countyscore
61.7
County Score
Cost of Living 79.2Safety 78.1Health 71.2

County Report Card

About Thayer County, Nebraska

Thayer County Above National Average

With a 61.7 composite score, Thayer County performs better than the national median of 50.0. It provides a lifestyle that is more stable and affordable than many U.S. locales.

Solid Standing Within Nebraska

The county's score of 61.7 beats the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It remains a competitive choice for those looking to stay within the state's borders.

Exceptional Affordability and Safety

Housing is a major draw, with a Cost Score of 79.2 and median home values at just $106,200. Residents also benefit from a strong Safety Score of 78.1.

Tax Burdens and Water Issues

Taxes remain a pressure point with a Tax Score of 28.8 despite a 1.137% rate. Water quality is the most significant concern, scoring only 32.3.

Perfect for Budget-Minded Homeowners

Thayer County is a great match for first-time homebuyers or retirees seeking low housing costs. It provides a safe, small-town atmosphere with significant financial accessibility.

Score breakdown

Tax28.8Cost79.2Safety78.1Health71.2Schools53.9Income48.4Risk61.6Water32.3Weather43.1
🏛28.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠79.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼48.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡78.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤71.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡61.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧32.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱64.5
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

Republic County
Kansas
56.6
Nuckolls County
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75.9
Jefferson County
Nebraska
54.4
Fillmore County
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Washington County
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Clay County
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Saline County
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Deep Dives

Thayer County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Thayer County

via TaxByCounty

Thayer County ranks among lowest nationally

At 1.137%, Thayer County's effective tax rate is among the lowest in the nation, falling in the bottom 10% of U.S. counties. The county's median tax of just $1,207 represents only 45% of the national median of $2,690.

Nebraska's most tax-friendly county

Thayer County boasts the lowest effective rate in Nebraska at 1.137%, well below the state average of 1.281%. Its median tax of $1,207 is the lowest among all Nebraska counties, about 39% below the state median of $1,972.

Lowest taxes in south-central region

Thayer's 1.137% rate is significantly lower than nearby Stanton County (1.307%) and Valley County (1.552%), making it the clear tax winner in south-central Nebraska. This affordability draws attention from homebuyers seeking maximum tax efficiency.

Just $1,207 annually on median home

On a median home value of $106,200, Thayer County homeowners pay approximately $1,207 per year in property taxes—the lowest in the state. With a mortgage, that rises to $1,405; without, it falls to $1,060.

Even low taxes can be reduced further

Even in low-tax Thayer County, some homeowners may have overassessed properties that qualify for appeal-based reductions. Contact the Thayer County Assessor if you believe recent market sales support a lower valuation than your current assessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Thayer County

via CostByCounty

Thayer hits the state affordability sweet spot

Thayer County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.0% matches Nebraska's state average, a sign of balanced housing economics despite median income of $63,095. At $738 monthly, rents are well-controlled, placing Thayer among Nebraska's most fair-priced rental markets.

Right at Nebraska's affordability middle line

Thayer County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio sits precisely at the state average, reflecting neither exceptional affordability nor strain. This puts the county in the sweet spot for housing balance across Nebraska's varied landscape.

Balanced rents and moderate home values

Thayer's $738 rent undercuts Sherman ($866) and Stanton ($817) while matching Sioux ($743), offering solid value for renters. Home values of $106,200 are modest yet higher than Sheridan ($102,900), suggesting gentle appreciation potential for buyers.

Owners enjoy lowest cost burden here

Thayer County renters spend 14.0% on $738 rent, while owners allocate just 11.8% to $620 monthly mortgages—the lowest ownership burden in this entire survey. This dramatic spread favors homebuying, rewarding those who can transition from renting.

Thayer County's balance attracts practical movers

If you want Nebraska housing that doesn't require either high income or compromise, Thayer County delivers balanced rents and strong homeownership economics. The county's modest home values and fair rental market make it ideal for families seeking stability without bidding wars.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Thayer County

via IncomeByCounty

Thayer moderately lags national income

Thayer County's median household income of $63,095 falls $11,660 short of the national median of $74,755, representing a 16% gap. This moderate shortfall is typical for agricultural counties across the Midwest.

Slightly below Nebraska median

Thayer's $63,095 trails Nebraska's statewide median of $66,880 by $3,785, placing it near the state average. The county performs solidly for rural Nebraska, reflecting stable agricultural and small-business foundations.

Middle-ground performer regionally

Thayer ($63,095) sits between lower-income counties like Sioux ($54,076) and higher earners like Stanton ($78,275), making it a typical rural Nebraska economic profile. This positioning reflects consistent agriculture-based employment and community stability.

