countyscore
57.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 86.7Water Quality 86Schools 74.5

County Report Card

About Sheridan County, Nebraska

Sheridan County Outperforms National Benchmarks

With a composite score of 57.3, Sheridan County sits comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a quality of life that exceeds the typical American county experience.

Trailing the Nebraska State Average

Sheridan County's 57.3 score falls slightly behind the Nebraska state average of 59.3. While it remains a solid performer, it ranks lower than many of its central and eastern neighbors.

Safe Schools and Natural Resilience

The county excels in environmental safety with a Risk Score of 86.7 and a Water Score of 86.0. Additionally, the School Score of 74.5 indicates a strong commitment to local education.

Economic Hurdles and Tax Pressures

Financial metrics present the biggest challenge, as the Tax Score sits at 18.1 due to a 1.376% effective rate. Low median incomes of $56,900 further squeeze household budgets.

A Haven for Environmentally Conscious Families

Sheridan County suits families who prioritize safety and natural resilience over high-income potential. It is an ideal spot for those seeking low-cost housing in a stable, low-risk environment.

Score breakdown

Tax18.1Cost67.3Safety59.9Health62.1Schools74.5Income30.1Risk86.7Water86Weather36.8
🏛18.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠67.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼30.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓74.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡86.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨51.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱36.3
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

Box Butte County
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43.2
Dawes County
Nebraska
38.8
Grant County
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69.6
Morrill County
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Garden County
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Bennett County
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Oglala Lakota County
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Sioux County
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Deep Dives

Sheridan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sheridan County

via TaxByCounty

Sheridan taxes rank low nationally

At 1.376%, Sheridan County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 1.58%, placing it in the lower third of U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay $1,416 annually on a median home valued at $102,900—less than half the national median tax bill of $2,690.

Above Nebraska's average rate

Sheridan's 1.376% effective rate edges above Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, ranking it in the middle tier among the state's 93 counties. The county's median tax of $1,416 runs about 28% lower than the state median of $1,972.

Moderate rates for the panhandle

Among neighboring panhandle counties, Sheridan sits in the middle: Thomas County taxes at 1.087%, while Thurston County tops out at 1.521%. Sheridan's rate and tax burden are representative of rural northwestern Nebraska.

About $1,416 per year on median home

A homeowner with a median-valued property in Sheridan County pays roughly $1,416 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,776; without one, it drops to $1,200.

Check your assessment for overvaluation

Many Nebraska property owners are overassessed relative to market value and could reduce their tax burden through an appeal. If you believe your home's assessed value doesn't match recent sales in your neighborhood, contact the Sheridan County Assessor's office to discuss a formal challenge.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sheridan County

via CostByCounty

Sheridan's rent burden beats national norms

Sheridan County residents spend 16.3% of household income on rent, slightly above Nebraska's state average of 14.2% but well below the national squeeze. The county's median household income of $56,900 lags the national median by $17,855, yet rent remains modest at $771 per month—just $12 above the state average.

Mid-pack affordability in Nebraska rankings

Sheridan County ranks in the middle tier of Nebraska counties for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 16.3%. This positions it as moderately challenged compared to the state average, suggesting housing costs are manageable but require careful budgeting for renters.

Comparable costs with neighboring counties

Sheridan's $771 rent sits between Sherman County ($866) and Sioux County ($743), making it a middle option in the panhandle. Home values of $102,900 are the lowest among immediate neighbors, offering affordability for buyers seeking entry points into homeownership.

Renters feel the pinch more than buyers

Monthly rent of $771 consumes 16.3% of median income, while mortgage costs run $737—nearly equal but impacting smaller portions of owner-occupied households. The gap reflects Sheridan's economic reality: stable incomes around $57K support modest housing costs, but renters carry a slightly heavier burden than the state average.

Sheridan offers balance for budget-conscious movers

If you're relocating to Nebraska and seeking affordable rent with reasonable income requirements, Sheridan County delivers stability without extreme competition. The county's modest home values ($102,900) and moderate rents make it accessible for families transitioning from higher-cost metros.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sheridan County

via IncomeByCounty

Sheridan trails the national income bar

Sheridan County's median household income of $56,900 falls $17,855 short of the national median of $74,755. This 24% gap reflects the rural challenges many Great Plains counties face in competing for higher-wage jobs and economic opportunities.

Below Nebraska's county average

Sheridan ranks below Nebraska's statewide median of $66,880, earning about $10,000 less per household. This places the county in the lower-income tier among Nebraska's 93 counties.

Similar to western Nebraska peers

Sheridan's $56,900 income closely mirrors neighboring Sioux County ($54,076) and Valley County ($58,902), showing consistent economic conditions across the rural northwest. Stanton County ($78,275) to the east demonstrates what stronger local industry can support.

