countyscore
63.9
County Score
Soil Quality 85.1Health 83.1Cost of Living 81.8

County Report Card

About Sac County, Iowa

A Strong National Standing

Sac County earns a composite score of 63.9, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a high quality of life compared to the average American county.

Outperforming the State Average

With a 63.9 composite score, Sac County significantly exceeds the Iowa state average of 55.6. It stands out as one of the more desirable locations in the region for overall livability.

Exceptional Health and Affordability

The county excels in health outcomes with an 83.1 score and maintains great affordability at 81.8. A median monthly rent of $643 makes it exceptionally accessible for budget-conscious residents.

Addressing Water and Taxes

Water quality is the primary area for improvement, with a score of 17.6. The tax environment also lags behind other metrics at 36.1, despite a moderate 1.028% effective rate.

Ideal for Budget-Conscious Health Seekers

This county is a perfect match for retirees or young families who value low housing costs and strong public health. It offers a stable, affordable lifestyle away from urban congestion.

Score breakdown

Tax36.1Cost81.8Safety52.8Health83.1Schools71.9Income68.8Risk72.7Water17.6Weather47.5
🏛36.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠81.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼68.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡52.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓71.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡72.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧17.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨85.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.2
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

Ida County
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71.2
Calhoun County
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65.9
Buena Vista County
Iowa
46.7
Carroll County
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Crawford County
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Pocahontas County
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Cherokee County
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Greene County
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Deep Dives

Sac County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sac County

via TaxByCounty

Sac County taxes rank well below national average

Sac County's effective tax rate of 1.028% sits well below the national median of 1.1%, putting it in the lower third nationally. The median property tax here is just $1,423 annually—half the national median of $2,690—reflecting both lower home values and a lighter tax burden overall.

Among Iowa's lowest-taxed counties

Sac County's 1.028% rate ranks it among the lowest in Iowa, beating the state average of 1.344% by a significant margin. The median tax bill of $1,423 is also well below the state median of $2,160, making it one of the more affordable counties in the state.

Sac stands out in its region

Sac County's 1.028% rate is meaningfully lower than most comparable counties nearby. Shelby County, for instance, has a 1.265% rate, while Tama County reaches 1.390%—meaning Sac homeowners keep more of their property wealth.

What homeowners actually pay here

A homeowner with a $138,400 median-valued home in Sac County pays roughly $1,423 annually in property taxes. That's about $119 per month—one of the lowest monthly burdens in the region.

Check if your assessment is fair

Even in lower-tax counties, many homeowners are overassessed relative to market value. If your property taxes feel high, you have the right to appeal your assessment and potentially recover back taxes owed.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sac County

via CostByCounty

Sac County rents rank well nationally

Renters in Sac County spend just 10.9% of their income on housing, well below the national average of 14.1%. At $643 per month, median rent is significantly cheaper than comparable communities across the country, making Sac County an affordable option for cost-conscious households.

Iowa's most affordable rental market

Sac County's 10.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks as one of the best in Iowa, beating the state average of 14.1%. With median rent at $643, the county sits $169 below Iowa's median of $812, offering genuine relief for renters statewide.

Cheaper than surrounding counties

Sac County's $643 monthly rent undercuts nearby Shelby County ($810) and Tama County ($865) substantially. The savings extend to homeownership too—median home values of $138,400 compare favorably to neighbors while maintaining the county's cost-of-living advantage.

Housing takes modest income share

With a median household income of $70,991, Sac County residents allocate just 10.9% to rent or 11.7% to mortgage payments. This leaves significantly more income for other necessities compared to Iowa's 14.1% average, providing financial breathing room for families.

Consider Sac County for affordability

If you're relocating to Iowa and prioritizing low housing costs, Sac County deserves serious consideration. With the state's best rent-to-income ratio and median rents $169 below the Iowa average, your paycheck stretches further here than almost anywhere else in the region.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sac County

via IncomeByCounty

Sac's income slightly below national average

Sac County's median household income of $70,991 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by about 5%. This places Sac in the middle range nationally, reflecting rural Iowa's economic position relative to wealthier metropolitan areas.

Above average for Iowa

At $70,991, Sac County earns about $1,160 more than Iowa's state average of $69,830, ranking in the upper half of Iowa's 99 counties. Sac's per capita income of $40,261 also exceeds the state average of $37,136.

Strong earnings in regional company

Sac County outearns several neighbors: it beats Shelby County ($67,690), Tama County ($67,955), and Taylor County ($67,279). However, nearby Sioux County ($84,736) and Scott County ($76,363) command significantly higher household incomes.

