countyscore
51.3
County Score
Health 72.6Soil Quality 70Water Quality 68.6

County Report Card

About St. Lawrence County, New York

Outperforming the national baseline

St. Lawrence County secures a composite score of 51.3, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This ranking indicates the county provides a higher quality of life than the typical American county across several key metrics.

A top performer in New York

With a score of 51.3, the county beats the New York state average of 47.0 by a healthy margin. It stands out as one of the more livable options in the state, particularly when considering the balance between cost and safety.

Superior water quality and public health

The county boasts a strong health score of 72.6 and an impressive water score of 68.6. Housing is a major draw here, with a cost score of 54.0 reflecting a median rent of just $799 and median home values of $119,800.

Low income levels and tax pressures

The tax score is extremely low at 1.5 due to a high 2.283% effective rate, while the risk score of 22.1 points to climate vulnerabilities. An income score of 44.9 suggests that wages, with a median of $61,900, lag behind more urbanized counties.

Ideal for those seeking low-cost safety

St. Lawrence County is a great fit for retirees or remote workers who prioritize affordable housing and clean water over high earning potential. Its safety score of 65.8 and school score of 63.4 make it a secure environment for quiet living.

Score breakdown

Tax1.5Cost54Safety65.8Health72.6Schools63.4Income44.9Risk22.1Water68.6Weather51.5
🏛1.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠54
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼44.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡65.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤72.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓63.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡22.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧68.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨70
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.7
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

Franklin County
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Lewis County
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Jefferson County
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Hamilton County
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Clinton County
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Herkimer County
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Deep Dives

St. Lawrence County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in St. Lawrence County

via TaxByCounty

St. Lawrence taxes slightly above national

St. Lawrence County's effective tax rate of 2.283% exceeds the national median of 2.09%, landing it in the 64th percentile nationally. Its median tax bill of $2,735 runs just above the national median of $2,690, but only because the county's home values average $119,800—well below the national median of $281,900.

Lowest-tax county in upstate region

St. Lawrence ranks among New York's most affordable tax counties, with an effective rate of 2.283% just above the state average of 2.046%. Its median tax of $2,735 is the lowest among the profiled counties, reflecting both modest home values and a moderate tax rate.

Competitive rates with regional peers

St. Lawrence (2.283%) virtually ties Seneca County (2.289%) and sits below Steuben County (2.523%) and Tioga County (2.448%). Among the eight profiled upstate and central New York counties, St. Lawrence offers some of the region's most attractive tax economics.

Annual tax on typical St. Lawrence home

A homeowner with the county's median-valued home of $119,800 pays approximately $2,735 per year in property taxes. The bill rises to $3,249 with a mortgage and drops to $2,240 without one.

Challenge inflated assessments today

St. Lawrence County homeowners can appeal their assessments directly to their town assessor or board of assessment review at no cost. If your assessed value seems high compared to neighboring properties or recent sales, filing an appeal could recover hundreds of dollars annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in St. Lawrence County

via CostByCounty

St. Lawrence beats national affordability

With a rent-to-income ratio of just 15.5%, St. Lawrence County renters allocate less income to housing than nearly anywhere in America—a significant advantage given the national context. At $799 per month for median rent and $61,900 median household income, this North Country county offers exceptionally accessible housing despite below-average income.

New York's most affordable rental county

St. Lawrence County ranks among New York's most affordable counties by rent-to-income ratio at 15.5%, significantly outperforming the statewide 17.6% average. The $799 median rent is $334 cheaper than New York's typical $1,133, making it a standout value in an expensive state.

Cheapest rents in the regional cluster

St. Lawrence County's $799 rent is the lowest among its upstate peer group, beating Seneca ($925), Steuben ($878), and Tioga ($914). This affordability advantage persists despite comparable median incomes, making St. Lawrence the value leader for renters in the region.

