraordinarily high median home value of $1,387,000—nearly five times the national median—keeps overall tax obligations reasonable despite high-priced real estate.

Massachusetts' most tax-friendly county

Nantucket County boasts the lowest effective tax rate in Massachusetts at 0.215%, dramatically lower than the state average of 1.065%. This makes Nantucket a unique haven for high-net-worth homeowners seeking to minimize property tax burden.

Dramatically lower than nearby counties

Nantucket's 0.215% rate is less than one-fifth the burden of neighboring Middlesex (1.054%) and a fraction of Plymouth (1.237%) and Worcester (1.333%) counties. Only Suffolk County's 0.666% comes close, yet it's still three times higher than Nantucket's remarkably low rate.

Your median annual property tax bill

A homeowner with Nantucket's median-valued property of $1,387,000 pays approximately $2,985 in annual property taxes. This works out to just $249 per month despite the extraordinarily high property values—a significant savings compared to mainland counties.

Even in Nantucket, appeals are worthwhile

Although Nantucket has the state's most favorable tax rates, assessment accuracy remains important for the region's residents. Homeowners should still verify their property assessments and file appeals if they believe their valuations are inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Nantucket County

via CostByCounty

Island premium: Nantucket's housing squeeze

Nantucket residents spend 20.7% of income on rent—above both the national average of 19.3% and Massachusetts's 19.3%—despite a median household income of $119,750 that nearly doubles the national median. The island's geographic isolation and seasonal economy have created one of the country's most expensive rental markets.

Massachusetts's least affordable for ownership

Nantucket ranks as Massachusetts's most expensive county for homeownership, with a median home value of $1,387,000—more than double any other Massachusetts county and nearly two and a half times Middlesex's $687,200. Monthly owner costs of $3,203 consume the largest share of any county's income relative to affordability.

Island isolation drives prices skyward

Nantucket's $2,070 median rent mirrors nearby Middlesex and Norfolk, but its $1,387,000 median home value dwarfs all regional peers—Plymouth is $513,000, Worcester $390,700. The island's seasonal tourism economy and limited housing supply have created a bifurcated market: expensive for residents, prohibitive for newcomers.

Ownership costs nearly double rentals

Renters pay $2,070 monthly while homeowners face $3,203—a $1,133 monthly gap unprecedented among Massachusetts counties. Even with a $119,750 median income, Nantucket homeowners dedicate 32% of income to housing, the highest burden in the state.

Consider Nantucket only if you're wealthy

Nantucket works for high-earners seeking island life and don't mind the premium, but renters should know median costs are in line with Boston suburbs while homes cost triple regional averages. If you're seeking New England island living on a tighter budget, consider investigating Martha's Vineyard or coastal Connecticut alternatives.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Nantucket County

via IncomeByCounty

Nantucket incomes surge 60% nationwide

Nantucket County's median household income of $119,750 runs 60% above the U.S. median of $74,755. This island economy thrives on tourism, hospitality, and seasonal wealth from mainland visitors and second-home owners.

Third-highest county income in state

Nantucket ranks third among Massachusetts counties at $119,750, trailing Middlesex and Norfolk but comfortably above the state average of $96,546. The county's compact, high-value real estate market supports elevated household earnings.

Premium pricing for island life

Nantucket's median income of $119,750 lags Middlesex ($126,779) and Norfolk ($126,497) but exceeds Plymouth ($109,698) by 9%. The island's isolation drives both higher wages and dramatically higher living costs.

Housing remains steeply expensive

Despite $119,750 median household income, a rent-to-income ratio of 20.7% is manageable—but median home values hit $1,387,000, the state's highest. Most Nantucket residents cannot afford to purchase without substantial inherited wealth or outside income sources.

Navigate island real estate strategically

Nantucket's extreme property values demand sophisticated financial planning; households earning $119,750 should consult estate planners and investment advisors before committing to home purchase. Explore alternative wealth-building through diversified investments if buying locally proves prohibitive.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Nantucket County

via CrimeByCounty

Nantucket Maintains Strong National Safety Standing

Nantucket achieves a solid 96.7 safety score, remaining safer than the vast majority of U.S. counties. Its total crime rate of 2,111.6 per 100K sits comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5.

Comparing Nantucket to State Averages

The county faces higher crime rates than the Massachusetts average of 1,458.6 per 100K. This puts Nantucket's 96.7 safety score slightly below the state average of 97.7.

Island Safety vs Mainland Neighbors

Nantucket's rate of 2,111.6 per 100K is higher than mainland counties like Plymouth at 1,107.9. However, it remains safer than Suffolk County, where crime rates reach 2,384.3 per 100K.

