countyscore
68.6
County Score
Safety 94.4Property Tax 70.7Weather & Climate 70.3

County Report Card

About Spencer County, Indiana

Spencer County Outperforms the Nation

Spencer County earns a 68.6 composite score, significantly higher than the 50.0 national median. This high performance places the county well above average for quality of life in the United States.

A Leader in the Hoosier State

The county's overall score beats the Indiana state average of 55.9 by over 12 points. It stands out as a top-tier destination for livability within the regional landscape.

Elite Safety and Low Taxes

The county excels with a near-perfect safety score of 94.4. Residents also benefit from a high tax score of 70.7, supported by a low effective tax rate of 0.631%.

Room to Improve Local Schools

Educational performance is the primary challenge, with the school score lagging at 44.4. Water resource management also presents an opportunity for improvement with a moderate score of 54.3.

The Ideal Choice for Safe Living

This county is a perfect fit for families who prioritize public safety and financial stability. With median home values at $180,200 and high safety ratings, it offers a secure and affordable environment.

Score breakdown

Tax70.7Cost61.9Safety94.4Health70Schools44.4Income68.6Risk60.6Water54.3Weather70.3
🏛70.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠61.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼68.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡94.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤70
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓44.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡60.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧54.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤70.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱67.6
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

Daviess County
Kentucky
41.9
Hancock County
Kentucky
68.7
Warrick County
Indiana
51.4
Perry County
Indiana
59.4
Vanderburgh County
Indiana
33.2
Breckinridge County
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65
Dubois County
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62.2
Henderson County
Kentucky
46.2

Deep Dives

Spencer County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Spencer County

via TaxByCounty

Spencer County taxes rank well nationally

Spencer County's effective tax rate of 0.631% sits well below the national median of 0.84%, placing homeowners in a favorable position compared to most U.S. counties. The median property tax here is $1,138 annually—less than half the national median of $2,690—thanks to both lower tax rates and more modest home values.

Below average for Indiana

Spencer County's 0.631% effective rate runs slightly lower than Indiana's state average of 0.671%, though its median tax of $1,138 tracks closely with the state median of $1,199. The county ranks in the middle tier statewide—neither among the lowest nor highest tax burdens.

Competitive with nearby counties

Spencer County's tax rate of 0.631% sits between Starke County's 0.603% and St. Joseph County's 0.867%. Among the eight-county region, Spencer offers a moderate tax environment, closer to lower-tax neighbors like Starke but cheaper than the higher-rate St. Joseph County.

What Spencer homeowners pay yearly

On a median home value of $180,200, Spencer County homeowners pay about $1,138 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,205; without one, it drops to $1,009—a difference driven by assessed valuations and exemptions.

Review your assessment

If your property taxes seem high, you may be overassessed. Spencer County homeowners can request a reassessment through the county assessor's office to ensure their valuation reflects current market conditions and eligible tax breaks.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Spencer County

via CostByCounty

Spencer County: Below National Average

Spencer County residents spend just 11.8% of their income on rent, well below the national benchmark and significantly lower than Indiana's 15.6% state average. With a median household income of $70,890—just slightly below the U.S. median of $74,755—renters here enjoy some of the best affordability in the Midwest.

Among Indiana's Most Affordable

Spencer County ranks among the state's most affordable counties for renters, with a rent-to-income ratio that beats 80% of Indiana's 92 counties. The $697 monthly median rent is $186 less than the state average, making it an outlier in terms of housing accessibility.

Spencer Stands Out Regionally

Compared to neighboring counties, Spencer's rent of $697 is notably competitive—$186 below Steuben County ($921) and $333 below St. Joseph County ($1,030). Homebuyers pay $933 monthly here versus $902 in St. Joseph, offering modest competition on the ownership front.

How Income Covers Housing Costs

The median Spencer County household spends $697 on rent and $933 on owner costs, consuming roughly 19.6% of income combined. This leaves renters with substantially more disposable income compared to state averages, supporting stronger quality of life metrics.

Consider Spencer for Affordability

If you're relocating to Indiana and prioritize affordable rents, Spencer County delivers—your housing costs will eat up less of your paycheck here than almost anywhere else in the state. The combination of reasonable income levels and low housing costs makes it a magnet for budget-conscious families.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Spencer County

via IncomeByCounty

Spencer income tops national median

Spencer County's median household income of $70,890 falls slightly below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the middle tier nationally. While not among the wealthiest counties, Spencer households earn more than the vast majority of rural American communities, reflecting a stable working-class economy.

Above average for Indiana

Spencer County's $70,890 median ranks above Indiana's state average of $68,681, positioning it in the upper half of the state's 92 counties. Per capita income of $36,718 also exceeds the state average of $34,773, suggesting stronger individual earning power.