Minimal housing burden in St. Lawrence

Renters pay $799 monthly while homeowners spend $868, both among New York's lowest figures for either housing type. The typical household earning $61,900 dedicates just 15.5% of income to rent—well below the state average—freeing resources for savings and other needs.

Unbeatable affordability in North Country

St. Lawrence County offers the strongest rent-to-income advantage in our upstate comparison: renters spend 2.1 percentage points less of their income on housing than the state average. If affordability is your primary concern, this county's sub-$800 median rent and $120,000 median home value justify serious consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in St. Lawrence County

via IncomeByCounty

St. Lawrence trails national earnings

St. Lawrence County's median household income of $61,900 ranks about 17% below the U.S. median of $74,755, making it one of New York's lower-income counties. This gap reflects a rural economy with limited high-wage employment centers nearby.

Among the lowest in New York

At $61,900, St. Lawrence County ranks near the bottom of New York's 62 counties, trailing the state median by $14,533. Only a handful of upstate counties fall below this income level, underscoring the region's economic challenges.

Lower than surrounding counties

St. Lawrence's $61,900 median falls short of neighboring Seneca County ($66,007) by $4,107 and Steuben County ($64,740) by nearly $3,000. This positions St. Lawrence as the weakest earner among its immediate regional peers.

Rent affordable, but incomes stretch thin

A favorable rent-to-income ratio of 15.5% suggests housing costs remain manageable, with median home values at $119,800. However, the lower absolute income means families have less discretionary income for savings, healthcare, and education.

Maximizing limited income in St. Lawrence

With $61,900 in median household income, St. Lawrence families should prioritize building an emergency fund and eliminating high-interest debt. Exploring community development resources, job training programs, and local investment opportunities can help residents increase earnings and build financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in St. Lawrence County

via CrimeByCounty

St. Lawrence County: Highly Rated for Safety

St. Lawrence County reports a total crime rate of 802.5 per 100K, nearly three times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 98.7 ranks it as one of the safer large counties in the nation. Residents benefit from a low-risk public safety landscape.

Exceeding New York State Safety Performance

The county's safety score of 98.7 is higher than the state average of 98.3. With a crime rate of 802.5 per 100K, St. Lawrence is significantly safer than the statewide average of 1074.4. This data reflects a strong commitment to public safety across the North Country.

A Safety Leader in the North Country

St. Lawrence County maintains a very competitive safety profile compared to its upstate neighbors. Its crime rate of 802.5 per 100K is lower than several adjacent counties. Ten reporting agencies coordinate to manage safety across this expansive geographic area.

Low Violent Crime Across the County

Violent crime is particularly low here, at just 67.2 per 100K compared to the state average of 125.0. Property crime stands at 735.3 per 100K residents. These figures indicate that most criminal activity is non-violent and relatively infrequent.

Protective Measures for Your Property

Given that property crime is the primary local concern, homeowners should use deadbolts and security cameras to deter intruders. Rural residents should also ensure remote buildings and equipment are properly locked. Community-based policing efforts continue to help keep the North Country safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in St. Lawrence County

via HealthByCounty

St. Lawrence trails national and state health

At 76.8 years, St. Lawrence County's life expectancy falls 2.3 years short of the U.S. average (79.1) and 1.1 years below New York's state average (77.9). With 17.1% of residents reporting poor or fair health—above both state and national norms—the county faces measurable health challenges.

Among New York's struggling health counties

St. Lawrence ranks in the lower half of New York counties for life expectancy and self-reported health status. The county's 6% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 5.3%, leaving residents vulnerable to healthcare gaps.

Weakest life expectancy in the region

St. Lawrence's 76.8-year life expectancy is the lowest among its neighboring upstate counties—trailing Sullivan (76.1 is actually lower, but St. Lawrence trails Steuben at 76.3, Tioga at 78.6, and Tompkins at 80.9). However, its primary care provider density (55 per 100K) ranks stronger than Seneca (27) but weaker than Tompkins (80).

