countyscore
47.9
County Score
Soil Quality 78.9Lawn Care 76.9Income & Jobs 73.4

County Report Card

About Shelby County, Ohio

Close to the National Quality Median

Shelby County earns a 47.9 composite score, placing it just slightly below the national median of 50.0. It offers a lifestyle that is largely representative of the typical American county experience.

Aligning with Ohio State Norms

The county's score of 47.9 sits right near the Ohio state average of 48.6. It maintains a competitive position among its neighbors by balancing high earnings against moderate living costs.

Robust Incomes and Reliable Schools

Shelby County boasts a strong income score of 73.4, driven by a healthy median household income of $72,822. Schools are another bright spot, earning a 60.6 for their performance and quality.

Higher Costs for Local Housing

Affordability is a relative weakness, as the cost score of 37.3 reflects higher median home values of $190,300. Tax rates also weigh on the profile with a score of 37.5.

Perfect for Career-Focused Households

Shelby County is an excellent match for professionals looking for high-paying regional jobs and solid school districts. While housing costs more than in neighboring counties, the higher median income compensates for the expense.

Score breakdown

Tax37.5Cost37.3Safety40.9Health57.9Schools60.6Income73.4Risk43.8Water59.3Weather56.8
🏛37.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠37.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼73.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡40.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤57.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓60.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡43.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧59.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨78.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱76.9
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

Auglaize County
Ohio
58.4
Logan County
Ohio
56
Miami County
Ohio
45.8
Mercer County
Ohio
65.5
Darke County
Ohio
62.4
Champaign County
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Allen County
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Montgomery County
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Deep Dives

Shelby County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Shelby County

via TaxByCounty

Shelby ranks among nation's lowest rates

At just 1.008%, Shelby County boasts one of the lowest effective tax rates in the country, sitting well below the national median and in the bottom 15% nationally. Despite a higher median home value of $190,300, the annual tax bill remains a modest $1,919—28% below the national median.

Ohio's most tax-friendly county

Shelby's 1.008% rate is the lowest among all major Ohio counties, beating the state average of 1.148% by a significant margin. This exceptional rate makes Shelby a standout for tax-conscious residents.

Beats all surrounding counties decisively

Shelby's 1.008% rate substantially undercuts Stark County (1.318%), Union County (1.255%), and Trumbull County (1.410%), making it the regional tax leader. Even with a higher median home value, Shelby delivers lower absolute tax bills than most regional neighbors.

What $190,300 home costs annually

The median Shelby County home valued at $190,300 generates an annual property tax of approximately $1,919. Homeowners with mortgages generally pay around $1,912 annually, making Shelby exceptionally affordable despite mid-range home values.

Even low assessments deserve review

Though Shelby has competitive rates, homeowners should still verify assessments against recent comparable sales. Occasional overassessments occur even in low-rate counties, and appeals can provide additional relief.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Shelby County

via CostByCounty

Shelby offers strong affordability for families

Shelby County renters spend just 14.9% of household income on housing—below both Ohio's 15.6% state average and the national benchmark. With median income of $72,822, nearly at the national median of $74,755, residents enjoy both higher earnings and lower rent burdens than most Ohioans.

Shelby ranks among Ohio's most livable

At 14.9% rent-to-income, Shelby sits among Ohio's best-performing counties for housing affordability relative to income. The county achieves this despite a median rent of $904/month—$31 above the state average—because resident incomes rise faster than housing costs.

Higher costs, higher incomes in Shelby

Shelby's $904 rent exceeds nearby Seneca ($814) and Scioto ($749), but its $72,822 median income substantially outpaces both neighbors, explaining its superior affordability ratio. This pattern signals a wealthier, more competitive labor market that rewards residents who land good jobs.

Shelby's balanced housing equation

The median renter earns $6,068/month and pays $904, dedicating 14.9% to housing costs while retaining earnings for other needs. Homeowners invest $972/month in properties valued at $190,300 on average—a significant but manageable commitment that builds equity faster than renting.

Right fit for upwardly mobile families

Shelby suits households earning $70,000+ who prioritize school quality and suburban stability over downtown nightlife. The county's higher home values ($190K median) and incomes signal strong job markets, but newcomers should confirm employment before relocating.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Shelby County

via IncomeByCounty

Shelby outpaces U.S. income average

Shelby County's median household income of $72,822 nearly matches the national median of $74,755—a difference of just $1,933. This positions Shelby among the stronger-earning Ohio counties and in the upper-middle income tier nationally.