Housing costs lowest in this group

Thayer's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio is exceptional, leaving households with substantial room in their budgets. At $106,200, the median home value is among the most affordable here, enabling strong homeownership rates.

Turn affordability into assets

Thayer's low housing-cost burden is a strategic advantage for building net worth through property appreciation and mortgage paydown. Direct surplus income toward retirement accounts, education savings, or agricultural investments to leverage the county's land-based economy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Thayer County

via CrimeByCounty

Thayer County remains safer than most

Thayer County earns a safety score of 99.2, with a total crime rate of 519.4 per 100,000 residents. This rate is less than a quarter of the national average of 2,385.5.

Strong performance in a safe state

Thayer County's safety score of 99.2 is higher than the Nebraska state average of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 519.4 is also lower than the statewide average of 626.7.

Dependable security in Southern Nebraska

Two reporting agencies manage public safety here, keeping rates competitive with surrounding counties. Residents enjoy a level of security that far exceeds that of urban Nebraska counties.

A look at property vs violent crime

Property crime occurs at a rate of 319.6 per 100,000, while violent crime sits at 199.8. While the violent crime rate is higher than the Nebraska average of 96.4, the overall crime footprint remains very small.

Proactive steps for home safety

With property crime making up the majority of local incidents, securing entry points is essential. Simple upgrades like reinforced door frames and window sensors can effectively deter local theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Thayer County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy slightly below nation

Thayer County residents live 77.1 years on average, just under the U.S. average of 78.9 years. At 16.3% poor or fair health, the county's rate is slightly lower than the national 17.9%, suggesting residents navigate chronic disease reasonably well.

Near state average, room to improve

Life expectancy in Thayer County is 77.1 years, essentially aligned with Nebraska's 77.5-year state average. The 16.3% poor/fair health rate ranks in the middle of this eight-county cohort, neither notably strong nor particularly concerning.

Solid primary and mental health access

Thayer County offers 81 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 62 mental health providers per 100,000—solid infrastructure for a rural county. These ratios suggest reasonable access to both primary and behavioral health services.

Uninsured rate slightly below average

At 7.3%, Thayer County's uninsured rate is below the state average of 8.1%, meaning most residents have health insurance. With decent provider availability and strong coverage, access barriers appear manageable for the population.

Verify coverage, maximize benefits

If you're among the 7.3% without insurance, now is the time to explore ACA marketplace plans or Medicaid eligibility. Those with coverage should confirm their plans still fit their healthcare needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Thayer County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse District Network in Thayer County

Thayer County supports 860 students through eight public schools managed by three different districts. The landscape is well-distributed, featuring four elementary schools, one middle school, and three high schools.

Above-Average Spending and Stable Scores

The county invests $11,203 per student, surpassing the Nebraska state average of $10,521. While the graduation rate is 82.2%, the county maintains a school score of 58.5, which is just below the state median.

Thayer Central Leads the Way

Thayer Central Community Schools is the largest district with 440 students, followed by Deshler Public Schools with 242. Bruning-Davenport Unified System manages four schools for its 178 students, and no charter options exist in the county.

Fully Rural Schools with Small-Town Feel

Every school in Thayer County is situated in a rural locale, with an average school size of 108 students. Thayer Central Elementary is the largest at 250 students, while Bruning-Davenport High School offers a smaller cohort of 51.

A Choice of Three Quality Districts

Home buyers in Thayer County can choose between three distinct school districts, each offering rural environments and small class sizes. The high per-pupil investment makes this area an attractive choice for families prioritizing educational funding.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Thayer County

via RiskByCounty

Thayer faces moderate national risk

Thayer County's composite risk score of 38.39 remains in the "Very Low" category nationally but sits higher than most profiled Nebraska counties. The county's exposure reflects greater hazard complexity than neighboring areas.

Highest risk among these counties

At 38.39, Thayer County exceeds Nebraska's state average of 25.80, making it the most hazard-exposed among this group of eight counties. The county faces notably elevated composite risk compared to statewide peers.

Higher risk than surrounding counties

Thayer's score of 38.39 substantially exceeds most neighbors, surpassing Sheridan (13.36), Sherman (22.39), and Stanton (16.22). Only Thurston County (26.40) approaches Thayer's risk level among nearby areas.

Tornado is the dominant hazard

Tornado risk (49.27) drives Thayer County's elevated composite score, making it the county's most pressing natural disaster threat. Wildfire risk (44.72) and flood risk (22.20) contribute secondary but meaningful exposure.

