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Northampton County, Pennsylvania — County Report Card

PA

#50 in Pennsylvania

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
48.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 89.9Health 81.6Schools 71.4

County Report Card

About Northampton County, Pennsylvania

Competitive with National Norms

Northampton County earns a composite score of 48.1, placing it just shy of the national median of 50.0. Its strong social metrics are balanced by high local living expenses.

A Strong Lehigh Valley Contender

The county's score of 48.1 is competitive, though slightly below the state average of 51.8. It serves as a major economic hub with high health and income rankings for the region.

Economic Vitality and Public Health

The county excels with an income score of 89.9 and a health score of 81.6. Residents benefit from a median household income of $86,687 and a robust healthcare infrastructure.

Tax Burdens and Low Risk Resilience

A tax score of 8.3 and a risk score of 10.0 represent the county's primary weaknesses. An effective tax rate of 1.653% makes it a high-cost environment for many homeowners.

Ideal for Career-Minded Families

Northampton County is best suited for established professionals who value high-income potential and quality healthcare. It is a top choice for those who can navigate the high tax and housing costs.

204060801008.310.86881.671.489.91051.857Tax8.3Cost10.8Safety68Health81.6Schools71.4Income89.9Risk10Water51.8Weather5748.1/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Northampton County DNA

Foverall

How Northampton County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Northampton County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (89.9/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (8.3/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
8.3-43.7
Cost
10.8-37.2
Safety
68+13
Health
81.6+31.599999999999994
Schools
71.4+17.400000000000006
Income
89.9+38.900000000000006
Risk
10-37
Water
51.8
Weather
57
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Many homeowners in Northampton County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$285,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,335/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$285,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$53,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $86,687/yr
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Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

14.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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Deep Dives

Northampton County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Northampton County

via TaxByCounty

Northampton's rate is well above U.S. median

Northampton County's effective tax rate of 1.653% exceeds the national median of 1.2% by a substantial margin, placing it in the top 15% of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax of $4,710 is 75% higher than the national median of $2,690, reflecting both above-average home values and an aggressive tax rate. Northampton imposes one of the nation's heavier property tax burdens.

Second-highest tax rate in Pennsylvania

At 1.653%, Northampton's effective rate significantly exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 1.317%, ranking it second only to Monroe County (1.839%) among the state's 67 counties. The county demonstrates heavy reliance on property taxation for local revenue.

Steep rates among regional competitors

Northampton's 1.653% rate surpasses Mercer (1.265%), Lycoming (1.353%), Montour (1.030%), and Mifflin (1.558%), but trails only Monroe (1.839%) and McKean (1.636%) in the region. The county ranks among the highest-taxed jurisdictions in its peer group.

Median annual tax bill exceeds $4,700

On Northampton's median home value of $285,000, the effective tax rate generates a median property tax of approximately $4,710 per year. With mortgage-related assessments, the bill rises to $4,913; without them, it drops to $4,384, placing Northampton homeowners among the heaviest-taxed in these eight counties.

High rates make appeals especially valuable

With an effective tax rate among the state's two highest, Northampton homeowners should scrutinize whether their assessments reflect fair market value. If comparable properties in your neighborhood have sold for less than your assessed value, filing a formal tax appeal with the county assessor could recover thousands annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Northampton County

via CostByCounty

Northampton's ratio reflects Lehigh Valley demand

Northampton County's 18.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national norms, though a solid $86,687 median income helps offset costs. The $1,335 monthly rent reflects the Lehigh Valley's position as a secondary metro destination driving housing prices upward.

Among Pennsylvania's most expensive

Northampton ranks third in state housing burden at 18.5%, trailing only Monroe (19.6%) and tying with Montgomery at the upper tier. The county's $1,335 median rent is 39% above Pennsylvania's state average, reflecting regional growth pressures.

