countyscore
32.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 84.8Health 73.7

County Report Card

About Ramsey County, Minnesota

Facing Significant Urban Challenges

Ramsey County struggles with a composite score of 32.6, significantly lower than the national median of 50.0. This suggests it faces more systemic livability hurdles than the average American county.

A Distant Outlier in Minnesota

The county's score of 32.6 is drastically lower than the state average of 55.8. As a dense urban hub, it grapples with costs and safety issues that more rural Minnesota counties avoid.

High Salaries and Water Quality

The county’s greatest asset is its income score of 84.8, reflecting a high median household income of $81,004. It also maintains excellent resource standards with a water score of 86.0.

Critical Safety and Cost Issues

Safety is a major concern with a score of 2.8, the lowest in this group. Combined with a risk score of 5.4 and a cost score of 9.9, the financial and personal security trade-offs are steep.

A Hub for Career-Driven Urbanites

Ramsey County is best for high-earning professionals who prioritize proximity to jobs and urban amenities over low costs or safety metrics. It is a high-risk, high-reward environment for those focused on income growth.

Score breakdown

Tax23.9Cost9.9Safety2.8Health73.7Schools46.2Income84.8Risk5.4Water86Weather49.5
🏛23.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠9.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼84.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡2.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤73.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡5.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72
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

Washington County
Minnesota
47.6
Anoka County
Minnesota
43.7
Hennepin County
Minnesota
36
Dakota County
Minnesota
43
St. Croix County
Wisconsin
50.8
Scott County
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45.8
Carver County
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Pierce County
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53.4

Deep Dives

Ramsey County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ramsey County

via TaxByCounty

Ramsey taxes rank among highest nationally

Ramsey County's 1.236% effective tax rate significantly exceeds the national median of 0.968%, placing it in the highest tier nationally for property taxation. The median home value of $304,900 tops the national median, meaning residents pay both more in dollars and higher percentage rates.

Highest tax rate in Minnesota

At 1.236%, Ramsey County has the highest effective tax rate among Minnesota's 87 counties, nearly 28% above the state average of 0.968%. This reflects the costs of supporting the Twin Cities metro area and Saint Paul services.

Significantly higher than surrounding counties

Ramsey County's 1.236% rate far exceeds regional neighbors like Hennepin and Washington counties, which run notably lower. The urban density and infrastructure demands of Saint Paul drive this county's elevated tax burden.

Substantial $3,767 annual property tax

The median home in Ramsey County valued at $304,900 generates approximately $3,767 in annual property taxes at the 1.236% effective rate. This is 74% higher than the state median of $2,168, reflecting both higher home values and the county's steep tax rate.

Ramsey homeowners should review assessments

With high tax bills, even small assessment errors create substantial savings opportunities through appeals. Ramsey County residents should verify their property values reflect current market conditions and challenge any inflated assessments.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ramsey County

via CostByCounty

Ramsey County's rental burden hits national ceiling

Ramsey County residents face a rent-to-income ratio of 19.2%—sharply above the national average of 14.5%—making it the most housing-burdened county in this group. Despite the county's highest median household income of $81,004, the median rent of $1,298 consumes nearly one-fifth of earnings.

Minnesota's rental affordability crisis center

Ramsey County's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio vastly exceeds Minnesota's 14.5% state average, revealing acute housing stress in the state's urban core. The median rent of $1,298 towers 42% above the state median of $915.

Rents skyrocket; ownership costs highest

Ramsey's $1,298 monthly rent dwarfs rural peers like Pipestone ($731) and Redwood ($767), nearly doubling costs. Homeowners face $1,536 monthly—again, the highest by far—reflecting median home values of $304,900.

Income barely keeps pace with housing costs

Ramsey County's $81,004 median income is offset by $1,298 rent (19.2% of income) and $1,536 owner costs (22.8% of income). Both ratios exceed recommended affordability thresholds, straining household budgets despite the county's strong income base.

Ramsey demands deep pockets; consider suburbs

Ramsey County's metro amenities come at a steep housing cost—the highest in this entire group. If you're relocating to the Twin Cities, compare Ramsey's tight 19.2% rent ratio against more affordable rural counties to find better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ramsey County

via IncomeByCounty

Ramsey Outearns National Average Significantly

Ramsey County's median household income of $81,004 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 8.3%, placing it well above average. The county ranks in the upper quarter of U.S. income distribution, driven by its urban St. Paul economy.

Minnesota's Wealthiest County

Ramsey County leads Minnesota with a median household income of $81,004, significantly surpassing the state average of $75,757 by over $5,200. As home to Minnesota's second-largest city, the county anchors the state's economic strength.

Dramatically Outpaces Rural Neighbors

Ramsey's $81,004 median towers over surrounding rural counties: Pennington ($72,561), Polk ($69,136), and Pine ($69,666) all fall $11,000–$12,000 below. The urban-rural income divide is starkly visible across the region.