Tornado safety is essential here

Thayer County residents should prioritize tornado protection through insurance and invest in a safe room or basement shelter. Ensure comprehensive coverage for wildfire and verify flood insurance is current, particularly for properties in flood-prone areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Thayer County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and humid southern plains

Thayer County averages 51.8°F annually, making it warmer than the national median and most of its Nebraska peers. It is also relatively wet, receiving 30.1 inches of annual precipitation. This climate is more characteristic of the central plains than the high desert west.

One of Nebraska's warmest spots

Thayer County sits significantly above the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F with its 51.8°F annual mark. It also exceeds the state average precipitation by over 4 inches. These figures place it among the warmest and wettest regions in the state.

Warmer and wetter than central counties

Compared to Sherman County's 50.1°F, Thayer is considerably warmer and more humid. It receives 30.1 inches of rain, far outpacing western counties like Sioux which only sees 16.5 inches. Its location on the southern border drives these higher temperatures and moisture levels.

Intense heat and lighter snow

Summer is the dominant season here, with 40 days of extreme heat and a July average of 76.9°F. Winters are milder than the state average, with 23.7 inches of snow and a 25.5°F January average. Residents experience a much longer growing season than their northern neighbors.

Invest in high-efficiency cooling

With 40 days of temperatures hitting 90°F or higher, a robust air conditioning system is a non-negotiable for residents. While snow is lighter at 23.7 inches, moisture-resistant building materials are helpful for the 30.1-inch rainfall average. Outdoor planning should account for the extended periods of summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Thayer County

via SoilByCounty

Slightly Acidic Silty Soils

Thayer County features an average pH of 6.32, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.79 and the national median of 6.5. This pH level is often preferred by many fruits and garden vegetables.

Silt-Dominated Nutrient Powerhouses

The soil is over half silt at 52.5%, with 22.7% clay and only 23.1% sand. This fine-textured mix is excellent for nutrient retention, though it requires careful management to avoid compaction.

Exceptional Water Holding Ability

Thayer boasts an impressive available water capacity of 0.201 in/in, far outperforming the state average of 0.172. While organic matter is 2.46%, the high water capacity makes this soil very productive.

Deep Moisture Reservoirs

While specific drainage classes are not provided, the high silt and clay levels suggest the soil holds water deeply and releases it slowly. This creates a stable environment for deep-rooted crops and perennial gardens.

Abundance in Hardiness Zone 6a

With a high soil score of 71.2 and a warmer 6a hardiness zone, Thayer County is a gardener's dream. The long season and superior soil capacity are perfect for growing prize-winning tomatoes and peppers.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Thayer County

via LawnByCounty

The Best Lawn Conditions in the Region

Thayer County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 64.5, significantly easier than the state and national averages. It sits in Zone 6a, allowing for a wider variety of grass types and a longer growing season. This is one of the more forgiving Nebraska counties for aspiring landscapers.

Abundant Water but Significant Heat

With 30.1 inches of annual precipitation, Thayer hits the ideal threshold for lawn health. However, growers must manage 40 extreme heat days, which is higher than the state average of 34. The 3,556 growing degree days suggest rapid growth, requiring a more frequent mowing schedule.

Acidic Soil Supports Nutrient Density

The average soil pH is 6.32, which is excellent for most turfgrasses as it keeps nutrients available. The soil has a higher clay content at 22.7%, which helps retain moisture during those 40-degree heat spikes. Regular aeration may be needed to prevent compaction in these heavier soils.

Resilient Landscapes in Thayer

The county had only 24 weeks of drought in the past year, the lowest among its neighbors. Currently, about 54% of the area is abnormally dry, but severe conditions are non-existent. This relative moisture stability makes Thayer a prime location for more water-intensive species like Kentucky Bluegrass.

A Long and Productive Season

A generous growing window starts April 24 and lasts until October 15. The 6a hardiness zone means you can experiment with heat-tolerant Tall Fescues or even certain cold-hardy Zoysia varieties. Early autumn is the perfect time to start new sod or seed for long-term success.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thayer County's county score?
Thayer County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 61.7 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 Thayer County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Thayer County ranks #47 among all counties in Nebraska 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 Thayer County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Thayer County is $1,207, with an effective tax rate of 1.14%. This earns Thayer County a tax score of 28.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Thayer County?
The median household income in Thayer County, Nebraska is $63,095 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Thayer County earns an income score of 48.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Thayer County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Thayer County scores 61.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Thayer 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 Thayer 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.