Lehigh Valley premium over rural options

Northampton's $1,335 rent exceeds all comparison counties except Monroe, while its $285,000 median home value reflects metro-adjacent pricing. The Lehigh Valley location commands a significant premium over central Pennsylvania and northwestern counties.

Both pathways carry substantial burden

Renters spend $1,335 monthly (18.5% of $86,687 income) while homeowners pay $1,418 monthly (19.6%), pushing both groups toward the affordability ceiling. This represents the state's second-highest overall housing pressure after Monroe.

Northampton balances access and cost

If Lehigh Valley proximity matters, Northampton offers moderate savings versus Montgomery while significantly undercutting Monroe's 19.6% burden. Weigh the 18.5% ratio against central Pennsylvania alternatives to confirm the metro access justifies the premium.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Northampton County

via IncomeByCounty

Northampton significantly outearns nation

Northampton County's median household income of $86,687 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by nearly $12,000, a 16% premium. This strong showing reflects Northampton's position in the Lehigh Valley, a region benefiting from proximity to both New York and Philadelphia.

Well above Pennsylvania's average

At $86,687, Northampton's median household income outpaces Pennsylvania's state average of $69,614 by about $17,000 per household. The per capita income of $44,837 also exceeds the state average of $37,407 by roughly 20%, indicating strong individual earning power.

Second-highest earner in cohort

Northampton's $86,687 trails only Montgomery County's $111,521 but substantially outearns Monroe County ($82,374) and all western Pennsylvania counties. The Lehigh Valley's diversified economy and regional importance drive earnings above state and national norms.

Higher housing costs reflect demand

Northampton's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% is elevated, reflecting strong demand for the county's homes and communities. The median home value of $285,000 signals a robust housing market where above-average earners compete for properties in a growing region.

Leverage strong earnings for growth

With median household income at $86,687, Northampton residents earn well above state and national averages, supporting aggressive wealth building. Strategic investments in retirement accounts, real estate equity, and diversified portfolios can help households transform strong earnings into lasting financial advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Northampton County

via CrimeByCounty

Northampton County Ranks Highly for Safety

Northampton County holds an impressive safety score of 98.8, making it much safer than the national average. Its total crime rate of 751.2 per 100,000 is nearly four times lower than the U.S. rate of 2,385.5.

Exceeding Pennsylvania's High Standards

With a crime rate of 751.2, Northampton is safer than the state average of 932.4 per 100,000. Its safety score of 98.8 also ranks it above the average Pennsylvania county score of 98.5.

Safer Than Nearby Metropolitan Areas

Northampton is significantly more secure than Montgomery County, which has a crime rate nearly double its own at 1,465.8. It also edges out Monroe County's rate of 1,046.8 incidents.

Remarkably Low Violent Crime Rate

The county’s violent crime rate of 91.3 per 100,000 is one of the lowest in the state and far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also minimal, occurring at just 659.9 per 100,000.

Stay Vigilant to Keep Crime Low

Low crime rates are a community achievement, and basic security can help maintain this trend. Visible security systems and well-lit entryways remain effective tools for deterring the small amount of property crime that exists.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Northampton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Thriving School System in the Lehigh Valley

Northampton County supports 61 public schools across 13 districts, educating a total of 40,753 students. The network is extensive, featuring 35 elementary schools and 13 high schools to serve a growing population.

Balanced Growth and Steady Graduation

The county reports a 90.5% graduation rate, slightly higher than the state average. Per-pupil spending sits at $10,170, very close to the Pennsylvania average of $10,336, resulting in a solid composite school score of 60.6.

Easton and Nazareth Drive Local Enrollment

Easton Area SD is the largest district with 7,990 students across nine schools. The county also offers diverse options through four charter schools, which make up about 6.6% of the total educational landscape.

A Mix of Urban and Suburban Hubs

The county features 39 suburban and 13 city schools, with a larger-than-average school size of 668 students. Easton Area High School is a major regional landmark with 2,844 students, offering a broad range of programs and facilities.

