countyscore
65.3
County Score
Safety 97.5Property Tax 88.4Income & Jobs 78.7

County Report Card

About Putnam County, Indiana

Putnam County Beats the Median

Putnam County posts a strong composite score of 65.3, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balanced profile of safety and economic stability.

Leading the Pack in Indiana

At 65.3, Putnam County ranks well above the Indiana state average of 55.9. It consistently outperforms neighboring counties by maintaining a high standard of living and competitive financial metrics.

Superior Safety and Low Taxes

A near-perfect Safety Score of 97.5 defines the county, making it one of the safest places to live in the state. Residents also enjoy a Tax Score of 88.4, supported by an effective tax rate of just 0.475%.

Rising Costs and School Performance

Housing affordability is a growing concern, as evidenced by a Cost Score of 35.0 and a median gross rent of $883. Educational metrics also lag behind, with the School Score currently sitting at 43.0.

Tailored for Commuter Families

Putnam County is ideal for families who value security and have stable incomes to manage higher housing costs. Its mix of low taxes and elite safety makes it a top-tier choice for those working in nearby metro areas.

2040608010088.43597.562.94378.757.258.355Tax88.4Cost35Safety97.5Health62.9Schools43Income78.7Risk57.2Water58.3Weather5565.3/100
This county
National avg
5 above average2 below average

Putnam County DNA

D+overall

How Putnam County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Putnam County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (97.5/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (35/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
88.4+36.400000000000006
Cost
35-13
Safety
97.5+42.5
Health
62.9+12.899999999999999
Schools
43-11
Income
78.7+27.700000000000003
Risk
57.2+10.200000000000003
Water
58.3
Weather
55
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Compare mortgage rates in Putnam County

Whether buying or refinancing in Putnam County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$205,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$883/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$205,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$35,320/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $76,182/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

16.2

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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Knox County
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Lake County
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Webster County
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Tipton County
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Nearby counties

Hendricks County
Indiana
47.5
Morgan County
Indiana
62.9
Owen County
Indiana
61.3
Clay County
Indiana
58
Parke County
Indiana
64
Montgomery County
Indiana
52.2
Monroe County
Indiana
43.3
Boone County
Indiana
55.4

Deep Dives

Putnam County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Putnam County

via TaxByCounty

Putnam taxes rank among America's lowest

Putnam County's effective tax rate of 0.475% places it in the bottom 5% nationwide, even lower than Pulaski's 0.480%. The median property tax of $978 is less than one-third the national median of $2,690.

Second-lowest rate in Indiana

At 0.475%, Putnam County has the second-lowest effective tax rate in Indiana, trailing only Pulaski's 0.480% and well below the state average of 0.671%. The median tax of $978 reflects moderate home values of $205,800.

The region's second-most affordable

Putnam's 0.475% rate edges out nearby Ripley County (0.576%) and falls just below Pulaski County (0.480%), cementing its place among Indiana's tax bargains. Despite home values roughly $30,000 higher than Pulaski's, Putnam residents pay only about $330 more annually.

Your annual Putnam property tax bill

On a median home valued at $205,800, the annual property tax is $978 (roughly $82 monthly). Mortgage holders pay closer to $1,056; those without mortgages, approximately $852.

Appeal if you suspect overassessment

Despite competitive rates, Putnam County homeowners should verify their property valuations through the county assessor. An appeal could provide additional relief, especially if your home was recently assessed above comparable sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Putnam County

via CostByCounty

Putnam Rents Match State Average

Putnam County's median rent of $883 exactly matches Indiana's state average, while its 13.9% rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 15.6%. With a median household income of $76,182, Putnam residents spend less of their earnings on rent than typical Hoosiers.

Solid Middle-Ground Affordability

Putnam County ranks in Indiana's upper-middle tier for housing affordability, with a 13.9% rent-to-income ratio that's better than average. This combination of state-median rents and above-average incomes creates favorable conditions for both renters and buyers.

Higher Rents, Higher Incomes

Putnam's $883 rent is $139 more than Posey County but its median income of $76,182 is only slightly lower, allowing residents to manage the higher costs. Compared to Ripley County's $799 rent, Putnam residents pay more but also earn more, offsetting the difference in percentage terms.

Income Allocation in Putnam

Putnam renters spend $883 monthly from a median income of $6,349 per month, dedicating 13.9% to housing and keeping 86% for other needs. Homeowners pay $1,074 monthly to build equity in properties valued around $205,800, a middle-range investment for the region.

Putnam Works for Growing Families

If you're seeking a county with solid income potential and moderate housing costs, Putnam offers a balanced equation. Compare it with Posey and Ripley counties to find the best combination of wages and affordability for your relocation goals.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Putnam County

via IncomeByCounty

Putnam County beats U.S. average

Putnam County's median household income of $76,182 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $1,427 (1.9%). While the advantage is modest, it places Putnam County slightly ahead of typical American households.

