countyscore
68.4
County Score
Cost of Living 99.1Safety 94.2Property Tax 89

County Report Card

About Sioux County, North Dakota

Rising Above the National Average

Sioux County earns a composite score of 68.4, significantly outpacing the national median score of 50.0. This high ranking suggests a level of overall livability that rivals some of the best-performing rural areas in the United States. It stands out as a leader in cost-effective living.

Leading the Pack in North Dakota

With a score of 68.4, Sioux County sits well above the North Dakota state average of 61.5. It is one of the higher-performing counties in the state, particularly when it comes to fiscal friendliness for residents. The county offers a compelling alternative to more expensive hubs in the region.

Low Taxes and Exceptional Safety

The county shines with a nearly perfect Cost Score of 99.1 and a very low effective tax rate of 0.469%. A Safety Score of 94.2 indicates a very secure community, while the Tax Score of 89.0 is among the best in the state. Median rents are also highly accessible at $466 per month.

Overcoming Income and Health Hurdles

Economic indicators show an Income Score of only 3.9, reflecting a median household income of $41,676. Health outcomes are also a concern, with a score of 24.9, while water data remains currently unavailable. Improving local job markets and healthcare access are the primary priorities for the area.

A Haven for Safety and Low-Cost Living

Sioux County is ideal for individuals who prioritize safety and minimal tax burdens above all else. While incomes are lower than state averages, the ultra-low cost of living provides a unique economic hedge. It is a great fit for those looking for a quiet, secure, and very affordable rural lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax89Cost99.1Safety94.2Health24.9Schools51.5Income3.9Risk37.9WaterComing SoonWeather37.4
🏛89
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠99.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡94.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤24.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡37.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱77.4
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Sioux County?

Many homeowners in Sioux County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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 Sioux County with Allen Parish →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Allen Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $51,138
68.4
West Carroll Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $48,514
68.4
Green County
Kentucky
Median income: $41,087
68.3
McPherson County
Nebraska
Median income: $61,316
68.3
Polk County
Nebraska
Median income: $71,771
68.3
Yancey County
North Carolina
Median income: $54,961
68.3
Hamilton County
Illinois
Median income: $61,520
68.6
Spencer County
Indiana
Median income: $70,890
68.6

Nearby counties

Grant County
North Dakota
66.7
Corson County
South Dakota
49
Morton County
North Dakota
38.5
Emmons County
North Dakota
60.4
Campbell County
South Dakota
62.9
Hettinger County
North Dakota
62.1
Adams County
North Dakota
62.2
Burleigh County
North Dakota
45.4

Deep Dives

Sioux County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Sioux County

via TaxByCounty

Sioux has North Dakota's lowest rate

Sioux County's effective tax rate of 0.469% ranks among the lowest in the nation, less than half the national average of 0.885%. Annual property taxes average just $410—an eighth of the national median of $2,690—reflecting the county's modest median home value of $87,400.

Lowest property tax burden statewide

Sioux County offers North Dakota's most affordable property taxes, with a 0.469% effective rate compared to the state average of 0.885%. Residents pay only $410 in median taxes annually, roughly 28% of the state median of $1,460.

Significantly lower than the region

Sioux's 0.469% rate is dramatically lower than all neighboring counties: Slope County (0.379%) and Sheridan County (0.699%) are its closest peers. It stands alone as the region's most tax-affordable jurisdiction for homeowners.

What an $87,400 home costs annually

A median-valued home in Sioux County incurs roughly $410 in annual property taxes, or about $34 per month. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,929, while outright ownership drops to $269.

Verify your assessment despite low rates

Even in Sioux County's tax-friendly environment, reviewing your property valuation for accuracy is worthwhile. Overassessments can still occur, and an appeal might result in modest refunds or reductions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sioux County

via CostByCounty

Sioux's affordability challenged by low incomes

Sioux County's 13.4% rent-to-income ratio sits above the national average, but the real story is its median household income of $41,676—only 56% of the national median of $74,755. While rents of $466 are modest in absolute terms, they consume a larger share of residents' limited earnings.

Lowest incomes, above-average rent burden

Sioux County struggles with the state's lowest median household income at $41,676, pushing its 13.4% rent-to-income ratio above North Dakota's 12.8% average. The county faces a structural challenge: affordable housing in absolute terms, but stretched thin by an economically disadvantaged population.

Affordable but economically isolated

Sioux County's $466 rent ranks among the lowest regionally, matching Sheridan County's bargain pricing, yet Sioux residents earn substantially less ($41,676 vs. $67,361). Home values at $87,400 are the region's cheapest, reflecting limited economic opportunity despite housing affordability.

