countyscore
58.3
County Score
Safety 97.5Disaster Risk 88.7Soil Quality 75

County Report Card

About Schuyler County, Illinois

A Strong National Performer

Schuyler County's composite score of 58.3 places it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a highly stable and secure choice for residents looking beyond metropolitan hubs.

Above the Illinois Average

The county outperforms the Illinois average of 52.8 by more than five points. It offers a more balanced quality of life than many of the state’s more urbanized regions.

Top-Tier Safety and Resilience

Schuyler excels with a safety score of 97.5 and an environmental risk score of 88.7. The median home value of $106,200 makes it an attractive destination for those seeking a low-risk, affordable lifestyle.

High Taxes and Water Quality

The tax score is low at 4.9, reflecting the high local tax environment common in Illinois. Water quality also presents a challenge, with a score of 30.0 indicating room for infrastructure improvement.

Perfect for Quiet, Secure Living

Schuyler County is an ideal fit for families and individuals who prioritize personal safety and environmental stability. It offers a high degree of peace of mind at a manageable price point.

204060801004.956.197.553.366.557.188.73054Tax4.9Cost56.1Safety97.5Health53.3Schools66.5Income57.1Risk88.7Water30Weather5458.3/100
This county
National avg
3 above average2 below average

Schuyler County DNA

Foverall

How Schuyler County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Schuyler County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (97.5/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (4.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
4.9-47.1
Cost
56.1+8.100000000000001
Safety
97.5+42.5
Health
53.3
Schools
66.5+12.5
Income
57.1
Risk
88.7+41.7
Water
30-28
Weather
54
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$106,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$836/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$106,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$33,440/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.6x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $66,059/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

29.3

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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 Schuyler County with Wilcox County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Brown County
Illinois
69.5
Cass County
Illinois
57.4
McDonough County
Illinois
56.3
Fulton County
Illinois
53.9
Morgan County
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Scott County
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Mason County
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Adams County
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Deep Dives

Schuyler County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Schuyler County

via TaxByCounty

Schuyler taxes near the national middle

At 1.83%, Schuyler County's effective tax rate closely mirrors the national median of 2.05%, placing it near the 45th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $1,940 falls well below the national median of $2,690, with the county's $106,200 median home value being 62% lower than the national norm.

Schuyler virtually matches state average

Schuyler's 1.83% effective rate aligns almost perfectly with Illinois' state average of 1.83%, making it a representative tax jurisdiction within the state. The county ranks solidly in the middle tier statewide.

Schuyler moderate within the region

At 1.83%, Schuyler's rate sits between Scott County's lower 1.38% and Stark County's 1.64%, making it moderate within its region. The $1,940 median tax places it mid-range among these comparable counties.

Expect approximately $1,940 annually

On the median home valued at $106,200, Schuyler County homeowners typically pay $1,940 per year in property taxes. With mortgage escrow included, the median rises to $2,203.

Don't skip the assessment check

Even in moderately-taxed counties, individual parcels can be assessed above fair market value, especially in slower real estate markets. A quick assessment review could confirm you're not overpaying.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Schuyler County

via CostByCounty

Schuyler balances income and housing costs

Schuyler County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% sits slightly above the national average, while its median income of $66,059 trails the national median by $8,696. The county offers moderate rural affordability without the income penalty some smaller Illinois counties face.

Solid middle ground in Illinois

Schuyler ranks in the middle tier of Illinois counties for affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.2% and median rents of $836—virtually identical to the state average of $837. This consistency suggests Schuyler represents the typical Illinois county experience.

Moderate costs in a rural setting

Schuyler's $836 rent and $775 monthly owner cost position it as a moderate option between high-cost Sangamon ($954) and low-cost Saline ($711). The median home value of $106,200 reflects a stable rural market appealing to buyers seeking small-town living.

Balanced housing burden for median earners

Renters pay $836 monthly while homeowners pay $775, each allocating roughly 15% of the median $66,059 income to housing. This leaves families with reasonable disposable income for savings and other expenses typical of rural Illinois households.

Schuyler: classic small-town Illinois

If you're seeking authentic rural Illinois living at reasonable costs, Schuyler County's $836 rent and $106,200 median home price deliver balanced affordability. Test your job prospects in nearby Sangamon County before committing—rural charm matters less without local employment.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Schuyler County

via IncomeByCounty

Schuyler Falls Short of National Average

Schuyler County's median household income of $66,059 is 11.6% below the national median of $74,755. The county mirrors income challenges seen across rural Illinois, with typical families earning about $8,696 less than the national median annually.

Below State Average in Central Illinois

Schuyler County's $66,059 median income falls $2,521 short of Illinois's state average of $68,580, placing it in the lower-middle range statewide. The county's per capita income of $33,077 is among the lowest profiled, suggesting limited individual earning capacity.

Similar Struggles to Rock Island

Schuyler's $66,059 median income closely mirrors Rock Island County ($66,768), both facing similar rural economic pressures. Together, these counties represent the lower-income tiers across central Illinois's agriculture and small-town manufacturing base.

