countyscore
53.8
County Score
Safety 71.3Soil Quality 67.3Disaster Risk 62.7

County Report Card

About Rusk County, Wisconsin

Beating the National Median

Rusk County scores 53.8 overall, positioning it well above the national median of 50.0. Its profile is characterized by high safety and low environmental risk.

Leading the Pack in Wisconsin

Rusk County’s 53.8 composite score beats the state average of 50.3. It stands out for its exceptional affordability and safety relative to more populated Wisconsin counties.

Safety and Low Costs

The county excels with a safety score of 71.3 and a risk score of 62.7. Affordable housing is a major draw, with a cost score of 54.8 and a median home value of just $152,000.

Water and Income Gaps

Water quality is a major concern with a score of 12.0, and the income score of 33.7 is relatively low. The median household income of $58,322 is below the state norm.

A Sanctuary for Simple Living

Rusk County is ideal for retirees or remote workers looking for a safe, low-cost haven. It offers peace of mind through low crime and environmental stability, provided you account for local water quality.

Score breakdown

Tax25.3Cost54.8Safety71.3Health62.4Schools62.4Income33.7Risk62.7Water12Weather49.6
🏛25.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠54.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡71.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡62.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧12
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨67.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.5
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

Chippewa County
Wisconsin
42.5
Sawyer County
Wisconsin
48.6
Taylor County
Wisconsin
51.7
Barron County
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Price County
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Washburn County
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Dunn County
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Eau Claire County
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Deep Dives

Rusk County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Rusk County

via TaxByCounty

Rusk County offers lowest tax rates found

At 1.207%, Rusk County's effective tax rate ranks among the lowest in the entire nation, sitting well below the 1.700% national median. The median property tax of $1,834 reflects both modest home values and exceptionally favorable rates.

Wisconsin's most affordable county

Rusk County's 1.207% effective rate runs about 16% below Wisconsin's 1.436% average—the lowest rate in this analysis. Homeowners pay just $1,834 in median annual property taxes, saving roughly $1,247 compared to the state median.

Clear winner among northern counties

Rusk County's 1.207% rate beats all regional peers decisively, outdoing Polk County (1.222%), Portage County (1.474%), and Price County (1.445%). It stands as a genuine tax advantage in northern Wisconsin.

Lowest annual tax bill in dataset

A typical Rusk County home valued at $152,000 carries just $1,834 in annual property taxes—the most affordable in this analysis. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,893, while mortgage-free owners average $1,777.

Still verify your home's valuation

Even in a low-tax county, individual assessments deserve scrutiny to catch errors or overvaluations. Rusk County homeowners should confirm their assessed values reflect comparable sales and appeal if their homes appear overpriced.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rusk County

via CostByCounty

Rusk County faces steep affordability challenges

Rusk County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% ranks among the highest in the nation, significantly exceeding the national average. With a median household income of just $58,322—21.9% below the U.S. average—housing costs consume an outsized share of household budgets.

Rusk ranks as Wisconsin's least affordable

At 16.8%, Rusk County faces the worst rent-to-income ratio in this comparison and among the highest in Wisconsin, well above the state average of 14.9%. The county struggles with both low incomes and limited housing availability, compounding affordability strain.

Rusk offers lowest rents despite worst ratio

Rusk's median rent of $816/month is among the region's lowest, yet the 16.8% rent-to-income ratio remains the worst due to depressed local incomes ($58,322). This reflects Rusk's economic challenges beyond housing markets alone.

Housing crisis grips Rusk households

Renters spend $816/month while homeowners pay $827/month—among the lowest nominal costs statewide. Yet with median income of just $58,322, renters dedicate 16.8% of annual earnings to housing, creating genuine financial hardship for many households.

Rusk requires careful consideration before moving

Rusk County offers the lowest nominal rents in this group, but the highest rent-to-income ratio signals deeper economic challenges. Only relocate here if you have secure remote employment or retirement income that doesn't depend on local wage opportunities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rusk County

via IncomeByCounty

Rusk significantly trails nation

Rusk County's median household income of $58,322 falls 22% below the national median of $74,755. This substantial gap reflects economic challenges and limited high-wage employment in this rural county.

Lowest tier in Wisconsin

At $58,322, Rusk County trails Wisconsin's state median of $71,715 by $13,393. The county ranks among Wisconsin's lowest-income counties, signaling structural economic pressures in its forestry and agriculture-dependent economy.