Property Crime Drives Local Statistics

Property crimes account for 1,813.0 per 100K, while the violent crime rate is 298.6. While violent crime stays below the national average, the island's property theft rate is its primary safety challenge.

Securing Your Island Residence

With property crime driving the local numbers, home security systems are a wise investment for island homeowners. Vigilance during high-traffic tourist seasons helps maintain Nantucket's safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Nantucket County

via HealthByCounty

Nantucket leads on longevity

At 82.8 years, Nantucket County's life expectancy is the highest in Massachusetts and nearly four years above the U.S. average of 78.9 years. Just 10.9% report poor or fair health, significantly outperforming the national rate of 15.3%.

Massachusetts's longevity leader

Nantucket's 82.8-year life expectancy exceeds the state average of 79.7 years by 3.1 years, placing it at the top of the state. The county's low poor/fair health rate of 10.9% reflects exceptional population health compared to other Massachusetts counties.

Life expectancy miles ahead

Nantucket's 82.8-year life expectancy significantly outpaces Middlesex County (81.5 years), Norfolk County (81.2 years), and Plymouth County (78.8 years). However, Nantucket's 3.8% uninsured rate runs slightly higher than nearby Middlesex and Norfolk counties at 2.4%.

Provider access challenges on an island

With only 41 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Nantucket has limited local healthcare infrastructure and relies heavily on off-island referrals. Mental health services are more accessible at 436 providers per 100,000, though overall capacity remains tighter than mainland counties.

Secure coverage for island healthcare

Island living can mean higher healthcare costs and travel barriers; comprehensive insurance coverage is critical. Visit healthcare.gov to explore plans that cover mainland providers and ensure continuity of care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Nantucket County

via SchoolsByCounty

Island Learning in a Single Unified District

Nantucket County operates a focused educational system with just 4 public schools all managed under one island-wide district. This tight-knit community serves 1,718 students through two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. There are no charter or alternative schools, reflecting a centralized public school model.

Record-Setting Investment and Strong School Scores

Nantucket invests heavily in its youth, spending $16,692 per pupil, which far exceeds the $13,582 state average and the $13,000 national benchmark. This funding contributes to an exceptional composite school score of 72.9, the highest among its peers. The 87% graduation rate aligns perfectly with the national average while students benefit from these highly-resourced classrooms.

A Single District Serving the Whole Island

The Nantucket School District encompasses the entire county, ensuring a streamlined and consistent curriculum for all residents. With no charter schools available, the district focuses all local resources on its four main campuses. This singular focus creates a unified educational identity for the island's 1,718 students.

Close-Knit Schools in a Town Setting

All four schools are classified as 'Town' locales, offering a consistent community feel for every grade level. The average school size is 430 students, with Nantucket High being the largest at 586 students. Students progress from the Nantucket Elementary through the Intermediate and Middle schools together, building lasting peer connections.

Invest in High-Quality Island Education

Nantucket's high school scores and significant per-pupil spending make it a unique and attractive choice for families. Homebuyers can find peace of mind knowing the island's single-district system offers a well-funded and high-achieving path for students. Start your home search today to join this dedicated coastal learning community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Nantucket County

via RiskByCounty

Nantucket has very low overall disaster risk

Nantucket County scores 38.68 on composite risk, placing it in the very low category—far below the national average. This score reflects minimal exposure to most natural hazards, with one notable exception.

Lowest-risk county in Massachusetts

Nantucket ranks as the safest county in Massachusetts, with a composite score of 38.68 compared to the state average of 78.84. The county's 51% reduction below the state baseline reflects exceptionally low tornado, earthquake, and wildfire risks.

Significantly safer than mainland peers

Nantucket's 38.68 score substantially trails other Massachusetts counties: Plymouth (90.36), Norfolk (92.02), and Suffolk (93.51) all exceed 90. Nantucket's isolation as an island community has created a unique low-risk profile across most hazard categories.

Hurricane exposure is your primary concern

Hurricane risk reaches 90.95 in Nantucket—among the highest in the county—reflecting the island's Atlantic exposure. Flood risk stands at 70.00, while wildfire (13.01), tornado (4.10), and earthquake (22.36) risks remain minimal.

Hurricane preparedness is your insurance priority

Standard homeowners policies typically cover hurricane wind damage, but you should verify your deductible and coverage limits given Nantucket's coastal location. Consider supplemental flood insurance, as storm surge and heavy rainfall can exceed standard policy limits even on this lower-risk island.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Nantucket County

via WeatherByCounty

Nantucket's Unique Maritime Environment

Nantucket averages 50.7°F annually, benefiting from a maritime climate that is significantly moderated by the Atlantic Ocean. This keeps the island warmer than many mainland peers during the winter months.