Housing Costs Stay Manageable

Schuyler County's 15.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the lowest profiled, keeping housing costs well within the affordable range. The median home value of $106,200 is accessible for families at the county median, supporting homeownership stability.

Small Steps Build Big Wealth Over Time

Even with a median income of $66,059, Schuyler County residents can build wealth through consistent savings and modest investing. Taking advantage of employer retirement plans and automated savings accounts helps families overcome income constraints and plan for the future.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Schuyler County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional safety levels in Schuyler County

Schuyler County achieves a perfect safety score of 100.0, with zero reported crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022. This stands in stark contrast to the national total crime rate of 2,385.5. While only two agencies report data, the recorded footprint of crime is non-existent.

A leader in Illinois community safety

The county's safety score of 100.0 easily surpasses the Illinois state average of 98.7. With a reported crime rate of 0.0, Schuyler ranks among the most peaceful jurisdictions in the entire state. Even compared to the state average of 835.0 crimes per 100,000, Schuyler is an anomaly of quiet.

Outperforming all neighboring Illinois counties

Schuyler's zero-incident report makes it significantly safer than nearby Scott County, which reports a rate of 224.5. This difference highlights a unique local environment where crime is statistically absent. It remains one of the most secure patches of land in the region.

Minimal violent and property incidents

Both violent and property crime rates sit at 0.0 per 100,000 residents according to 2022 data. This implies that the two reporting agencies encountered no major index crimes during the reporting period. Practical safety here is defined by an almost total lack of criminal interference.

Maintaining the peace at home

Even with a perfect safety score, basic home security provides peace of mind and keeps the community safe. Simple measures like locking doors and knowing your neighbors support this exceptionally low-crime environment. Staying proactive ensures Schuyler remains an Illinois safety leader.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Schuyler County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Unified Community School System

Schuyler County operates as a single-district system with five public schools serving 937 students. The infrastructure is streamlined, consisting of two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. This centralized model ensures that all students in the county progress through the same educational pipeline.

Exceptional Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

The county boasts an impressive 92.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the Illinois state average of 88.8% and the national 87.0% benchmark. This success is achieved with a per-pupil expenditure of $8,124, which is lower than both state and national averages. The county's composite school score is a solid 57.0.

Schuyler-Industry CUSD 5 Leads Alone

Schuyler-Industry CUSD 5 is the sole school district in the county, providing a unified academic experience for all 937 students. Because the system is centralized, there are zero charter schools and limited administrative overlap. This structure fosters a strong, singular community identity centered around the district.

A Consistent Town-Based School Feel

Every school in Schuyler County is located in a town setting, offering a consistent environment for all students. Rushville-Industry High School is the largest campus with 283 students, while the average school size across the district is 234. Students benefit from the personal attention possible in these smaller, focused institutions.

Quiet Living Near Top-Performing Schools

For families seeking high graduation rates and a close-knit town atmosphere, Schuyler County is a hidden gem. The unified school district makes choosing a neighborhood simple, as all roads lead to the same high-performing high school. Consider this area if you value community-centric education in a peaceful setting.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Schuyler County

via RiskByCounty

Schuyler enjoys very low risk

Schuyler County scores just 11.36 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and placing it far below Illinois's state average of 54.46. This northwest county represents one of the safest disaster-risk profiles in the state, with minimal exposure across most hazard types.

Among Illinois's safest counties

Schuyler ranks in the bottom tier of risk statewide, with its 11.36 score beating approximately 95% of Illinois counties. Only a handful of counties statewide have lower composite risk, making Schuyler a genuinely safe haven for natural disaster exposure.

Safest in regional comparison

Schuyler's 11.36 score beats all nearby counties, only approached by similarly safe neighbors Scott County (2.77) and Stark County (7.25). The county's low-risk profile is consistent across its region, reflecting stable geology and lower severe weather exposure.

Minimal hazard exposure overall

Schuyler's greatest risks remain moderate at low absolute levels: tornado risk at 27.58 and earthquake risk at 35.53 are both well below state averages. Wildfire, flood, and hurricane risks are all negligible, making this one of Illinois's least disaster-prone counties.

Standard homeowners insurance sufficient

Schuyler County homeowners can rely primarily on standard homeowners insurance, with flood insurance only necessary if in a mapped flood zone. Regular maintenance and standard storm preparedness—a safe room for tornadoes—provide ample protection in this very low-risk environment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Schuyler County

via WaterByCounty

Elevated Violation Rates in Schuyler County

Schuyler County receives an F grade for drinking water, with a health violation rate of 67.4 per 100,000 residents. This rate significantly exceeds the Illinois average of 48.7, despite only 5 total violations over five years. The small population size means each violation has a heavy impact on the county's safety profile.

Schuyler Watersheds Show Relative Health

Only 29.0% of the 366 assessed water bodies in the county are impaired, performing better than the state average of 38.0%. The 2022 assessment identifies phosphorus, mercury, and fecal coliform as the leading causes of water degradation. While the watershed is healthier than average, these specific pollutants still pose risks to local ecosystems.