Among region's lowest earners

Rusk's $58,322 closely matches Price County ($58,720), both among northwest Wisconsin's most challenged earners. Polk County ($76,208) outearns Rusk by 30.5%, illustrating sharp income disparities within the region.

Rent eats more income

Rusk County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% is the highest among these eight counties, signaling rental stress despite a median home value of $152,000. Limited incomes relative to housing costs create household financial pressure.

Prioritize foundation first

With per capita income of $32,642, Rusk County households should focus on stable emergency savings before investing. Seek out free financial counseling, employer 401(k) plans, and low-cost retirement vehicles—small, consistent contributions build resilience over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rusk County

via CrimeByCounty

Rusk County Ranks High for Safety

Rusk County reports 684.1 crimes per 100,000 residents, a rate far below the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county a high safety score of 98.9 out of 100.

Exceeding State Safety Norms

Rusk’s crime rate of 684.1 is considerably lower than the Wisconsin average of 1,103.1. It is one of the safer jurisdictions in the state, exceeding the average state safety score of 98.3.

Consistency Across the North

Rusk County’s rate of 684.1 is nearly identical to neighboring Price County’s 668.2. Together, they form a region characterized by exceptionally low overall crime levels.

A Balanced Crime Breakdown

The data shows a violent crime rate of 338.5 and a property crime rate of 345.6 per 100,000. Interestingly, violent and property crime rates are nearly equal here, which is unusual for the state.

Stay Secure in Rusk County

Even with low total crime, being aware of your surroundings is important. Home security upgrades like motion sensors provide peace of mind in Rusk's quiet communities.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Rusk County

via HealthByCounty

Rusk County's life expectancy falls short

At 76.3 years, Rusk County residents live 1.5 years below the U.S. average, with 17.4% reporting poor or fair health above national norms. This combination signals concentrated health challenges likely tied to occupational hazards, limited economic mobility, and healthcare access barriers.

Below state average with high uninsured

Rusk County's 76.3-year life expectancy trails Wisconsin's 77.8-year average by 1.5 years, while its 7.9% uninsured rate—tied for highest in the region—exceeds the state's 7.0% norm by nearly 1 percentage point. Both metrics signal health vulnerability concentrated among the county's most economically stressed residents.

Rural disadvantages compound challenges

Rusk County's 76.3-year life expectancy matches Rock County but trails Portage by nearly 3 years, while its mental health provider density at 71 per 100K is the lowest in the region. With 7.9% uninsured and 50 primary care providers per 100K, residents face both affordability and access barriers.

Rural poverty and care gaps converge

Rusk County's 7.9% uninsured rate affects roughly 1,300 residents who likely delay seeking care due to cost fears, worsening outcomes for treatable conditions. Mental health support at 71 providers per 100K is well below regional averages, leaving many residents without local access to behavioral health services.

Coverage can transform health

In rural Rusk County, being uninsured often means avoiding care entirely—even for serious symptoms—because the costs feel impossible to manage. Wisconsin Medicaid and ACA plans with subsidies make coverage affordable; visit HealthCare.gov or your county health department today to enroll and protect your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Rusk County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Districts Serving a Rural Population

Rusk County supports 1,614 students across 9 public schools in 3 distinct districts. The infrastructure is evenly split among 3 elementary, 3 middle, and 3 high schools, ensuring a consistent path for students as they grow.

Outperforming National Graduation Benchmarks

The county's 91.1% graduation rate surpasses the national average, reflecting a commitment to student success. With a school score of 56.5 and per-pupil spending of $8,118, the county's schools perform right in line with state averages.

Ladysmith and Bruce District Highlights

The Ladysmith School District is the largest in the county, serving 743 students. All schools in Rusk County are traditional public institutions, as there are currently no charter schools in operation.

Tiny Schools, Big Community Connections

Eight of the nine schools in Rusk County are located in rural settings, and the average school size is just 179 students. This creates a very intimate learning environment where Ladysmith Elementary is the largest school at 329 students.

Quiet Living and Reliable Schools

If you are looking for a place where schools are the heart of the community, Rusk County is an excellent fit. Explore property near Ladysmith or Bruce to settle in a district that prioritizes high graduation rates.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rusk County

via RiskByCounty

Rusk County ranks among nation's safest

With a composite risk score of 37.28 and a Very Low rating, Rusk County sits well below the national average and ranks among America's safest counties for natural disaster exposure. This northern Wisconsin county enjoys exceptional protection from most hazard types.

Second-safest county in Wisconsin

Rusk County's 37.28 score falls far below Wisconsin's 59.08 state average, ranking it among the state's safest counties alongside Price County (32.32). Its northern location shields it from the severe weather and seismic exposure that affect southern Wisconsin.

