countyscore
60
County Score
Disaster Risk 86.2Water Quality 86Cost of Living 80.5

County Report Card

About Richardson County, Nebraska

Richardson County Leads the National Midpoint

Richardson County earns a 60.0 composite score, placing it exactly ten points above the national median of 50.0. This ranking indicates a high quality of life relative to the average American county.

Competitive with the Nebraska Average

The county's score of 60.0 is effectively tied with the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It offers a profile that is very representative of the state’s overall standard of living.

Exceptional Affordability and Low Risk

The county boasts a Risk Score of 86.2 and a Water Score of 86.0, indicating high environmental stability. Housing is remarkably accessible here, evidenced by a Cost Score of 80.5 and median gross rent of just $692.

Addressing Income and Tax Burdens

An Income Score of 26.8 reflects lower median earnings of $55,578 compared to national figures. Furthermore, the Tax Score of 18.1 highlights a property tax rate of 1.377% that is higher than average.

Ideal for Budget-Conscious Homeowners

Richardson County is a prime choice for individuals looking to minimize housing costs, as home values average under $100,000. It suits those who prioritize environmental safety and an affordable roof over their head.

Score breakdown

Tax18.1Cost80.5Safety57.3Health63.9Schools76.1Income26.8Risk86.2Water86Weather46.8
🏛18.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼26.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡57.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤63.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓76.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡86.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨69.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱74.1
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

Holt County
Missouri
57.5
Brown County
Kansas
50.4
Nemaha County
Nebraska
57.7
Atchison County
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Nemaha County
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Pawnee County
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Doniphan County
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Andrew County
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Deep Dives

Richardson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Richardson County

via TaxByCounty

Richardson's tax rate ranks high for rural Nebraska

Richardson County's effective tax rate of 1.377% exceeds the national median, placing it in the higher tier of counties nationwide. Despite this higher rate, the median property tax of $1,329 remains well below the national median of $2,690, thanks to the county's lower median home values around $96,500.

Richardson taxes exceed most other Nebraska counties

At 1.377%, Richardson County's effective rate ranks among the highest in Nebraska, surpassing the state average of 1.281% by nearly a full percentage point. The county's median tax bill of $1,329 falls below the state average of $1,972, reflecting lower property values in the region.

Highest-taxed county in the southeast region

Richardson County's 1.377% rate significantly outpaces nearby Rock County (1.016%) and Red Willow County (1.262%), making it the highest-taxed neighbor in southeast Nebraska. This rate differential reflects local funding choices for schools and services.

What you'll pay annually on median home

A home valued at Richardson County's median of $96,500 results in an estimated annual property tax of around $1,329. Homeowners with mortgages pay approximately $1,306, while those without mortgages pay closer to $1,354.

Many homeowners could lower taxes through appeal

Even in lower-value housing markets like Richardson County, assessment errors occur, and overvalued properties may result in higher-than-necessary tax bills. The county assessor's office accepts appeals at no cost, offering homeowners a straightforward path to potential savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Richardson County

via CostByCounty

Richardson punches above affordability weight

Richardson County renters dedicate just 14.9% of income to housing, nearly matching the national average despite a median household income of $55,578—well below the national median of $74,755. This unusual affordability advantage stems from modest rental costs of just $692 monthly paired with a tight-knit local economy.

Among Nebraska's most livable counties

Richardson's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% edges above Nebraska's state average of 14.2%, placing it near the middle of the affordability spectrum statewide. At $692 monthly rent, Richardson undercuts the state average of $783, making it one of the state's more budget-friendly options.

The deal county of its region

Richardson's $692 rent is the lowest among its peers—substantially cheaper than Red Willow's $778 and even undercutting Rock County's $608, delivering genuine bargain hunting. With a $55,578 median income, Richardson residents enjoy a 14.9% rent burden that's actually competitive despite lower earning power.

Lean budgets, lean housing costs

Richardson households earn $55,578 annually yet pay only $692 for rent or $673 for ownership—the lowest owner costs in this comparison. This efficiency means housing absorbs roughly 14–15% of income, preserving resources for food, healthcare, and savings.

Richardson: Nebraska's hidden affordability gem

Relocating professionals and families seeking deep affordability should examine Richardson closely—rents and ownership costs rank among the state's lowest, with median home values around $96,500. Your income may be lower, but your dollar stretches further here than in nearly any other Nebraska county.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Richardson County

via IncomeByCounty

Richardson County income trails nation

Richardson County's median household income of $55,578 sits roughly $19,177 below the national median of $74,755. The county ranks in the lowest quartile nationally for household earnings.

Among Nebraska's lowest-earning counties

At $55,578, Richardson County's median household income ranks near the bottom of Nebraska's 93 counties, trailing the state average of $66,880 by over $11,000. Only a handful of Nebraska counties earn less.

