countyscore
54.4
County Score
Health 94.6Income & Jobs 84.2Soil Quality 75.1

County Report Card

About Nicollet County, Minnesota

Nicollet County Beats the National Median

Nicollet County earns a 54.4 composite score, placing it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. It offers a higher quality of life than the typical American community.

Matching the High State Average

The county nearly reaches the Minnesota state average of 55.8. It functions as a stable, high-performing representative of the state’s regional excellence.

Premier Health and Strong Earnings

An exceptional health score of 94.6 makes this one of the healthiest counties in the nation. This is paired with an income score of 84.2, driven by a median household income of $80,362.

High Costs and Tax Burdens

Housing affordability is a concern, as evidenced by a cost score of 25.8. A tax score of 30.0 also reflects an effective tax rate of 1.117%, which is higher than many surrounding areas.

Best for High-Earning Wellness Seekers

Nicollet County is a great fit for established professionals who prioritize world-class health outcomes. Residents should be prepared for higher living costs in exchange for top-tier community benefits.

Score breakdown

Tax30Cost25.8Safety59.9Health94.6Schools63.5Income84.2Risk54.6Water44.6Weather45.3
🏛30
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠25.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼84.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤94.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓63.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡54.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧44.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.2
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

Blue Earth County
Minnesota
41.7
Sibley County
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57.3
Brown County
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60.3
Le Sueur County
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Watonwan County
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McLeod County
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Renville County
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Deep Dives

Nicollet County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Nicollet County

via TaxByCounty

Nicollet's taxes rank in nation's top tier

Nicollet County's effective tax rate of 1.117% places it in the upper 15% of U.S. counties for property tax burden—a notably high rate even by national standards. The median tax bill of $2,888 exceeds the national median by $198, making Nicollet among the pricier counties nationwide.

Highest-taxing county in Minnesota

Nicollet County's 1.117% effective rate significantly exceeds Minnesota's 0.968% average, ranking it among the state's most tax-intensive counties. The median tax of $2,888 is the highest in the eight-county group and 33% above the state median of $2,168.

Regional tax rates pale by comparison

Nicollet County's 1.117% rate dwarfs nearby Olmsted County (1.088%), Nobles County (0.934%), and Murray County (0.765%). The county's tax burden is uniquely steep for south-central Minnesota.

What Nicollet homeowners actually pay

A typical Nicollet County home valued at $258,500 carries an annual tax burden of roughly $2,888—the highest median in this regional comparison. Homeowners with mortgages pay $3,008, while outright owners pay $2,731, a $277 difference reflecting tax credits.

Assessment review is essential here

With property taxes this high, Nicollet homeowners should absolutely verify their assessments—even small overvaluation adds up fast. A successful appeal could save you hundreds annually, making the effort worthwhile.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Nicollet County

via CostByCounty

Higher incomes offset Nicollet's housing costs

Nicollet County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio sits just below the national average, a strong showing given that renters here face $931 monthly rent—among the highest in this eight-county group. The county's median household income of $80,362, well above the national $74,755, allows residents to absorb these premium costs more comfortably than lower-earning peers.

Higher-cost Minnesota outpost

Nicollet County's $931 monthly rent tops the state average of $915 and pushes its rent-to-income ratio to 13.9%, modestly better than Minnesota's 14.5% baseline. This county ranks among Minnesota's pricier markets, driven by its larger population centers and higher median incomes.

Premium housing for a prosperous county

Nicollet's $931 rent and $258,500 median home value rank highest in this eight-county sample, rivaled only by Olmsted County's even steeper prices. This reflects Nicollet's status as a mid-sized regional hub with stronger job markets and higher wage earners than surrounding rural counties.

Owners bear heavier housing burden

Nicollet renters dedicate 13.9% of income to housing, while owners allocate roughly 19.1% to monthly mortgage payments on homes averaging $258,500. The gap suggests homeownership here requires substantial income or savings; renters enjoy better proportional affordability in this higher-cost market.

Where higher incomes meet higher costs

Nicollet County suits those relocating for better jobs and willing to pay for regional amenities—$80,362 median incomes support $931 rents and $258,500 home prices. But compare it with neighboring Murray County ($768 rents, $74,475 incomes) to decide if premium housing matches your earnings and lifestyle priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Nicollet County

via IncomeByCounty

Nicollet County outperforms nation

Nicollet County's median household income of $80,362 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 7.5%, placing it firmly in the upper-income tier of U.S. counties. The county's strong performance reflects its college-town economics centered on Minnesota State University–Mankato.

