countyscore
77.4
County Score
Disaster Risk 99.4Property Tax 95.2Safety 92.3

County Report Card

About Slope County, North Dakota

An Elite National Performer

Slope County achieves a remarkable composite score of 77.4, dwarfing the national median of 50.0. This score puts it in the top tier of counties nationwide for overall quality of life. It offers an exceptional standard of living that is rarely matched in rural America.

A Top-Tier North Dakota County

Slope County's 77.4 score is significantly higher than the North Dakota state average of 61.5. It represents the gold standard for the state, outperforming almost all other local jurisdictions in composite value. It is a premier destination for those seeking the best North Dakota has to offer.

Unbeatable Safety and Tax Efficiency

The county is virtually immune to natural disasters, reflected in a Risk Score of 99.4. Residents benefit from an incredibly low effective tax rate of 0.379%, leading to a Tax Score of 95.2. Safety is also a hallmark of the area, with a score of 92.3.

Strengthening Educational and Income Scores

Despite its many strengths, the county faces a challenge in education with a School Score of 31.4. The Income Score of 46.5 also suggests that while taxes are low, earnings are moderate compared to the highest-performing counties. Focusing on school quality could make this county nearly peerless.

The Ultimate Destination for Peace and Privacy

Slope County is the perfect match for those who want low taxes, high safety, and zero environmental stress. It appeals most to retirees or remote workers who don't rely on local school systems. For those seeking a secure and fiscally efficient home, this county is a top national choice.

Score breakdown

Tax95.2Cost88.2Safety92.3Health83.3Schools31.4Income46.5Risk99.4Water86Weather32
🏛95.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠88.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼46.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡92.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡99.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤32
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨59.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱45.6
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

Bowman County
North Dakota
64.9
Golden Valley County
North Dakota
68.1
Fallon County
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72.4
Billings County
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Wibaux County
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Stark County
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Harding County
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Hettinger County
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Deep Dives

Slope County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Slope County

via TaxByCounty

Slope has one of America's lowest rates

Slope County's effective tax rate of 0.379% ranks among the nation's lowest, less than half the national average of 0.885%. Property taxes average just $460 annually—one-sixth of the national median of $2,690—despite a median home value of $121,300.

Second-lowest rate in North Dakota

Slope County ranks second in North Dakota for lowest property tax rates at 0.379%, well below the state average of 0.885%. Residents pay $460 in median taxes, just 32% of the state median of $1,460.

Most affordable in the remote west

Slope's 0.379% rate is the lowest among its western peers, including Sioux County (0.469%), Sheridan County (0.699%), and Stark County (0.921%). It represents the region's most property-tax-friendly jurisdiction.

What a $121,300 home costs annually

A median-valued home in Slope County incurs roughly $460 in annual property taxes, or about $38 per month. With a mortgage, that figure drops to $377, while outright ownership rises to $513.

Consider challenging your valuation

Even at Slope's remarkably low tax rates, homeowners should periodically verify that their assessments reflect fair market value. An appeal process exists to correct overvaluations if they occur.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Slope County

via CostByCounty

Slope's housing costs demand higher income

Slope County's 13.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national norm, even as median rent of $719 remains modest in absolute dollars. With median household income of $62,500—well below the national average of $74,755—residents stretch further to afford housing than typical American households.

Above average housing burden for county

Slope County ranks in the less-affordable half of North Dakota counties, with a 13.8% rent-to-income ratio topping the state average of 12.8%. The $719 median rent runs $51 above the state median, adding to the affordability pressure on an income base below state norms.

Mid-range costs in rural North Dakota

Slope's $719 rent sits between affordable Sheridan ($373) and pricier Sargent ($835), while home values of $121,300 similarly occupy the middle. The county offers neither the bargain pricing of far-rural areas nor the economic strength of wealthier neighboring counties.

Rent strains more than ownership

At 13.8%, rent consumes a notably larger share of income than the 9.8% homeowners dedicate to $509 monthly mortgage costs. For renters in Slope County, housing is a tighter squeeze relative to local earning power.

Moderate option with affordability caution

Slope County offers modest rents and home prices, but its below-average income base means housing still bites harder here than in wealthier counties. Renters should be prepared for housing costs that consume more of their budget than state averages suggest.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Slope County

via IncomeByCounty

Slope County moderately below national

Slope County's median household income of $62,500 trails the national median of $74,755 by about $12,255. The county reflects typical rural economic conditions in the northern Great Plains.

Below North Dakota county average

Slope County's median income of $62,500 falls $10,037 short of North Dakota's county average of $72,537. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier of North Dakota counties.