Nearly as safe as Price County

Rusk County's score of 37.28 ranks it among the safest in the region, just slightly above Price County (32.32) and well below Portage County (62.72). The county's position in Wisconsin's rural north provides a significant safety advantage.

Modest flood exposure only concern

Rusk County's greatest hazard is relatively low flood risk at 44.69, with tornado (34.41) and wildfire (6.62) risks remaining minimal. Even the county's highest-risk hazard ranks well below state average, indicating genuinely limited disaster exposure.

Basic insurance and preparedness suffice

Standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for most Rusk County residents given the county's very low overall risk profile. Maintain basic emergency supplies and seasonal weather awareness, but elaborate multi-hazard coverage is rarely necessary here.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rusk County

via WeatherByCounty

True Northern Continental Climate

Rusk County's annual average of 42.4°F puts it well below the national median for temperature. The region experiences abbreviated summers and long, snow-filled winters.

Cooler Than the Wisconsin Average

The county is cooler than the Wisconsin average of 44.4°F, reflecting its position in the northern third of the state. It ranks among the state's more winter-hardy regions.

Consistent Precipitation Across the North

Rusk averages 34.0 inches of precipitation, nearly matching its neighbor Portage to the southeast. However, its 47.9 inches of snow is more typical of the northern forest belt.

Frigid Winters and Rare Heat

Winters are cold with a 13.1°F January average and significant snowfall. Summers remain mild, peaking at a July average of 67.9°F with only 4 extreme heat days.

Prioritize Winter Prep and Insulation

Winter readiness is the top priority, requiring reliable snow removal equipment and home weatherization. Residents can often forgo heavy air conditioning given the rare 90°F days.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rusk County

via SoilByCounty

Highly acidic Northwoods forest soil

Rusk County has an average soil pH of 4.93, which is significantly lower than the state average of 5.63. This level of acidity is typical for the region but requires amendments for non-native plant species.

Balanced sand and silt proportions

The soil is composed of 34.8% sand and 33.5% silt, with a low clay content of 7.0%. This creates a permeable profile that allows for deep root penetration.

Massive organic matter reserves

Rusk County features 23.01% organic matter, nearly twelve times the national average. Coupled with an available water capacity of 0.251 in/in, this soil holds onto moisture and nutrients exceptionally well.

Exceptional water retention capabilities

Though specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high 0.251 water capacity suggests these soils remain hydrated through the season. This is a major benefit for maintaining greenery during the warmer summer months.

Cold-hardy crops for Zone 4a

A hardiness zone of 4a means a shorter season, but the 67.3 soil score ensures quality growth. Focus on acid-loving plants like cranberries or evergreens to work with your natural soil chemistry.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rusk County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Lawn Care in Rusk County

With a score of 48.5, Rusk County is the most difficult area in this group for lawn maintenance, falling below the national average. The combination of Hardiness Zone 4a winters and localized soil issues creates a high-maintenance environment.

Low Heat and Steady Rains

Rusk sees 34.0 inches of rain annually, but its 2,038 growing degree days are among the lowest in the state. With only 4 days above 90°F, heat isn't the enemy here; instead, the short, cool summer limits the recovery time for damaged turf.

Acidic Soils Lack Heavy Structure

The soil pH of 4.93 is very acidic, which can lead to moss growth and nutrient deficiencies in standard turf. The soil is light, with only 7.0% clay, meaning it lacks the mineral density needed to hold onto fertilizers effectively.

Persistent Drought Challenges Northwoods Lawns

Rusk County has struggled with 28 weeks of drought in the past year, and 100% of the county is currently abnormally dry. In these conditions, dormant brown grass is a natural defense mechanism; avoid heavy foot traffic to prevent permanent damage.

Hardiness is Key for Rusk Success

Focus on the most rugged, cold-tolerant grasses like Canada Bluegrass or Creeping Red Fescue. Ensure all seeding is completed between May 9th and September 29th to avoid the killing frosts that define the Rusk County winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rusk County's county score?
Rusk County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 53.8 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 Rusk County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Rusk County ranks #22 among all counties in Wisconsin 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 Rusk County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Rusk County is $1,834, with an effective tax rate of 1.21%. This earns Rusk County a tax score of 25.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rusk County?
The median household income in Rusk County, Wisconsin is $58,322 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rusk County earns an income score of 33.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rusk County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Rusk County scores 53.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Rusk 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 Rusk 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.