countyscore
43.7
County Score
Health 97.5Income & Jobs 93.2Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Olmsted County, Minnesota

Olmsted County Faces Livability Hurdles

Despite its fame, Olmsted County earns a composite score of 43.7, which is below the national median of 50.0. High costs and environmental risks drag down its overall national standing.

Well Below the Minnesota Average

Olmsted trails the Minnesota state average of 55.8 by more than 12 points. While it excels in specific areas, its total profile ranks lower than many other Minnesota counties.

Unrivaled Health and Income Levels

The county achieves a near-perfect health score of 97.5 and a massive income score of 93.2. Residents enjoy a high median household income of $93,494 and world-class medical access.

Struggling with Cost and Risk

A very low cost score of 12.2 and a risk score of 17.7 are major concerns. High median rents of $1,283 and significant environmental vulnerabilities impact the overall livability.

Best for High-Earning Medical Professionals

This county is a specialized fit for wealthy individuals who prioritize top-tier healthcare and high salaries. It is less suitable for those looking for affordable housing or low environmental risk.

204060801003212.227.697.545.993.217.78649.7Tax32Cost12.2Safety27.6Health97.5Schools45.9Income93.2Risk17.7Water86Weather49.743.7/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Olmsted County DNA

Foverall

How Olmsted County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Olmsted County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (97.5/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (12.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
32-20
Cost
12.2-35.8
Safety
27.6-27.4
Health
97.5+47.5
Schools
45.9-8.100000000000001
Income
93.2+42.2
Risk
17.7-29.3
Water
86+28
Weather
49.7
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Whether buying or refinancing in Olmsted County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$304,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,283/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$304,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$51,320/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $93,494/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

9.2

per 100K

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

Crawford County
Arkansas
Median income: $60,362
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Median income: $47,188
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Garfield County
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Median income: $86,172
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Talbot County
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Median income: $45,098
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Boone County
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Median income: $81,638
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Clarke County
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Median income: $66,821
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Oakland County
Michigan
Median income: $95,296
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Anoka County
Minnesota
Median income: $98,764
43.7

Nearby counties

Dodge County
Minnesota
58.4
Wabasha County
Minnesota
64.4
Mower County
Minnesota
44.7
Fillmore County
Minnesota
65.1
Goodhue County
Minnesota
47.8
Winona County
Minnesota
48
Howard County
Iowa
68.1
Steele County
Minnesota
49.6

Deep Dives

Olmsted County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Olmsted County

via TaxByCounty

Olmsted County taxes rank above national average

Olmsted County's effective tax rate of 1.088% surpasses the national median, placing it in the upper 20% of U.S. counties for property tax burden. The median tax bill of $3,314 far exceeds the national median of $2,690, reflecting both higher rates and higher home values.

Second-highest taxes in Minnesota

Olmsted County's 1.088% rate ranks among the state's priciest, second only to Nicollet County's 1.117% in this regional group and well above Minnesota's 0.968% average. The median tax of $3,314 is the second-highest statewide and 53% above the state median.

Only Nicollet County taxes higher

Olmsted County's 1.088% rate nearly matches Nicollet County (1.117%) but far exceeds Nobles County (0.934%) and Morrison County (0.909%). Southeast Minnesota's tax burden concentrates in these two counties.

What Olmsted homeowners actually pay

A median Olmsted County home valued at $304,500 incurs an annual tax bill of approximately $3,314—the highest in this eight-county comparison. Homeowners with mortgages pay $3,430, while outright owners pay $3,156, a $274 differential.

Assessment appeals are worthwhile here

With tax bills topping $3,300, Olmsted County homeowners should absolutely challenge any overvaluation in their assessments. Even a modest reduction through appeal could save hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Olmsted County

via CostByCounty

Premium location, premium housing costs

Olmsted County's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio is the highest in this eight-county dataset, reflecting a metro-area housing market where rents have climbed sharply above national norms. The county's robust median household income of $93,494—25% above the national $74,755 median—enables residents to absorb these costs, though the burden remains notably heavy.

Minnesota's most expensive housing market

Olmsted County's $1,283 monthly rent and 16.5% rent-to-income ratio top all eight counties profiled and exceed Minnesota's 14.5% state average by a significant margin. This is Minnesota's premier housing market, driven by Rochester's regional economic strength and medical hub status.

Clear regional affordability outlier

Olmsted's $1,283 rent and $304,500 median home value stand dramatically above all peer counties—Nicollet's $931 rent and $258,500 homes are the closest comparables, yet still $350 monthly cheaper and $46,000 less in home value. This county occupies its own tier, reflecting Rochester's status as Minnesota's most robust regional economy.

Highest burden among all eight counties

Olmsted renters dedicate 16.5% of income to $1,283 monthly rent—the steepest ratio in this dataset—while owners allocate roughly 17.7% to mortgages on homes averaging $304,500. Both housing types here demand significantly larger income shares than neighbors, reflecting this county's prosperity-driven price inflation.