Housing remains genuinely affordable

Sac County's rent-to-income ratio of 10.9% is the lowest among these eight counties, meaning housing costs consume far less of household earnings here. With a median home value of $138,400, homeownership remains accessible for most working families.

Build on Sac's stable income foundation

Sac County's affordability advantage—especially in housing—creates real opportunity to save and invest. Starting with even modest retirement contributions or a diversified investment portfolio early can compound significantly over decades in this cost-conscious community.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sac County

via CrimeByCounty

Sac County Beats National Safety Averages

Sac County earns a high safety score of 98.3, significantly outperforming the national landscape. Its total crime rate of 1,063.6 per 100,000 people is less than half the national figure of 2,385.5.

A Mirror to Iowa’s Safety Standards

The county aligns perfectly with the Iowa state average safety score of 98.3. Local law enforcement from three reporting agencies helps maintain this stable and secure environment for residents.

Sac County Outperforms State Crime Averages

Sac County's total crime rate remains slightly below the Iowa average of 1,095.3 per 100,000. It offers a quieter alternative to more populated neighboring districts while maintaining a consistent patrol presence.

Property Crime Leads Local Reports

Property crime sits at 746.6 incidents per 100,000, while the violent crime rate reaches 317.0. While property crime is lower than the national average, the violent crime rate is slightly higher than the Iowa average of 216.5.

Simple Steps to Secure Your Property

Even in high-safety areas, basic precautions help keep property crime rates low. Secure your doors and consider installing basic outdoor lighting to protect your home and neighborhood.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sac County

via HealthByCounty

Sac County life expectancy trails nation

At 77.1 years, Sac County residents live slightly shorter lives than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. About 14% of Sac County adults report poor or fair health, close to the national rate of 16%, suggesting residents here experience relatively good health outcomes overall.

Below state average on life expectancy

Sac County's 77.1-year life expectancy falls 0.6 years short of Iowa's state average of 77.7 years. This places the county in the lower half of Iowa's health rankings, though the gap is modest.

Neighboring counties show mixed patterns

Sac County's 77.1-year life expectancy ranks below Story County (81.5 years) and Shelby County (78.3 years) but exceeds Tama County (76.7 years). The 13.9% poor/fair health rate here is better than most neighbors except Story County at 13.4%.

Modest provider access, low uninsured rate

With 62 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Sac County falls short of many neighboring counties but exceeds Tama County's 18 per 100K. The 5.8% uninsured rate matches the state average, meaning most residents have coverage—though mental health providers at 72 per 100K suggest some gaps in behavioral health access.

Check your health insurance today

Sac County's 5.8% uninsured rate shows most residents are covered, but 1 in 17 adults still lack insurance. Visit Healthcare.gov or contact your county health department to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, and employer coverage options available to you.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sac County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Rural School Network

Sac County maintains a focused education infrastructure with six public schools across three districts, serving 1,515 students. The landscape consists of three elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school. This structure provides a traditional K-12 pathway rooted in local communities.

Sac County Outperforms State Graduation Averages

The county boasts an impressive 95.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the Iowa average of 92.3% and the national mark of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending sits at $7,702, which is just above the state average, the county achieves a solid school score of 57.7. This indicates that local districts are effectively turning modest investments into high student success.

Focusing on Local Community Districts

Odebolt Arthur Battle Creek Ida Grove Community School District is the largest provider, managing four schools and 960 students. East Sac County Community School District also plays a major role with 818 students enrolled. There are currently no charter schools in the county, leaving public districts as the primary educational path.

Rural Schools with Intimate Learning Environments

Every single school in Sac County is classified as rural, reflecting the area's agricultural heart. Schools average just 253 students, with East Sac County Elementary being the largest at 424 pupils. The smallest facility, Schaller-Crestland Ridge View Middle School, serves only 171 students, ensuring personalized attention for every learner.

Education Excellence in a Rural Setting

High graduation rates and small class sizes make Sac County an attractive option for families seeking a quiet, focused environment. When researching homes, consider the benefits of a district where every student is known by name. Local schools remain a pillar of community stability for prospective buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sac County

via RiskByCounty

Sac County's risk stays well below average

With a composite risk score of 27.29, Sac County ranks as Very Low—significantly safer than the national average. This means residents face fewer natural disaster threats overall compared to most U.S. counties.

Sac ranks among Iowa's safest counties

Sac County's score of 27.29 places it well below Iowa's state average of 39.68, making it one of the state's lower-risk areas. Only a handful of Iowa counties enjoy comparable safety levels.

Safest county in its region

Sac County's risk profile is notably better than neighboring Sioux County (52.39) and Tama County (45.32). Its 27.29 score reflects the lowest composite risk among its immediate peers.