High Income, High Housing Costs

Ramsey County's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio is notably elevated, reflecting premium urban housing at $304,900 median value. While incomes are strong, residents allocate a larger share to housing than rural peers.

Leverage Prosperity for Wealth Building

Ramsey County's $81,004 median income positions households to save substantially after housing and living expenses. Advanced strategies like tax-loss harvesting, diversified investments, and wealth-transfer planning can maximize long-term financial growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ramsey County

via CrimeByCounty

Navigating Public Safety in Ramsey County

Ramsey County carries a safety score of 93.4, reflecting the complexities of its urban environment. Its total crime rate of 4,185.0 per 100K is significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5.

Safety Challenges in the Metro Area

Ramsey's safety score of 93.4 is lower than the Minnesota state average of 98.2. As a major population center, it experiences higher crime volumes than the state average of 1,123.5.

Comparing Ramsey to Regional Standards

Ramsey's crime rate of 4,185.0 per 100K far exceeds rural neighbors like Pine County at 1,498.8. This disparity highlights the typical difference between dense metropolitan hubs and more rural jurisdictions.

Violent vs. Property Crime Trends

Property crime is the dominant issue, reaching 3,691.9 per 100K residents. The violent crime rate of 493.1 also exceeds the national average, requiring active community and law enforcement focus.

Proactive Security for Urban Living

Residents can mitigate risks by using home security systems and being aware of their surroundings. Strong neighborhood connections play a vital role in reducing property crime in urban settings.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ramsey County

via HealthByCounty

Urban health outcomes with modest gaps

Ramsey County residents live to 77.6 years on average, 1.2 years above the U.S. median of 76.4 years but 1.1 years below Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years. At 16.8% reporting poor or fair health, Ramsey exceeds the national average of 16.1%, reflecting urban health disparities.

Below-average outcomes in Minnesota's hub

Ramsey County, home to St. Paul, ranks in Minnesota's lower half for life expectancy despite being the state's second-largest county. The 16.8% poor/fair health rate is among Minnesota's highest, indicating concentrated health inequities in the urban population.

Excellent mental health, strong primary care

Ramsey County has 562 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—by far the highest concentration in the state, reflecting its urban density and specialty infrastructure. Primary care availability at 110 per 100K is solid, giving residents good access to frontline care.

Urban uninsured rate above state average

At 6.7% uninsured, Ramsey County exceeds the state average of 6.0%, with nearly 670 residents per 100,000 lacking coverage. Despite excellent provider density, cost and systemic barriers mean some residents can't fully access available care.

Coverage unlocks Ramsey's healthcare wealth

Ramsey County has exceptional medical and mental health providers—but only covered residents can fully access them. Visit MNsure.org or call 651-297-2527 to apply for Medicaid, MinnesotaCare, or marketplace insurance today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ramsey County

via SchoolsByCounty

Minnesota's Massive Urban Education Hub

Ramsey County manages a vast network of 271 public schools serving 88,604 students across 49 districts. This infrastructure includes 107 elementary schools and 87 high schools, making it one of the most diverse systems in the state.

Urban Challenges and High Spending

Despite an above-average per-pupil expenditure of $9,632, the graduation rate sits at 78.7%, below the state average of 86.6%. The county maintains a school score of 53.3, reflecting the complexities of its large, urban-centric student population.

Saint Paul Public Schools and Charter Options

Saint Paul Public Schools is the largest district, educating 32,316 students in 99 schools. Charter schools are a major factor here, with 81 campuses representing nearly 30% of all schools in the county.

A Dense Mix of City and Suburban Life

Schools are located in 164 city and 107 suburban settings, with an average school size of 368 students. Large-scale institutions like Minnesota Connections Academy and Roseville Senior High serve thousands of students, offering a bustling urban experience.

Choosing a Home in Ramsey County

With hundreds of school options and a significant charter presence, home buyers in Ramsey County have unparalleled choices in education. Whether you prefer the energy of Saint Paul or the stability of Mounds View, there is a school for every family.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ramsey County

via RiskByCounty

Ramsey County faces substantially above-average U.S. risk

Ramsey County scores 94.62 on the composite risk scale, placing it far above the national average and earning a "Relatively High" risk rating. This elevated exposure is driven by exceptional tornado risk (98.70) and significant flood threat (93.80) that reflect the county's urban density and river exposure. Ramsey County represents one of Minnesota's most hazard-exposed areas.

Ramsey ranks among Minnesota's highest-risk counties

Ramsey County's composite score of 94.62 massively exceeds Minnesota's average of 42.38, ranking it in the state's top tier for natural disaster exposure. The tornado risk of 98.70 represents Minnesota's highest exposure, while flood risk of 93.80 reflects the Mississippi River's presence through the county. This exceptional vulnerability demands serious preparation from all Ramsey County residents.

Ramsey faces Minnesota's most concentrated urban hazard

Ramsey County's score of 94.62 substantially exceeds every surrounding county including Washington (data not provided in this set) and St. Croix to the east. The 98.70 tornado risk score represents the single highest hazard exposure of any Minnesota county, driven by the Twin Cities metropolitan area's expansive footprint and dense building stock. This exceptional position underscores Ramsey's unique vulnerability profile statewide.