Access and coverage gaps compound health risks

One in 17 St. Lawrence residents lacks insurance, and with 55 primary care providers per 100,000 people, care access remains below regional leaders. Mental health providers (248 per 100K) are available, but the primary care shortage means preventive care may be delayed.

Secure health insurance now

If you're uninsured or underinsured in St. Lawrence, reach out today to ny.gov/healthplan or call 1-855-355-5777 to find a plan that works for your budget and health needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in St. Lawrence County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Vast Educational Network in Northern New York

St. Lawrence County manages 39 public schools across 18 distinct districts, serving a total of 14,156 students. The infrastructure is diverse, featuring 14 elementary schools, 12 high schools, and seven multi-level campuses. This expansive system supports a large geographic area with a focus on local community access.

Strong Graduation Rates and High Investment

The county achieves an 86.0% graduation rate, outperforming the New York state average of 85.3%. Per-pupil expenditure is robust at $14,888, which is nearly $1,900 higher than the national median spending. These investments contribute to a healthy school score of 68.5, indicating a strong return on educational funding.

Massena and Gouverneur Anchor the Region

Massena Central School District is the county's largest, overseeing five schools and 2,428 students. Gouverneur Central and Canton Central also serve significant populations with 1,445 and 1,117 students respectively. The county maintains a traditional educational landscape with zero charter schools currently in operation.

A Mix of Rural and Town Campuses

Education here is deeply rural, with 24 schools situated in countryside locales and 15 in town settings. Massena Senior High School is the largest single facility with 826 students, while the average school size across the county is a modest 363. This balance allows for specialized programming in larger towns while maintaining accessible rural schoolhouses.

Relocate to a High-Performing Rural Community

St. Lawrence County offers a unique combination of high graduation rates and affordable rural living. Families can find excellent value in homes located within the Massena or Canton school districts. Prioritizing school performance is a smart move for your children's future and your home's long-term equity.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in St. Lawrence County

via RiskByCounty

St. Lawrence County's Moderate Risk Profile

St. Lawrence County scores 77.89 with a Relatively Low rating, placing it above New York's state average of 69.42. The county faces elevated earthquake risk (86.51) and significant flood exposure (84.96), reflecting its geography in upstate New York.

Mid-Range Risk Among NY Counties

St. Lawrence County's composite score of 77.89 ranks it in the state's moderate-risk group, with notable earthquake exposure that exceeds most neighboring counties. Its flood risk of 84.96 mirrors the broader upstate pattern of water-related hazards.

Higher Risk Than Southern Neighbors

St. Lawrence County's 77.89 score exceeds Tioga County's 59.86 but remains similar to Sullivan County (78.28) and Steuben County (76.88). Its earthquake risk (86.51) is notably higher than these peers, reflecting distinct seismic exposure in the region.

Earthquakes and Flooding Dominate

Earthquake risk at 86.51 and flood risk at 84.96 are St. Lawrence County's primary hazards, both significantly above the state average. Tornado and wildfire risks remain manageable at 24.17 and 33.11, respectively.

Prioritize Earthquake and Flood Coverage

Homeowners in St. Lawrence County should secure flood insurance immediately and consider earthquake coverage, especially in older buildings and areas near water. Both hazards are excluded from standard policies and require separate endorsements or specialized policies.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in St. Lawrence County

via WeatherByCounty

Frigid Winters and Significant Snow

St. Lawrence County is one of the coldest in the nation with a 44.2°F annual average. Its 81.6 inches of annual snowfall is massive compared to national medians.

A Cold Leader in New York

At 44.2°F, the county is much colder than the state average of 47.4°F. It is also drier than the state average, receiving 39.3 inches of total precipitation.

Dominating the North in Snowfall

St. Lawrence receives 81.6 inches of snow, far exceeding the 50-60 inches seen in more southern counties like Steuben or Saratoga. It is also significantly colder than any neighbor in this group.