Shelby ranks above Ohio average

At $72,822, Shelby's median household income exceeds Ohio's state average of $68,101 by $4,721. The county ranks solidly in Ohio's top third for household earnings, reflecting stronger-than-average economic opportunity.

Among the strongest earners regionally

Shelby ($72,822) outearns nearby Seneca ($65,020), Tuscarawas ($64,494), and Stark ($65,740), and trails only Summit ($71,016) and Union ($109,506). This success reflects Shelby's manufacturing base and relatively stable workforce participation.

Strong housing affordability with growth

Shelby's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% ranks among Ohio's best, while the median home value of $190,300 supports wealth building through home equity. Households here can comfortably afford housing while maintaining savings capacity.

Capitalize on strong earnings position

Shelby's $72,822 median income provides substantial room for aggressive wealth-building strategies—529 plans for education, IRAs, and taxable investment accounts. Families should prioritize long-term investing to compound gains over decades and build generational wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Shelby County

via CrimeByCounty

Shelby County Maintains Strong Safety Standards

Shelby County's total crime rate of 1343.8 per 100K is significantly lower than the national figure of 2385.5. This translates to a strong safety score of 97.9 for the region.

Shelby Aligns Closely With Ohio Averages

Shelby's safety score of 97.9 virtually matches the Ohio state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 1343.8 is slightly more favorable than the state average of 1412.3.

Safety Metrics Across Local Jurisdictions

Six reporting agencies coordinate to keep crime levels stable across the county. Shelby remains a relatively secure pocket when compared to more populous neighbors in western Ohio.

Property Crime Dominates Local Reports

Violent crime is rare at 159.9 per 100K, staying below both state and national averages. Property crime, totaling 1183.9 per 100K, constitutes the primary focus for local safety efforts.

Defending Your Household Against Theft

To mitigate the risk of property-related offenses, residents should consider installing smart doorbells or security cameras. These tools provide an extra layer of protection in this generally safe county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Shelby County

via HealthByCounty

Shelby slightly exceeds state norms

At 74.9 years, Shelby County's life expectancy marginally exceeds Ohio's state average of 74.8 years but remains roughly 4 years below the national average. One in five residents (18.5%) report poor or fair health, a rate slightly better than the state average.

Solid health performance statewide

Shelby County ranks in the upper-middle tier of Ohio's 88 counties with a life expectancy of 74.9 years and the state's lowest quartile for poor health reporting. The county's 18.5% poor/fair health rate reflects relatively good population-level wellness.

Keeping pace with regional peers

Shelby's 74.9-year life expectancy matches Darke County and slightly edges Miami County (74.8 years) in the southwestern tier. The county's 18.5% poor/fair health rate aligns with nearby Logan County, suggesting consistent regional health trajectories.

Moderate access to primary care

With 46 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Shelby offers moderate access to routine care, though rural residents may travel for specialists. The 7.0% uninsured rate closely matches the state average, and mental health services are limited at 94 per 100K.

Ensure continuous health protection

With 7% of residents uninsured, Shelby County residents should verify their coverage annually at Healthcare.gov or contact Ohio Medicaid for enrollment options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Shelby County

via SchoolsByCounty

Shelby County's Broad Public Infrastructure

Shelby County supports 7,939 students across 22 public schools and eight distinct districts. The infrastructure includes a balanced mix of 10 elementary and 8 high schools to serve the region's growing student population.

Strong Scores and High Graduation

Schools here boast a 91.8% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national 87% average. The county's school score of 56.1 also outperforms both state and national medians, despite a lean $7,770 per-pupil spend.

Sidney City's Central Role

Sidney City is the primary district with 3,158 students across seven schools, while Anna Local serves another 1,085 students. Unlike many Ohio counties, Shelby has no charter schools, focusing entirely on its traditional local districts.

Balance of Rural and Town Life

The school locale mix is perfectly split between 11 rural and 11 town settings, averaging 361 students per school. Sidney Middle School is the largest individual campus, housing 840 students.

Put Down Roots Near Great Schools

Shelby County is ideal for families looking for high graduation rates and a choice between rural and town environments. Researching local district boundaries is a vital step for any homebuyer in the area.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Shelby County

via RiskByCounty

Shelby ranks near national average

Shelby County's composite risk score of 56.20 places it in the relatively low category, just slightly above the national average for disaster risk. This balanced profile means residents face moderate exposure comparable to most American counties.

Near Ohio's state average risk

Shelby County's 56.20 score sits just above Ohio's state average of 55.03, making it a fairly typical Ohio county in terms of natural disaster risk. It ranks in the middle tier of Ohio's 88 counties by risk level.