Competitive with surrounding counties

Spencer County outearns neighboring Warrick and Perry counties and matches the income profile of comparable rural Indiana counties. Its median sits solidly above smaller counties like Sullivan ($54,985) and Starke ($62,933), reflecting a more diversified local economy.

Rent is manageable here

The 11.8% rent-to-income ratio indicates that housing affordability is strong in Spencer County—well below the national 30% benchmark. Combined with a median home value of $180,200, residents enjoy reasonable pathways to both renting and homeownership.

Build on Spencer's stability

With above-average income and low housing burden, Spencer County residents have genuine capacity to save and invest. Consider setting aside 10–15% of household income for retirement, emergency funds, and wealth-building—your local economy provides the foundation for financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Spencer County

via CrimeByCounty

Spencer County Reports Remarkable Safety

Spencer County reports a total crime rate of just 20.1 per 100K, a fraction of the 2,385.5 national average. This earns the county a perfect safety score of 100.0.

Top-Ranked Safety in the State

Spencer County’s safety score of 100.0 far exceeds the Indiana average of 98.9. Five separate agencies provided data, making this a very reliable indicator of local safety.

Leading the Region in Low Crime

With a rate of 20.1, Spencer County is significantly safer than Shelby County at 1,283.9. It is one of the quietest counties in southern Indiana.

Breakdown of Reported Incidents

Interestingly, all 20.1 reported crimes per 100K were violent crimes, with zero property crimes reported in 2022. This suggests that while property is very secure, physical safety remains the priority.

Stay Vigilant and Secure

Though property crime is non-existent in this data, home security still provides valuable peace of mind. Consistent locking habits and outdoor lighting help maintain this safe environment.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Spencer County

via HealthByCounty

Spencer County outlives the nation

At 76.3 years, Spencer County residents live longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Just 16.2% report poor or fair health, a better rate than many American counties facing chronic disease challenges.

Well above Indiana average

Spencer County's 76.3-year life expectancy beats Indiana's state average of 75.1 years by more than a year. This strong performance places the county among Indiana's healthier communities.

Outperforming regional peers

Spencer County residents enjoy better health outcomes than nearby Starke County (72.2 years) and Switzerland County (74.0 years). The county's 16.2% poor/fair health rate also ranks favorably against regional neighbors struggling with higher rates.

Good access, low uninsured rate

Spencer County's 6.9% uninsured rate is significantly below Indiana's 8.4% average, ensuring most residents have healthcare coverage. With 35 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 45 mental health providers per 100,000, healthcare access remains solid.

Keep Spencer County protected

While Spencer County leads on coverage, the 6.9% without insurance still deserve options. Visit healthcare.gov or contact the Indiana Health Coverage Programs to explore plans and ensure every resident stays protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Spencer County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network of Dedicated Schools

Spencer County manages a focused education system across two districts, serving 3,210 students. The county’s infrastructure includes 10 total public schools, comprising six elementary, two middle, and two high schools.

Exceptional Graduation Rates Outpace State Averages

Students here achieve an impressive 95.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the Indiana average of 92.6% and the national 87% benchmark. This high performance comes despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $5,019, which is below the state average of $5,507.

North Spencer Leads Local Enrollment

North Spencer County School Corporation stands as the largest district, enrolling 2,118 students across six schools. The remaining 1,092 students are served by South Spencer County School Corporation, with no charter schools operating in the county.

Intimate Learning in a Rural Setting

Education in Spencer County is entirely rural, with an average school size of 321 students. Heritage Hills High School is the largest campus with 642 students, while elementary options like David Turnham Education Center offer smaller cohorts of 300.

Invest in Your Child’s Future

Families seeking high-performing rural schools often prioritize Spencer County for its superior graduation rates. Explore local homes to find the perfect balance of academic excellence and a quiet, community-oriented lifestyle.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Spencer County

via RiskByCounty

Spencer County's low disaster risk profile

Spencer County scores 39.41 on the national composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and sitting well below Indiana's state average of 45.52. This places the county among the safer regions for natural disaster exposure across the United States.

Safer than most Indiana counties

Spencer County ranks in the lower tier of Indiana's 92 counties for disaster risk, with a composite score notably below the state average. Residents here face significantly less cumulative natural hazard exposure compared to peers elsewhere in the state.

Regional comparison shows mixed risk

Spencer County's risk profile (39.41) sits between nearby Sullivan County (20.64) and St. Joseph County (85.81), making it moderately safer than some neighbors but riskier than others. Local geography and proximity to different hazard zones create notable variation across the region.

