countyscore
50.3
County Score
Health 86.8Income & Jobs 79.2Soil Quality 74.8

County Report Card

About Stearns County, Minnesota

Stearns County Matches the National Median

With a composite score of 50.3, Stearns County aligns almost perfectly with the national median of 50.0. This score puts the county in the 51st percentile of all jurisdictions across the country. It offers a standard quality of life that mirrors the typical American experience.

Trailing the Strong Minnesota State Average

Despite its solid national standing, Stearns County sits below the Minnesota state average composite of 55.8. This suggests that while the county is stable, it faces higher bars for livability compared to many of its high-performing state neighbors.

High Earnings and Elite Healthcare Access

Stearns County excels in health with a score of 86.8 and income at 79.2, buoyed by a median household income of $76,447. Residents benefit from robust medical services and economic opportunities that significantly outperform national averages.

Environmental Risks and Housing Affordability

The county faces a low risk score of 12.4, indicating significant vulnerability to natural or environmental hazards. Additionally, a cost score of 20.6 reflects a tighter housing market where the median home value has reached $256,500.

A Hub for High-Earning Professionals

Stearns County is best suited for established professionals and families who prioritize high-quality healthcare and strong income potential. It offers a suburban-urban mix for those willing to navigate higher housing costs and environmental variables.

2040608010036.720.669.686.838.479.212.46947.4Tax36.7Cost20.6Safety69.6Health86.8Schools38.4Income79.2Risk12.4Water69Weather47.450.3/100
This county
National avg
4 above average4 below average

Stearns County DNA

Foverall

How Stearns County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Stearns County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (86.8/100) but notably weak in Disaster Risk (12.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
36.7-15.299999999999997
Cost
20.6-27.4
Safety
69.6+14.599999999999994
Health
86.8+36.8
Schools
38.4-15.600000000000001
Income
79.2+28.200000000000003
Risk
12.4-34.6
Water
69+11
Weather
47.4-8.600000000000001
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$256,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,057/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$256,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$42,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.4x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $76,447/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

18.2

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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
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41
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Deep Dives

Stearns County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Stearns County

via TaxByCounty

Stearns taxes slightly above US median

Stearns County's effective tax rate of 1.020% sits modestly above the national median of 0.98%, placing it in the upper half of US counties. Homeowners here pay a median of $2,617 annually, slightly below the national median of $2,690, thanks to a median home value of $256,500 that's lower than the national average of $281,900.

Above average in Minnesota rankings

Stearns County's 1.020% effective tax rate exceeds Minnesota's state average of 0.968%, making it a higher-tax county within the state. At $2,617, its median property tax is also above the state median of $2,168—a difference of $449 per household annually.

Steele County taxes hit highest in region

Among central Minnesota counties, Stearns sits in the middle band: Steele County leads at 1.206%, while Wadena follows at 1.040%. Stevens County offers the region's lowest burden at 0.807%, making Stearns homeowners pay roughly $1,100 more annually than their Stevens County counterparts on comparable-value homes.

Expected annual tax on typical home

On Stearns County's median home valued at $256,500, you can expect to pay approximately $2,617 in annual property taxes. Whether you carry a mortgage ($2,612) or own outright ($2,625), the tax obligation remains nearly identical.

Many homeowners eligible for appeal

If your property assessment feels high, you're not alone—studies show 20-40% of homeowners are overassessed. Contact your county assessor about filing an appeal; a successful challenge could reduce your tax bill by hundreds of dollars annually with no cost to file.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Stearns County

via CostByCounty

Stearns rents bite harder than national norm

Stearns County residents spend 16.6% of income on rent, outpacing the national average and signaling tighter affordability than most U.S. counties. While the median household income of $76,447 exceeds the national median of $74,755, the $1,057 monthly rent takes a larger bite, suggesting housing costs have risen faster than wages here.

Above average strain in Minnesota

At 16.6%, Stearns County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds Minnesota's state average of 14.5%, placing it among the less affordable counties in the state. The median rent of $1,057 also runs $142 above the state average, indicating stronger housing demand or limited supply in the area.

Pricier than surrounding counties

Stearns County's $1,057 rent outpaces nearby Steele County ($1,006) and significantly exceeds rural neighbors like Stevens County ($833), making it the priciest rental market in this cluster. However, median home values of $256,500 remain well below metro-adjacent counties, offering a middle ground for homebuyers.

Housing consumes 16.6% of income

Renters pay $1,057 monthly while homeowners carry $1,222 in monthly costs, with the median home valued at $256,500. Together, these figures reveal that Stearns residents allocate roughly one-sixth of their $76,447 median income to housing, leaving limited cushion for other expenses.

Job-rich but housing-tight market

If you're considering Stearns County, weigh the higher housing costs against strong local employment opportunities. Compare this rent-to-income ratio to neighboring Steele or Stevens counties if affordability is your priority.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Stearns County

via IncomeByCounty

Stearns earns above the national average

At $76,447, Stearns County's median household income exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $1,692. This places the county in the upper-middle income tier nationally, reflecting a stable economy anchored by healthcare, education, and manufacturing jobs.