Detailed Inorganic and Metal Monitoring

A network of 10 monitoring sites has recorded 1,253 measurements during the last five years. Top measured characteristic groups include inorganics and metals, providing a clear window into chemical water quality. This monitoring footprint is robust for a county of this size.

Limited Live Streamflow Data in Schuyler

There is currently no representative USGS streamgage recording live discharge data within Schuyler County. Without real-time flow data, residents should rely on watershed health assessments and compliance reports to gauge water conditions. The absence of a gauge highlights a gap in real-time hydrologic monitoring for the area.

Navigating High Violation Rates and Mercury

The high violation rate of 67.4 per 100,000 suggests residents should prioritize testing their home tap water. Because mercury and phosphorus are top impairment causes, choosing a high-quality water filter can help mitigate these specific risks. Always follow local health department guidance during any of the county's drinking water compliance lapses.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Schuyler County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Than the National Median

Schuyler County reports an annual average temperature of 51.7°F, falling about a degree below the national median. This reflects a slightly cooler temperate climate typical of the upper Midwest.

Below the State Temperature Average

The county sits below the Illinois average of 52.8°F with its 51.7°F annual mean. It ranks among the cooler counties in the western portion of the state.

Mildness Compared to Southern Neighbors

Schuyler is cooler than neighboring Scott County, which averages 52.9°F. Its 40.9 inches of annual precipitation is slightly lower than the state average of 41.7 inches.

A Shorter Heat Season

The area experiences 21 days of extreme heat annually, which is less than many central Illinois peers. While specific snowfall data is unavailable, winter temperatures average a cold 28.4°F.

Equip for Chillier Winters

Outdoor planning should account for the winter average of 28.4°F and potential frost. Reliable heating systems are a priority given the county's position below the state average temperature.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Schuyler County

via SoilByCounty

Ideal pH for Illinois Agriculture

Schuyler County's soil records an average pH of 6.49, landing almost perfectly on the national median of 6.5. This level is slightly higher and more balanced than the state average of 6.39. This optimal acidity ensures that essential minerals remain readily available for root uptake.

The Power of Silty Loam

The soil is comprised of 65.6% silt, 23.3% clay, and 11.0% sand. This composition creates a dense, nutrient-rich medium that holds its shape and supports heavy plant growth. The low sand content keeps the soil cool and moist, though it requires careful handling to avoid compaction.

Solid Organic Matter and Reliable Water

With 2.27% organic matter, Schuyler exceeds the national average of 2.0% even if it trails the state average of 2.94%. The available water capacity is 0.204 in/in, which is exactly on par with the Illinois state average. This balance provides a reliable safety net for plants during the heat of mid-summer.

Consistency in Moisture Retention

The soil lacks specific drainage class data, but the high silt-to-sand ratio indicates a system that prioritizes retention over rapid drainage. Water moves steadily through the 23.3% clay component, providing a consistent supply to deep-rooted plants. These characteristics make the land excellent for permanent pastures and row crops alike.

Abundant Growth Potential in Zone 6a

Schuyler County falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, a versatile zone for both orchards and annual gardens. The silty soil is particularly well-suited for root vegetables like carrots and potatoes, as well as hearty grains. Your garden will benefit from this naturally balanced and water-wise earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Schuyler County

via LawnByCounty

High Ease of Care in Schuyler County

Schuyler County’s difficulty score of 73.5 indicates a lawn care environment that is friendlier than most of Illinois. This Zone 6a county provides a reliable climate for gardeners seeking a lush lawn with less intensive labor than the national median.

Generous Precipitation and Moderate Heat

Annual precipitation of 40.9 inches nearly matches the state average, providing ample natural hydration. Only 21 extreme heat days occur annually, allowing grass to thrive without the frequent wilting seen in southern regions.

Balanced Soils Require Minimal Correction

The soil pH of 6.49 is nearly perfect for turfgrass, requiring few chemical adjustments. While the 23.3% clay content helps retain moisture, the relatively low sand content of 11.0% means you should watch for soil compaction in high-traffic areas.

Combatting 39 Weeks of Dry Conditions

The county is currently facing 100% Severe Drought coverage after experiencing 39 drought weeks this past year. Water deeply in the early morning to ensure moisture reaches the roots before it evaporates in the midday sun.

Seeding Success Begins in Late April

With the last spring frost occurring around April 16, late spring is an excellent time for new sod or seed. Your grass has a long season to mature before the first fall frost typically arrives on October 23.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Schuyler County's county score?
Schuyler County, Illinois has a composite county score of 58.3 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 Schuyler County rank among counties in Illinois?
Schuyler County ranks #32 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 Schuyler County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Schuyler County is $1,940, with an effective tax rate of 1.83%. This earns Schuyler County a tax score of 4.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Schuyler County?
The median household income in Schuyler County, Illinois is $66,059 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Schuyler County earns an income score of 57.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Schuyler County, Illinois a good place to live?
Schuyler County scores 58.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Schuyler 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 Schuyler County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.