A Warmer Massachusetts Outlier

At 50.7°F, Nantucket is warmer than the 49.5°F state average and ranks as one of the state's mildest counties. Its 40.9 inches of annual precipitation is noticeably lower than the state average of 47.4 inches.

Cooler Summers Than the Mainland

While neighboring coastal counties like Plymouth hit 72.6°F in July, Nantucket peaks at a much cooler 69.0°F. The island is the only county in this set to record zero days of extreme heat over 90°F.

Mild Winters and Gentle Summers

Winter temperatures average 35.1°F, which is much warmer than the 26.3°F found in Worcester. Summer remains comfortable with a 66.7°F average, though specific annual snowfall data for the island is currently unavailable.

Focus on Wind and Moisture

While residents don't need to worry about 90-degree heat, they must prepare for high humidity and salt air. Salt-resistant building materials and wind-rated windows are more critical here than inland snow gear.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Nantucket County

via SoilByCounty

The Island's Sandy Signature

Nantucket's soils are notably acidic with a pH of 4.09, which is higher than the Massachusetts average but remains below the national median of 6.5. This island soil earns a score of 34.9, reflecting its unique maritime environment.

Predominantly Sand and Sea

The profile is very sandy at 66.3%, with minimal silt at 15.2% and clay at 5.2%. This composition ensures rapid drainage but requires careful management to prevent essential nutrients from leaching away.

Lower Moisture Retention

Organic matter content reaches 7.46%, which exceeds the national average of 2.0% but falls short of the massive 29.25% state average. The available water capacity of 0.140 in/in is lower than the state norm, meaning plants may need supplemental watering during dry spells.

Fast-Draining Coastal Hydrology

Though official drainage classes are unlisted, the high sand percentage implies a naturally fast-draining landscape. This hydrology is excellent for preventing root rot but can make maintaining consistent soil moisture a challenge.

Maritime Gardening in Zone 7b

Boasting a milder Zone 7b climate, Nantucket supports a longer growing season than much of mainland Massachusetts. Coastal-ready shrubs like hydrangea and salt-tolerant herbs thrive in this sandy, maritime environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Nantucket County

via LawnByCounty

Island Conditions Test Nantucket Lawns

Nantucket holds a lawn difficulty score of 49.0, sitting just below the national average for ease of maintenance. While it is more challenging than the Massachusetts average of 56.8, the milder maritime climate of Zone 7b offers unique advantages. Grass stays greener longer into the winter than on the mainland.

Moderate Temperatures and Coastal Rains

The island experiences zero extreme heat days above 90°F, sparing lawns from the typical scorching summer stress. While the 40.9 inches of annual rain is slightly lower than the state average, it remains within the ideal growth window. The shorter growing degree day count of 2344 means grass may grow more slowly here.

Sandy Soil Requires Constant Care

Nantucket soil is 66.3% sand, leading to very rapid drainage and potential nutrient leaching. The pH level of 4.09 is significantly more acidic than the ideal 6.0 range, requiring regular soil amendments. You will likely need frequent, light watering to keep roots hydrated in this porous terrain.

Navigating Persistent Severe Drought

The county has faced drought conditions for 53 consecutive weeks, with the entire island currently in a severe drought stage. This level of water scarcity makes conservation-minded landscaping and moisture-retaining mulch essential. Focus on watering only the most critical areas to help your turf survive these extended dry spells.

Take Advantage of a Long Growing Season

Fine fescues are well-suited for Nantucket's sandy soil and salt-spray environment. The late first frost on November 8 provides a generous window for fall seeding and root establishment. Start your spring projects after the final frost on April 13 for the best results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nantucket County's county score?
Nantucket County, Massachusetts has a composite county score of 55.7 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 Nantucket County rank among counties in Massachusetts?
Nantucket County ranks #3 among all counties in Massachusetts 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 Nantucket County, Massachusetts?
The median annual property tax in Nantucket County is $2,985, with an effective tax rate of 0.22%. This earns Nantucket County a tax score of 99.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Nantucket County?
The median household income in Nantucket County, Massachusetts is $119,750 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Nantucket County earns an income score of 98.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Nantucket County, Massachusetts a good place to live?
Nantucket County scores 55.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in Massachusetts. The best way to evaluate Nantucket 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 Nantucket 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.