countyscore
36.7
County Score
Lawn Care 82.2Soil Quality 74.1Health 67.6

County Report Card

About Rock Island County, Illinois

A Challenging National Comparison

Rock Island County holds a composite score of 36.7, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a combination of high tax burdens and environmental concerns that outweigh local assets.

Trailing the Illinois State Average

The county lags behind the Illinois average composite score of 52.8. While it offers some urban amenities, its overall livability profile ranks in the lower tier of counties across the state.

Health and Education Lead the Way

The county performs best in health and education, earning dimension scores of 67.6 and 62.7 respectively. Residents benefit from a median household income of $66,768, which supports a stable quality of life.

High Taxes and Safety Concerns

A tax score of 1.3 reflects a heavy effective tax rate of 2.330%, one of the highest burdens in the region. Low scores in safety (11.8) and environmental risk (15.9) also present ongoing challenges for the local community.

Best for Health-Conscious Professionals

This county suits professionals who value high-performing schools and medical access over low taxes. Families may appreciate the solid educational infrastructure despite the higher cost of living.

Score breakdown

Tax1.3Cost39.5Safety11.8Health67.6Schools62.7Income58.5Risk15.9Water53.1Weather51.5
🏛1.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠39.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼58.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡11.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤67.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡15.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧53.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨74.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱82.2
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Rock Island County?

Many homeowners in Rock Island County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Rock Island County with Tehama County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Tehama County
California
Median income: $61,834
36.7
DeSoto County
Mississippi
Median income: $82,980
36.7
Erie County
New York
Median income: $71,175
36.7
Klamath County
Oregon
Median income: $59,353
36.7
Providence County
Rhode Island
Median income: $78,204
36.7
Richland County
South Carolina
Median income: $61,699
36.7
Wise County
Texas
Median income: $89,897
36.7
Canyon County
Idaho
Median income: $72,355
36.8

Nearby counties

Scott County
Iowa
37.2
Henry County
Illinois
50.3
Clinton County
Iowa
38.7
Muscatine County
Iowa
41.3
Mercer County
Illinois
63.1
Whiteside County
Illinois
46.3
Cedar County
Iowa
58
Louisa County
Iowa
61.3

Deep Dives

Rock Island County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Rock Island County

via TaxByCounty

Rock Island's taxes run well above national norm

At 2.33%, Rock Island County's effective tax rate significantly exceeds the national median of 2.05%, placing it in roughly the 75th percentile nationally. The median property tax here is $3,372 annually—25% higher than the national median of $2,690—reflecting both the county's tax structure and its median home values of $144,700.

Among Illinois' highest-taxing counties

Rock Island ranks in the upper tier statewide, with an effective rate of 2.33% compared to Illinois' state average of 1.83%. This 50-basis-point difference means Rock Island homeowners pay significantly more in property taxes than the typical Illinois resident.

Rock Island higher than most peers

Compared to neighboring Stark County (1.64% effective rate) and Scott County (1.38%), Rock Island's 2.33% rate stands out as notably higher. The $3,372 median tax bill here outpaces Stark County's $1,700 and Scott County's $1,406, reflecting the region's tax rate variance.

Expect roughly $3,372 annually

On the median home valued at $144,700, Rock Island County homeowners typically pay $3,372 per year in property taxes. For homes with mortgages, expect an additional escrow buffer: the median with mortgage is $3,525.

Many Rock Island owners are overassessed

Property tax appeals are a powerful but underused tool—assessments often exceed market value, especially during downturns. If you believe your home's assessment is inflated, requesting a reassessment review could significantly lower your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rock Island County

via CostByCounty

Rock Island's rent burden exceeds national norms

Renters in Rock Island County spend 15.5% of their income on housing, slightly above the national average of roughly 14.7%. While the county's median income of $66,768 trails the national median by $8,000, housing costs here remain competitive with the rest of the Midwest.

