countyscore
65.6
County Score
Disaster Risk 93Health 90.9Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Stevens County, Minnesota

Stevens County Outperforms the Nation

With a high composite score of 65.6, Stevens County significantly exceeds the national median of 50.0. This puts the county in the top tier of US jurisdictions for overall livability and resident satisfaction.

A Leader in the Gopher State

Stevens County ranks well above the Minnesota state average of 55.8. Its consistent performance across multiple categories makes it one of the premier living destinations in Greater Minnesota.

Environmental Resilience and Wellness

The county boasts an elite risk score of 93.0, indicating very low vulnerability to natural hazards. Residents also enjoy a health score of 90.9 and high-quality water, scoring 86.0 for purity and infrastructure.

Modest Growth in Local Schools

While strong overall, the school score of 52.5 and cost score of 48.6 represent areas for potential improvement. Housing is moderately affordable with a median rent of $833, but educational metrics remain near the state median.

The Choice for Security and Stability

Stevens County is perfect for families and retirees looking for a safe, low-risk environment with exceptional health services. It offers a rare combination of environmental peace of mind and high-quality utility infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax52.6Cost48.6Safety76.6Health90.9Schools52.5Income69Risk93Water86Weather46.7
🏛52.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠48.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼69
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡76.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓52.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡93
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨72.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.1
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

Big Stone County
Minnesota
68.8
Swift County
Minnesota
65.2
Grant County
Minnesota
66.1
Traverse County
Minnesota
68.1
Pope County
Minnesota
65.4
Roberts County
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52.8
Lac qui Parle County
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Douglas County
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56.4

Deep Dives

Stevens County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Stevens County

via TaxByCounty

Stevens offers lowest regional tax rate

Stevens County's effective tax rate of 0.807% sits well below the national median of 0.98%, placing it in the bottom 20% of US counties by tax burden. Homeowners pay a median of just $1,459 annually, less than half the national median of $2,690.

Among Minnesota's lowest-tax counties

Stevens County's 0.807% effective tax rate ranks in Minnesota's bottom tier, well below the state average of 0.968%. At $1,459, the median property tax is the lowest among the eight-county region, running $709 below the state median.

Lowest tax burden in central Minnesota

Stevens County leads the region in tax affordability, with a 0.807% rate significantly lower than Swift (0.855%), Traverse (0.972%), and Stearns (1.020%). A homeowner buying a $250,000 home pays roughly $1,100 annually less in Stevens than in neighboring Stearns.

Minimal annual tax on median home

Stevens County's median home value of $180,800 generates property taxes of approximately $1,459 per year. Both mortgaged ($1,483) and outright owners ($1,429) benefit from the county's lowest regional tax rate.

Assessment review still worth pursuing

Even in a low-tax county, overassessment affects many homeowners—20-40% regionally may be paying more than fair market value dictates. A successful appeal in Stevens County could still save you $200-400 annually with minimal effort.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Stevens County

via CostByCounty

Stevens stands out as a housing bargain

Stevens County residents enjoy a 14.1% rent-to-income ratio—well below the national benchmark—while earning $71,060 median annually, which is about 5% below the national median. The $833 monthly rent represents exceptional affordability in the Midwest, making Stevens one of the most accessible counties nationally.

Among Minnesota's most affordable counties

At 14.1%, Stevens County beats Minnesota's 14.5% state average, signaling stronger rental affordability than most of the state. The $833 median rent runs $82 below Minnesota's state average, reflecting the rural character and lower cost structure of the area.

Cheapest rent in the region

Stevens County's $833 rent is the lowest among all eight counties surveyed, undercut only by Traverse County's exceptional $617. For renters, Stevens offers significant savings compared to Stearns ($1,057) or Steele ($1,006) while maintaining reasonable income levels.

Ultra-affordable housing landscape

Renters pay just $833 monthly while homeowners invest $887, with a median home value of only $180,800. Stevens residents allocate just 14.1% of their $71,060 income to rent, leaving substantially more room for savings and discretionary spending than most Minnesota counties.

Budget-conscious seekers, look here

Stevens County offers genuine housing bargains for renters and modest homebuyers willing to embrace rural Minnesota. The low cost of living here frees up income for other priorities—an advantage worth serious consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Stevens County

via IncomeByCounty

Stevens approaches but trails national median

Stevens County's median household income of $71,060 falls $3,695 short of the national median of $74,755. While the county's workforce contributes meaningfully to state employment, income growth lags peers in more diversified metros.

Below Minnesota's average income

At $71,060, Stevens ranks below Minnesota's state average of $75,757, placing it in the lower half of county earners statewide. The county's economy relies heavily on agriculture and food processing, which offer steady but moderate-wage employment.

Among the lower earners nearby

Stevens County's $71,060 median income ranks below Steele ($83,448), Stearns ($76,447), and Wabasha ($80,133), though it exceeds Swift ($62,601) and Todd ($63,039). The county's income profile reflects its rural character and dependence on commodity-based industries.