Join a Growing Community in Northampton

From the historic streets of Easton to the suburban sprawl of Nazareth, this county offers excellent school choices. Explore the diverse neighborhoods that make the Lehigh Valley a top destination for families in Pennsylvania.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Northampton County

via RiskByCounty

Northampton faces very high risk

With a composite risk score of 90.01, Northampton County experiences significantly above-average natural disaster exposure compared to U.S. counties overall. The county's "Relatively Moderate" risk rating indicates serious and multifaceted hazards that require substantial preparation. Northampton ranks among America's more vulnerable counties.

Second-highest risk in Pennsylvania

Northampton County's risk score of 90.01 substantially exceeds Pennsylvania's state average of 67.45, placing it second only to Montgomery County (96.82) in state risk rankings. The county's extreme scores in flooding (93.61), tornadoes (80.92), earthquakes (84.41), and hurricanes (87.07) reflect exposure to multiple major hazard types. This "Relatively Moderate" rating underscores the county's serious vulnerabilities.

Riskier than most Pennsylvania counties

Northampton County's score of 90.01 exceeds Monroe County (85.08), Mifflin (69.27), Lycoming (79.58), and Mercer (77.74) significantly. Only Montgomery County (96.82) poses greater disaster risk in Pennsylvania. Northampton's location in the northeastern corner, near the Atlantic coast and geologically sensitive areas, drives its vulnerability.

Flooding and earthquakes dominate

Northampton County's flood risk of 93.61 ranks as the county's highest exposure and among Pennsylvania's most extreme. Earthquake risk at 84.41 is exceptionally high for Pennsylvania, reflecting the county's proximity to regional seismic zones. Tornadoes (80.92) and hurricanes (87.07) add layers of additional hazard exposure.

Multi-hazard protection is critical

Flood insurance is absolutely essential with a 93.61 risk score; standard homeowners policies provide no protection against this grave threat. Brace your home's foundation and cripple walls against earthquake damage, install hurricane-rated roofing and reinforced garage doors, and identify tornado shelter locations. Invest in professional structural assessment to identify specific vulnerabilities unique to your home.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Northampton County

via WaterByCounty

Moderate Performance for Drinking Water

Northampton County holds a C grade for drinking water, with 44 health violations over the past five years. Its violation rate of 14.0 per 100,000 residents is significantly better than the state average of 86.5. This indicates that while violations occur, the system is generally performing above the state baseline.

Local Watershed Assessments Are Limited

Federal 2022 data shows 14,120 assessed water bodies with a reported 0.0% impairment rate. However, no top impairment causes are listed, meaning many local streams may not yet be fully covered in the federal §303(d) assessment. Residents should view these zero-percent figures with caution.

Lehigh Basin Monitoring Records Growing

The county's 39 monitoring sites have generated 9,128 measurements over the last five years. Physical characteristics and nutrients are the primary focuses of these water quality readings. This data helps local officials track the environmental impact of urban and industrial development.

Lehigh River Flow Below Typical Levels

The Lehigh River at Glendon measures 1,910 cfs, which is 66% of its typical long-term mean. This lower-than-average flow reflects a drier period for the 1,359-square-mile drainage area. Reduced flow can lead to slower-moving water and higher temperatures in the summer months.

Conserve Water During Low Flows

Because the Lehigh River is running at 66% of its typical volume, residents should consider moderate water conservation. While drinking water compliance is relatively strong, staying informed about tap water quality remains important during low-flow periods when pollutants can become more concentrated.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Northampton County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Northeast Climate

Northampton County's 50.9°F average temperature sits right in line with the national median for the humid continental zone. It experiences the sharp seasonal shifts typical of the Lehigh Valley.

Significantly Wetter Than the State Average

With 53.4 inches of annual precipitation, Northampton is much wetter than the state average of 45.3 inches. It is also roughly one degree warmer than the statewide average temperature.