Tornadoes and earthquakes top concerns

Tornado risk scores 55.53 in Spencer County, the highest hazard threat, followed by earthquake risk at 83.46—reflecting the area's position near seismic zones. Flood risk remains moderate at 45.45, while wildfire and hurricane risks are low.

Secure tornado and earthquake coverage

Spencer County homeowners should prioritize comprehensive homeowners insurance that covers tornado damage and consider earthquake coverage given the 83.46 earthquake risk score. A basement safe room or reinforced interior space can provide additional protection during severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Spencer County

via WeatherByCounty

Spencer County Leads in Warmth

With an annual average of 57.0°F, Spencer County is significantly warmer than the national median. It borders on a humid subtropical feel during the height of summer.

One of Indiana's Warmest Counties

The county sits nearly five degrees above the state average of 52.2°F. It ranks among the hottest regions in Indiana, driven by its far southern location.

Warmer Than Most Indiana Neighbors

Spencer County is the warmest in this group, edging out Switzerland County by 0.4 degrees. It is nearly nine degrees warmer annually than the state's northernmost counties.

Light Snow and Significant Rain

Winters are mild with only 8.3 inches of snow, but the county receives a high 49.6 inches of annual precipitation. Summer features 23 days of extreme heat above 90°F.

Manage High Rain and Humidity

Focus on gutter maintenance and drainage to handle the nearly 50 inches of annual rain. You can trade heavy snow gear for light winter layers given the minimal 8-inch snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Spencer County

via SoilByCounty

Spencer's Slightly Acidic Soil Foundation

Spencer County features an average pH of 6.07, which almost perfectly mirrors the Indiana state average of 6.08. While specific taxonomic data for this region is limited, the acidity remains just below the national median of 6.5. This creates a versatile base that is common across the Ohio River valley.

A Silty Mix with High Retention

The soil composition is dominated by 68.2% silt and 18.7% clay, with a small 13.1% sand fraction. This high silt content makes the soil feel smooth and helps it hold onto moisture and nutrients effectively. However, gardeners should be careful to avoid working the ground when wet to prevent heavy compaction.

Lower Organic Matter, High Water Storage

Organic matter sits at 1.94%, which is lower than the state average of 4.90% and the national average of 2.0%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.208 in/in exceeds the state benchmark of 0.202 in/in. This means the soil is excellent at storing water for plants during the hot summer months.

Natural Moisture Management and Drainage

While specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not available for this county, the high silt and clay percentages suggest moderate water movement. These soils generally require thoughtful management to ensure proper aeration for root systems. Local site assessments are recommended before starting major building or drainage projects.

Long Growing Seasons in Zone 7a

Located in hardiness zone 7a, Spencer County offers one of the longest growing seasons in Indiana. Heat-loving crops like melons, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes thrive in this climate and silty soil. Grab a shovel and start a garden to take advantage of the county's superior water-holding capacity.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Spencer County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Lawn Conditions in Spencer County

With a lawn difficulty score of 67.6, maintenance here is significantly easier than the national median of 50.0 but slightly trails the Indiana state average of 71.0. This Hardiness Zone 7a region provides a warmer environment than many northern neighbors, supporting a diverse range of turfgrasses.

Ample Rainfall Meets Southern Heat

The county receives 49.6 inches of annual precipitation, which is well above the state average of 44.2 inches and fuels 4,243 growing degree days. However, the 23 extreme heat days per year require vigilant watering schedules during the peak of summer to prevent turf stress.

Acidic Soils with a Clay Lean

Soil pH averages 6.07, sitting at the bottom of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turfgrasses. The soil profile contains 18.7% clay, which helps retain moisture but may require aeration to prevent compaction and improve root health.

Managing Abnormally Dry Conditions

Over 93% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry, though it faced only five weeks of drought over the past year. Homeowners should focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth while severe drought remains at 0%.

Southern Indiana Lawn Success

The long season between the April 11th last frost and October 26th first frost makes Zone 7a ideal for tall fescue or even warm-season zoysiagrass. Early fall is the best time to seed, taking advantage of the cooling temperatures and high annual rainfall.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spencer County's county score?
Spencer County, Indiana has a composite county score of 68.6 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 Spencer County rank among counties in Indiana?
Spencer County ranks #3 among all counties in Indiana 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 Spencer County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Spencer County is $1,138, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Spencer County a tax score of 70.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Spencer County?
The median household income in Spencer County, Indiana is $70,890 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Spencer County earns an income score of 68.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Spencer County, Indiana a good place to live?
Spencer County scores 68.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Spencer 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 Spencer 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.