countyscore
56.1
County Score
Safety 97.5Soil Quality 86Lawn Care 78.2

County Report Card

About Randolph County, Indiana

Competitive Quality of Life

Randolph County earns a composite score of 56.1, placing it above the national median of 50.0. It offers a solid baseline of livability that rivals many rural counties across the country.

On Par with Indiana Averages

The county's score of 56.1 aligns closely with the Indiana state average of 55.9. While it doesn't lead the state, it remains a consistent performer in the Eastern Indiana region.

Extreme Affordability and Safety

Safety is a primary asset here, reflected in a high Safety Score of 97.5. The county is also exceptionally affordable, with a median home value of $106,000 driving a Cost Score of 69.8.

Educational Investment Needed

The county's School Score of 4.0 indicates a significant challenge in local education outcomes. Improving schools and boosting health scores from the current 42.3 are key areas for future development.

A Haven for Budget-Minded Residents

Randolph County is best suited for individuals or families looking for maximum safety at a minimum price point. It is a prime location for those who want to own a home outright without the pressure of high property values.

Score breakdown

Tax50.4Cost69.8Safety97.5Health42.3Schools4Income42.4Risk68.6Water51.5Weather57.7
🏛50.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠69.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼42.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤42.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡68.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧51.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨86
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱78.2
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

Delaware County
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39.9
Jay County
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61.3
Wayne County
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55.2
Darke County
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Henry County
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Blackford County
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Mercer County
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Fayette County
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Deep Dives

Randolph County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Randolph County

via TaxByCounty

Randolph's rate exceeds national average

At 0.831%, Randolph County's effective tax rate surpasses the national median of 0.95% by a slim margin, placing it in the top 45% of U.S. counties. However, the median property tax of $881 remains well below the national median of $2,690, thanks to lower home values.

Highest rate in Indiana's central region

Randolph County's 0.831% effective rate ranks among Indiana's highest, significantly above the state average of 0.671%. Despite the elevated rate, median home values of just $106,000 keep annual taxes to $881 — below the state median of $1,199.

Noticeably higher than surrounding counties

Randolph's 0.831% rate stands out as the region's highest, far exceeding Posey (0.628%), Ripley (0.576%), and Putnam (0.475%) counties. The combination of the state's highest rate and lowest home values creates an unusual dynamic where absolute tax bills remain modest despite aggressive rate structure.

Your annual Randolph property tax bill

On a median home valued at just $106,000, the annual property tax is $881 (about $73 monthly). Homeowners with mortgages pay roughly $871; those without mortgages, approximately $895.

Verify your assessment in this high-rate county

With Indiana's highest effective tax rate, Randolph County residents should especially scrutinize their property assessments for accuracy. An appeal or reassessment challenge could provide meaningful savings given the county's aggressive rate structure.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Randolph County

via CostByCounty

Randolph: Affordable for Budget Buyers

Randolph County renters spend 14.6% of income on housing, just below Indiana's 15.6% state average and comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. Its median home value of $106,000 is the lowest in the region, making homeownership accessible for first-time buyers.

Indiana's Budget Homeownership Leader

Randolph County ranks among Indiana's most affordable counties for buying, with a $106,000 median home value that leads this analysis by far. This combination of low home prices and reasonable incomes creates exceptional entry-point opportunities for homebuyers.

Lowest Prices in the Region

Randolph's $741 median rent is competitive across the region, while its $106,000 median home value is $28,600 cheaper than Pulaski County's next-lowest option. For buyers prioritizing affordability above all, Randolph stands alone among its peers.

Maximum Value for Your Dollar

Randolph renters dedicate $741 monthly from a $61,121 annual income ($5,093 monthly), leaving 85% of earnings available for other expenses. Homeowners pay just $748 monthly—competitive with renters—on properties worth $106,000, offering tremendous wealth-building potential.

Randolph for First-Time Homebuyers

If affordable homeownership is your priority, Randolph County's $106,000 median home value and $748 monthly payment are hard to beat in Indiana. Compare it with neighboring Pulaski County if you want additional renting options before committing to a purchase.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Randolph County

via IncomeByCounty

Randolph County trails the nation

Randolph County's median household income of $61,121 falls 18.3% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it among lower-income American counties. Households here earn considerably less than the national typical household.

Below Indiana's average income

Randolph County ranks below Indiana's median household income of $68,681, with a shortfall of $7,560 (11.0%). The county's per capita income of $31,036 also trails the state average of $34,773, indicating income challenges across the population.