Housing affordable, but income the constraint

Renters pay just 13.4% of income toward $466 rent, while homeowners spend 12.6% on $438 monthly owner costs—both reasonable percentages. The real barrier isn't housing cost; it's the underlying income challenge that limits residents' overall economic mobility.

Cheap housing, limited economic anchors

Sioux County offers genuine affordability for those with stable outside income, but be aware: median household earnings lag far behind state and national levels. Consider this move if you can bring remote income or have flexible financial needs, not if you're counting on local job growth.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sioux County

via IncomeByCounty

Sioux County faces significant income gap

Sioux County's median household income of $41,676 lags the national median of $74,755 by more than $33,000. This substantial gap reflects the economic challenges facing Native American reservations and rural agricultural counties.

Lowest income county in North Dakota

Sioux County ranks at the bottom of North Dakota counties with a median income $30,861 below the state average of $72,537. The county faces unique structural economic challenges requiring targeted investment and development.

Substantially lower than regional peers

Sioux County's $41,676 median household income trails all neighboring counties significantly, with the next-lowest being Stutsman County at $60,172. The income disparity reflects historical economic disadvantages and limited job market diversity.

Housing burden strains limited budgets

Sioux County residents spend 13.4% of income on rent, the second-highest ratio in this group, while earning the lowest median. The median home value of $87,400 remains challenging for households earning the county median of $41,676.

Prioritize financial stability first

Given limited household income, focus initially on emergency savings and reducing debt before investing. Community development resources, workforce training programs, and income growth opportunities should be priority targets for personal economic advancement.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sioux County

via CrimeByCounty

Sioux County Reports Near-Zero Crime

Sioux County achieves a perfect safety score of 100.0, with a total crime rate of just 25.7 per 100,000 residents. This is an extreme contrast to the national average of 2,385.5 crimes per 100,000 people.

A Top Safety Performer in North Dakota

With only 25.7 crimes per 100,000 residents, Sioux County is significantly safer than the North Dakota average of 976.6. It is currently one of the highest-ranked counties for safety in the state.

Unmatched Safety in the Local Region

Sioux County's recorded crime rate is nearly non-existent compared to most peers in the state. Because data comes from a single reporting agency, these figures represent a very quiet 2022 calendar year.

Virtually No Violent Crime Reported

The county reported zero violent crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022. Property crime is also minimal, affecting only 25.7 out of every 100,000 people, which is virtually unique in the United States.

Maintaining a Secure Sioux County Community

The exceptionally low crime rate suggests a very secure environment for local families. Even in safe areas, keeping track of valuable equipment and locking doors remains a best practice.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sioux County

via HealthByCounty

Sioux County faces severe health crisis

At 59.6 years, Sioux County's life expectancy is 16.5 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years—among the lowest in America. With 36.8% of residents reporting poor or fair health (nearly 2.5 times the national 15% rate), Sioux County experiences a profound public health challenge.

Dramatic health disparities within state

Sioux County's 59.6-year life expectancy lags North Dakota's state average of 77.5 by 18 years, representing a stark disparity within the state. The county's 36.8% poor/fair health rate far exceeds all other North Dakota counties, signaling concentrated and severe health challenges.

Crisis far exceeds regional peers

Sioux County's 59.6-year life expectancy and 36.8% poor/fair health rate dramatically exceed all neighboring counties—life expectancy gaps of 18+ years are evident compared to Sargent, Sheridan, and Slope counties. This county faces health conditions far beyond typical rural North Dakota challenges.

Mental health services present but gaps remain

Sioux County has 55 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, below the state's best-resourced counties, while uninsured rates of 7% align near state average. Primary care provider data is unavailable, but the combination of limited mental health resources and severe population health needs suggests significant care gaps.

Coverage is critical, help is available

With 7% uninsured and overwhelming health challenges, every covered resident in Sioux County matters—ensure your family has insurance through Healthcare.gov or state programs. If you're uninsured, contact North Dakota's Indian Health Services or tribal health programs immediately; comprehensive coverage can connect you to the care this community urgently needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sioux County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Across Sioux County

Sioux County manages 342 students through six public schools spread across three districts. The system includes two elementary schools, one middle school, two high schools, and one specialized facility.

Strong Scores and High Spending

Sioux County boasts a school score of 62.1, notably higher than the state average of 54.8. This success is backed by a robust per-pupil expenditure of $14,627, though the 75% graduation rate remains below national benchmarks.