Economically distressed relative to region

Richardson County's $55,578 median household income is the lowest among its southeast Nebraska neighbors, falling below Rock County ($57,500) and Red Willow County ($60,000). The county faces steeper economic headwinds than surrounding areas.

Affordable housing offsets low income

Richardson County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds the 12% comfort threshold, but the median home value of just $96,500 is the lowest in the region. For renters and first-time homebuyers, affordability is a relative advantage despite modest household earnings.

Stretch modest income into lasting wealth

Richardson County households earning $55,578 can leverage affordable housing costs to build equity and savings when income is carefully managed. Focus on employer retirement benefits, low-cost index investing, and strategic debt repayment to grow wealth despite economic constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Richardson County

via CrimeByCounty

Richardson County maintains strong safety score

With a total crime rate of 980.9 per 100K, Richardson County is far safer than the national average of 2,385.5. It currently holds a safety score of 98.5 out of 100.

Tracking above the state crime average

The county's crime rate of 980.9 exceeds the Nebraska average of 626.7 per 100K residents. Consequently, its safety score of 98.5 is slightly below the state average score of 99.0.

Richardson faces higher rates than peers

Richardson County reports more crime than neighboring Red Willow, which maintains a lower rate of 598.7. Residents experience roughly double the violent crime rate of their neighbors in Red Willow.

Property crime leads local reports

The local crime profile includes 152.9 violent crimes and 828.0 property crimes per 100K people. Property offenses comprise the vast majority of law enforcement activity across the three reporting agencies.

Simple steps for Richardson residents

Focusing on property security can significantly impact the local crime rate. Ensure all entry points are well-lit and locked to prevent opportunistic property theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Richardson County

via HealthByCounty

Richardson matches state life expectancy

At 77.5 years, Richardson County residents match Nebraska's state average and live about 1.1 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.4 years. However, its 18.2% poor/fair health rate exceeds the national average of 17.9%, pointing to higher chronic disease prevalence.

Right at Nebraska's middle mark

Richardson County's 77.5-year life expectancy exactly matches the state average, placing it squarely in Nebraska's middle tier. Its 8.0% uninsured rate is virtually identical to the state's 8.1%, reflecting typical insurance coverage patterns.

Lowest primary care capacity in region

Richardson's 52 primary care providers per 100K ranks lowest among its peer counties—well below Red Willow (75) and Rock (79). Mental health capacity of 130 per 100K also trails most neighbors, suggesting potential access challenges for specialty care.

Below-average provider availability

With only 52 primary care providers per 100,000, Richardson residents may face longer waits for preventive care and routine appointments. The 8.0% uninsured rate is near the state baseline, but limited mental health providers (130 per 100K) creates a gap for behavioral health needs.

Check your coverage status

Richardson's 8.0% uninsured rate means some neighbors lack protection from medical costs. Explore plans at healthcare.gov or contact local navigators to find affordable coverage options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Richardson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Close-Knit Education in Southeast Nebraska

Richardson County operates seven public schools serving a total enrollment of 1,180 students. The system is split between two districts and provides three elementary, two middle, and two high schools.

Strong Scores and State-Level Funding

The county earns a 62.3 school score, which is notably higher than the state average of 59.1. Local schools graduate 91.5% of students and invest $10,679 per pupil, aligning closely with Nebraska's state-wide spending levels.

Falls City Schools Serve Local Families

Falls City Public Schools is the dominant provider, enrolling 880 students across four different campuses. The remaining students are served by the Humboldt Table Rock Steinauer district, as there are no charter options available.

Intimate Learning Environments in Rural Settings

With an average school size of only 169 students, learners here enjoy highly personalized attention. Schools are split between town and rural locales, with Falls City North Elementary being the largest facility at 295 students.

Find Your Home in Richardson County

Families looking for high school scores and small class sizes will find Richardson County particularly attractive. Use school performance data to guide your search for the perfect property in Falls City or Humboldt.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Richardson County

via RiskByCounty

Richardson ranks among the nation's safest

Richardson County's composite risk score of 13.84 places it in the 'Very Low' category, significantly below the national average. This southeastern Nebraska county enjoys one of the lowest natural disaster risk profiles in the country.

Nebraska's second-lowest risk county

At 13.84, Richardson County ranks as the second-lowest risk in Nebraska, just above Rock County's 0.70 score. The county sits well below the state average of 25.80, making it one of the safest places in Nebraska.

Exceptional safety in the southeast corner

Richardson County's risk profile is substantially lower than neighboring Taylor and Nemaha counties. Its remote position in Nebraska's southeastern corner, combined with lower tornado exposure than most of the state, contributes to this favorable standing.

Tornadoes pose the primary natural threat

Tornado risk scores 48.79, representing Richardson County's most significant hazard, though still moderate by state standards. Wildfire and flood risks of 66.89 and 16.67 respectively exist but are substantially lower concerns than the tornado threat.