Premium living for premium earners

Olmsted County suits those relocating for high-wage Rochester jobs willing to accept premium housing costs; its $93,494 median income supports $1,283 rents and $304,500 home prices. Compare with affordable rural neighbors like Norman County ($752 rent, $69,833 income) to evaluate whether Rochester's economic opportunity justifies this eight-county region's highest housing burden.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Olmsted County

via IncomeByCounty

Olmsted County significantly outearns nation

Olmsted County's median household income of $93,494 substantially exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 25.1%, ranking it among the highest-income counties nationally. The county's economy, anchored by the Mayo Clinic and allied medical services, drives this premium.

Highest income in Minnesota group

At $93,494, Olmsted County towers above Minnesota's state average of $75,757 and ranks in the top tier statewide, commanding a $17,737 income advantage. The per capita income of $52,059 is the highest among all comparison counties.

Clear income leader regionally

Olmsted County's $93,494 income substantially surpasses every neighboring county, including Nicollet ($80,362), its nearest regional competitor. The Mayo Clinic economic engine creates wage premiums unavailable in purely agricultural or manufacturing-dependent counties.

Strong income supports premium housing

Despite the highest median home value in this group at $304,500, Olmsted County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.5% remains acceptable at just over 13% of income for traditional housing costs. The strong income base comfortably accommodates the region's premium real estate prices.

Leverage superior earnings potential

Olmsted County's above-average income creates unmatched opportunities for retirement investing, college savings, and diversified wealth building strategies. High-income households should maximize 401(k) contributions, explore HSAs, and consider professional investment guidance to optimize tax-advantaged wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Olmsted County

via CrimeByCounty

Olmsted Safer Than National Peaks

Olmsted County holds a safety score of 97.2, maintaining a solid profile against the national backdrop. Its total crime rate of 1755.3 per 100K is significantly lower than the U.S. average of 2,385.5.

Ranking as a Regional Hub

The county's safety score of 97.2 trails slightly behind the Minnesota average of 98.2. This is common for a major regional hub with higher population density and active reporting.

Regional Comparison with Mower

Olmsted's crime rate of 1755.3 per 100K is slightly lower than Mower County’s 1806.3. It remains a safer urban center compared to many similarly sized national peers.

Property Crime Focus Areas

Property crimes make up the bulk of local reports at 1567.4 per 100K residents. The violent crime rate of 187.9 is higher than the state average but remains half the national rate.

Integrated Security for Urban Living

Urban areas like Olmsted benefit from integrated security solutions. Homeowners should use smart security systems and join local community watch groups to stay informed.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Olmsted County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Major Educational Hub for 24,000 Students

Olmsted County features a massive network of 68 public schools, including 27 elementary and 23 high schools. Ten different districts work together to serve a total enrollment of 24,659 students across the region.

Steady Growth and Strategic Investment

The county maintains an 85.0% graduation rate, nearly matching the state average. With per-pupil spending at $8,207 and a school score of 53.5, Olmsted County remains a stable and competitive environment for student achievement.

Rochester Districts and Charter Choice

Rochester Public School District is a powerhouse, managing 48 schools and 17,492 students. The county also offers five charter schools, representing over 7% of the school landscape and providing families with significant educational variety.

Urban Scale with Diverse Options

With 44 schools located in city settings, the average school size is 391 students, though Mayo Senior High serves as many as 1,862. This urban density is balanced by 15 rural and 9 town schools, offering a range of learning environments.

Living Near the Heart of Rochester Schools

Choosing a home in Olmsted County means accessing some of the most diverse and specialized school options in Minnesota. Families should explore neighborhoods near Rochester's major high schools for the most comprehensive academic and extracurricular programs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Olmsted County

via RiskByCounty

Olmsted faces high national risk

Olmsted County's composite risk score of 82.35 earns a "Relatively Moderate" rating and significantly exceeds the national average. Tornado risk of 89.28 and flood risk of 86.86 make this southeastern Minnesota county one of the state's most hazard-exposed regions.

Highest-risk county in Minnesota

At 82.35, Olmsted County ranks as the highest or near-highest risk county statewide, nearly doubling Minnesota's average of 42.38. The county faces exceptional exposure across multiple major hazard categories.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Olmsted County's risk profile far exceeds neighboring Dodge, Wabasha, and Winona counties. Its tornado score of 89.28 and flood score of 86.86 are among the highest in the state, distinguishing it as a regional hazard hotspot.

Tornadoes and flooding are critical threats

Olmsted County residents face exceptional tornado risk at 89.28 and flood risk at 86.86—both among the highest in Minnesota. Combined, these hazards pose the county's primary natural disaster challenge, requiring comprehensive preparedness and protection measures.