Tornadoes and flooding threaten Ramsey County residents

Tornado risk reaches 98.70—Minnesota's absolute highest—reflecting Ramsey County's spring and early summer exposure to severe storms, hail, and potential large tornadoes that impact the Twin Cities metro area. Flood risk scores 93.80, driven by the Mississippi River and urban stormwater systems that can overwhelm capacity during heavy rain and snowmelt. Earthquake risk is elevated at 28.88 compared to most Minnesota counties, though still low in absolute terms.

Prioritize tornado and flood protection in Ramsey County

Establish a detailed family tornado plan with a safe room or basement shelter, and practice your plan seasonally—Ramsey County's exceptional tornado risk demands active preparedness. Verify that your homeowners insurance covers tornado damage, and obtain a separate flood insurance policy if your home is in a mapped flood zone or at risk from urban stormwater. Review coverage annually and after any property improvements to ensure protection keeps pace with home value and evolving risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ramsey County

via WeatherByCounty

Urban Warmth in a Cold State

Ramsey County averages 45.9°F annually, which is warmer than most of Minnesota but still below the national median of 54°F. It is also wetter than the national average with 31.7 inches of precipitation.

Among Minnesota's Warmer Counties

The county is significantly warmer than the 42.8°F Minnesota average. Its 31.7 inches of annual precipitation also exceeds the state average of 30.0 inches.

Warmer Than Surrounding Areas

Ramsey is over one degree warmer on average than Rice County and nearly three degrees warmer than Renville. It receives 40.4 inches of snow, which is typical for the Twin Cities region.

Warmest Summers in the Group

July averages 72.9°F, the highest in this group, with 10 days of extreme heat. Winters are comparatively milder than northern counties, with an 18.8°F average from December through February.

Manage Both Heat and Humidity

With 31.7 inches of rain and 10 heat days, air conditioning is a necessity for urban residents. Winter tires are recommended to navigate the 40.4 inches of annual snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ramsey County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Sandy Urban Soils

Ramsey County's soil score of 63.8 reflects its more challenging urban and sandy profile. The soil is acidic with a pH of 5.77, which is lower than both the national median and the state average of 6.21. These conditions often require amendments like lime for traditional gardening.

Dominated by Sand and Silt

The ground here is majority sand at 51.0%, paired with 38.4% silt and only 10.6% clay. This sand-heavy mix means the soil is very loose and drains extremely quickly. However, the low clay content means the soil may struggle to hold onto nutrients over time.

Modest Organic Matter and Water Holding

Organic matter sits at 6.71%, which is below the state average of 9.90%. The available water capacity is also lower than the state benchmark at 0.180 in/in. Gardeners in this area will need to focus on adding organic amendments to improve moisture retention.

Fast-Draining Ground for Urban Living

With over half the soil composed of sand, water moves through Ramsey County's ground very quickly. While this prevents puddling, it can lead to dry conditions for lawns and gardens during heatwaves. This fast drainage is generally a plus for construction and urban infrastructure.

Warmer Opportunities in Zone 5a

Ramsey County enjoys a slightly warmer climate in Zone 5a, allowing for a longer list of plant varieties. The acidic, sandy soil is great for pines and azaleas, but vegetable gardeners should use raised beds and compost. With a little extra water and care, your urban garden can flourish.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ramsey County

via LawnByCounty

Thriving Lawns in the Capital

Ramsey County features a high lawn difficulty score of 72.0, well above the national average of 50.0. As a Zone 5a region, it offers one of the most temperate growing environments in Minnesota for residential turf.

Longer Season and More Rain

Residents enjoy 31.7 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average. This supports a robust 2,769 growing degree days, though 10 extreme heat days mean you should monitor for summer wilt.

Sandy Soil Needs Nutrients

The soil is quite sandy at 51.0%, which facilitates fast drainage but can lead to nutrient leaching. With a pH of 5.77, some homeowners may need a light application of lime to bring the soil into the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range.

Excellent Drought Resilience

Ramsey County has seen 0 weeks of drought over the past year and currently reports no abnormally dry areas. This consistent moisture access makes it an ideal location for maintaining a lush, green lawn without heavy water restrictions.

Capitalize on Zone 5a Perks

The long growing season begins early on April 25 and lasts until October 12, the latest in this group. High-quality Kentucky Bluegrass blends are perfect for this extended season and temperate Zone 5a climate.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ramsey County's county score?
Ramsey County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 32.6 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 Ramsey County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Ramsey County ranks #87 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 Ramsey County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Ramsey County is $3,767, with an effective tax rate of 1.24%. This earns Ramsey County a tax score of 23.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ramsey County?
The median household income in Ramsey County, Minnesota is $81,004 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ramsey County earns an income score of 84.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ramsey County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Ramsey County scores 32.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #87 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Ramsey 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 Ramsey 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.