Above average in Minnesota

Stearns ranks above Minnesota's state average of $75,757, making it one of the more prosperous counties in the region. The county's median income is driven by strong employment in the St. Cloud metro area and its surrounding communities.

Competitive with nearby counties

Stearns' $76,447 median income trails Steele County ($83,448) but exceeds Stevens ($71,060), Swift ($62,601), and Todd ($63,039). Among central Minnesota peers, Stearns holds solid middle ground with consistent wage growth across diverse industries.

Housing costs stay manageable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.6%, Stearns residents spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing—well below the national threshold where affordability becomes strained. A median home value of $256,500 reflects a balanced market where homeownership remains achievable for middle-income households.

Build your financial future now

Stearns' stable income levels create opportunity for retirement savings and wealth building—start by automating monthly contributions to retirement accounts and investment funds. Even modest amounts invested consistently can compound significantly over a career, especially in a county with steady employment prospects.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Stearns County

via CrimeByCounty

Stearns County significantly outpaces national safety trends

Stearns County reports a total crime rate of 713.0 per 100,000 residents, which is less than one-third of the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a stellar safety score of 98.9 out of 100. Local law enforcement maintains a high standard of public security across 11 reporting agencies.

Beating the Minnesota average for community safety

The county's total crime rate of 713.0 per 100,000 sits comfortably below the Minnesota state average of 1,123.5. Its safety score of 98.9 also exceeds the state average of 98.2. Stearns consistently ranks as one of the more secure regions in central Minnesota.

Stearns County leads neighboring communities in security

Compared to nearby Steele County, which reports 1,131.1 crimes per 100,000 people, Stearns maintains a much lower incident rate. It also shows more favorable safety metrics than Todd County to the north. These figures highlight the relative stability of the local environment for residents and businesses.

Low violent crime rates define local safety

Violent crime in Stearns County is notably low at just 66.2 incidents per 100,000 people, far below the national rate of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 646.8 incidents per 100,000, representing the vast majority of local police activity. Residents experience a landscape where serious physical threats are rare occurrences.

Maintaining security through proactive community awareness

While rates are low, property crime remains the primary concern for Stearns County homeowners. Simple measures like smart lighting and modern lock systems further diminish the already low risks. Staying connected with local neighborhood watch programs helps keep these numbers among the best in the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Stearns County

via SchoolsByCounty

Stearns County’s Expansive Educational Infrastructure

Stearns County supports a massive educational network of 66 schools serving 24,053 students across 15 different districts. The infrastructure includes 25 elementary, 9 middle, and 21 high schools, plus 11 specialized facilities. This diverse system provides a broad range of options for families throughout the region.

Evaluating Performance and Educational Investment

The county invests $8,181 per pupil, which sits slightly below the Minnesota state average of $8,463. While the graduation rate is 79.6%, trailing the national 87% benchmark, the school score of 50.6 remains competitive with the national median. Data for local bachelor's degree attainment is currently unavailable.

Spotlight on St. Cloud and Growing Charters

The St. Cloud Public School District dominates the local landscape, managing 25 schools and 9,286 students. Charter schools represent 7.6% of the county's options, providing alternative pathways for over 1,800 students. Other major players include the Sartell-St. Stephen and ROCORI districts.

A Dynamic Mix of Urban and Rural Learning

Learning environments vary significantly here, from 28 rural campuses to 14 city schools. Technical Senior High is the largest facility with 1,515 students, while the average school size is a manageable 408. This mix of suburban, urban, and rural settings offers families distinct lifestyle choices.

Find Your Home Near Stearns County Schools

With 15 districts and dozens of school types to choose from, home buyers have many options for matching a neighborhood to their educational needs. Explore local real estate to find the perfect proximity to top-rated high schools like Sartell Senior High. School quality remains a vital consideration for families moving to the area.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Stearns County

via RiskByCounty

Stearns faces significantly above-average risk

With a composite risk score of 87.56, Stearns County ranks in the relatively moderate category—more than double the Minnesota state average of 42.38. This elevated risk reflects particular vulnerability to tornadoes and flooding that outpace most other regions in the state.

Highest-risk county in Minnesota

Stearns County carries the highest composite disaster risk of all Minnesota counties, driven by a tornado risk score of 93.03 and flood risk of 90.87. This exceptional exposure places it in a different risk category entirely compared to its state peers.

Stearns stands alone in risk level

Adjacent counties like Todd (37.72) and Wadena (12.95) face substantially lower composite risks. Stearns' 87.56 score reflects a unique concentration of hazards—particularly tornadoes and flooding—that distinguishes it from surrounding areas.

Tornadoes and floods dominate here

Tornado risk scores a critical 93.03 in Stearns County, with flood risk nearly as severe at 90.87—both among the highest in the nation for these specific hazards. Wildfire risk (76.34) adds a third significant threat, particularly during dry seasons.

Comprehensive coverage is essential

Homeowners in Stearns County should prioritize flood insurance and a reinforced safe room or storm shelter to address tornado risk. Standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage, making separate flood coverage critical given the county's 90.87 flood risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Stearns County

via WaterByCounty

Stearns County maintains strong drinking water safety

The county earns a B grade with only 2 health violations recorded over the last five years. Its violation rate of 1.4 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the Minnesota state average of 32.5.

