countyscore
46.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 80.1Soil Quality 72.3Lawn Care 63.1

County Report Card

About Saline County, Nebraska

Saline County Faces National Headwinds

Saline County’s composite score of 46.4 falls slightly below the national median of 50.0. This suggests that the county trails the average US county in several key livability metrics.

Below the Nebraska State Average

The county's score of 46.4 is notably lower than the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It ranks in the lower half of counties across the state for overall desirability.

Strong Local Earnings Potential

A standout Income Score of 80.1 demonstrates that Saline County residents earn well, with a median household income of $77,027. This financial strength provides a cushion against other regional challenges.

High Taxes and Social Pressures

The Tax Score of 18.8 reflects a heavy property tax burden of 1.353%. Low scores in Safety (44.6) and School (45.5) indicate room for improvement in community services and public security.

Best for Established Professionals

This county is a strong fit for workers in high-paying local industries who can leverage the strong income profile. It suits those who prioritize earning power and can navigate a slightly higher cost of public services.

Score breakdown

Tax18.8Cost52Safety44.6Health57.5Schools45.5Income80.1Risk57.6Water39.5Weather45
🏛18.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠52
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼80.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡44.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤57.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓45.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧39.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨72.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.1
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

Seward County
Nebraska
60.6
Jefferson County
Nebraska
54.4
Lancaster County
Nebraska
32.3
Gage County
Nebraska
51.4
Fillmore County
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69.4
Thayer County
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61.7
York County
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Johnson County
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62.9

Deep Dives

Saline County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Saline County

via TaxByCounty

Saline's taxes near national median levels

Saline County's effective tax rate of 1.353% significantly exceeds the national median, but its median property tax of $2,445 falls just shy of the national median of $2,690. The county's higher home values of $180,700 place it in the middle tier of national property tax burdens.

Saline ranks among Nebraska's highest-tax counties

At 1.353%, Saline County's effective tax rate exceeds Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, ranking in the upper tier of the state's 93 counties. The median tax bill of $2,445 runs $473 higher than the state average, reflecting both higher property values and elevated rates.

Highest-taxed neighbor in central Nebraska

Saline County's 1.353% rate outpaces all nearby counties, including Red Willow (1.262%) and Rock County (1.016%), making it the costliest tax environment in the immediate region. This reflects Saline's higher property values and service demands from its larger population centers.

What you'll pay annually on median home

A home valued at Saline County's median of $180,700 carries an estimated annual property tax of approximately $2,445. Homeowners with mortgages pay around $2,756, while those without mortgages pay closer to $2,184.

Many homeowners could lower taxes through appeal

With higher property values comes a greater potential impact from assessment errors, and Saline County homeowners should verify their assessments against comparable sales. Filing a free appeal with the county assessor could identify overvaluation and yield significant annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Saline County

via CostByCounty

Saline County outearns and stays affordable

Saline County's median household income of $77,027 exceeds the national median of $74,755, yet residents maintain a 13.0% rent-to-income ratio—well below typical national affordability thresholds. This combination of above-average earning power and controlled housing costs creates genuine economic breathing room.

Sweet spot for Nebraska affordability

Saline County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.0% ranks second-best statewide, undercutting Nebraska's state average of 14.2% by a meaningful margin. With above-state-average income and moderate rent of $833 monthly, Saline represents the rare county that marries prosperity with affordability.

More income, smarter housing costs

Saline's $77,027 median income dwarfs Rock County ($57,500) and Red Willow ($60,000), yet rents remain reasonable at $833—only $50 above the state average. This income advantage transforms housing costs into a smaller slice of the household pie.

High earners, moderate housing burden

Saline households earn $77,027 annually and dedicate $833 to rent or $840 to ownership, consuming just 13% of income for housing. This efficiency leaves $5,600+ monthly for all other expenses—substantially more than lower-income counties despite similar absolute rent levels.

Saline: prosperity and affordability unite

Consider Saline if you seek Nebraska's sweet spot: strong household incomes, reasonable housing costs, and a healthy median home value of $180,700. You'll enjoy both financial security and housing affordability—a rare pairing in today's market.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Saline County

via IncomeByCounty

Saline County edges above national median

Saline County's median household income of $77,027 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by about $2,272. This puts the county just above the national average, ranking in the upper-middle tier nationally.

Strong performer among Nebraska counties

At $77,027, Saline County's median household income exceeds Nebraska's state average of $66,880 by over $10,000. The county ranks in the upper third of Nebraska's 93 counties for household earnings.

Economic leader in central Nebraska

Saline County's $77,027 median household income significantly outpaces rural neighbors like Red Willow ($60,000) and Rock County ($57,500). The county is a relative economic powerhouse in its region.

