countyscore
51.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 82.2Health 80.6

County Report Card

About Orleans County, New York

Leading the Pack in National Rankings

Orleans County achieves a composite score of 51.8, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the more livable counties in the country based on environmental and cost factors.

A Top Performer in New York State

Exceeding the state average of 47.0, Orleans County’s 51.8 score ranks it highly among its New York peers. It offers a unique combination of safety and affordability that is hard to find elsewhere.

Exceptional Safety and Water Quality

Orleans excels with a water score of 86.0 and a risk score of 82.2, indicating a very stable environment. It also maintains a strong school score of 76.5 and a safety score of 55.4.

Struggling with the Highest Tax Rates

The county’s tax score is nearly zero at 0.1, driven by a very high effective tax rate of 2.996%. Median household income remains modest at $63,838, limiting overall financial flexibility.

Best for Environment-Focused Bargain Hunters

With home values at just $126,200, Orleans is perfect for those who want low entry costs and high environmental quality. It suits retirees or remote workers who value safety over low tax rates.

Score breakdown

Tax0.1Cost35.4Safety55.4Health80.6Schools76.5Income50.4Risk82.2Water86Weather57.2
🏛0.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠35.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼50.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡55.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤80.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓76.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡82.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱66.5
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

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46.7
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Deep Dives

Orleans County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Orleans County

via TaxByCounty

Orleans has the nation's steepest effective rates

Orleans County's effective tax rate of 2.996% stands as one of the highest in the nation, far exceeding the national median of 2.690% and ranking in the top tier nationally. Despite a modest median home value of $126,200—well below the national median of $281,900—residents pay $3,781 annually, reflecting the county's aggressive tax approach.

Orleans has New York's most punishing tax rate

At 2.996%, Orleans County has the highest effective tax rate among New York's counties, nearly 50% above the state average of 2.046%. The median tax of $3,781 on lower-valued homes illustrates how heavily the county taxes its residents relative to property values.

Orleans far outpaces surrounding counties

Orleans's 2.996% rate dwarfs Oswego County's 2.575% and Oneida County's 2.131%, making it by far the highest-taxing county in western upstate New York. Despite smaller tax bills due to lower home values, Orleans residents bear a disproportionate burden relative to what they own.

What the typical Orleans homeowner pays

The median Orleans County home is worth $126,200, and at the county's 2.996% effective rate, that equals an annual property tax of approximately $3,781. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $4,132, while those without mortgages pay $3,282.

High effective rates make assessments critical to review

With the state's most aggressive tax rate, Orleans homeowners face an extra incentive to scrutinize their assessments for errors. Even a modest overestimation of your home's value translates to significant annual overpayment—making an assessment appeal to your local assessor highly worthwhile.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Orleans County

via CostByCounty

Orleans offers some of New York's best deals

Orleans County residents spend just 16.5% of their income on rent, beating the national affordability benchmark and offering genuine housing relief. With a median rent of $877 and median household income of $63,838, the county delivers value despite lower-than-average wages.

Among New York's most affordable counties

Orleans County's 16.5% rent-to-income ratio outperforms the state average of 17.6%, placing it among New York's most livable housing markets. At just $877 per month median rent—$256 below state average—Orleans delivers clear cost-of-living advantages for budget-conscious families.

Orleans undercuts neighbors on all fronts

Orleans's $877 rent ranks lowest among all comparison counties, beating even Oneida ($917) and Oswego ($943) by substantial margins. The 16.5% rent-to-income ratio ties with Oswego while beating the state average, making Orleans an exceptional value play in Western New York.

Lower income, lower costs create balance

Orleans households earn $63,838 annually—below state and national medians—but pay just $877 in rent, creating a sustainable 16.5% housing burden. Owner costs of $1,082 per month pair with modest home values of $126,200, keeping both rental and ownership accessible.

Orleans delivers Western NY's best value

For relocators prioritizing affordability, Orleans County offers the lowest rents ($877) and strongest rent-to-income ratio (16.5%) in Western New York. Compared to Orange County's 19.9% burden or even Ontario's 16.9%, Orleans frees up income for savings or quality of life across all earning levels.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Orleans County

via IncomeByCounty

Orleans significantly lags national earnings

Orleans County's median household income of $63,838 falls 14.6% below the national median of $74,755. This substantial gap places Orleans among America's lower-earning counties, with households making $10,917 less annually than the typical American family.

Lowest-earning county in this group

Orleans trails the state median of $76,433 by $12,595—the widest gap among these eight counties. The per capita income of $34,352 severely lags the state average of $41,133, indicating broad-based economic challenges.

Struggles most in the region

Orleans earns less than every comparison county, with Oswego at $68,461 and Otsego at $67,086 both outpacing it significantly. The county faces the steepest income challenge among upstate New York peers.

Affordable housing offers relief

Orleans' 16.5% rent-to-income ratio and $126,200 median home value provide housing affordability—a critical advantage given lower earnings. Housing stability helps offset income constraints for local families.