Housing costs are comfortably manageable

A 16.3% rent-to-income ratio in Sheridan means housing costs consume roughly one-sixth of household earnings—well within the 30% affordability threshold. With a median home value of $102,900, homeownership remains accessible here.

Build savings despite modest earnings

With housing costs under control, Sheridan households can redirect surplus income toward emergency funds and retirement accounts. Starting early with automatic transfers to savings and exploring employer 401(k) matches compounds long-term wealth regardless of current income level.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sheridan County

via CrimeByCounty

Sheridan County is significantly safer than the national average

Sheridan County reports a total crime rate of 921.2 per 100,000 residents, far below the national average of 2,385.5. This low frequency of incidents earns the county a high safety score of 98.5 out of 100.

Safety levels align closely with Nebraska standards

While the county's safety score of 98.5 is impressive, it sits slightly below the Nebraska state average of 99.0. The local crime rate is roughly 47% higher than the statewide average of 626.7 per 100,000 residents.

A regional leader in public safety

Despite having a higher total crime rate than some of its rural neighbors, Sheridan remains much safer than urban centers across the state. Three different reporting agencies work together to maintain a safety profile that beats the national average by over 60%.

Property crime drives the local statistics

Property crime accounts for 705.6 incidents per 100,000 people, while the violent crime rate remains low at 215.6. In practical terms, this means residents are nearly three times more likely to encounter property-related issues than violent ones.

Maintain the peace with smart security

While Sheridan County is very safe, property crime still exists at nearly double the state's violent crime average. Installing motion-sensor lighting and smart cameras can provide an extra layer of defense for your rural homestead.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sheridan County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy slightly below national average

Sheridan County residents live an average of 77.3 years, just shy of the U.S. average of 78.9 years. One in six residents report poor or fair health, slightly below the national rate of 17.9%, suggesting most people here manage chronic conditions relatively well despite the modest life expectancy gap.

Near state average in longevity

At 77.3 years, Sheridan County's life expectancy tracks closely with Nebraska's 77.5-year state average. The county's 16.0% poor/fair health rate ranks better than several rural Nebraska counties, indicating residents report better health outcomes than some state peers.

Primary care access lags rural peers

Sheridan has just 39 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, well below neighboring Sioux County's 88 per 100,000 and Valley County's 123 per 100,000. Mental health provider density is strong at 345 per 100,000, outpacing most rural Nebraska counties and suggesting robust mental health support despite primary care gaps.

Uninsured rate exceeds state average

Nearly 11% of Sheridan County residents lack health insurance, compared to Nebraska's 8.1% state average. Limited primary care availability combined with higher uninsured rates means residents may delay care and travel farther for routine checkups.

Explore coverage options this year

With one in nine residents uninsured, now is the time to investigate health insurance options through the Affordable Care Act marketplace or Medicaid. Local health departments and community health centers can help identify plans that fit your budget and healthcare needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sheridan County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Rural Education Infrastructure

Sheridan County operates eight public schools across two primary districts, serving a total of 751 students. The landscape includes three elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools to support its rural communities.

Strong Graduation Rates and Competitive Scores

The county boasts a 91.0% graduation rate, significantly outperforming both the state average of 86.9% and the national average of 87.0%. With a school score of 62.2, the county exceeds the state average of 59.1 while maintaining a per-pupil expenditure of $10,795.

Gordon-Rushville Leads Local District Enrollment

Gordon-Rushville Public Schools is the largest provider in the county, managing four schools and 550 total students. Hay Springs Public Schools follows with 201 students, and no charter schools currently operate in the area.

Small Campuses in a Fully Rural Setting

Every school in the county is classified as rural, offering an intimate average school size of 94 students. Gordon-Rushville Elementary is the largest campus with 184 students, providing a stark contrast to the small-group focus found throughout the region.

High Graduation Rates Support Local Real Estate

Families looking for high-performing rural schools often find Sheridan County a compelling choice due to its 91.0% graduation rate. Researching homes near Gordon-Rushville or Hay Springs ensures access to some of the state's most successful small-town campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sheridan County

via RiskByCounty

Sheridan ranks very low nationally

With a composite risk score of 13.36, Sheridan County sits well below the national average, facing minimal overall natural disaster threat. The county's "Very Low" rating reflects relatively modest exposure to most hazard types compared to counties across the United States.

One of Nebraska's safest counties

Sheridan County's score of 13.36 places it among Nebraska's lowest-risk counties, far below the state average of 25.80. This favorable position means residents face significantly less compound hazard exposure than most of their neighbors statewide.