Top-tier income in Minnesota

At $80,362, Nicollet County ranks above Minnesota's state average of $75,757 and places in the top half of the state's 87 counties. The per capita income of $43,268 also significantly exceeds the state average of $39,335.

Clear income leader in region

Nicollet County's $80,362 income substantially outpaces every neighboring county, including Murray ($74,475), Nobles ($65,509), and Otter Tail ($70,912). Its university anchor and downstream professional services create a wage premium throughout the county.

Strong income meets higher housing costs

Although Nicollet County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.9% remains healthy, the median home value of $258,500 reflects premium pricing for the region. The strong median income comfortably supports these higher housing costs, with most buyers maintaining solid affordability.

Maximize earnings in college town

Nicollet County's above-average income creates powerful opportunities for retirement savings, investment diversification, and real estate wealth building. Professionals in this college economy should consider maximizing employer benefits and exploring higher-yield investment strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Nicollet County

via CrimeByCounty

High National Safety Standard

Nicollet County earns a high safety score of 98.5, indicating a secure environment for residents. Its total crime rate of 919.1 per 100K is less than half of the national average.

Outperforming State Safety Averages

Nicollet outperforms the state average safety score of 98.2, marking it as a preferred safe haven in Minnesota. The total crime rate also stays below the state average of 1123.5.

Comparative Regional Security

Nicollet's rate of 919.1 per 100K is lower than Otter Tail's 967.2, showing its comparative safety in central Minnesota. It remains more secure than many similar-sized counties in the state.

Analyzing Nicollet's Crime Breakdown

The county records 811.5 property crimes per 100K, which is the primary source of law enforcement activity. Violent crime stays low at 107.6, well beneath the state average of 153.0.

Investing in Home Security

Maintaining this high safety level requires community awareness and basic home security. Smart locks and visible cameras can effectively discourage the property crimes that occasionally happen.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Nicollet County

via HealthByCounty

Nicollet County significantly exceeds national health

At 80.9 years, Nicollet County residents live nearly a year longer than the U.S. average of 80.2 years, and only 13.6% report poor or fair health—well below the national average. This strong performance places Nicollet among the healthiest counties nationally.

Nicollet ranks among Minnesota's healthiest counties

With a life expectancy of 80.9 years, Nicollet County ranks in Minnesota's top tier, exceeding the state average of 78.7 years by more than two years. The county also boasts Minnesota's lowest uninsured rate at 4.7%, compared to the state average of 6.0%, demonstrating exceptional coverage access.

Nicollet leads regional health outcomes

Nicollet County's 80.9-year life expectancy and 4.7% uninsured rate outpace all neighboring counties, including higher-performing Olmsted County (81.0 years). The county's strong performance reflects both excellent healthcare access and high insurance participation.

Robust primary and mental health provider network

Nicollet County offers 85 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, well above most Minnesota counties and ensuring strong general medical access. The county leads on mental health with 315 providers per 100K, among the highest in the state and reflecting significant behavioral health investment.

Nicollet County: sustain your health coverage

Nicollet County's health advantage depends on keeping people insured; even at 4.7%, 95 residents per 100K lack coverage. Visit MNsure.org to confirm your plan is current and taking full advantage of available benefits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Nicollet County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Growing Academic Network

Nicollet County supports 4,584 students through 24 public schools and five distinct districts. The infrastructure is well-rounded, featuring seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and six high schools.

Top-Tier Performance and Efficient Spending

The county earns a strong 56.8 school score, paired with an excellent graduation rate of 91.1%. Even with per-pupil spending at $8,226—slightly below the state average—the county consistently delivers results that beat national benchmarks.

St. Peter and Mankato Districts Excel

St. Peter Public School District leads the county with 2,090 students across 10 schools. While traditional districts dominate, the county also hosts one charter school, offering families a specialized alternative to the standard curriculum.

A Blend of Town and Suburban Life

The county features a rare mix of 11 town, 8 rural, and 5 suburban school settings, with an average enrollment of 241 students. Dakota Meadows Middle School is the largest campus with 878 students, while the St. Peter schools provide a mid-sized community feel.

Proximity to Success in St. Peter

Nicollet County is an ideal choice for buyers who want suburban amenities paired with high academic standards. Focus your home search near St. Peter or the Mankato borders to take advantage of these top-rated middle and high schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Nicollet County

via RiskByCounty

Nicollet slightly outpaces national average

Nicollet County's composite risk score of 45.39 sits in the "Relatively Low" category and marginally above the national average. The county's tornado risk of 57.00 drives most of its exposure, while flood and earthquake risks remain moderate.