Middle income among regional counties

Slope County's $62,500 median household income sits between Towner County ($63,017) and Stutsman County ($60,172), representing a middle position regionally. The county performs modestly compared to higher-income neighbors like Sargent and Stark.

Housing costs strain household budgets

Slope County residents spend 13.8% of income on rent, among the highest burdens in this group. The median home value of $121,300 represents a significant commitment relative to the $62,500 median household income.

Balance housing and savings goals

With housing consuming substantial income share, create a realistic budget that protects both housing stability and retirement savings. Explore employer-sponsored retirement plans and gradually build wealth as income opportunities expand.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Slope County

via CrimeByCounty

Slope County Remains Exceptionally Quiet

Slope County holds a high safety score of 99.8, reflecting its very low crime environment. Its total crime rate of 119.5 per 100,000 is tiny compared to the national average of 2,385.5.

Far Safer Than State Averages

The total crime rate in Slope County is 119.5, which is roughly eight times lower than the North Dakota average of 976.6. This performance secures its spot as one of the safest jurisdictions in the state.

Quiet Landscapes with Minimal Crime

Slope County experiences far less crime than its more populated neighbors or the state average. This single-agency reporting county remains a model for rural public safety and tranquility.

Zero Violent Crime Incidents Reported

In 2022, Slope County reported zero violent crimes per 100,000 residents. The property crime rate of 119.5 per 100,000 is also remarkably low, being less than 6% of the national property crime rate.

Preserving Your Peace in Slope County

Security in Slope County is bolstered by the small, tight-knit nature of the community. Residents can maintain this safety by utilizing basic home security and reporting any unusual activity.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Slope County

via HealthByCounty

Slope County's full health picture unclear

Life expectancy data is unavailable for Slope County, but its 15% poor/fair health rate matches the national average, suggesting typical population health patterns. Complete longevity data would clarify where Slope truly stands versus the 76.1-year U.S. life expectancy benchmark.

Excellent health perception statewide

Slope County's 15% poor/fair health rate ties it as one of North Dakota's best performers, matching national benchmarks. Without life expectancy data, this self-reported metric suggests Slope residents experience health conditions similar to top-performing counties in the state.

Among the healthiest in northeast

Slope County's 15% poor/fair health rate matches Sheridan's and slightly edges Sargent's 16%, placing it among the region's top counties by this measure. The county ranks far above Sioux County's crisis-level 36.8% and represents a healthier northeast corner.

Good coverage, limited provider data

Slope County's uninsured rate of 6.2% beats the state average of 7.5%, showing strong insurance penetration among residents. Primary care and mental health provider numbers are unavailable, but the strong coverage suggests residents have a foundation for accessing care.

Maintain coverage leadership

Slope County's 6.2% uninsured rate is among the state's best—if you're in that uninsured minority, explore Healthcare.gov or state plans to complete coverage. Keeping coverage rates high protects your community's health and ensures preventive care reaches everyone.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Slope County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Single Hub for Slope County

Slope County features one of the most streamlined systems in the state, consisting of a single elementary school. This lone facility serves just 22 students under the management of one school district.

Investment in a Small Scale

With a school score of 15.5, the county's data reflects its very small enrollment size and limited reporting. The per-pupil expenditure is $6,760, which is below the state average of $9,385 and the national average of $13,000.

The Marmarth 12 District

Marmarth 12 is the sole district in the county, dedicated entirely to its 22 elementary students. There are no charter schools, and older students typically seek secondary education in neighboring counties.

Unmatched Individual Attention

Marmarth Elementary School is the only campus in this rural county, serving 22 students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. This provides a unique, family-like environment that is rare in modern education.

Rural Life in Slope County

If you are looking for ultimate peace and a tiny school community, Slope County is the place for your next home. Experience the quiet of rural North Dakota while staying connected to the local district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Slope County

via RiskByCounty

Slope County: extraordinarily low risk

With a composite risk score of just 0.64, Slope County ranks among the safest places in the entire United States. Your community faces minimal exposure to the natural disasters that threaten most American counties.

ND's safest county overall

Slope County's 0.64 score is far below North Dakota's state average of 22.19, making it the state's most resilient community by a substantial margin. This exceptional safety reflects low exposure across nearly all major hazard categories.

Safest in an already-safe region

Slope's 0.64 score edges out neighboring Bowman County (6.63) and Hettinger County (17.06), establishing it as the region's clear safety leader. Even within one of North Dakota's lowest-risk areas, Slope stands apart.