Middle of the pack in Illinois affordability

Rock Island ranks squarely in the middle among Illinois counties for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio matching several peer counties statewide. The median rent of $863 runs slightly above Illinois's state average of $837, reflecting its position in the state's affordability spectrum.

Comparable costs to surrounding counties

Rock Island's rent of $863 sits between Saline County ($711) to the south and Sangamon County ($954) to the east, positioning it as a moderate option in its region. Homebuyers face similar competition, with Rock Island's median home value of $144,700 reflecting mid-range prices for central Illinois.

Housing eats 15.5% of income

Rock Island renters spend $863 monthly while homeowners pay $1,004, with both groups allocating roughly 15% of the median $66,768 household income to housing. This leaves most families with substantial income remaining for other expenses, making the county moderately affordable for working households.

Consider Rock Island for balanced living

If you're relocating to Illinois and balancing rent affordability with walkable communities, Rock Island offers middle-ground pricing without the steep costs of Chicago suburbs. Compare its $863 rent and $144,700 home values against neighboring counties to find your best fit in central Illinois.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rock Island County

via IncomeByCounty

Rock Island Lags Behind National Median

Rock Island County's median household income of $66,768 sits about 10.7% below the national median of $74,755. This places the county below the national average, though still within reach of the middle class for many families across the region.

Below State Average in Illinois

At $66,768, Rock Island's median income trails the Illinois state average of $68,580 by about $1,812 annually. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier statewide, reflecting economic challenges in the region's manufacturing and agricultural sectors.

Comparable to Nearby Counties

Rock Island's $66,768 median income sits between Schuyler County ($66,059) and Shelby County ($68,457), showing consistent economic patterns across central Illinois. The county's per capita income of $35,753 aligns closely with neighbors, suggesting similar workforce structures and opportunities.

Rent Remains Affordable Here

At a 15.5% rent-to-income ratio, Rock Island households spend a reasonable portion of earnings on housing, well below the 30% threshold that signals affordability strain. The median home value of $144,700 is accessible for families earning the county median, making homeownership feasible for many.

Build Financial Security in Rock Island

With median household income of $66,768, Rock Island residents have room to prioritize savings and investments beyond basic expenses. Starting an emergency fund and exploring retirement accounts can help families in the county build long-term wealth despite wage pressures.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rock Island County

via CrimeByCounty

Crime rates exceed national and state averages

Rock Island County reports a total crime rate of 2,620.7, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Consequently, its safety score of 95.9 is lower than many neighboring counties.

A busy urban profile in Illinois

The county's total crime rate of 2,620.7 is more than triple the Illinois state average of 835.0. This reflects the challenges faced by its eight reporting agencies in a more densely populated area.

High activity compared to rural neighbors

Rock Island serves as a major regional hub, resulting in much higher crime rates than nearby rural counties. The presence of multiple reporting agencies ensures that more incidents are documented compared to surrounding areas.

Violent crime is slightly above national norms

The violent crime rate of 374.8 sits just above the national average of 369.8. Property crime is the largest factor, with 2,245.9 incidents per 100,000 residents.

Prioritizing home and property security

Given the higher property crime rates, robust home security is highly recommended for all residents. Installing cameras and improving outdoor lighting can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Rock Island County

via HealthByCounty

Rock Island's Life Expectancy Beats Nation

Residents of Rock Island County live to an average of 76.4 years, outpacing the U.S. average of 76.1 years. With a 16.5% poor or fair health rate, the county tracks close to national patterns, suggesting generally solid health outcomes compared to the broader American population.

Slightly Ahead of Illinois Average

Rock Island's 76.4-year life expectancy edges out Illinois's state average of 76.0 years, positioning the county in the middle tier of state health performance. The county's 16.5% poor or fair health rate aligns with statewide trends.

Competitive Regional Health Profile

Rock Island's 76.4-year life expectancy trails Sangamon County (76.8 years) but exceeds Stark County (74.9 years) and St. Clair County (74.1 years). With 49 primary care providers per 100K and 300 mental health providers per 100K, Rock Island offers moderate provider access for central Illinois.