Build resilience from a strong foundation

Orleans households must prioritize emergency savings and debt reduction to build financial stability on more modest incomes. Partner with a nonprofit credit counselor or community financial advisor to develop realistic wealth-building strategies tailored to your situation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Orleans County

via CrimeByCounty

Orleans County Ranks High for Safety

Orleans County achieves a high safety score of 98.4, signaling a very secure environment. The total crime rate of 1016.3 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the State Safety Average

With a score of 98.4, Orleans County sits slightly above the New York state average of 98.3. This ranking makes it one of the safer rural counties in Western New York.

Leading Nearby Counties in Safety

Orleans County's crime rate of 1016.3 is lower than Ontario's 1060.7 and significantly lower than Oswego's 1227.6. It stands out as a regional leader in keeping crime rates suppressed.

Low Rates of Both Crime Types

Violent crime in Orleans is minimal at 112.1 per 100K, while property crime is recorded at 904.2. Both metrics are substantially lower than national averages, indicating a peaceful local atmosphere.

Keep Orleans County Secure

Even in safe areas, home security systems provide valuable peace of mind. Keeping shed doors locked and using motion sensors can help maintain the county's excellent property crime statistics.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Orleans County

via HealthByCounty

Orleans faces significant health gaps

At 76.9 years, Orleans County residents live 2 years shorter than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 15.0% poor or fair health rate exceeds the national average of 13.4%, reflecting widespread health challenges.

Well below New York standard

Orleans' 76.9-year life expectancy trails New York State's 77.9-year average by a full year. At 5.7% uninsured, the county exceeds the state's 5.3% rate, indicating insurance access barriers.

Struggling in regional comparison

Orleans' 76.9-year life expectancy ranks among the lowest in the region, trailing Ontario (79.8) by 2.9 years and Onondaga (77.7) by 0.8 years. The county faces a critical provider shortage: just 8 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—one of New York's lowest.

Severe healthcare access crisis

Orleans County is in acute need of primary care: only 8 providers per 100,000 residents, forcing many to travel for routine care. Mental health services are also strained at 77 per 100,000, and the 5.7% uninsured rate leaves roughly 1 in 17 county residents without coverage.

Healthcare access starts with coverage

In a county facing healthcare shortages, having insurance is critical to accessing available services. Contact NY State of Health or local community health centers to explore Medicaid, subsidized plans, and local care options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Orleans County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Schooling in Orleans County

Orleans County operates a focused system of 13 public schools across six school districts. The total enrollment of 5,866 students is served by six elementary and five high schools, plus one middle school and one specialized facility. This small-scale infrastructure ensures students remain well-connected to their local communities.

Exceptional Graduation Rates in a Small Setting

Orleans County delivers an outstanding 90.8% graduation rate, far surpassing the state average of 85.3% and the national 87.0% mark. While per-pupil spending of $13,206 is lower than the state average, it remains above the national average of $13,000. The composite school score of 67.4 nearly matches the state's average performance.

Albion and Medina Lead the Districts

The Albion Central School District is the county's largest, serving 1,737 students across three schools. Medina Central School District is also a key provider, with 1,396 students enrolled. There are no charter schools in the county, as the six traditional districts meet the community's educational needs.

A Town and Rural Education Feel

Schools in Orleans are primarily situated in towns or rural areas, with no city or suburban locales. The average school size is 451 students, though Ronald L. Sodoma Elementary is the largest with 820 pupils. This lack of large urban campuses creates a personalized, community-centric atmosphere for all grade levels.

Finding a Community-Focused Home

The county's remarkably high graduation rate makes it a hidden gem for families prioritizing academic outcomes. Because districts like Albion and Medina are small and town-focused, homes often sit within walking distance or short drives of the schools. Buying a home here offers a blend of rural tranquility and proven educational success.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Orleans County

via RiskByCounty

Orleans: Among America's Safest Counties

Orleans County scores just 17.88 on composite disaster risk, placing it in the very low risk category and among the safest counties nationally. This exceptionally low score reflects minimal exposure to the major hazard types that threaten many American communities. Orleans residents can feel genuinely reassured about overall natural disaster risk compared to most of the nation.

New York's Lowest-Risk County

Orleans County scores 17.88 compared to New York's state average of 69.42—by far the lowest risk profile in the state and a dramatic divergence from most New York peers. This exceptional safety ranking reflects Orleans' geography and exposure patterns, which spare it from the serious hazards affecting most other New York counties. Orleans residents enjoy an unusually protected disaster risk profile.

Orleans Exceptionally Safe in Western NY

Orleans (17.88) has dramatically lower risk than all surrounding counties in western New York, making it a clear standout for disaster safety. Even the next-lowest-risk peers in the region score substantially higher than Orleans. Your county represents a genuine refuge from natural disaster exposure in this part of New York.

