countyscore
55.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 99.1Health 97.2Schools 89.3

County Report Card

About Putnam County, New York

A National Leader in Livability

Putnam County boasts a 55.2 composite score, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This high ranking reflects its elite status in income, health, and education.

Far Exceeding the New York Average

Putnam’s score of 55.2 easily clears the state average of 47.0. It is one of the highest-performing counties in New York, benefiting from its proximity to major economic centers.

Elite Incomes and Top-Tier Schools

The county earns a near-perfect income score of 99.1 with a median household income of $127,405. It also features a school score of 89.3 and a stellar health score of 97.2.

High Costs and Water Concerns

The cost score of 1.6 reflects extreme housing prices, with a median home value of $448,000. Additionally, the water score of 4.3 indicates significant challenges in water resource management.

The Gold Standard for Wealthy Families

Putnam is the premier choice for high-income earners who want the best schools and healthcare available. Prospective residents must be ready for $1,824 median rents and high property valuations.

Score breakdown

Tax1.7Cost1.6Safety86.9Health97.2Schools89.3Income99.1Risk60.2Water4.3Weather60.8
🏛1.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠1.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼99.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡86.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤97.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓89.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡60.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧4.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨52.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱52.8
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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38.3
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Deep Dives

Putnam County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Putnam County

via TaxByCounty

Putnam's high home values drive steep tax bills

Putnam County's effective tax rate of 2.232% sits modestly above the national median of 2.690%, but the real story lies in home values—the median at $448,000 far exceeds the national median of $281,900. This combination produces the region's highest median tax bill: $10,001 annually.

Putnam combines moderate rates with premium prices

Putnam's 2.232% effective rate slightly exceeds New York's state average of 2.046%, but the county's sky-high median home value of $448,000 pushes annual taxes to $10,001—the highest among all surveyed counties. Putnam residents pay substantially more despite a rate that's not the state's steepest.

Putnam's premium valuations drive top tax bills

While Putnam's 2.232% rate is lower than Orange County's 2.344%, Putnam's median home value of $448,000 eclipses Orange's $361,100, resulting in the highest actual tax bill at $10,001 versus Orange's $8,463. This reflects Putnam's position as a high-value Hudson Valley enclave.

What the typical Putnam homeowner pays

The median Putnam County home is worth $448,000—significantly higher than any comparable county—and at the county's 2.232% effective rate, that translates to an annual property tax of $10,001. This represents the highest median tax burden among all surveyed counties.

Premium properties warrant premium assessment scrutiny

With annual tax bills exceeding $10,000, even small percentage assessment errors cost thousands annually, making appeals especially valuable for Putnam homeowners. Contacting your local assessor to request an assessment review is free and could yield substantial savings on your substantial tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Putnam County

via CostByCounty

Putnam's high income offsets pricey housing

Putnam County residents spend 17.2% of their income on rent—slightly above the national affordability threshold—but earn $127,405 annually, the highest income in this comparison. The median rent of $1,824 reflects Hudson Valley proximity to New York City, though strong wages keep the burden manageable.

Putnam's wealth insulates from affordability crisis

Putnam County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio barely exceeds the state average of 17.6%, a remarkable achievement given its $1,824 median rent. The county's exceptionally high median household income of $127,405 transforms an objectively expensive housing market into an affordable one relative to earnings.

Putnam stands out as premium option

Putnam's $1,824 rent ranks only behind Orange County ($1,602 but worse ratio) among comparison counties, yet its 17.2% ratio beats most peers. The county serves affluent households seeking Hudson Valley amenities; lower-income relocators should compare to Oneida ($917) or Orleans ($877) for true value.

Exceptional income makes premium housing work

Putnam households earn $127,405 annually—53% above the national median—and dedicate just 17.2% to rent despite paying $1,824 monthly. Owner costs of $2,409 and median home values of $448,000 remain achievable only for the county's notably affluent resident base.

Putnam suits high-income Hudson Valley seekers

Relocating to Putnam County requires household incomes near $125,000+ to maintain affordability ratios, but delivers exceptional quality of life for those who qualify. Compare its 17.2% rent burden to lower-cost alternatives like Oneida (16.0%) or Orleans (16.5%) only if budget flexibility is your priority.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Putnam County

via IncomeByCounty

Putnam is an earnings powerhouse

Putnam County's median household income of $127,405 soars 70.5% above the national median of $74,755. Households earn an extraordinary $52,650 more annually than the typical American family, placing Putnam among the nation's highest-earning counties.

New York's income elite

Putnam exceeds the state median of $76,433 by $50,972—by far the largest advantage in this group. The per capita income of $54,914 dramatically outpaces the state average of $41,133 by $13,781.

Dramatically outearns all peers

Putnam's $127,405 income towers above Orange ($96,497), Ontario ($79,814), Onondaga ($74,740), and all other comparison counties. The county stands alone as the region's undisputed income leader.