Watershed health assessments remain pending

Stearns County's water bodies are not yet covered in the federal §303(d) assessment program. Local officials continue to monitor internal benchmarks while waiting for formal federal reporting cycles to include these watersheds.

Extensive monitoring network tracks local water quality

A robust network of 207 monitoring sites has generated 66,713 measurements over the past five years. Technicians focus heavily on physical characteristics, organics, pesticides, and nutrient levels to ensure safety.

Sauk River flows above seasonal averages

The USGS gauge near St. Cloud reports a current discharge of 524 cfs, which is 144% of its long-term mean. This increased flow impacts a drainage area of over 1,030 square miles.

Stay informed on pesticide and runoff risks

With high streamflow and frequent pesticide monitoring, residents should stay alert to potential agricultural runoff. While compliance is high, those on private wells may consider testing for nutrients and organics.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Stearns County

via WeatherByCounty

The Heart of Minnesota's Climate

Stearns County's annual average of 42.7°F is a near-perfect match for the state average but sits 11 degrees below the national median. It receives 30.3 inches of annual precipitation, typical for the Upper Midwest.

A Statistical State Average

Stearns County is a bellwether for Minnesota weather, with its 42.7°F average sitting just 0.1 degrees from the state mean. Its rainfall also mirrors the state average of 30.0 inches almost exactly.

The Snowiest in Central Minnesota

Stearns receives 48.2 inches of snow annually, which is higher than neighbors like Sherburne or Steele. Its January average of 11.1°F is also slightly colder than its southern neighbors.

Four Distinct and Intense Seasons

The county experiences a full range of weather, including 7 days of extreme heat and 48.2 inches of snow. July averages are a warm 70.3°F, while winter temperatures drop to 14.7°F.

Preparing for Significant Snowfall

With nearly 50 inches of snow, a high-quality snowblower is a standard household tool in Stearns. Homeowners should also plan for a week of 90°F heat by ensuring cooling systems are efficient.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Stearns County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Entisols Lead the Landscape

Stearns County features a dominant soil texture of loamy sand and belongs to the Entisol taxonomic order. With an average pH of 5.86, these soils are notably more acidic than both the national median of 6.5 and the Minnesota average of 6.21.

A Sandy Mix for Rapid Drainage

The soil profile consists of 50.4% sand, 31.3% silt, and 14.2% clay. This high sand concentration ensures easy workability but requires careful management to prevent nutrients from leaching away too quickly.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The county boasts an organic matter content of 10.89%, which exceeds the state average of 9.90% and dwarfs the national average of 2.0%. This richness offsets its slightly below-average water capacity of 0.196 in/in, providing a strong foundation for plant growth.

Excellent Drainage for Fast-Drying Fields

Classified as excessively drained and falling into hydrologic group A, these soils move water rapidly. This makes Stearns County excellent for building and early spring planting, as the ground warms and dries out quickly.

Hardy Options for Zone 4b

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b, these sandy soils are perfect for root vegetables like carrots or acid-loving berries. With a soil score of 74.8, your garden has a better-than-average start for the Minnesota growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Stearns County

via LawnByCounty

Strong Lawn Potential in Stearns County

Stearns County earns a 67.5 lawn difficulty score, outperforming both the Minnesota average of 63.9 and the national median of 50.0. Maintaining a lawn in USDA Hardiness Zone 4b is relatively straightforward here compared to more arid regions. The local climate offers a reliable environment for homeowners looking for lush curb appeal.

Consistent Rain Meets Quick Drainage

With 30.3 inches of annual precipitation, the county sits right at the ideal threshold for lawn health. You can expect 2,326 growing degree days, though only 7 days per year reach extreme heat over 90°F. This allows for steady growth without the severe heat stress common in southern states.

Managing Acidic Loamy Sand

The soil features a 50.4% sand content and a pH of 5.86, which is slightly below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. Because the texture is classified as loamy sand and excessively drained, nutrients may wash away quickly. Adding lime and organic matter can help stabilize the pH and improve water retention.

Brief Dry Spells in Central Minnesota

The county experienced only 4 weeks of drought over the past year and currently reports 0.0% abnormally dry area. While resilience is high, the fast-draining soil means lawns may show stress quickly during a heatwave. Focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage roots to penetrate deeper than the sandy surface layer.

Seeding for Success in Zone 4b

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue are excellent choices for this 4b climate and its specific soil profile. Aim to seed or sod shortly after the last spring frost on May 3 to take advantage of the 2,326 growing degree days. Start your prep now to ensure your lawn is established before the first frost arrives in early October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stearns County's county score?
Stearns County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 50.3 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 Stearns County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Stearns County ranks #59 among all counties in Minnesota 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 Stearns County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Stearns County is $2,617, with an effective tax rate of 1.02%. This earns Stearns County a tax score of 36.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Stearns County?
The median household income in Stearns County, Minnesota is $76,447 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Stearns County earns an income score of 79.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Stearns County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Stearns County scores 50.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #59 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Stearns 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 Stearns County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.