Hurricane Risk Tops a Moderate Threat List

Orleans County's most serious hazard is hurricane risk at 51.86, followed by flood exposure at 39.85—both notably modest compared to other New York counties. Wildfire (12.47) and tornado (22.39) risks remain very low here. Even Orleans' highest-risk hazard trails the state average, allowing residents to focus preparation on a narrower range of concerns.

Standard Coverage Often Sufficient Here

Orleans residents have an advantage: a comprehensive homeowners policy typically addresses your primary risks, though flood insurance is still recommended given any elevation in flood-prone zones. Earthquake insurance is unlikely to be a priority given Orleans' minimal seismic risk. Review your current coverage with an agent to confirm adequacy, then focus on other community investments.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Orleans County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Breezes Along Lake Ontario

Orleans County averages 49.3°F annually, keeping it cooler than the national median. The lake influence regulates temperatures, preventing the extreme spikes seen in the midwest.

Ranks Above the State Average

The county’s 49.3°F average is nearly two degrees warmer than the statewide average of 47.4°F. It is one of the more temperate counties along the Great Lakes shoreline.

The Drier Side of the Region

Orleans is the driest county in this group, receiving only 35.2 inches of annual precipitation. This is nearly 10 inches less than Oswego or Onondaga.

Lakeside Summers and Steady Snow

July averages a warm 72.2°F with 9 days exceeding 90°F. Winter brings 67.0 inches of snow, which is significant but lighter than the lake-effect totals found further east.

Plan for Steady Winter Snowfall

Homeowners should maintain reliable snow blowers for the 67 inches of annual accumulation. The 27.8°F winter average necessitates well-sealed windows to block lake winds.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Orleans County

via SoilByCounty

Orleans County’s Balanced Soil Profile

Orleans County reports a respectable soil score of 66.9, supported by an average pH of 5.85. This pH is higher than the state average of 5.11, making it less acidic and more hospitable to traditional garden crops. The land here provides a stable and productive agricultural base near the Lake Ontario shore.

Reliable Silt and Sand Blend

The soil is composed of 44.0% silt and 37.9% sand, striking a middle ground between drainage and retention. With 17.0% clay, the soil has enough body to hold onto fertilizers without being too heavy to till. This balance makes the land versatile for both orchards and row crops.

Consistent Yields and Water Storage

At 9.56% organic matter, Orleans exceeds the national average but falls below the New York state average of 17.01%. The available water capacity is 0.178 in/in, which is just slightly below the state average of 0.182. Despite these lower-than-average stats for the state, the soil remains highly productive.

Predictable Hydrology for Home and Farm

The absence of specific drainage class data is offset by the known silt-to-clay ratio which suggests moderate permeability. This soil typically avoids extreme waterlogging, making it easier to manage for building projects and perennial plantings. It provides a reliable foundation that responds well to standard management practices.

Fruit and Vegetable Success in Zone 6b

Orleans is part of a premier fruit-growing belt in Zone 6b, where apples and peaches thrive. The relatively high pH and good texture are perfect for starting a home orchard or a diverse vegetable plot. Don't wait to plant—your soil is ready to support a thriving garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Orleans County

via LawnByCounty

Orleans County's Strong Growing Advantage

Orleans County earns a lawn difficulty score of 66.5, making it easier to maintain than both the state average and the national median. This zone 6b region provides a stable environment for most common turfgrasses. While it is on the drier side, the overall climate is very lawn-friendly.

Sunny Days and Moderate Precipitation

The county receives 35.2 inches of annual rainfall, which is roughly 8 inches less than the New York state average. Despite 9 extreme heat days, the 2,831 growing degree days offer a robust season for grass to flourish. Supplemental irrigation is often necessary during the peak of summer to compensate for the lower precipitation.

Solid Foundation with Moderate Acidity

With a soil pH of 5.85, Orleans County is just shy of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for lawns. The soil texture features 37.9% sand and 17.0% clay, providing a good balance for root stability. A light application of lime can easily correct the acidity to reach peak growing potential.

Navigating Periodic Dry Spells

The area spent 25 weeks in drought over the last year, and currently, 45.3% of the county is abnormally dry. This moderate drought frequency requires homeowners to be vigilant about moisture levels. Using rain barrels or smart irrigation controllers can help manage these dry periods effectively.

Seeding for Success in Orleans

Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass perform exceptionally well in this zone 6b climate. Wait until the final spring frost on May 1 to begin your lawn renovation or new seeding projects. Your lawn will enjoy a healthy growing window until the first fall frost around October 20.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orleans County's county score?
Orleans County, New York has a composite county score of 51.8 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 Orleans County rank among counties in New York?
Orleans County ranks #16 among all counties in New York 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 Orleans County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Orleans County is $3,781, with an effective tax rate of 3.00%. This earns Orleans County a tax score of 0.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Orleans County?
The median household income in Orleans County, New York is $63,838 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Orleans County earns an income score of 50.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Orleans County, New York a good place to live?
Orleans County scores 51.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in New York. The best way to evaluate Orleans 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 Orleans County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.