Solid standing in Indiana

Putnam County's $76,182 median income runs 10.8% above Indiana's state average of $68,681, ranking the county among the state's stronger earners. Per capita income of $34,050 also approaches the state average, indicating relatively balanced earnings distribution.

Second in the region

Putnam County's $76,182 median income trails only Posey County ($79,124) in its region and edges out Ripley ($71,084) and Shelby ($71,301). This ranking reflects consistent economic opportunity and stable local employment.

Housing fits the budget

Putnam County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.9% sits comfortably below the 15% affordability threshold, leaving room in household budgets for other expenses. The median home value of $205,800 remains accessible to households earning the county median.

Use stability to build assets

Above-average incomes and manageable housing costs create opportunity for Putnam County residents to invest beyond essentials. Explore employer retirement plans, education savings accounts for children, or a diversified investment portfolio suited to your timeline.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Putnam County

via CrimeByCounty

Putnam County Achieves Perfect Safety Score

Putnam County reports a 0.0 crime rate per 100K residents, contrasting sharply with the national average of 2,385.5. This data earns the county a maximum safety score of 100.0.

Leading the State in Reported Safety

Putnam ranks at the top of Indiana's safety spectrum, exceeding the state average safety score of 98.9. Four different reporting agencies contributed to this spotless 2022 record.

Quieter Than Most Indiana Neighbors

While neighboring Shelby County reports a crime rate of 1,283.9, Putnam currently shows no reported incidents. This makes it a statistical outlier for safety in central Indiana.

Interpreting the Zero Crime Rate

Current data shows 0.0 violent and property crimes per 100K residents for 2022. While this suggests an incredibly safe environment, it may also reflect specific reporting cycles from local agencies.

Maintain Your Peace of Mind

A perfect safety score is a great asset, but residents should still use basic home security like deadbolts and window locks. Prevention remains the best way to keep crime rates at zero.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Putnam County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Broad Network of Community Schools

Putnam County features a robust educational infrastructure of 18 public schools across five districts. This network serves 5,965 students through nine elementary schools, four middle schools, and five high schools. It represents a diverse mix of educational levels and geographic locations.

Exceptional Graduation Performance

The county reports an impressive 94.3% graduation rate, outpacing the Indiana state average of 92.6%. Despite a lower-than-average per-pupil expenditure of $5,225, Putnam maintains a school score of 52.0. This indicates a high level of academic productivity relative to funding levels.

Greencastle and Cloverdale Lead the Way

Greencastle Community School Corp is the largest district with 1,806 students, followed closely by Cloverdale Community Schools with 1,686 students. North Putnam Community Schools also plays a major role, serving 1,372 students. No charter schools are currently operating within the county lines.

A Blend of Rural and Town Life

With 12 schools in rural settings and six in towns, Putnam offers a quintessential Midwestern educational feel. The average school size is 351 students, though the Cloverdale Distance Learning Academy serves as the largest 'campus' with 684 students. Schools like Bainbridge Elementary (419 students) exemplify the local town-center school experience.

Finding Your Place in Putnam's Schools

Homebuyers in Putnam County often prioritize proximity to high-performing schools in Greencastle or Bainbridge. The county's high graduation rates and diverse school levels make it a stable environment for families. Explore local listings to find a home that fits your lifestyle within these successful districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Putnam County

via RiskByCounty

Putnam faces moderate national disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 42.84, Putnam County rates as "Relatively Low" but sits slightly below the national average, indicating moderate hazard exposure. Tornado risk is particularly elevated at 63.04, well above typical national levels.

Below-average risk among Indiana counties

Putnam County's 42.84 score falls below Indiana's state average of 45.52, placing it in the safer half of Indiana's 92 counties. However, its tornado risk significantly outpaces the state norm.

Tornadoes exceed nearby county risks

Putnam County's tornado risk of 63.04 is notably higher than many neighboring counties, reflecting its location in Indiana's tornado-prone corridor. Its flood risk of 48.12 is moderate and fairly typical for central Indiana.

Tornadoes and earthquakes need attention

Tornado risk at 63.04 is Putnam County's most significant hazard, making a weather radio and interior shelter plan essential for all residents. Earthquake risk of 69.31 is also elevated; residents should secure furniture and know safe zones in their homes.

Prepare for tornadoes and quakes

Putnam County residents should verify their homeowners insurance covers wind and hail damage from tornadoes, as this is standard coverage. Earthquake insurance should be considered given the 69.31 risk score, and families should practice tornado drills seasonally.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Putnam County

via WaterByCounty

Reliable drinking water exceeds state averages

Putnam County maintains a respectable 'C' grade for drinking water quality with a very low violation rate. At just 7.8 violations per 100,000 people, the county performs significantly better than the Indiana average of 42.3. Despite two recorded violations, the drinking water signal remains relatively strong.

Watershed impairments remain a major concern

Nearly 62% of the county's 247 assessed water bodies are impaired, according to 2022 federal data. This rate is much higher than the state average of 40.9%, with E. coli and biological integrity cited as the main culprits. While drinking water is stable, the health of local creeks and rivers is under stress.