Prioritize tornado and storm coverage

Ensure your homeowners policy includes windstorm and hail protection for Richardson County's tornado season. Given the county's overall low risk profile, standard coverage typically suffices—but verify your policy covers severe convective storms, the area's most common hazard.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Richardson County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warmer Corner of the Great Plains

Richardson County maintains an average annual temperature of 53.1°F, which sits slightly below the national median but represents one of the region's milder climates. This humid subtropical influence keeps the area notably warmer than the typical high plains profile.

Leading the State in Warmth

With an annual average of 53.1°F, Richardson County ranks significantly warmer than the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. It also receives 34.3 inches of precipitation annually, making it much wetter than the state average of 25.9 inches.

The Humid Exception Among Neighbors

While neighboring counties often struggle with semi-arid conditions, Richardson enjoys a robust 34.3 inches of annual rainfall. This moisture levels the playing field against the 41 days of extreme heat exceeding 90°F seen annually.

Steamy Summers and Moderate Snow

July brings an average high of 77.2°F, while winter temperatures dip to a January average of 26.4°F. Residents manage 23.2 inches of annual snowfall, which is relatively light compared to Nebraska’s northern reaches.

Prepare for Humidity and Heat

Homeowners should prioritize high-efficiency cooling systems to handle the 41 days of extreme heat each year. Given the high annual precipitation of 34.3 inches, maintaining clear gutter systems and basement waterproofing is essential.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Richardson County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic Soils of Richardson

Richardson County features an average soil pH of 6.37, leaning slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is also lower than the Nebraska state average of 6.79. While taxonomic data is limited for this area, the pH suggests a soil chemistry ready for diverse plant life.

Silt-Heavy Composition for Moisture

The soil is dominated by 56.3% silt and 29.2% clay, with very little sand at just 12.9%. This high silt-to-clay ratio creates a dense, smooth material that holds together well. Such a composition provides excellent structural support for deep-rooted crops.

Strong Water Retention Capacity

Organic matter measures 2.61%, surpassing the national average of 2.0% but trailing the state average of 3.32%. The available water capacity is impressive at 0.191 in/in, well above the state benchmark of 0.172. This ensures plants have access to a steady reservoir of water during dry spells.

Substantial Water Holding Potential

While specific drainage and hydrologic classes are not recorded for the dominant soil here, the high clay and silt percentages typically indicate slower drainage. These soils are built to capture and hold moisture rather than letting it shed away. Users should watch for potential ponding in low-lying areas.

Lush Growth in Zone 6a

The 6a hardiness zone supports a wide variety of crops including soybeans, corn, and fruit trees. The soil's ability to hold water makes it a powerhouse for agriculture if managed correctly. Start a home garden with heavy feeders like tomatoes that will appreciate the deep moisture reserves.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Richardson County

via LawnByCounty

Nebraska's Premier Conditions for Growing Grass

Richardson County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 74.1, far outpacing the Nebraska state average of 54.2. As part of USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, this area offers some of the most favorable conditions in the region. Growing a healthy lawn here is significantly easier than in 74% of the country.

Ample Rainfall Supports Lush Turf

The county receives 34.3 inches of annual precipitation, which fits perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for turfgrass. While 41 extreme heat days exceed the state average, the 3,775 growing degree days provide a robust window for grass development. Mowing schedules remain steady from late April through mid-October.

Ideal Acidity for Nutrient Uptake

The soil pH of 6.37 is near-perfect for grass, allowing roots to easily access essential nutrients. The soil composition is relatively heavy with 29.2% clay and only 12.9% sand. Because drainage data is limited, homeowners should monitor for compaction and consider annual aeration to maintain healthy roots.

Resilient Landscapes in the Southeast

Richardson County experienced only 10 weeks of drought over the past year, showing much higher resilience than western neighbors. Currently, 98.1% of the county is abnormally dry, but zero percent faces severe drought levels. Maintaining a taller mow height during these dry spells will help shade the soil and conserve moisture.

Successful Planting in a Longer Season

Kentucky bluegrass and turf-type tall fescues thrive in this 6a climate with its generous rainfall. Aim to seed after the last frost on April 18, taking advantage of a long growing season that lasts until mid-October. The favorable score suggests that with basic care, your lawn will naturally outperform most in the state.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Richardson County's county score?
Richardson County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 60 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 Richardson County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Richardson County ranks #57 among all counties in Nebraska 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 Richardson County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Richardson County is $1,329, with an effective tax rate of 1.38%. This earns Richardson County a tax score of 18.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Richardson County?
The median household income in Richardson County, Nebraska is $55,578 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Richardson County earns an income score of 26.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Richardson County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Richardson County scores 60/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #57 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Richardson 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 Richardson 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.