Housing demands justify premium earnings

Putnam's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio masks a $448,000 median home value—the nation's most expensive in this comparison. Only the county's exceptional earnings make such housing accessible to residents.

Grow wealth with sophisticated planning

Putnam households earn elite incomes and face premium housing costs, creating unique wealth-building opportunities and complexities. Engage a comprehensive wealth advisor to optimize tax strategies, investment diversification, and long-term financial goals at your income level.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Putnam County

via CrimeByCounty

Putnam County Among the Safest Nationally

Putnam County boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.5. Its total crime rate of 294.0 per 100K is one of the lowest in the country, far below the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in New York State Safety

Putnam's safety score of 99.5 far exceeds the New York state average of 98.3. This ranking cements its status as one of the most secure counties for families in the state.

Significantly Safer Than Neighboring Orange

Putnam's crime rate of 294.0 is less than a third of neighboring Orange County's rate of 1072.9. It shares a similarly elite safety profile with Otsego County.

Record-Low Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime is nearly non-existent at 35.7 per 100K, and property crime is remarkably low at 258.3. These figures are a small fraction of what is typical in most American communities.

Preserve Your Putnam County Peace

While crime is rare, home security systems and smart doorbells help maintain this high standard. Staying vigilant ensures that Putnam County remains a safe haven for all residents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Putnam County

via HealthByCounty

Putnam leads on national longevity

At 81.6 years, Putnam County residents live 2.7 years longer than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 12.4% poor or fair health rate beats the national average of 13.4%, reflecting consistently strong population health.

New York's healthiest county

Putnam's 81.6-year life expectancy exceeds New York State's 77.9-year average by 3.7 years—among the highest in the state. At 4.4% uninsured, the county also matches the state's best performers on coverage.

Regional health champion

Putnam's 81.6-year life expectancy dramatically outpaces all regional peers, beating Ontario (79.8) by 1.8 years and Onondaga (77.7) by 3.9 years. With 479 mental health providers per 100,000—the region's highest—Putnam offers exceptional behavioral health infrastructure.

Exceptional mental health, strong coverage

Putnam County's 479 mental health providers per 100,000 residents far exceed regional averages, supporting robust behavioral health access. With 53 primary care providers per 100,000 and only 4.4% uninsured, Putnam combines strong coverage with specialized mental health capacity.

Maximize your Putnam healthcare access

Living in a county with exceptional healthcare resources means prioritizing regular check-ups and mental health care. Ensure your coverage is current on NY State of Health so you can leverage Putnam's outstanding provider network.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Putnam County

via SchoolsByCounty

Top-Tier Education in Putnam County

Putnam County serves 13,035 students through a high-performing network of 22 public schools and six districts. The infrastructure consists of 11 elementary, 6 middle, and 5 high schools. This compact but highly efficient system is designed to provide elite educational outcomes for its residents.

Leading the State in Performance and Spending

Putnam County is an educational leader with a 93.4% graduation rate and a stellar school score of 83.4. Investment is exceptionally high, with the county spending $19,993 per pupil—nearly $7,000 more than the national average. These metrics place Putnam among the top-performing counties in New York.

Mahopac and Carmel Drive Excellence

The Mahopac Central School District is the largest, educating 3,807 students across six schools. Carmel Central School District is nearly as large, with 3,743 students and the county's largest high school. There are no charter schools in Putnam, with the six traditional districts providing all public education services.

Suburban Excellence and Large Campuses

Putnam's schools are primarily suburban, offering an average enrollment of 593 students per school. Carmel High School is the county's largest, serving 1,365 students, while George Fischer Middle School serves 1,130. This suburban character is reflected in the modern facilities and high student participation across the county.

Premium Real Estate Near Elite Schools

With a graduation rate of 93.4%, Putnam County is one of the most desirable areas for families in the New York City suburbs. The massive per-pupil investment of nearly $20,000 translates into exceptional school resources and high property values. For many homebuyers, a Putnam County address is a strategic investment in their children's future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Putnam County

via RiskByCounty

Putnam: Among America's Safest Counties

Putnam County scores just 39.82 on composite disaster risk, placing it in the very low risk category and among the safest counties in America. This low score reflects reduced exposure to the major hazard types that threaten most communities, though certain localized risks still merit attention. Putnam residents enjoy substantially lower natural disaster risk compared to the nation overall.

Putnam Well Below New York's Risk Average

Putnam scores 39.82 compared to New York's state average of 69.42, placing it among the safest counties in the state and dramatically below most New York peers. This exceptional score reflects Putnam's protection from the serious hazards affecting many other New York communities. Putnam residents benefit from one of the state's most favorable disaster risk profiles.

Putnam the Safest in Its Region

Putnam (39.82) has substantially lower risk than its primary neighbor Orange County (90.59), placing it far below the Hudson Valley average. Putnam's safety ranking stands out dramatically in comparison to surrounding areas. Your county represents a clear refuge from natural disaster exposure in this part of New York.

