countyscore
47.3
County Score
Health 89.3Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 85.4

County Report Card

About Plymouth County, Iowa

Slightly Below National Median

Plymouth County earns a composite score of 47.3, which is just below the national median of 50.0. While it excels in several areas, specific challenges prevent it from reaching the top national percentiles.

Behind the State Pace

The county's score of 47.3 trails the Iowa state average of 55.6 by a notable margin. This indicates that while Plymouth offers high individual benefits, it lags behind the state’s most balanced counties.

Elite Incomes and Health

The county is an economic powerhouse with an income score of 85.4 and a median household income of $81,600. It also provides excellent wellness opportunities, reflected in a high health score of 89.3.

Safety Concerns and High Costs

The safety score of 0.4 is a critical outlier that significantly lowers the overall composite index. Additionally, median home values of $218,600 and a cost score of 42.3 make it less affordable than many of its Iowa neighbors.

Best for High-Earning Professionals

Plymouth County is ideal for affluent households that prioritize high incomes and excellent health services. It suits those who are willing to navigate higher housing costs for access to a strong local economy.

Score breakdown

Tax32.4Cost42.3Safety0.4Health89.3Schools68.8Income85.4Risk50.8Water86Weather45.1
🏛32.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠42.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼85.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡0.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤89.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡50.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.6
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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51.5
Dakota County
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35.8
Sioux County
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59.1
Dixon County
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Woodbury County
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Clay County
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Lincoln County
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Cherokee County
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Deep Dives

Plymouth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Plymouth County

via TaxByCounty

Plymouth County taxes: Below national median

Plymouth County's effective tax rate of 1.081% is among the lowest in the nation, sitting well below the national median of 1.23%. At $2,363 annually, the median tax bill is just 12% higher than the national median of $2,690, despite the county's higher median home value of $218,600.

Plymouth County has Iowa's second-lowest rate

Plymouth County's 1.081% effective rate ranks second-lowest among Iowa counties analyzed here. The median tax of $2,363 reflects strong home values in the county while maintaining a tax burden well below the state average of $2,160 in absolute dollars.

Plymouth offers real tax savings vs. peers

Plymouth's 1.081% rate significantly undercuts Pottawattamie (1.613%) to the south and Page (1.434%) to the east. At $2,363 in median annual taxes, Plymouth homeowners pay substantially less than Pottawattamie ($2,961) despite comparable home values.

Plymouth County homeowner tax bill

A median-valued home in Plymouth County at $218,600 generates roughly $2,363 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect $2,389; without one, the bill drops to $2,329.

Appeal if your assessment seems high

Even in low-tax counties, individual properties can be overassessed. Compare your assessed value to recent arm's-length sales in Plymouth County; if your assessment appears inflated, file an appeal with the county assessor's office.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Plymouth County

via CostByCounty

Plymouth pays premium for higher incomes

Plymouth County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, supported by a median household income of $81,600—above both state and national medians. At $865 per month, rents run 6% above the state average, but stronger local wages make housing more manageable here than in lower-income counties.

Above-average incomes fuel affordability

Plymouth County ranks in the upper half of Iowa counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio below the state average of 14.1%. This performance stems primarily from above-average household incomes rather than below-average rents.

Higher rents reflect stronger local economy

Plymouth County's $865 rent exceeds nearby Palo Alto County ($599) and Pocahontas County ($743), reflecting a more competitive regional housing market. However, Plymouth's significantly higher median incomes ($81,600 vs neighbors' $63,400–$68,900) make these higher rents proportionally more affordable.

Ownership slightly pricier than renting

Renters spend $865 monthly while homeowners pay $942, with median home values reaching $218,600—substantially higher than rural county averages. Both tenure types consume roughly 12–14% of the $81,600 median income, leaving strong discretionary income for families and individuals.

Premium housing for premium incomes

Plymouth County appeals to professionals and families with above-average earnings who want affordable housing in a stronger economic hub. Higher home values and rents reflect a healthier local job market—making relocation here sensible primarily for those with job prospects to match.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Plymouth County

via IncomeByCounty

Plymouth County Exceeds National Average

Plymouth County's median household income of $81,600 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by about $6,800. This strong position ranks Plymouth among higher-earning counties nationally and reflects robust local economic activity.

Among Iowa's Top Earners

Plymouth County ranks well above Iowa's state average of $69,830 with $81,600 in median household income. The $11,770 advantage places it in the upper income tier statewide, signaling a healthy local economy.

Economic Leader in Northwest Iowa

Plymouth County ($81,600) substantially outearns Palo Alto County ($68,963) and Pocahontas County ($63,423) in the surrounding region. This leadership reflects strong agricultural productivity and diversified manufacturing sectors.