Wildfire is your only notable hazard

Wildfire risk (38.04) is the only significant threat in Slope County, while flood (0.57), tornado (5.50), and earthquake (0.60) risks remain negligible. Even your highest risk category remains modest compared to state and national standards.

Basic coverage is sufficient

Standard homeowners insurance provides robust protection in Slope County given the county's minimal disaster exposure. Confirm your policy covers wildfire as a precaution, and maintain basic emergency preparedness for severe weather.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Slope County

via WeatherByCounty

A Mild but Dry Western Climate

Slope County averages 44.5°F annually, staying well below the national median while remaining warmer than much of the state. Its semi-arid environment receives only 16.0 inches of precipitation each year. This combination creates a rugged, high-plains atmosphere.

One of North Dakota's Warmest Spots

At 44.5°F, Slope County ranks significantly higher than the state average of 41.0°F. Its position in the southwest corner of North Dakota provides it with a thermal advantage over the colder northern and eastern counties. This relative warmth defines the local ranching environment.

Drier and Warmer than Neighbors

Compared to Stark County's 16.4 inches, Slope is slightly drier with 16.0 inches of annual precipitation. It experiences far more extreme heat than its neighbors, recording 31 days over 90°F. This makes it one of the most heat-prone areas in the immediate region.

Intense Heat and Moderate Snow

Summers are hot, featuring 31 days above 90°F and a July average of 71.1°F. Winters are more manageable than in the east, with a 20.7°F average and 39.1 inches of snow. January temperatures stay relatively mild for the state, averaging 17.8°F.

Plan for Heat and Aridity

Residents should prioritize cooling systems and water conservation given the 31 days of extreme heat and low 16-inch rainfall. Durable winter gear is still necessary for the 39.1 inches of snow. Ranchers and gardeners must account for the high July temperatures and limited moisture.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Slope County

via SoilByCounty

Following the State pH Average

Slope County soil averages a pH of 7.11, which aligns closely with the state average of 7.18. This alkaline level is slightly higher than the national median of 6.5, requiring careful crop selection.

Silt-Rich and Nutritious

At 40.5%, silt is the dominant component of Slope County soil, helping to lock in minerals. The 21.8% clay and 37.7% sand create a medium-textured soil that is generally productive.

Lower Organic Matter, High Water Storage

Organic matter is lower here at 3.02% compared to the state's 4.69% average. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.185 in/in matches the state benchmark for moisture retention.

Stable Hydrologic Potential

Drainage classifications are not currently available for this county. However, the high silt content suggests the soil retains water well, which is vital in this semi-arid region.

Thriving in Zone 4b

With a slightly warmer 4b hardiness zone, Slope County can support a wide range of garden staples like beans and squash. Adding compost will help boost the local organic matter for even better yields.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Slope County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating High-Difficulty Lawn Conditions

Slope County presents a challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 45.6, falling well below the national and state averages. Located in Zone 4b, this region requires more intensive management and water conservation efforts to keep grass healthy.

Intense Heat and Low Rainfall

The local climate features 31 extreme heat days annually, more than double the state average of 13. Combined with only 16.0 inches of precipitation, this heat puts significant stress on traditional lawns, making drought-tolerant grass varieties essential.

Managing Alkaline Western Soils

With a pH of 7.11, the soil is slightly more alkaline than the ideal 7.0 limit, which can occasionally lock out essential micronutrients. The soil is 21.8% clay and 37.7% sand, a mix that benefits from regular aeration to improve water penetration.

Persistent Drought Demands Smart Water Use

Lawns here endured 19 weeks of drought over the past year, indicating a high need for water-wise landscaping. While current conditions are not abnormally dry, choosing buffalo grass or other native species can reduce your reliance on heavy irrigation.

Timing is Critical for Hardiness Zone 4b

The growing window is tight, stretching from the last frost on May 12th to the first fall frost on September 29th. Focus on seeding in late August or early spring to give your lawn time to recover from the intense summer heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slope County's county score?
Slope County, North Dakota has a composite county score of 77.4 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 Slope County rank among counties in North Dakota?
Slope County ranks #2 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 Slope County, North Dakota?
The median annual property tax in Slope County is $460, with an effective tax rate of 0.38%. This earns Slope County a tax score of 95.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Slope County?
The median household income in Slope County, North Dakota is $62,500 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Slope County earns an income score of 46.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Slope County, North Dakota a good place to live?
Slope County scores 77.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #2 in North Dakota. The best way to evaluate Slope 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 Slope 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.