Strong income supports homeownership

Saline County's 13.0% rent-to-income ratio indicates manageable housing costs relative to earning power. The median home value of $180,700 is accessible to households earning the county median, with room for savings and investment.

Build substantial wealth in Saline County

With median income above the national average, Saline County households have above-average capacity to save, invest, and build long-term wealth. Prioritize retirement accounts, diversified investments, and strategic homeownership to maximize financial security and intergenerational wealth transfer.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Saline County

via CrimeByCounty

Saline County beats the national average

Saline County's total crime rate of 1,240.0 per 100K is roughly half the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a respectable safety score of 98.0.

Saline tracks above state crime norms

The county's rate of 1,240.0 is nearly double the Nebraska state average of 626.7. This results in a safety score that sits one point below the state-wide average of 99.0.

Comparing Saline to regional neighbors

Saline County's crime rate is very similar to Sarpy County, which reports 1,221.8 per 100K. However, it is significantly higher than Seward County's much lower rate of 442.1.

Understanding Saline's crime breakdown

Violent crime sits at 203.2 per 100K, while property crime is much higher at 1,036.8. Property offenses are more than five times as common as violent incidents here.

Priority on property protection

Since property crime is the primary concern in Saline, residents should invest in smart home security. Simple door and window sensors can provide extra peace of mind.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Saline County

via HealthByCounty

Saline leads on longevity despite health challenges

Saline County residents enjoy a 79.2-year life expectancy—nearly 3 years above the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Yet its 19.0% poor/fair health rate exceeds the national average of 17.9%, revealing a paradox of longer lives alongside higher reported illness.

Highest life expectancy in state sample

At 79.2 years, Saline County tops Nebraska's average of 77.5 years by 1.7 years—among the highest in this sample. However, its 11.5% uninsured rate is the worst in the state, indicating coverage gaps despite strong longevity.

Fewest primary care doctors in region

Saline County has only 42 primary care providers per 100,000—the lowest in its peer group and well below Richardson (52) and Red Willow (75). Mental health capacity of 110 per 100K is also minimal for a county of its size.

High uninsured rate, lowest primary care access

Saline's 11.5% uninsured rate—the highest in Nebraska's sample—leaves roughly 1 in 9 residents vulnerable to medical debt. With just 42 primary care providers per 100K, residents face significant barriers to preventive care and routine appointments.

Get covered now

Saline County's 11.5% uninsured rate is the state's highest—leaving families at financial risk. Visit healthcare.gov today or call 1-800-318-2596 to find affordable plans and tax credits you may qualify for.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Saline County

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad School Network Across Four Districts

Saline County maintains 13 public schools that serve a growing population of 3,340 students. The network includes five elementary schools, five high schools, and two middle schools spread across four districts.

Meeting Challenges with Efficient Spending

Local schools operate on a per-pupil expenditure of $8,269, which is significantly lower than the $13,000 national benchmark. The current graduation rate stands at 84.6%, just below the Nebraska state average of 86.9%.

Crete Public Schools Leads Enrollment

Crete Public Schools is the largest district, educating 2,230 students across six schools. Other local options include Wilber-Clatonia and Friend Public Schools, though no charter schools currently operate in the county.

A Mix of Rural and Town Locales

Eight of the county's schools are located in rural areas, while five serve the more populated town centers. Crete High School is the largest campus with 690 students, offering a different social scale than the smaller rural buildings.

Locate Your Family in Saline County

With various districts and school sizes, Saline County provides several paths for student success. Research homes in the Crete or Wilber areas to find the best fit for your family's educational preferences.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Saline County

via RiskByCounty

Saline faces moderate disaster pressures

Saline County's composite risk score of 42.40 sits firmly in the 'Very Low' category but well above the national average, placing it among the more exposed counties. While still relatively safe, Saline residents face more natural hazard risk than most Americans.

Higher-risk profile than most Nebraska counties

At 42.40, Saline County exceeds Nebraska's state average of 25.80 and ranks in the upper third of the state's risk distribution. The county faces notably higher exposure to tornadoes, floods, and wildfires than typical Nebraska locations.

Riskier than surrounding agricultural counties

Saline County's score of 42.40 substantially exceeds neighboring Clay, Hamilton, and Fillmore counties' risk profiles. Its geographic position in central Nebraska exposes it to stronger convective storm activity than counties to the east or west.

Tornadoes and wildfires dominate the hazard landscape

Tornado risk scores 69.02 and wildfire risk reaches 68.86, making these equally serious threats for Saline County residents. Flood risk of 38.61 adds a tertiary concern, particularly for properties near river bottoms or low-lying areas.