Among the region's lower earners

Randolph County's $61,121 median income ranks near the bottom regionally, ahead of only Scott County ($54,583) and behind Ripley ($71,084), Putnam ($76,182), and Posey ($79,124). Economic opportunity appears limited compared to neighboring areas.

Tight housing affordability

Randolph County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% approaches the affordability threshold, limiting discretionary spending for renters. The median home value of $106,000 offers the lowest barrier to homeownership in the region, making it accessible despite lower incomes.

Start small, build consistency

Lower incomes require a disciplined approach: establish a small monthly savings habit, even $25–50, and use automatic transfers to build an emergency fund. Many employers offer matching 401(k) contributions—free money—so enroll if available to accelerate retirement savings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Randolph County

via CrimeByCounty

Randolph County's Reported Safety Leads Nation

Randolph County reports a perfect safety score of 100.0 with 0.0 crimes per 100K residents. This is an incredible contrast to the national average crime rate of 2,385.5.

Outperforming Indiana State Averages

Randolph sits well above the Indiana average safety score of 98.9. Local data from four reporting agencies indicates an environment free of major reported incidents in 2022.

A High Benchmark for Rural Safety

Compared to Shelby County’s 1,283.9 crime rate, Randolph offers a much quieter profile for residents. It shares this elite low-crime status with neighbors like Ripley and Rush counties.

A Clear Criminal Record

The data shows zero reported violent or property crimes per 100K residents. This represents one of the lowest possible crime environments in the United States for the year 2022.

Staying Safe in Randolph County

Residents can help keep these numbers low by joining neighborhood watch programs and securing their homes. Awareness is key to maintaining such a high safety ranking.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Randolph County

via HealthByCounty

Randolph lags on life expectancy

At 73.8 years, Randolph County's life expectancy falls 2.6 years short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years. With 20.6% of residents reporting poor or fair health—above the national average of 17.4%—the county faces meaningful health challenges.

Below-average health outcomes for Indiana

Randolph County's life expectancy of 73.8 years trails Indiana's 75.1-year average by 1.3 years. The county's 20.6% poor/fair health rate significantly exceeds Indiana's 18.2% average, indicating elevated health struggles statewide.

Among the region's lower-health counties

Randolph County's life expectancy of 73.8 years ranks among the lowest in its region, exceeded only by Scott County (69.1 years). The county's 20.6% poor/fair health rate is worse than most adjacent counties, suggesting systemic health challenges.

Primary care access is limited

Randolph County has only 16 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the lowest in the region—creating access barriers for routine care. At 8.9% uninsured, residents may lack coverage to afford the care that is available.

Priority: get coverage and care access

With limited primary care availability and 8.9% uninsured, Randolph residents need insurance to maximize access to the care that exists. Visit healthcare.gov or call Indiana's Benefits hotline to enroll and connect with local providers immediately.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Randolph County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive Enrollment and Digital Diversity

Randolph County serves a large student body of 11,203 through 16 public schools across five districts. The infrastructure includes eight elementary schools, one middle school, and seven high schools. The high enrollment is driven significantly by large-scale digital learning programs based in the county.

Unique Academic Challenges and Funding

The county faces performance hurdles with a 77.2% graduation rate, which is below the state average of 92.6% and the national 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure stands at $4,410, trailing the state average significantly. These figures result in a composite school score of 41.2, highlighting a need for resource growth.

Digital Hub at Union School Corporation

Union School Corporation is the largest district by far, serving 7,238 students across five schools, primarily through digital platforms. Randolph Central School Corp follows with 1,432 students. The county utilizes traditional districts rather than charter schools for its 11,000-plus students.

Rural Roots and Digital Giants

The county features 10 rural schools and six town schools, with an average school size of 700 students. This average is skewed by the massive Indiana Digital JR and High School, which enrolls 3,832 students. In contrast, local brick-and-mortar schools like Monroe Central Elementary (624 students) offer a more traditional rural school feel.

Researching Options in Randolph County

With a mix of traditional rural schools and massive digital academies, Randolph offers diverse educational paths for residents. When buying a home here, it is important to look at the specific district performance that fits your student's needs. The area provides ample choice for those seeking alternative or traditional public schooling.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Randolph County

via RiskByCounty

Randolph ranks well below national risk

With a composite risk score of 31.46, Randolph County is rated "Very Low" and sits well below the national average for disaster risk. This strong safety profile is driven by low earthquake (60.50) and wildfire (7.09) scores.

Safer than most Indiana counties

Randolph County's 31.46 score is significantly below Indiana's state average of 45.52, placing it among the safer third of Indiana's counties. Its risk profile is well-balanced without any single hazard dramatically exceeding state norms.