Affordable housing supports household stability

Stevens' rent-to-income ratio of 14.1% indicates housing costs consume a reasonable share of earnings, and the median home value of $180,800 remains achievable for most working families. Affordability here is a real advantage for wealth building and long-term security.

Strategic planning bridges income gaps

Though Stevens' median income trails state averages, the county's low housing costs create genuine opportunity for savings and investment—prioritize building an emergency fund, then automate contributions to retirement and education savings plans. Even modest, consistent investing can help households close the income-growth gap over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Stevens County

via CrimeByCounty

Stevens County provides exceptional peace of mind

Stevens County boasts a total crime rate of 557.8 per 100,000, roughly one-fourth of the national average. This creates a highly safe environment, reflected in its superior safety score of 99.1. Two dedicated reporting agencies keep a close watch on this small, secure community.

Outperforming the state safety average with ease

The county's safety score of 99.1 easily beats the Minnesota state average of 98.2. Its crime rate of 557.8 is less than half of the statewide average of 1,123.5 per 100,000. Stevens stands out as a top-tier safe haven within the state.

Comparing favorably to regional neighbors

While Stevens County is very safe, it sees slightly more activity than Swift County to the south, which has a rate of 183.6. However, it remains much safer than Todd County further east. Local law enforcement maintains a tight-knit and responsive presence in the area.

Violent crime is nearly nonexistent in Stevens

The violent crime rate in Stevens County is a remarkably low 62.0 per 100,000 residents. Property crime stands at 495.8, making up the bulk of all reported law enforcement activity. The data suggests that serious person-to-person crime is a rare occurrence here.

Layering your home defense for total security

Even in low-crime areas, keeping vehicles locked and sheds secured prevents opportunistic property theft. Residents can maintain this high level of safety by reporting minor incidents promptly. Your vigilance helps keep Stevens County one of the safest spots in the region.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Stevens County

via HealthByCounty

Stevens leads the nation on longevity

Stevens County residents enjoy the longest life expectancy in this analysis at 82.9 years—4.5 years above the U.S. average of 78.4 years. With a 15.0% poor or fair health rate, Stevens County performs better than the national average of 16.0%.

Minnesota's healthiest county profiled

Stevens County's 82.9-year life expectancy significantly exceeds Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years by 4.2 years. The county stands out as a model of health longevity within the state.

Clear regional health leader

Stevens County's 82.9-year life expectancy towers over all neighboring counties, including Stearns and Steele at 80.0 years and Swift at 79.0 years. No other profiled county approaches Stevens' remarkable health outcomes.

Solid care access with gaps in specialists

Stevens County offers 62 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, though mental health providers at 185 per 100,000 lag behind state standards. At 5.4% uninsured, the county stays just below the state average of 6.0%, ensuring most residents can access basic care.

Keep Stevens healthy and insured

With Stevens County leading Minnesota in health outcomes, protecting that progress means ensuring all residents have coverage. Visit MNsure.org to verify your insurance status and explore options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Stevens County

via SchoolsByCounty

Stevens County’s Intimate Rural School System

Stevens County operates a compact education system consisting of 7 public schools across 4 districts. This small-scale network serves 1,676 students and focuses on elementary and high school levels. The landscape is characterized by a high level of teacher-student familiarity.

Outperforming State Averages in Graduation

Stevens County boasts a graduation rate of 89.5%, which is higher than both the Minnesota state average and the 87% national benchmark. This high performance is achieved with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,746. The county’s school score of 54.9 matches the state average exactly, indicating robust quality.

Spotlight on Morris Area Public Schools

Morris Area Public Schools is the primary district, serving 1,081 students across its elementary and secondary campuses. There are currently no charter schools in the county, as the traditional public districts like Hancock and Chokio-Alberta handle all enrollment. These districts provide a traditional, stable educational foundation.

The Quintessential Rural Education Experience

All 7 schools in Stevens County are classified as rural, offering a quiet and focused learning environment. Morris Area Elementary is the largest school with 553 students, while Chokio-Alberta Secondary is the smallest with only 73 students. The average school size is just 239 students, ensuring personal attention for every child.

Discover Rural Living Near Great Schools

If you value high graduation rates and small class sizes, Stevens County is an ideal place to search for a home. Living near the Morris Area schools provides your family with access to some of the region's best academic results. Explore local properties to find a peaceful home within these high-performing districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Stevens County

via RiskByCounty

Stevens County enjoys minimal disaster risk

Stevens County's composite risk score of 7.03 ranks among the lowest in the nation, well below Minnesota's state average of 42.38. The county represents one of the safest communities for natural disaster exposure in the upper Midwest.

Among Minnesota's safest counties

Stevens County ranks near the absolute bottom of Minnesota's 87 counties for natural disaster risk, with a 7.03 composite score. This exceptional safety reflects low exposure across all hazard categories, from tornadoes to earthquakes.