Damp and Snowy Compared to Neighbors

The county receives 41.1 inches of snow, which is significantly higher than its southern neighbors in the Philadelphia metro. It also records more annual rainfall than most counties in the region.

Snowy Winters and Temperate Summers

Winters are significant, featuring 41.1 inches of snow and a January average of 28.1°F. Summers are generally comfortable, with only 14 days of extreme heat exceeding 90°F.

Prepare for High Precipitation

The 53.4 inches of rain makes high-quality roofing and drainage essential for local homeowners. A reliable snowblower is recommended for the 41-inch average annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Northampton County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Alfisols of the Lehigh Valley

Northampton County's soils are primarily Alfisols, known for being productive but relatively acidic with an average pH of 4.88. This is significantly lower than the state average of 5.22 and the national median of 6.5. Alfisols are characterized by a clay-enriched sublayer that can provide a good reservoir for plant nutrients.

Gravelly Loams Offer Quick Workability

The dominant texture is a gravelly loam, featuring 37.6% silt, 27.6% sand, and 14.5% clay. The presence of gravel improves aeration and helps the soil warm up quickly in the spring, though it can make digging more strenuous. This well-balanced texture prevents the soil from becoming too compacted under normal conditions.

Moderate Fertility and Leaner Water Storage

Organic matter in the county averages 6.86%, which is below the Pennsylvania average of 12.14% but still well above the 2.0% national benchmark. Available water capacity is 0.126 in/in, which is lower than the state average of 0.151 in/in. This suggests that Northampton gardens may need more frequent watering during the peak of summer.

Efficient Drainage for Easy Building

Most soils here are classified as well drained and fall into hydrologic group A. This means water moves through the profile quickly, which is excellent for preventing root rot and managing storm water. It also makes the county's land generally favorable for construction and septic systems.

Warm Starts in Zone 7a

Northampton's Zone 7a climate provides an early start to the spring and a late finish to the fall. The well-drained, gravelly soil is perfect for Mediterranean herbs like lavender and rosemary that hate 'wet feet.' With a little extra irrigation and compost, your Northampton garden will be the envy of the neighborhood.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Northampton County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Turf Tasks in Northampton

Northampton County faces tough lawn conditions with a score of 42.0, significantly lower than the Pennsylvania average of 59.2. This Zone 7a county requires a high level of maintenance compared to the national median.

Managing High Rainfall and Heat

High precipitation of 53.4 inches often leads to rapid growth, yet 14 extreme heat days add significant summer stress. The 2,932 growing degree days provide plenty of energy for turf, provided hydration remains consistent.

Perfecting the Gravelly Loam

The gravelly loam soil is well-drained but very acidic, with a pH of 4.88. This 14.5% clay and 27.6% sand mixture needs regular lime and organic matter to support healthy grass blades against the acidity.

Resisting Severe Local Drought

Severe drought grips 86.9% of the county, capping off a year where residents saw 36 weeks of drought. To save water, allow the grass to go dormant during the hottest weeks rather than forcing it to stay green.

Seeding Durable 7a Varieties

Tall Fescues are the most durable option for the heat and well-drained soils of this Zone 7a area. Begin seeding after the April 21 frost date to establish a thick lawn before the summer heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Northampton County's county score?
Northampton County, Pennsylvania has a composite county score of 48.1 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 Northampton County rank among counties in Pennsylvania?
Northampton County ranks #50 among all counties in Pennsylvania 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 Northampton County, Pennsylvania?
The median annual property tax in Northampton County is $4,710, with an effective tax rate of 1.65%. This earns Northampton County a tax score of 8.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Northampton County?
The median household income in Northampton County, Pennsylvania is $86,687 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Northampton County earns an income score of 89.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Northampton County, Pennsylvania a good place to live?
Northampton County scores 48.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in Pennsylvania. The best way to evaluate Northampton 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 Northampton County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.