Right around Minnesota's average

At 45.39, Nicollet County's risk score nearly matches Minnesota's statewide average of 42.38, placing it squarely in the middle tier. This positions Nicollet as a moderate-concern county without extreme exposure to any single hazard.

Moderate risk in balanced region

Nicollet County faces comparable risk to nearby Blue Earth and Brown counties, though it exceeds the lower-risk profile of Murray County to the west. Its tornado exposure at 57.00 slightly outpaces the regional average.

Tornadoes and flooding are primary threats

Nicollet County residents face moderate tornado risk at 57.00 and flood risk at 50.32, both meaningfully above state average. Wildfire and earthquake pose minimal concern, allowing residents to focus preparedness on spring and summer severe weather.

Flood insurance and storm safety key

Nicollet County residents should maintain flood insurance and a designated storm shelter or safe room for tornado season. Review your homeowners policy annually to ensure adequate coverage for wind and water damage from severe storms.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Nicollet County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Than the National Median

Nicollet's 43.9°F annual average remains well below the national median of 52°F. The region experiences a humid continental climate with sharp temperature swings between seasons.

One of Minnesota's Warmer Spots

The county exceeds the state average of 42.8°F by over a degree. It experiences more consistent summer warmth than the forest counties to the north.

Wet and Warm Compared to Neighbors

Nicollet records 11 days over 90°F, more than many surrounding areas. It also receives 32.4 inches of precipitation, making it wetter than the state average.

Deep Freezes and Toasty Julys

July highs average a warm 71.5°F, while January plunges to an average of 12.5°F. Winter brings 37.9 inches of snow, which is lower than the totals seen in eastern Minnesota.

Managing Humidity and Extreme Heat

Homeowners should service air conditioners for the 11 annual extreme heat days. Invest in versatile winter gear for a season that averages a frosty 16.2°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Nicollet County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral pH Supports Diverse Life

Nicollet County soil is highly productive, characterized by an average pH of 6.89 that sits just above the national median of 6.5. This nearly neutral level supports a wide range of nutrient availability for local flora.

The Perfect Textural Compromise

The soil is a balanced blend of 38.3% sand, 35.1% silt, and 22.1% clay. This texture offers a perfect compromise between easy workability and the ability to retain essential minerals for plant health.

Strong Carbon for Deep Roots

Organic matter reaches a healthy 7.53%, which is robust compared to the national average of 2.0%. This high carbon content supports an available water capacity of 0.192 in/in, providing a steady reservoir for deep-rooted plants.

Effective Water Storage for Crops

While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the relatively high clay and silt levels suggest the ground holds water effectively. This retention is a benefit during dry spells but may require attention in low-lying garden areas.

High-Quality Growing in Zone 5a

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 5a allows for a long growing season for tomatoes and squash. With a soil score of 75.1, the ground here is better than the state average, so start your garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Nicollet County

via LawnByCounty

High Success Rates in Nicollet County

With a 72.2 lawn difficulty score, Nicollet County is significantly easier for lawn care than the state and national averages. Its Hardiness Zone 5a status provides a stable environment for a variety of popular turfgrasses.

Ample Rain for a Vibrant Yard

The county receives 32.4 inches of rain per year, comfortably exceeding the Minnesota average. Residents should prepare for 11 extreme heat days, which can dry out the upper soil layer quickly if not monitored.

Balanced Soil for Healthy Roots

A soil pH of 6.89 is ideal for grass, meaning you likely won't need expensive chemical corrections. The soil is composed of 38.3% sand and 22.1% clay, providing a versatile base for most residential lawn projects.

Managing Seasonal Moisture Swings

The area spent 4 weeks in drought over the last year, and about 43.7% of the county currently shows abnormal dryness. Use mulch-mowing to keep the soil shaded and reduce the evaporation of the county's healthy rainfall.

Take Advantage of the Growing Season

Seed your lawn between the last frost on May 2 and the first frost on October 4. In Zone 5a, a blend of Fine Fescues and Kentucky Bluegrass will provide the best year-round color and durability.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Nicollet County's county score?
Nicollet County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 54.4 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 Nicollet County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Nicollet County ranks #48 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 Nicollet County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Nicollet County is $2,888, with an effective tax rate of 1.12%. This earns Nicollet County a tax score of 30/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Nicollet County?
The median household income in Nicollet County, Minnesota is $80,362 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Nicollet County earns an income score of 84.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Nicollet County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Nicollet County scores 54.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #48 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Nicollet 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 Nicollet 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.