Higher Incomes Support Home Values

Plymouth County's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio remains affordable despite median home values reaching $218,600. The higher home prices reflect stronger incomes; households can comfortably manage costs in the current market.

Invest Your Income Advantage Now

Plymouth County residents with $81,600 median income have greater capacity for diversified investing beyond homeownership. Consider maximizing retirement contributions, building taxable investment accounts, and exploring real estate or business ventures to compound wealth further.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Plymouth County

via CrimeByCounty

Plymouth County faces significant safety challenges

Plymouth County reports a high total crime rate of 12396.1 per 100K, which is over five times the national average. This results in a safety score of 80.4, indicating more frequent incidents than most U.S. counties.

Well above Iowa's average crime rates

The county's crime rate of 12396.1 per 100K is significantly higher than the Iowa average of 1095.3. Its safety score of 80.4 lags behind the state average of 98.3, marking it as a regional outlier.

A sharp contrast with neighboring counties

Neighboring Palo Alto County reports a much lower crime rate of only 682.5 per 100K. Plymouth's figures are also dramatically higher than Pocahontas County's 325.7 per 100K.

Property crime drives local statistics

Property crime is the primary concern at 10475.8 per 100K, which is massively higher than the national 2,015.7. Violent crime also sits high at 1920.3 per 100K, compared to the national 369.8.

Prioritizing security for your household

Given the high property crime rates, investing in robust home security systems and surveillance is highly recommended. Working closely with the three local reporting agencies can help improve neighborhood safety outcomes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Plymouth County

via HealthByCounty

Plymouth County leads on longevity

At 79.0 years, Plymouth County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average by 0.9 years and ranks among the healthiest rural counties in America. The 14.8% poor or fair health rate reflects below-average health struggles, indicating a population with strong longevity despite daily health challenges.

Top-tier life expectancy in Iowa

Plymouth County's 79.0-year life expectancy ranks it in Iowa's top quartile, exceeding the state average of 77.7 by 1.3 years. The 4.6% uninsured rate is the lowest of any county profiled, demonstrating exceptional healthcare coverage and access integration.

Clear health advantage over surrounding region

Plymouth County's 79.0-year life expectancy outpaces all nearby counties—Palo Alto (76.7), Pocahontas (76.4), and Poweshiek (78.2). With 55 primary care providers per 100K and robust mental health resources (198 per 100K), Plymouth County has built the strongest health infrastructure in its region.

Low uninsured rate fuels health success

Plymouth County's 4.6% uninsured rate means nearly 95% of residents have active coverage—critical for prevention and early intervention. The 198 mental health providers per 100,000 residents ensure community access to behavioral health services that support overall longevity.

Maintain Plymouth's coverage excellence

With 4.6% uninsured, Plymouth County has built something special—near-universal healthcare access. If you're among the uninsured minority, visit Healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to join your neighbors and secure the coverage that's contributing to Iowa's longest rural lifespan.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Plymouth County

via SchoolsByCounty

Plymouth County's Expanding Education System

Plymouth County supports 4,282 students through a network of 16 public schools and 5 school districts. The infrastructure consists of seven elementary, four middle, and five high schools, including one alternative school option.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates

An impressive 95.7% graduation rate places the county well above both the state and national averages. Despite spending $7,289 per pupil—less than the state average—the county achieves a high composite school score of 57.2.

Focus on Le Mars Community Schools

The Le Mars Community School District is the largest by far, serving 2,236 students across six schools. Charter schools do not exist here, meaning 100% of the county's educational options are traditional public or alternative campuses.

A Diverse Mix of Town and Rural Schools

The county offers a mix of 10 rural and 6 town-based schools, with an average enrollment of 268 students. Le Mars High School is the largest campus with 675 students, providing a more comprehensive experience than its smaller neighbors.

Relocate Near Plymouth's Best Districts

With some of the highest graduation rates in Iowa, Plymouth County is a premier destination for families. Buyers often find that proximity to top-tier schools in Le Mars or Hinton adds significant value to local real estate.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Plymouth County

via RiskByCounty

Plymouth County faces above-average disaster risk

At 49.20, Plymouth County's composite risk score significantly exceeds the national average and earns a Relatively Low rating, reflecting elevated exposure to multiple hazard types. Tornadoes, floods, and wildfires all contribute notably to this profile.

Plymouth ranks among Iowa's riskier counties

Plymouth County's 49.20 score surpasses Iowa's average of 39.68, placing it in the upper tier of the state's risk rankings. The combination of high tornado (77.35), flood (45.23), and wildfire (70.52) risks makes it one of Iowa's more hazard-prone areas.