Consistent monitoring tracks inorganic pollutants

Monitoring efforts across 18 sites have yielded 9,433 measurements over the past five years. Data collection focuses on physical traits, metals, and nutrients to track the health of local streams. This consistent reporting provides a clear window into how pollutants move through the county's landscape.

Big Walnut Creek shows typical levels

The USGS gauge near Reelsville reports a discharge of 337 cfs, which is 96% of its long-term mean. These current flows are nearly identical to historical averages for this time of year. Stable water levels currently support consistent conditions for the creek's 326 square mile drainage area.

Protect yourself from watershed contaminants

High E. coli levels in local watersheds mean residents should avoid contact with stream water after heavy rains. Because the drinking water infrastructure is performing well, focus your efforts on protecting local streams from nutrient runoff. If you use local water for livestock or gardens, be aware of the biological integrity issues noted in the 2022 assessment.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Putnam County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Midwestern climate profile

Putnam County averages 50.5°F, sitting below the national median temperature. It is a relatively wet area, receiving 46.2 inches of annual precipitation.

Representative of central Indiana

The county is slightly cooler than the Indiana state average of 52.2°F. It avoids the extreme heat of the southern border and the heavy lake-effect snow of the northern border.

More snow than its neighbors

Putnam receives 21 inches of snow annually, which is more than neighboring Rush County. Its precipitation of 46.2 inches also makes it one of the wetter counties in the central region.

Four distinct Indiana seasons

The county sees a January average of 25.6°F and a July average of 72.2°F. It experiences 15 days of extreme heat, providing a balanced seasonal cycle throughout the year.

Plan for rain and snow

With 46.2 inches of rain, residents should ensure sump pumps and basement waterproofing are in good working order. Standard winter gear is necessary to handle the 21 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Putnam County

via SoilByCounty

Putnam's Silt Loam Inceptisols

Putnam County features an average pH of 6.21, which is healthier than the state average of 6.08 but slightly below the national 6.5 median. These Inceptisols are categorized as silt loams, representing a balanced and versatile soil type. It provides a reliable foundation for the county's diverse agricultural landscape.

Silt-Heavy Soils for Moisture Retention

The composition includes 19.6% sand, 64.0% silt, and 16.4% clay. This silt-dominant mix creates a flour-like texture that is excellent for retaining the moisture plants need during dry spells. However, the low sand content means the soil can become compacted if driven over when wet.

Solid Potential and High Water Storage

With 2.33% organic matter, Putnam exceeds the national 2.0% average but trails the 4.90% state benchmark. Its available water capacity of 0.214 inches per inch is higher than the state average of 0.202. This high storage capacity helps crops survive the heat of an Indiana July without immediate stress.

Well-Drained Ground with Infiltration Limits

The soil is classified as well drained, yet it falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates low infiltration rates when saturated. This means that while the surface dries quickly, the deeper layers can resist downward water movement. It is an ideal setup for many types of farming but requires careful planning for septic systems.

Diverse Gardening in Zone 6a

USDA Hardiness Zone 6a allows for a wide variety of vegetables, from peppers to pumpkins. The silt loam is especially good for root vegetables that appreciate a consistent moisture supply. Your Putnam garden will thrive with a bit of extra compost to boost its natural organic levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Putnam County

via LawnByCounty

A Perfect State Average Profile

Putnam County perfectly mirrors the state's lawn difficulty with a score of 71.0. This Zone 6a region offers a balanced environment for homeowners that is significantly easier to manage than the national average score of 50.0.

Ideal Rainfall for Green Lawns

The county receives 46.2 inches of annual precipitation, placing it right in the sweet spot for Indiana turf. With 15 extreme heat days and 3,059 growing degree days, the climate is well-suited for traditional cool-season lawn varieties.

Well-Drained Silt Loam Advantage

The soil pH of 6.21 is nearly perfect for lawn health. Unlike many neighboring counties, Putnam benefits from well-drained silt loam, which provides an excellent balance of moisture retention and air for roots.

Managing Seasonal Dry Spells

Putnam County has spent 21 weeks in drought over the last year, and the entire county is currently listed as abnormally dry. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn can help retain moisture in the soil during these dry periods.

Late April Planting Window

Target the period after the April 27 spring frost to begin your lawn renovations. Cool-season blends like Kentucky Bluegrass will thrive here if established before the first frost on October 15.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Putnam County's county score?
Putnam County, Indiana has a composite county score of 65.3 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 Putnam County rank among counties in Indiana?
Putnam County ranks #13 among all counties in Indiana 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 Putnam County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Putnam County is $978, with an effective tax rate of 0.48%. This earns Putnam County a tax score of 88.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Putnam County?
The median household income in Putnam County, Indiana is $76,182 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Putnam County earns an income score of 78.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Putnam County, Indiana a good place to live?
Putnam County scores 65.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #13 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Putnam 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 Putnam 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.