countyscore
65.2
County Score
Safety 97.5Disaster Risk 91.2Income & Jobs 81.9

County Report Card

About Tipton County, Indiana

Elite Standing Across the Country

Tipton County impresses with a 65.2 composite score, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a remarkably high quality of life that outclasses most US counties.

Outpacing the Indiana Average

The county clears the state average of 55.9 by over nine points. It serves as a premier example of high-performing Indiana communities, balancing income with safety.

High Earnings and Absolute Safety

Safety scores are near-perfect at 97.5, and income scores are elite at 81.9. Residents enjoy a high median household income of $78,309 in a very low-risk environment.

Modest Schools and Costs

School performance is the main area for growth with a score of 39.2. Housing affordability also faces some pressure, reflected in a cost score of 42.8.

The Destination for High-Earners

Tipton is the ultimate choice for high-earning families who want an exceptionally safe and stable community. It offers a rare combination of high income potential and elite public safety.

Score breakdown

Tax69.3Cost42.8Safety97.5Health66.3Schools39.2Income81.9Risk91.2Water50.5Weather56.6
🏛69.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠42.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼81.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤66.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡91.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧50.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨80.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.5
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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Newton County
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Putnam County
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Nearby counties

Howard County
Indiana
45.3
Hamilton County
Indiana
52.1
Clinton County
Indiana
56.5
Madison County
Indiana
41.9
Grant County
Indiana
47.6
Boone County
Indiana
55.4
Miami County
Indiana
62.9
Carroll County
Indiana
61.6

Deep Dives

Tipton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Tipton County

via TaxByCounty

Tipton County rates moderate nationally

Tipton County's effective tax rate of 0.644% runs below the national median of 0.84%, offering homeowners modest tax advantages. The median annual property tax of $1,069 sits well below the national median of $2,690.

Slightly below Indiana's statewide rate

Tipton County's 0.644% effective rate runs 4% below Indiana's state average of 0.671%. The median tax of $1,069 falls noticeably below the state median of $1,199, reflecting a favorable tax position statewide.

Mid-range tax rate in the region

Tipton County's 0.644% rate sits squarely in the middle of the eight-county region, slightly above Tippecanoe County's 0.623% but well below St. Joseph County's 0.867%. The county offers typical tax conditions for the area.

What Tipton homeowners pay yearly

On a median home value of $166,000, Tipton County homeowners pay approximately $1,069 in annual property taxes. With a mortgage, expect closer to $1,023; without one, around $1,141.

Challenge your assessment

Tipton County property owners should request a reassessment if they believe their valuation is too high. Many homeowners don't realize they can appeal—contacting the county assessor could reveal eligible exemptions and reduce your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Tipton County

via CostByCounty

Tipton County: Strong Affordability Position

Tipton County renters spend just 13.1% of their income on housing—well below Indiana's 15.6% state average and the national norm. With a median household income of $78,309—the highest in this group—and modest rent of $854, Tipton delivers genuine affordability strength.

Top Tier for Indiana Renters

Tipton County ranks among Indiana's best counties for housing affordability, with a 13.1% rent-to-income ratio that beats roughly 75% of the state's counties. The combination of strong income and moderate rents positions it as an outlier success story.

Tipton Leads on Income and Rent Balance

Tipton's $854 rent undercuts most regional neighbors, but its real advantage is the highest median income ($78,309) in this group, delivering the best affordability math overall. Owner costs of $954 are moderate, offering straightforward housing options for both tenure types.

Strong Income Eases Housing Load

Tipton County households spend $854 on median rent and $954 on owner costs, totaling just 23.1% of income combined—the lowest proportional burden in this comparison. The 13.1% rent-to-income ratio reflects a county where housing costs rarely strain household finances.

Tipton: Indiana's Best Value Play

If you're relocating to Indiana and prioritize strong income potential paired with reasonable housing costs, Tipton County delivers the best overall package in this group. Your housing expenses will consume less of your paycheck here than virtually anywhere in the state.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Tipton County

via IncomeByCounty

Tipton leads all eight counties

Tipton County's median household income of $78,309 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by over $3,500, ranking among the nation's stronger-earning rural communities. Per capita income of $37,924 also surpasses national averages, reflecting a well-compensated workforce.

Top earner in Indiana

Tipton County's $78,309 median ranks among Indiana's highest-earning counties, outpacing the state average of $68,681 by nearly $10,000. Per capita income of $37,924 significantly exceeds the state average of $34,773, indicating strong earning power across all income levels.

Outearns all comparable counties

Tipton County's $78,309 median outearns every other county in this profile—including Steuben County ($71,483), Spencer County ($70,890), and Switzerland County ($65,148). The county's economic strength reflects a diversified manufacturing and services base.

Strong affordability and wealth

Tipton County's 13.1% rent-to-income ratio is among the best in the region, combining strong incomes with reasonable housing costs. Median home values of $166,000 remain accessible while appreciating steadily, creating genuine wealth-building opportunities.

Maximize Tipton's economic advantage

Tipton County residents enjoy above-average incomes and low housing burdens—an ideal foundation for aggressive wealth-building. Direct 20%+ of household income to retirement accounts, diversified investments, and real estate equity to compound your economic advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Tipton County

via CrimeByCounty

Zero Crimes Reported in Tipton

Tipton County records a perfect safety score of 100.0 with no reported crimes in the most recent data set. This stands in sharp contrast to the national average total crime rate of 2,385.5 per 100,000.

Leading Indiana in Public Safety

Tipton ranks as one of the safest counties in Indiana, far surpassing the state average crime rate of 693.8. Two local agencies provide reporting that currently shows zero incidents.

Tranquil Enclave in Central Indiana

While neighbors like Tippecanoe handle much higher crime volumes, Tipton remains a tranquil enclave. Its reported safety score is higher than most of its central Indiana neighbors.