Plymouth faces distinctly higher risks than neighbors

Neighboring Palo Alto County (15.46) and Pocahontas County (33.05) both carry significantly lower composite risk. Plymouth County's elevated exposure across multiple hazard types sets it apart as the riskier territory in northwest Iowa.

Tornadoes and wildfires drive your risk profile

Tornado risk (77.35) and wildfire risk (70.52) are your two dominant natural hazards, with tornado exposure among the highest in the state. Flood risk (45.23) adds a secondary layer of concern, particularly during spring snow melt and heavy precipitation events.

Invest in comprehensive hazard insurance

Plymouth County residents should maintain robust homeowners insurance covering tornado, hail, and wind damage, with separate flood insurance if in or near a flood zone. Develop a tornado safety plan with a designated shelter and keep emergency supplies stocked year-round.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Plymouth County

via WeatherByCounty

A Brisk and Dry Continental Climate

Plymouth County is cooler and drier than the national average, with a mean temperature of 46.9°F. Its annual precipitation of 29.7 inches is notably lower than the national median, reflecting its position in Western Iowa.

One of Iowa’s Drier Northwest Counties

Plymouth County receives only 29.7 inches of precipitation annually, well below the state average of 36.1 inches. Its 46.9°F annual temperature also tracks over a degree cooler than the statewide mean.

Drier and Cooler Than Eastern Neighbors

Compared to Pocahontas County, Plymouth is significantly drier, receiving 3 inches less precipitation annually. It maintains a similar temperature profile to its neighbors but with fewer extreme snow days than those further east.

Cold Winters and Moderate Summer Peaks

Winter is sharp with a January average of 17.3°F and 33.8 inches of annual snow. Summer brings 17 days of temperatures at or above 90°F, though the overall July average remains a comfortable 73.1°F.

Manage Dry Soils and Winter Winds

Gardeners should choose drought-resistant plants to accommodate the low 29.7-inch rainfall average. Heavy winter coats and wind protection are essential for the 20.5°F average winter temperatures.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Plymouth County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils on the Western Edge

Plymouth County soils average a pH of 6.89, which is significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile favors specific crops that prefer less acidic environments.

Silt Dominance and High Stability

Silt makes up a massive 62.2% of the soil, with sand accounting for only 12.5%. This composition creates a smooth, flour-like texture that is highly productive but prone to erosion if left uncovered.

Superior Water Holding Capacity

The available water capacity is 0.213 in/in, outperforming the state average of 0.195 in/in. Although organic matter is 3.02%, lower than the state average, the soil score remains high at 73.6.

Managing High Silt Levels

While specific drainage classes aren't recorded, the high silt levels mean this soil stores water effectively. Proper drainage tile is often a key consideration for managing these moisture-heavy fields.

Hardy Crops for Zone 5a

Zone 5a gardeners can successfully grow pumpkins, squash, and hardy grains in this silty earth. It is time to plant your spring seeds and see what this western Iowa soil can do!

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Plymouth County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Tougher Conditions in Plymouth

Plymouth County presents a tougher challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 55.6, well below the state average of 77.2. While still above the national median, maintaining a lush lawn here requires more effort due to drier conditions in Zone 5a.

Adapting to Lower Rainfall Totals

Annual precipitation is just 29.7 inches, falling just below the ideal 30-50 inch range for traditional turf. With 2887 growing degree days, the grass grows steadily but may go dormant during the 17 annual extreme heat days without irrigation.

Stable Soil with High pH

The soil pH of 6.89 is near the top of the ideal range, ensuring that nutrients remain available to the roots. Although specific drainage data is unavailable, the 25.3% clay content suggests the soil retains what little moisture the county receives.

Overcoming Significant Yearly Drought

Drought resilience is critical here, as the county suffered through 37 weeks of drought over the past year. With 100% of the area currently abnormally dry, homeowners should consider drought-tolerant seed varieties to manage the limited water supply.

Drought-Tolerant Turf for Success

Given the lower rainfall, fine fescues or heat-tolerant Kentucky Bluegrass varieties are the best picks for this Zone 5a region. Plan your renovation projects between the April 30 spring frost and the October 4 fall frost to avoid young grass killing freezes.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Plymouth County's county score?
Plymouth County, Iowa has a composite county score of 47.3 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 Plymouth County rank among counties in Iowa?
Plymouth County ranks #77 among all counties in Iowa 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 Plymouth County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Plymouth County is $2,363, with an effective tax rate of 1.08%. This earns Plymouth County a tax score of 32.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Plymouth County?
The median household income in Plymouth County, Iowa is $81,600 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Plymouth County earns an income score of 85.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Plymouth County, Iowa a good place to live?
Plymouth County scores 47.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #77 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Plymouth 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 Plymouth 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.