Tornadoes pose the main threat

Tornado risk reaches 60.02 in Sac County—the hazard that demands the most attention here. Flood risk (17.18) and wildfire risk (9.76) remain minimal by comparison.

Prepare for severe weather now

Given Sac County's tornado exposure, ensure your homeowner's policy covers wind and hail damage, and maintain a weather alert system. A safe room or reinforced shelter in your home can be lifesaving when tornadoes strike.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sac County

via WeatherByCounty

Sac County Maintains a Cool Continental Profile

Sac County averages 46.6°F annually, placing it significantly below the national median of approximately 54°F. This typical continental climate experiences sharp seasonal shifts and stays roughly 7 degrees cooler than the broader U.S. average.

Colder Than the Average Iowa County

The county's annual average of 46.6°F sits 1.4 degrees below the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. While Iowa is known for its chill, Sac County remains one of the state's cooler jurisdictions.

Drier Conditions Relative to Eastern Neighbors

With 33.0 inches of annual precipitation, Sac County receives about 3 inches less rain and snow than the state average. This puts it on the drier end of the spectrum compared to Iowa's more humid eastern counties.

Bitter Winters and Moderate Summer Heat

Winter temperatures drop to an average of 17.1°F in January, accompanied by 30.9 inches of annual snowfall. Summers are mild with a July average of 72.5°F, though residents still face 13 days of extreme heat over 90°F.

Prepare for Snow and Seasonal Fluctuations

Heavy-duty snow removal equipment is essential for managing the nearly 31 inches of annual snowfall. Residents should also insulate homes thoroughly to handle winter lows that regularly average near 20.5°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sac County

via SoilByCounty

Sac County's Near-Perfect pH Balance

Sac County soils maintain a pH of 6.49, resting almost exactly on the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic records for this area are limited, this neutral chemical profile provides an ideal foundation for plant nutrient uptake.

A Silty Mix Built for Workability

The soil is comprised of 47.3% silt, 26.9% clay, and 24.8% sand. This balanced distribution prevents the ground from becoming too heavy while maintaining enough clay to retain essential minerals.

Exceptional Organic Richness

At 5.07% organic matter, these soils significantly outperform the state average of 3.81%. High fertility is paired with a water capacity of 0.203 inches per inch, providing superior drought resistance compared to the Iowa norm.

Managing Water for Peak Performance

Though specific drainage classifications are not listed, the high silt content suggests a soil that holds water well without immediate saturation. Farmers and gardeners should monitor local field conditions to optimize moisture levels for specific crops.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a

The local climate supports cold-hardy staples like corn, soybeans, and hardy perennials. With such high organic matter, your garden is already primed for a high-yielding season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sac County

via LawnByCounty

Solid Conditions for Sac County Lawns

Sac County earns a lawn difficulty score of 75.2, comfortably outperforming the national median of 50.0. While slightly below the Iowa state average of 77.2, the local hardiness zone of 5a provides a stable environment for cool-season grasses. Homeowners here face fewer obstacles than the average American but should mind the shorter growing window.

Balanced Moisture and Moderate Heat

Annual precipitation reaches 33.0 inches, sitting squarely within the ideal range for healthy turf. With 2,776 growing degree days and only 13 extreme heat days, the climate avoids the scorching stress seen in southern counties. This moderate weather pattern supports a steady mowing schedule without frequent heat-induced dormancy.

Ideal pH for Nutrient Uptake

The soil pH in Sac County averages 6.49, falling perfectly within the 6.0 to 7.0 sweet spot for lawn health. A clay content of 26.9% provides good water retention, though the lack of specific drainage data suggests local testing is wise. Most lawns require minimal chemical adjustment to maintain optimal nutrient availability.

Monitoring Dry Spells in Sac

Over the past year, the county endured 14 weeks of drought, and currently, 50.4% of the area is abnormally dry. While no severe drought is currently reported, these dry spells require supplemental watering to keep roots established. Deep, infrequent irrigation during these periods helps lawns survive the 14 weeks of seasonal water stress.

Start Seeding After the April Frost

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive in this 5a zone and should be seeded after the last spring frost on April 30. The first fall frost arrives around October 6, giving you a healthy window for establishment. Aim to finish any major sodding or seeding projects by early September to ensure roots take hold before the winter freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sac County's county score?
Sac County, Iowa has a composite county score of 63.9 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 Sac County rank among counties in Iowa?
Sac County ranks #18 among all counties in Iowa 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 Sac County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Sac County is $1,423, with an effective tax rate of 1.03%. This earns Sac County a tax score of 36.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sac County?
The median household income in Sac County, Iowa is $70,991 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sac County earns an income score of 68.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sac County, Iowa a good place to live?
Sac County scores 63.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Sac 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 Sac 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.