Healthcare Access Faces Minor Gaps

A 7.4% uninsured rate puts Rock Island slightly above the state average of 6.3%, meaning roughly 1 in 14 residents lack health coverage. With 49 primary care providers per 100K residents, the county has fewer doctors per capita than Sangamon County (121 per 100K) but more than Shelby County (24 per 100K).

Get Covered in Rock Island County

If you're among the 7.4% of Rock Island residents without health insurance, coverage options exist through the Affordable Care Act marketplace and Illinois Medicaid. Check your eligibility today at healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to find a plan that fits your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Rock Island County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Network of 57 Public Schools

Rock Island County supports 21,732 students across a diverse network of 57 public schools and 11 distinct districts. The infrastructure includes 30 elementary, 11 middle, and 9 high schools, alongside several specialized education centers. This comprehensive system ensures educational coverage for families throughout the Quad Cities area.

Competitive Results on a Lean Budget

The county achieves an 88.9% graduation rate, slightly exceeding the state average of 88.8% and the national mark of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $9,392 is higher than the Illinois average of $9,250, it remains significantly below the national average of $13,000. These results earn the county a composite school score of 58.1, matching the state median.

Major Districts Lead the Region

Moline-Coal Valley CUSD 40 is the largest provider, educating 7,185 students across 15 different schools. Rock Island SD 41 follows closely with 14 schools serving 6,204 students. Currently, there are no charter schools operating within the county's 11 districts.

City and Suburban Learning Environments

The locale is primarily urban and suburban, with 28 schools in city settings and 19 in suburbs. Moline Sr High School is the largest campus with 2,196 students, while the average school size across the county remains moderate at 453 students. Only 10 schools are situated in rural areas, reflecting the county's developed character.

Education-Focused Real Estate in Rock Island

Families looking for strong graduation rates and diverse school settings will find plenty of options in Moline or Rock Island. School quality is a primary driver of local home values, making this an essential factor in your house hunt. Explore neighborhoods near top-rated campuses to secure your child's academic future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rock Island County

via RiskByCounty

Rock Island's moderate risk profile

Rock Island County scores 84.13 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the Relatively Moderate category—well above Illinois's state average of 54.46. This means residents face significantly higher natural disaster exposure than the typical Illinois county, driven primarily by tornado and flood vulnerabilities.

Above average among Illinois counties

Rock Island ranks among the riskier counties in Illinois, with its 84.13 composite score exceeding 73% of the state's other counties. The county's tornado risk of 91.00 is particularly notable, placing it in the upper tier statewide for severe weather exposure.

Riskier than most neighbors

Rock Island's risk score of 84.13 substantially exceeds nearby Scott County (2.77) and Stark County (7.25), which are among Illinois's safest. However, it falls below the extreme risk levels seen in neighboring St. Clair County (94.91), making Rock Island moderately vulnerable by regional comparison.

Tornadoes and floods dominate

Tornadoes pose the greatest threat with a risk score of 91.00, while flooding comes in second at 79.45—both substantially above state averages. Wildfire and hurricane risks are minimal at 8.71 and 13.77 respectively, so local preparedness should focus on severe convective weather and water management.

Prioritize tornado and flood coverage

Rock Island residents should ensure robust homeowners insurance that covers tornado damage and have separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Consider reinforcing above-ground shelter spaces and maintaining emergency supplies for severe weather season, particularly spring and early summer.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rock Island County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler Northern Continental Climate

Rock Island County averages 50.6°F annually, which is cooler than the national median temperature. The region is defined by its strong seasonal contrasts and significant winter snowfall.

Colder and Drier Than Average

The county's 50.6°F average is over 2 degrees cooler than the Illinois state average of 52.8°F. It receives 37.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is drier than the state average of 41.7 inches.