Deep Winter and Brief Summers

Winter is intense, averaging 19.7°F with January dipping to 16.5°F. Summers are short but mild, averaging 67.0°F with only 5 days of extreme heat.

Serious Equipment for Heavy Snow

Heavy-duty snowblowers are essential for the 81.6 inches of annual snow. Home insulation must be rated for extreme cold to handle the 16.5°F average in January.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in St. Lawrence County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Profiles Along the Northern Border

St. Lawrence County features an average pH of 5.33, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.11. Despite the low pH compared to the national median of 6.5, the county earns a high soil score of 70.0. This score reflects a robust natural system capable of supporting diverse flora.

Sandy Texture for Quick Response

The soil composition is dominated by 48.5% sand, with 27.2% silt and 10.4% clay. This sandy profile allows for rapid drainage but may require more frequent nutrient amendments. The low clay percentage means the soil warms up quickly in the spring, which is vital for northern latitudes.

Rich Organic Matter and High Water Capacity

With an organic matter content of 23.70%, this soil is significantly richer than both the national average and the state benchmark of 17.01%. This richness supports a high available water capacity of 0.202 in/in. These factors together create a fertile environment that retains moisture well despite the sandy texture.

Efficient Water Movement in Northern Soils

Though specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the 48.5% sand content points toward high permeability. This helps prevent standing water during the heavy snowmelt periods typical of the region. Good drainage is a primary asset for both agriculture and stable building foundations here.

Hardy Growing in Zone 4b

In USDA Zone 4b, growers focus on cold-hardy crops like brassicas, root vegetables, and berries. The high organic matter provides a buffer against the short growing season. With such a high soil score, your northern garden is poised for success with the right cold-tolerant selections.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in St. Lawrence County

via LawnByCounty

Northern Resilience in St. Lawrence County

With a lawn difficulty score of 62.7, St. Lawrence County is slightly easier to manage than the state average despite its harsh winters. This hardiness zone 4b region requires specific cool-season strategies to outperform the national median score of 50.0.

Short Growing Seasons and Cool Summers

The county sees just 5 extreme heat days a year, keeping grass from scorching, but the 2,220 growing degree days limit the total recovery time. With the last spring frost hitting around May 9th, the window for active growth is compressed but supported by 39.3 inches of annual rain. Mowing usually starts late and ends abruptly by the October 1st frost.

Counteracting Acidic, Sandy Soils

The soil pH averages a low 5.33, which is significantly more acidic than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range. A high sand content of 48.5% means nutrients wash away quickly, necessitating regular lime applications to balance the acidity. Lawns here require more frequent feeding to compensate for the rapid drainage.

Staying Green Through Dry Periods

The county spent 21 weeks in drought last year, and currently, 100% of the area is abnormally dry. Because the sandy soil drains so fast, it is vital to mulch grass clippings back into the lawn to retain moisture. This natural barrier protects the root zone during the frequent dry spells typical of the North Country.

Best Grasses for the North Country

Perennial ryegrass and fine fescues thrive in zone 4b because they can handle the biting cold of 16.5°F January averages. Plant your seeds in early May after the frost or in late August to take advantage of the cool, moist shoulder seasons. These hardy varieties ensure your lawn bounces back after the long winter snows.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is St. Lawrence County's county score?
St. Lawrence County, New York has a composite county score of 51.3 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 St. Lawrence County rank among counties in New York?
St. Lawrence County ranks #18 among all counties in New York 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 St. Lawrence County, New York?
The median annual property tax in St. Lawrence County is $2,735, with an effective tax rate of 2.28%. This earns St. Lawrence County a tax score of 1.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in St. Lawrence County?
The median household income in St. Lawrence County, New York is $61,900 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. St. Lawrence County earns an income score of 44.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is St. Lawrence County, New York a good place to live?
St. Lawrence County scores 51.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in New York. The best way to evaluate St. Lawrence 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 St. Lawrence 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.