Tied for lowest risk in the region

Stevens County shares exceptionally low risk with neighboring Traverse County (6.17), making them among the safest communities in Minnesota. Both counties benefit from geographic isolation from major disaster corridors.

All hazards pose minimal threat

Even Stevens County's highest-risk hazard—wildfire at 20.58—remains well below concerning thresholds. Tornado (24.78), flood (10.59), and earthquake (5.28) risks are all negligible by state and national standards.

Standard insurance provides adequate protection

Stevens County residents can rely on conventional homeowners insurance without specialized disaster coverage. Annual policy reviews remain prudent, but the county's minimal risk profile means most residents face lower insurance costs than state averages.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Stevens County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cold Continental Climate in Stevens

Stevens County maintains a chilly 42.2°F average annual temperature, which falls well below the national median. This climate features the sharp seasonal swings typical of the Upper Midwest.

Matching the Minnesota Average

The county's 42.2°F average is nearly identical to the statewide mean of 42.8°F. It sits firmly in the middle of Minnesota’s temperature rankings, avoiding the extreme cold of the far north.

Drier and Cooler than Southern Neighbors

With 26.9 inches of annual rain, Stevens is drier than the state average of 30.0 inches. It is also cooler than Swift County to the south, which enjoys a 43.7°F average.

From Deep Freezes to Mild Summers

Winters are harsh with a 13.4°F average and 44.6 inches of snow. July brings a comfortable 70.3°F average, with only 7 days per year reaching the 90°F mark.

Prepare for Prolonged Winter Cold

Homeowners should invest in high-efficiency heating to handle January's 9.8°F average lows. Heavy-duty winter gear is essential for outdoor activities during the long snow season.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Stevens County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils on the Western Prairie

Stevens County features an average pH of 7.09, making it significantly more alkaline than the national median of 6.5. While detailed taxonomic data is limited here, the chemical profile suggests a landscape influenced by carbonate-rich glacial till.

Silt and Clay Define the Texture

The soil is comprised of 41.5% silt and 25.5% clay, which provides a heavy texture that holds onto nutrients well. With only 31.0% sand, these fields may take longer to dry out in the spring but offer great stability for crops.

Strong Organic Foundation

At 6.93% organic matter, Stevens County stays well above the national average of 2.0% even if it trails the state average. The available water capacity of 0.196 in/in ensures that plants have a steady supply of moisture during the dry summer months.

Managing Heavier Prairie Soils

Specific drainage classifications are not currently documented for this area, but the high clay and silt content typically suggests slower water movement. Growers should monitor for ponding in low-lying areas during heavy spring melts.

Productive Potential in Zone 4b

A soil score of 72.9 indicates solid agricultural and gardening potential in Zone 4b. Focus on crops that tolerate neutral to slightly alkaline conditions, such as asparagus, beans, and brassicas.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Stevens County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growing Conditions in Stevens

Stevens County holds a lawn difficulty score of 63.1, aligning closely with the Minnesota state average. While it meets the national benchmark of 50.0, the lower-than-average precipitation creates a slightly more hands-on experience for homeowners. Successful lawns here rely on smart watering habits in Hardiness Zone 4b.

Dryer Air Requires Careful Planning

Annual precipitation averages 26.9 inches, which falls below the state average of 30.0 inches and the ideal range for many turfgrasses. You have 2,360 growing degree days to work with, but the lower rainfall means your irrigation system is vital. Most growth happens between the May 4 spring frost and the October 1 fall frost.

Neutral Soils Support Root Health

The soil pH is 7.09, which is slightly alkaline but generally supportive of most standard lawn grasses. While specific drainage class data is limited for this area, the 25.5% clay and 31.0% sand mix suggests moderate moisture retention. You may need to monitor for iron chlorosis if the pH stays on the higher side.

Navigating 10 Weeks of Drought

The county endured 10 weeks of drought over the past year, significantly more than its eastern neighbors. Although current conditions are clear, this history suggests you should select drought-tolerant grass varieties. Focus on soil aeration to help every drop of infrequent rain reach the root zone.

Hardy Turf for Western Minnesota

Select drought-resistant tall fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass blends to handle the 26.9 inches of annual rain. Plan to seed your lawn early in May to ensure it is established before the July heat arrives. With 2,360 growing degree days, your lawn can fill in quickly with the right nutrient balance.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stevens County's county score?
Stevens County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 65.6 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 Stevens County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Stevens County ranks #16 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 Stevens County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Stevens County is $1,459, with an effective tax rate of 0.81%. This earns Stevens County a tax score of 52.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Stevens County?
The median household income in Stevens County, Minnesota is $71,060 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Stevens County earns an income score of 69/100 on CountyScore.
Is Stevens County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Stevens County scores 65.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Stevens 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 Stevens County with other counties side by side.

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