The Snow Capital of the Region

Rock Island receives a staggering 36.1 inches of snow, far more than any other county in this group. It also sees only 20 days of extreme heat, making it much milder in summer than southern Illinois.

Heavy Snow and Mild Summers

Winters are harsh with a January average of 22.5°F and over 3 feet of total snowfall. Summers are pleasant, featuring a July average of 74.9°F and only 20 days of temperatures above 90°F.

Prepare for Serious Snowfall

A high-quality snow blower and cold-weather vehicle prep are mandatory for the 36.1 inches of annual snow. Home insulation should be a priority to combat the sub-freezing January averages.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rock Island County

via SoilByCounty

Perfectly Balanced pH in Rock Island

Rock Island County boasts an average pH of 6.53, sitting right at the national median of 6.5. This nearly neutral level makes it more accommodating for a wide variety of plants compared to the more acidic state average of 6.39. While specific taxonomic data is currently unlisted, this chemical balance provides an ideal foundation for nutrient availability.

A Silty Foundation with Sandy Accents

The soil contains 57.6% silt and 20.2% sand, creating a texture that balances moisture retention with workability. With 22.2% clay, the ground offers enough structure to hold onto minerals without becoming overly compacted. This mix allows for easier tilling than many heavier clay soils found elsewhere in the state.

Healthy Water Capacity for Steady Growth

Organic matter sits at 2.49%, which beats the national average of 2.0% but falls slightly behind the high Illinois state average of 2.94%. The soil holds 0.199 inches of water per inch of soil, nearly matching the state benchmark of 0.204. These numbers indicate a stable growing environment that resists quick drying during summer stretches.

Reliable Hydrology for Diverse Land Use

While specific drainage classes are not recorded in this data set, the high silt content suggests moderate natural drainage. The balance of 20.2% sand helps prevent the total saturation often seen in pure silt-clay environments. Builders and farmers should find the land relatively predictable, though site-specific percolation tests remain essential.

Hardy Crops Thrive in Zone 5b

This county sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, where cool-weather vegetables and hardy perennials excel. The neutral pH and high silt content provide a perfect home for apples, pumpkins, and sweet corn. Grab a shovel and start your garden, as these soils are among the most versatile in the region.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rock Island County

via LawnByCounty

Rock Island Boasts Top-Tier Growing Conditions

With a lawn difficulty score of 82.2, Rock Island County is significantly easier to manage than the state average of 69.8. This USDA Hardiness Zone 5b region provides a very stable environment for traditional turf compared to the national median score of 50.0.

Moderate Temperatures Sustain Consistent Growth

The county receives 37.8 inches of annual precipitation, which falls perfectly within the ideal range of 30 to 50 inches for lawns. Only 20 extreme heat days per year mean your grass avoids the heavy summer stress common in southern Illinois.

Near-Perfect Soil Acidity for Nutrient Uptake

Local soil features a pH of 6.53, sitting right in the middle of the 6.0 to 7.0 ideal window. A balanced mix of 22.2% clay and 20.2% sand provides a solid foundation that retains moisture without becoming overly compacted.

Abnormally Dry Conditions Require Mindful Watering

While 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry, severe drought levels remain at 0%. Homeowners should focus on deep, infrequent watering to strengthen roots after facing 16 weeks of drought over the past year.

Start Your Lawn After the April Frost

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass thrive here, especially when seeded near the last spring frost on April 19. Aim to establish new growth well before the first fall frost arrives around October 22.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rock Island County's county score?
Rock Island County, Illinois has a composite county score of 36.7 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 Rock Island County rank among counties in Illinois?
Rock Island County ranks #95 among all counties in Illinois 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 Rock Island County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Rock Island County is $3,372, with an effective tax rate of 2.33%. This earns Rock Island County a tax score of 1.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rock Island County?
The median household income in Rock Island County, Illinois is $66,768 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rock Island County earns an income score of 58.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rock Island County, Illinois a good place to live?
Rock Island County scores 36.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #95 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Rock Island 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 Rock Island 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.