Comparable to nearby Delaware County

Randolph County's risk is similar to adjacent Delaware County but notably lower than eastern neighbors facing higher tornado exposure. Its tornado risk of 69.31 is elevated within the state but still moderate nationally.

Tornadoes are the primary seasonal threat

Tornado risk at 69.31 is Randolph County's highest hazard, making spring severe weather preparedness critical for all residents. A weather radio, safe room plan, and annual drills should be part of every household's routine.

Standard insurance works for most hazards

Randolph County's low overall risk profile means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate coverage for most residents. Ensure your policy explicitly covers wind and hail damage, and consider a NOAA weather radio as an inexpensive safety investment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Randolph County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler temperate weather patterns

Randolph County’s 51.0°F average annual temperature is slightly below the national median. The area receives 40.3 inches of precipitation, which is drier than the Indiana state average.

Typical eastern Indiana climate

The county is over a degree cooler than the state average of 52.2°F. Its eastern location keeps it away from major water influences, resulting in a stable continental climate.

Drier and snowier neighbors

Randolph receives about five inches less total precipitation than neighboring Rush County. However, it experiences more winter weather, with 23 inches of snow compared to Rush’s 15.9 inches.

Modest summers and snowy winters

Summers are mild with only 13 days of extreme heat and a July average of 73.3°F. Winters are more rigorous, featuring a 28.6°F average and 23 inches of snowfall.

Focus on winter insulation

Quality home insulation is key to managing the chilly 28.6°F winter average. Residents should keep snow shovels ready for the 23 inches of accumulation expected each year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Randolph County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Mollisols of the Eastern Border

Randolph County's soil is nearly neutral with an average pH of 6.45, almost matching the national median of 6.5. This land consists of Mollisols, which are among the most fertile agricultural soils in the world. Its clay loam texture provides a sturdy and nutrient-dense environment for crops.

Heavy Clay Loams for Nutrient Retention

The soil contains 23.5% sand, 50.3% silt, and 24.0% clay. This relatively high clay content allows the soil to hold onto essential nutrients like potassium and calcium very effectively. While it can be heavy to till, it provides a very stable medium for large-scale grain production.

High Organic Matter and Productivity

Randolph boasts an organic matter level of 5.82%, significantly higher than both the national 2.0% and state 4.90% averages. The available water capacity is 0.205 inches per inch, providing plenty of hydration for growing plants. This combination earns the county a high soil score of 86.0 out of 100.

Managing Water in Heavy Soils

Classified as poorly drained and belonging to hydrologic group B/D, these soils require active management to prevent waterlogging. Without tile drainage, the high clay content and low position on the landscape can keep fields soggy. Once drained, however, these are some of the most productive lands in the state.

Abundant Harvests in Zone 6a

Randolph's Zone 6a climate and rich Mollisol soils are perfect for high-yielding corn, beans, and home vegetable gardens. The nearly neutral pH means you can grow most vegetables without heavy liming. It is the perfect time to plant heavy feeders like broccoli or heirloom tomatoes.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Randolph County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Growing in East Central Indiana

Randolph County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 78.2, making it much easier to maintain a yard here than in most of Indiana. This Zone 6a county provides a robust environment for residential landscaping that far exceeds national benchmarks.

Stable Temperatures and Steady Growth

With only 13 days of extreme heat and 40.3 inches of annual rain, the climate is gentle on turfgrass. The 3,215 growing degree days provide a consistent window for mowing and maintenance schedules throughout the summer.

Rich Clay Loam with Drainage Needs

The soil pH is an excellent 6.45, but the 24% clay content leads to poorly drained conditions. Homeowners may need to aerate regularly to prevent soil compaction and ensure water reaches the root zone in this clay loam texture.

Severe Drought Challenges

Despite the high difficulty score, nearly 49% of the county is currently experiencing severe drought. Lawns have faced 28 weeks of drought in the past year, so prioritizing deep root growth through proper fertilization is key.

Optimal Spring Start in Randolph

Perennial Ryegrass and Tall Fescue are reliable choices for this climate. Aim to seed your lawn after the last spring frost on April 25 to take full advantage of the growing season before the October 21 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Randolph County's county score?
Randolph County, Indiana has a composite county score of 56.1 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 Randolph County rank among counties in Indiana?
Randolph County ranks #54 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 Randolph County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Randolph County is $881, with an effective tax rate of 0.83%. This earns Randolph County a tax score of 50.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Randolph County?
The median household income in Randolph County, Indiana is $61,121 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Randolph County earns an income score of 42.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Randolph County, Indiana a good place to live?
Randolph County scores 56.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Randolph 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 Randolph 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.