Hurricane Risk Leads a Low-Threat Profile

Putnam County's most serious hazard is hurricane risk at 73.22, followed by flood exposure at 57.44—both moderate rather than high compared to most New York counties. Earthquake (65.14) presents secondary concern, while tornado (29.80) and wildfire (19.66) risks remain low. Putnam's hazard profile is notably narrow and moderate overall.

Standard Insurance Often Adequate Here

Putnam residents typically find that a comprehensive homeowners policy covers primary household risks adequately, though flood insurance should still be considered for any flood-prone properties. The county's low overall risk means residents can focus preparation on selective hazards rather than managing broad exposure. Review your coverage with an agent to confirm adequacy, then allocate resources elsewhere.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Putnam County

via WeatherByCounty

Wet and Temperate Mid-Hudson Climate

Putnam County’s 48.0°F annual average is below the national median but representative of the Northeast. It is characterized by high annual precipitation and distinct seasonal shifts.

Slightly Above the State Average

With an average of 48.0°F, Putnam sits 0.6 degrees above the New York state average. Its climate is moderated by the Hudson River and proximity to the Atlantic coast.

The Wettest County in the Region

Putnam leads this group with 50.4 inches of annual precipitation. This makes it significantly wetter than Orleans or Ontario counties further west.

Rainy Months and Mild Summers

Extreme heat is rare here, with only 2 days a year hitting 90°F. While specific snowfall data is limited, the 50.4 inches of total precipitation suggests many rainy and slushy days.

Waterproofing and Drainage are Key

With over 50 inches of precipitation, homeowners must ensure excellent basement drainage and roof integrity. Summer cooling needs are low given only 2 days of extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Putnam County

via SoilByCounty

Extremely Acidic Soils in Putnam

Putnam County features a very low average pH of 3.30, making it one of the most acidic soil profiles in the state. This extreme chemistry results in a lower soil score of 52.8 compared to the state average. These conditions are often found in areas with high concentrations of peat or specific swampy environments.

Light Texture with Minimal Clay

The soil contains 29.6% sand and 26.4% silt, but clay levels are very low at just 6.4%. This lack of clay means the soil has very little natural stickiness or structural 'grip.' The texture is dominated more by organic components than by traditional mineral particles.

A Reservoir of Organic Material

Organic matter is exceptionally high at 29.46%, nearly double the state average of 17.01%. Despite the extreme acidity, the available water capacity matches the state average of 0.182 in/in. This soil is essentially a massive organic sponge, holding vast amounts of biological material.

Hydrology of an Organic Sponge

With nearly 30% organic matter and very little clay, water behaves differently here than in mineral-heavy counties. While drainage class data is missing, these soils likely hold water for long periods, which can be challenging for traditional basement construction. Careful water management is essential for any development in these bog-like conditions.

Unique Growing in Zone 6b

While the pH of 3.30 is too low for most vegetables without significant liming, it is an ideal wild habitat for rhododendrons and azaleas. In Zone 6b, you can transform these acidic soils into a stunning ornamental garden filled with acid-loving perennials. Embrace the unique character of your soil and start your garden project today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Putnam County

via LawnByCounty

Putnam County's Specific Lawn Challenges

Putnam County has a lawn difficulty score of 52.8, making it more challenging than the New York state average of 61.1. While it still outperforms the national median of 50.0, this 6b zone requires careful attention to soil chemistry. Maintaining a healthy lawn here is a test of soil management.

Abundant Rainfall and Cool Summer Days

The county is one of the state's wettest, receiving 50.4 inches of annual precipitation. With only 2 extreme heat days and 2,370 growing degree days, the climate itself is very gentle on cool-season grasses. The primary challenge is not the weather, but how the soil handles this high volume of water.

Critical Soil Acidification Issues

The soil pH in Putnam County is extremely low at 3.30, far below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for any lawn. With just 6.4% clay and 29.6% sand, the soil lacks the mineral buffer to resist this intense acidity. Success is impossible without aggressive and ongoing lime treatments to stabilize the foundation.

Dealing with Localized Dry Spells

Despite high annual rainfall, 100% of Putnam County is currently classified as abnormally dry. The area has seen 14 weeks of drought over the past year, which can be stressful for lawns accustomed to high moisture. Deep, infrequent watering is the best strategy to help grass survive these sudden dry periods.

Best Practices for Putnam Planting

Acid-tolerant Fescue blends are your best bet for this unique soil profile. Start your seeding projects after April 28, once the threat of spring frost has subsided. You have a generous growing window until the first fall frost arrives around October 16.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Putnam County's county score?
Putnam County, New York has a composite county score of 55.2 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 New York?
Putnam County ranks #9 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 Putnam County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Putnam County is $10,001, with an effective tax rate of 2.23%. This earns Putnam County a tax score of 1.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Putnam County?
The median household income in Putnam County, New York is $127,405 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Putnam County earns an income score of 99.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Putnam County, New York a good place to live?
Putnam County scores 55.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in New York. 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.

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.