Robust flood and storm coverage vital

Olmsted County residents must prioritize flood insurance separate from homeowners policies, given the 86.86 flood risk score. Invest in a home storm shelter or safe room, maintain a comprehensive emergency kit, and review all insurance annually for adequate coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Olmsted County

via WaterByCounty

Olmsted County Achieves Perfect A Grade

The county recorded zero health violations over five years, earning a perfect A grade. Its 0.0 violation rate is far superior to the state average of 32.5.

Olmsted Watersheds Await Federal Evaluation

Local water bodies are not currently covered in the federal §303(d) assessment database. Official watershed health reporting for this county is not yet available in the ATTAINS system.

Extensive Monitoring Network with 120 Sites

A robust network of 120 sites generated 39,693 measurements over the last five years. Monitoring focuses heavily on physical attributes, organics, pesticides, and nutrients.

Zumbro River Flow Drops to 65% of Mean

The South Fork Zumbro River at Rochester currently reports a discharge of 154 cfs. This flow is just 65% of its long-term typical levels, indicating dry conditions.

Low Streamflow Requires Continued Resource Vigilance

While drinking water compliance is excellent, low streamflow can increase the concentration of pesticides and nutrients. Residents should support groundwater protection to maintain this high compliance standard.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Olmsted County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool-Temperate Southeast Minnesota Hub

Olmsted's 44.0°F average temperature reflects a cool-temperate climate far below the national median. It experiences a wide range of weather common to the upper Mississippi Valley.

Warmer Than the State Median

This county is warmer than the state average of 42.8°F. It benefits from a slightly more temperate southern latitude compared to the rest of Minnesota.

Higher Precipitation Than Western Neighbors

Olmsted is significantly wetter than average, receiving 35.2 inches of annual precipitation. It sees nearly 50 inches of snow, surpassing southern neighbor Nobles.

Mild Summers and Snowy Winters

Summer is mild with only 6 days of extreme heat over 90°F. Winter is cold but manageable, with a 17.3°F average from December through February.

Managing High Rainfall and Snow

Prioritize waterproofing and gutter maintenance to handle the high 35.2-inch rainfall. Ensure snowblowers are tuned for the nearly 50 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Olmsted County

via SoilByCounty

The Gold Standard for pH

Olmsted County has an average soil pH of 6.45, almost perfectly matching the national median of 6.5. This makes the local soil chemically balanced for a wide array of gardening and farming applications.

Silty Texture for Moisture Control

The soil is heavy on silt at 46.7%, mixed with 34.1% sand and 18.9% clay. This silty composition makes the ground smooth to the touch and very effective at holding onto moisture and nutrients.

Sufficient Water for Crucial Months

Organic matter is 3.83%, which exceeds the national average of 2.0% but is lower than the state benchmark. The available water capacity is 0.190 in/in, ensuring that plants have access to water during the crucial growing months.

Moderate Drainage for Root Health

Limited drainage data suggests that the high silt content likely facilitates moderate drainage rates. This quality provides a stable environment for roots that dislike both bone-dry sand and standing water.

Thriving Perennials in Zone 4b

Hardiness Zone 4b supports a variety of perennials and hardy shrubs that thrive in the county's 76.0-rated soil. There is no better time than now to take advantage of this balanced ground and start your garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Olmsted County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Lawn Conditions in Olmsted County

Olmsted County features a stellar 80.0 lawn difficulty score, making it one of the premier locations for turf in Minnesota. This score is significantly better than both the state average and the national median.

Ideal Rainfall and Mild Summers

Abundant annual precipitation of 35.2 inches provides more than enough moisture for a thriving lawn. With only 6 extreme heat days, the local climate is much gentler on cool-season grasses than most other Minnesota counties.

Great Drainage and Optimal pH

The soil pH of 6.45 falls perfectly within the ideal range for grass health. A balanced mix of 18.9% clay and 34.1% sand ensures that roots have access to both air and moisture without the risk of heavy compaction.

Superior Resilience to Dry Spells

While the county had 5 weeks of drought last year, it currently enjoys 0% dry or drought conditions. To keep this competitive advantage, aerate your soil in the fall to maintain its excellent natural drainage.

Growing Green in Zone 4b

Kentucky Bluegrass and Turf-Type Tall Fescue thrive in these conditions. Your primary growing window stretches from the May 12 spring frost through to the first fall frost on October 6.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Olmsted County's county score?
Olmsted County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 43.7 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 Olmsted County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Olmsted County ranks #77 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 Olmsted County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Olmsted County is $3,314, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Olmsted County a tax score of 32/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Olmsted County?
The median household income in Olmsted County, Minnesota is $93,494 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Olmsted County earns an income score of 93.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Olmsted County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Olmsted County scores 43.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #77 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Olmsted 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 Olmsted County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.