Shelby sits between high and low-risk neighbors

Shelby's 56.20 score falls between the very-low-risk Union County (32.73) and the higher-risk Stark County (87.95), positioning it as an average-risk area regionally. Its distinctive earthquake risk of 86.55 is notably higher than neighboring counties.

Earthquakes and tornadoes lead threats

Shelby County faces unusual earthquake risk at 86.55—among Ohio's highest—combined with strong tornado risk of 68.54. Flood risk of 63.33 adds a third concern, though wildfire remains minimal at 10.34.

Earthquake and storm protection essential

Shelby residents should prioritize earthquake insurance and verify their homeowner's policy covers tornado and wind damage thoroughly. Earthquake insurance requires a separate policy and protects against Shelby's unusually high seismic risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Shelby County

via WeatherByCounty

Shelby County Stays Below National Median Temps

Shelby County averages 50.9°F annually, placing it on the cooler side of the national temperature spectrum. Its humid continental climate ensures a wide range of weather throughout the year.

Tracking Closely with Ohio Averages

The county's 50.9°F average is just below the state mean of 51.5°F. Precipitation is nearly identical to the state average, with Shelby receiving 41.6 inches compared to Ohio’s 41.2.

Consistent Temperatures Across the Region

Shelby shares an identical 50.9°F average with Seneca County. It experiences 14 extreme heat days per year, which is fewer than the 22 days seen in Ross County to the southeast.

Predictable Patterns and Two Weeks of Heat

The winter average of 29.1°F keeps the county in a steady freeze-thaw cycle. Summers are warm and humid, featuring 14 days where temperatures exceed 90°F.

Preparing for Rain and Summer Humidity

While snowfall data is limited, the 41.6 inches of precipitation suggests a need for robust drainage and roofing. Residents should prepare for two weeks of extreme summer heat with efficient indoor cooling.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Shelby County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Soils in Shelby

Shelby County soil is nearly neutral with a pH of 6.43, sitting just below the national median of 6.5. This high pH relative to the state average of 5.97 makes it some of the most versatile soil in Ohio for diverse gardening.

Heavy Silt and Clay

With 50.6% silt and 23.4% clay, these soils have a dense texture that excels at holding nutrients. The mix provides a stable foundation for crops but can become heavy and difficult to till if worked while too wet.

Top-Tier Water Capacity

Shelby features a very high available water capacity of 0.203 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average. Although organic matter is lower at 3.24%, the soil's ability to store water helps gardens thrive during heat waves.

Patience with Drainage

While specific drainage classes are unavailable, the higher clay content suggests that water may move slowly through the profile. Gardeners should consider raised beds if they notice puddling after heavy Ohio thunderstorms.

Productive Zone 6a Seasons

Zone 6a offers a reliable window for growing everything from sweet corn to summer squash. The excellent water retention in Shelby means your plants will stay hydrated even when the rain stops falling.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Shelby County

via LawnByCounty

High-Quality Turf in Shelby County

Shelby County's 76.9 lawn difficulty score puts it slightly ahead of the Ohio average and well above national benchmarks. This Zone 6a region offers a reliable environment for those looking to maintain a lush, green turf.

Optimal Rain for Mowing Schedules

The area receives 41.6 inches of rain per year, which is just above the state average. Moderate temperatures, with only 14 days above 90°F, help prevent the grass from going dormant during the peak of summer.

Rich Soil with Perfect pH

With a pH of 6.43, the soil is nearly perfect for lawn health and requires very little chemical adjustment. The 23.4% clay content provides good nutrient holding capacity, supporting steady growth throughout the season.

Facing Abnormally Dry Conditions

The county is currently 100% abnormally dry, following 26 weeks of drought over the past year. Water management is critical right now, so focus on early morning irrigation to reduce evaporation loss.

When to Seed in Shelby

Kentucky Bluegrass and Turf-type Tall Fescue are top performers in this climate and soil profile. Plan your seeding between the last spring frost on April 27 and the first fall frost on October 20.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shelby County's county score?
Shelby County, Ohio has a composite county score of 47.9 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 Shelby County rank among counties in Ohio?
Shelby County ranks #50 among all counties in Ohio 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 Shelby County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Shelby County is $1,919, with an effective tax rate of 1.01%. This earns Shelby County a tax score of 37.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Shelby County?
The median household income in Shelby County, Ohio is $72,822 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Shelby County earns an income score of 73.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Shelby County, Ohio a good place to live?
Shelby County scores 47.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Shelby 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 Shelby 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.