Focus on Solen and Fort Yates

Solen 3 is the largest district, enrolling 214 students, while Selfridge 8 and Fort Yates 4 manage smaller populations. The county has no charter schools, keeping all 342 students in traditional public settings.

Rural Diversity in Sioux

The county's schools are all rural, with an average enrollment of 57 students per campus. Cannon Ball Elementary is the largest school with 132 students, providing a sharp contrast to Selfridge Elementary's 34 students.

Settling in Sioux County

High per-pupil investment makes Sioux County an interesting prospect for families focused on educational resources. Research homes in the area to join a community that prioritizes local school funding.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sioux County

via RiskByCounty

Sioux faces notably elevated risk

With a composite risk score of 62.09, Sioux County carries "Relatively Low" but significantly elevated risk compared to most U.S. counties. Your community faces nearly three times the national average exposure to natural disasters.

ND's highest-risk county by far

Sioux County's 62.09 score towers above North Dakota's state average of 22.19, making it the state's most disaster-prone community. This exceptional vulnerability stems primarily from extreme wildfire exposure in the state's northwestern region.

Far riskier than surrounding areas

Sioux County's 62.09 score dwarfs Mountrail County (43.12) to the east and Dunn County (18.77) to the south. Your county faces unique hazard exposure that demands heightened preparedness compared to virtually every neighboring area.

Wildfire dominates your risk profile

Wildfire risk scores an alarming 80.53 in Sioux County—the single highest wildfire exposure in North Dakota. Tornado risk (25.00) and flood risk (9.99) present secondary concerns, but wildfire remains your defining natural hazard.

Wildfire insurance is essential here

Standard homeowners policies often exclude wildfire; verify that your coverage includes this critical peril or purchase a separate rider. Create defensible space around your home, maintain gutters free of debris, and establish an evacuation plan before fire season arrives.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Sioux County

via SoilByCounty

Near Neutral pH in Sioux County

Sioux County features a pH of 6.92, which is remarkably close to the national median of 6.5. This near-neutral acidity makes it easier for plants to access essential nutrients compared to more alkaline neighbors.

A Versatile Earthy Blend

The soil composition is 42.5% sand and 36.0% silt, paired with 21.4% clay. This mix provides enough clay to hold nutrients while the sand ensures roots can breathe.

Moderate Fertility for Local Growth

Organic matter sits at 3.55%, which trails the North Dakota average of 4.69%. However, this still exceeds the national average of 2.0%, suggesting good long-term growing potential.

Steady Water Movement

While official hydrologic groups are not listed, the 0.181 available water capacity indicates reliable moisture storage. The balanced texture supports a variety of land uses from grazing to gardening.

Planting for the Plains

While zone data is limited, local conditions favor prairie-hardy species and resilient summer crops. Residents can achieve great results by focusing on soil health and native plantings.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sioux County

via LawnByCounty

Sioux County Leads in Lawn Ease

Sioux County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 77.4, significantly higher than the national average of 50.0. This high score indicates that environmental conditions here are exceptionally favorable for maintaining a healthy lawn compared to most of the country.

Adapting to Local Growth Patterns

While specific annual precipitation and heat day records are limited for this area, the high overall score suggests a favorable growing environment. Local gardeners should monitor local weather patterns closely, as the state average of 19.5 inches of rain serves as a helpful baseline.

Ideal pH for Nutrient-Rich Turf

The soil pH in Sioux County is a near-perfect 6.92, sitting right in the sweet spot for grass health and nutrient uptake. A balanced texture of 42.5% sand and 21.4% clay ensures your lawn has the right foundation for deep roots.

Excellent Resilience During Dry Intervals

The county faced only 7 weeks of drought over the past year, reflecting better resilience than many neighboring counties. Current reports show 0.0% of the county is abnormally dry, allowing you to maintain a lush lawn with standard watering practices.

Maximize Success with Tested Varieties

Even with limited frost date data, the high lawn score suggests that standard cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass will thrive. Start your projects in early spring once the ground thaws to take full advantage of the county's superior growing conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sioux County's county score?
Sioux County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 68.4 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 Sioux County rank among counties in North Dakota?
Sioux County ranks #13 among all counties in North Dakota 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 Sioux County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Sioux County is $410, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Sioux County a tax score of 89/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sioux County?
The median household income in Sioux County, North Dakota is $41,676 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sioux County earns an income score of 3.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sioux County, North Dakota a good place to live?
Sioux County scores 68.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #13 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate Sioux 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 Sioux 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.