Safer than surrounding counties

Sheridan's 13.36 score beats most adjacent counties; Thayer County (38.39) and Thurston County (26.40) face substantially higher composite risk. Among the region, only Thomas County (0.16) and Sioux County (1.37) present notably lower overall threat profiles.

Wildfire poses the main threat

Wildfire risk dominates Sheridan County at 89.63, making it the county's most significant natural hazard despite overall low composite risk. Tornado risk (23.06) and earthquake exposure (26.18) remain secondary concerns, neither approaching wildfire's severity.

Prioritize wildfire coverage today

While Sheridan's overall risk remains very low, homeowners should ensure policies include wildfire protection given the county's elevated fire exposure. Review coverage annually and maintain defensible space around structures to reduce wildfire vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sheridan County

via WeatherByCounty

Cold, Dry, and Snowy North

Sheridan County is one of the cooler locations in the nation with an annual average of 46.9°F. Its climate is characterized by low humidity and significant winter snowfall.

Well Below the State Average

The county's 46.9°F average is nearly three degrees cooler than the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. It is also quite dry, receiving only 18.4 inches of total precipitation annually.

A Regional Leader in Snowfall

Sheridan County records 44.2 inches of annual snowfall, surpassing most other counties in the state. Despite the cold winters, it still sees 30 days of extreme heat during the summer months.

Long Winters and Mild Summers

Winter dominates the year with a December-February average of 25.5°F and heavy snow. Summer is pleasant with a 69.4°F average, though temperatures still hit 90°F on 30 separate days.

Winter Preparedness is Mandatory

Heavy snowfall of 44.2 inches requires specialized tires and reliable snow removal services. Residents should also invest in high-quality cold-weather gear for the extended sub-freezing January periods.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sheridan County

via SoilByCounty

Loamy Sand of the Entisols Order

Sheridan County is defined by loamy fine sand from the Entisols taxonomic order. Its average pH of 7.06 sits slightly higher than the national median of 6.5, leaning toward a more alkaline profile than the state average of 6.79.

High Sand and Moderate Silt Mix

The soil contains 59.6% sand, 23.0% silt, and 11.8% clay. This high sand percentage ensures easy workability and excellent aeration, though it struggles more with nutrient retention compared to heavier clay soils.

Superior Organic Matter Content

At 4.85%, the organic matter content far exceeds the state average of 3.32% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.134 in/in is lower than the Nebraska average, suggesting plants may need more frequent irrigation.

Rapid Drainage and High Infiltration

Classified as excessively drained and part of hydrologic group A, water moves very quickly through this soil. This makes it ideal for avoiding root rot in gardens, though it creates a higher risk of drought stress.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 5a

The combination of high organic matter and zone 5a temperatures supports resilient native grasses and cold-hardy vegetables. Gardeners should prioritize drought-tolerant varieties to compensate for the fast-draining sandy texture.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sheridan County

via LawnByCounty

A Challenging Climate for Sheridan Lawns

Maintaining a lawn in Sheridan County is significantly harder than most places, with a difficulty score of 36.3. This sits well below the Nebraska state average of 54.2 and the national median of 50.0. In USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, homeowners must choose tough, cold-tolerant grasses to survive the harsh winters.

Scarce Rainfall Requires Strategic Irrigation

With only 18.4 inches of annual precipitation, local lawns fall far short of the 30-50 inches typically required for lush growth. The region sees 30 extreme heat days above 90°F, creating high evapotranspiration rates during the 2,487 growing degree day period. Efficient watering schedules are essential to keep turf alive through the dry summer months.

Managing Rapidly Draining Sandy Soils

Sheridan's soil is 59.6% sand and classified as excessively drained, meaning water and nutrients leach away quickly. The soil pH is near neutral at 7.06, which is within the ideal range of 6.0 to 7.0. Adding organic matter is vital here to improve the soil's water-holding capacity and support healthy root systems.

Persistent Drought Limits Water Usage

The county has spent all 53 weeks of the past year in drought, with nearly 45% of the area facing severe conditions. Homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth. Mulching and maintaining higher mowing heights can further help the soil retain what little moisture it receives.

Start Early Between the Frosts

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescues are the best picks for Zone 5a, offering the cold-hardiness needed for Nebraska winters. Plan to seed after the last spring frost on May 14 or before the first fall frost on October 1. With careful management, you can establish a resilient lawn even in these dry conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sheridan County's county score?
Sheridan County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 57.3 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 Sheridan County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Sheridan County ranks #64 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 Sheridan County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Sheridan County is $1,416, with an effective tax rate of 1.38%. This earns Sheridan County a tax score of 18.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sheridan County?
The median household income in Sheridan County, Nebraska is $56,900 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sheridan County earns an income score of 30.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sheridan County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Sheridan County scores 57.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #64 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Sheridan 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 Sheridan 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.