Comprehensive coverage protects against multiple threats

Saline County residents need robust windstorm and hail coverage—standard homeowners policies typically include this, but verify your protection explicitly. Consider flood insurance if you're in a mapped floodplain, and wildfire endorsements for acreage; comprehensive coverage is essential here.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Saline County

via WeatherByCounty

The Heart of the Plains Climate

Saline County’s 49.7°F annual average temperature reflects a classic continental climate, sitting below the national median. It experiences a wide swing between seasonal extremes typical of the American Midwest.

Defining the Nebraska Average

Saline County perfectly mirrors the Nebraska state average temperature of 49.7°F. However, it is slightly wetter than its peers, receiving 30.0 inches of precipitation compared to the state average of 25.9 inches.

More Moisture than Western Neighbors

The county receives a healthy 30.0 inches of annual precipitation, providing more agricultural moisture than counties further west. It balances this with 25.4 inches of snow and 26 days of extreme heat.

Balanced Seasons with Sharp Winters

July averages reach a warm 73.9°F, while January dips to a chilly 22.8°F. The county experiences 26 days per year where temperatures top 90°F, concentrated mostly in the 72.2°F average summer months.

Equip for Variable Weather

Dual-fuel heating systems are effective here to manage the 25.4-degree winter average. Residents should also prepare for 26 days of extreme heat by ensuring attic ventilation is up to code.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Saline County

via SoilByCounty

Saline County’s Acidic Soil Profile

The soil in Saline County is noticeably acidic with an average pH of 6.20. This is lower than both the national median of 6.5 and the Nebraska state average of 6.79. Local growers may need to monitor acidity to ensure optimal nutrient availability for certain crops.

Silt and Clay Provide Structure

The soil composition is 55.9% silt and 27.3% clay, with a small 16.8% sand fraction. This combination creates a heavy, fine-textured soil that is excellent for retaining nutrients. The high clay content ensures the soil remains firm and productive.

Exceptional Water Retention Levels

Saline County boasts an available water capacity of 0.207 in/in, which is significantly higher than the state average of 0.172. Organic matter is also healthy at 2.73%, beating the national 2.0% average. This soil acts as a massive sponge for crops during the growing season.

Moisture-Rich Soils and Slow Infiltration

The dominant soil classes are not recorded, but the high clay and silt levels suggest a tendency to hold water tightly. This is beneficial for surviving Nebraska heat waves but can lead to slow drainage after heavy storms. Proper field leveling is often key to managing these moisture-rich fields.

High-Yield Potential in Zone 6a

Located in USDA Zone 6a, this county is a prime location for high-yield grain production and gardening. The soil’s superior water capacity supports thirstier vegetables like melons and squash. Adding lime can help balance the 6.20 pH for more acid-sensitive garden plants.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Saline County

via LawnByCounty

Consistent Growth in Saline County

With a lawn difficulty score of 63.1, Saline County offers a more hospitable environment than the national average. Situated in Zone 6a, it sits comfortably above the state ease-of-maintenance score of 54.2. Homeowners here benefit from a balanced climate that avoids the extreme aridity found further west.

Perfect Precipitation for Nebraska Lawns

The county receives 30.0 inches of annual precipitation, hitting the exact threshold for ideal lawn growth. Extreme heat is relatively manageable with only 26 days reaching 90°F or higher. This balance results in 3,163 growing degree days, supporting a steady and predictable mowing rhythm through the summer.

Acidic Soil with Significant Clay

The soil pH stands at 6.20, which is perfectly suited for nutrient availability in turfgrass. The texture includes 27.3% clay, providing strong water-holding capacity but increasing the risk of compaction in high-traffic areas. Regular core aeration is recommended to ensure air and water can reach the root zone through the clay.

Moderate Drought Exposure

Saline County saw 24 weeks of drought over the last year, reflecting typical regional patterns. Currently, 79.7% of the county is abnormally dry, which is better than many neighboring counties that are fully dry. Utilizing rain barrels or smart irrigation controllers can help maintain lawn health during these moderate dry spells.

Planting for a Zone 6a Climate

Turf-type tall fescue is highly recommended for its deep roots and ability to thrive in Saline's clay-heavy soils. The growing season typically kicks off after the last frost on April 26. Plan to finish any fall overseeding by mid-September to beat the first frost on October 13.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Saline County's county score?
Saline County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 46.4 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 Saline County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Saline County ranks #79 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 Saline County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Saline County is $2,445, with an effective tax rate of 1.35%. This earns Saline County a tax score of 18.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Saline County?
The median household income in Saline County, Nebraska is $77,027 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Saline County earns an income score of 80.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Saline County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Saline County scores 46.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #79 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Saline 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 Saline 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.