Minimal Risks for Residents

With 0.0 violent and property crimes reported, the county presents as an extremely safe place to live. These numbers mean residents face statistically negligible risks compared to state and national norms.

Maintaining Community Safety Standards

Maintain this safe environment by practicing "see something, say something" within your community. Basic home security habits ensure your property stays safe even in the lowest-crime areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Tipton County

via HealthByCounty

Tipton County slightly below national average

At 75.9 years, Tipton County's life expectancy sits below the U.S. average of 76.1 years, though by only 0.2 years. Just 16.2% report poor or fair health, a relatively favorable rate.

Performing above Indiana's pace

Tipton County's 75.9-year life expectancy outpaces Indiana's 75.1-year state average by 0.8 years. The county ranks solidly within Indiana's healthier communities.

Solid performance in regional context

Tipton County ranks above average among this regional group, trailing only Tippecanoe (77.6 years) and Steuben (77.3 years). Its 16.2% poor/fair health rate ties with Spencer County as one of the best in the region.

Good coverage, adequate provider access

Tipton County's 7.4% uninsured rate beats Indiana's state average of 8.4%, ensuring broad coverage. With 26 primary care providers and 72 mental health providers per 100,000, the county offers reasonable healthcare access.

Tipton County, close the final gaps

Tipton County's strong coverage and health outcomes benefit most residents. Those without insurance should explore options at healthcare.gov or call Indiana Health Coverage Programs at 1-877-438-4479 to stay protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Tipton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Compact and Community-Focused Schools

Tipton County supports 2,229 students through a total of five public schools divided between two districts. The system includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools.

Exceeding Benchmarks in Graduation

The county achieves a graduation rate of 92.9%, beating the Indiana state average of 92.6%. This solid performance is maintained with a per-pupil expenditure of $5,379, just slightly under the state average.

Tipton and Tri-Central Districts

Tipton Community School Corp is the larger district, serving 1,442 students across three schools. Tri-Central Community Schools educates the remaining 787 students, with no charter schools operating in the area.

A Balanced Mix of Town and Rural

Education in Tipton County is split between three town schools and two rural campuses. Tipton Elementary is the largest campus with 668 students, while the average school size across the county is 446.

Small-Town Feel with Big-Time Results

Tipton County offers a high-quality education in a smaller, more manageable environment. Research homes in the Tipton or Tri-Central districts to benefit from a community that prioritizes graduation success.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Tipton County

via RiskByCounty

Tipton County offers exceptional safety

Tipton County scores just 8.87 on the composite risk scale with a Very Low rating, representing one of the lowest disaster risk profiles in the nation—less than one-fifth of Indiana's state average of 45.52. The county provides outstanding natural hazard protection.

Indiana's second-safest county

Tipton County ranks among the absolute safest in Indiana's 92-county system, with a composite score that places it in the lowest percentile statewide. Residents benefit from exceptionally low multi-hazard exposure compared to virtually all other Hoosier communities.

Regional safety champion

Tipton County (8.87) stands as one of Indiana's safest locations, competing with Switzerland County (11.61) for the lowest risk profile. The central Indiana county's terrain and geography provide exceptional natural hazard protections.

Tornado and earthquake pose minimal risk

Tornado risk scores 42.18 in Tipton County—low by comparison to most Indiana counties—while earthquake risk at 45.29 remains minimal. Flood (18.86), wildfire (1.40), and hurricane (14.23) risks are negligible.

Basic tornado insurance provides coverage

Tipton County homeowners should maintain standard homeowners insurance with tornado protection, though disaster risk here ranks among the lowest in the state. A basement or interior room offers practical shelter during rare severe weather.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Tipton County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Temperatures Near the National Median

Tipton County averages 51.2°F annually, making it slightly cooler than the national median. The area experiences a standard humid continental climate with four distinct seasons.

Below Average State Temperatures

The county stays about one degree cooler than the Indiana average of 52.2°F. Its 42.4 inches of annual precipitation is also slightly below the state average of 43.9 inches.

Similar Temperatures with More Rain

Tipton is very similar in temperature to Tippecanoe, but it receives about four inches more rain annually. Both counties share a July average of approximately 73°F.

Mild Summers and Cold Winters

Summer heat is moderate, with only 15 days per year reaching 90°F or higher. Winters are cold, averaging 28.8°F, though specific snowfall totals for this county are unavailable in current records.

Focus on Moisture and Moderate Heat

With only 15 extreme heat days, Tipton residents enjoy milder summers than many other Indiana counties. Homeowners should focus on moisture control and gutter maintenance to handle the 42.4 inches of annual rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Tipton County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Silt Loams of Tipton County

Tipton County is dominated by Alfisols with an average pH of 5.93, making it slightly more acidic than the state average. This acidity level is below the national median of 6.5, but remains within a productive range for most crops. These soils are part of the deep, fertile till plains of central Indiana.

Ideal Balance in Silt Loam Texture

The soil texture is a classic silt loam, consisting of 52.8% silt and 19.7% clay. This composition is favored by farmers because it holds onto nutrients tightly while the 19.3% sand keeps it from becoming too heavy. It is a highly reliable soil for consistent, year-over-year production.

Leading the State in Water Storage

Tipton's organic matter is 7.67%, significantly higher than the Indiana state average of 4.90%. More impressively, its available water capacity of 0.223 in/in is among the highest in the region. This gives local plants a massive reservoir of moisture to draw from during dry spells.

Well Drained and Stable Hydrology

These soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B, providing a stable and predictable environment for roots. Water moves through the profile at a moderate rate, which is perfect for preventing both drought stress and flooding. This makes Tipton County excellent for both high-yield farming and construction.

Max Productivity in Zone 6a

In hardiness zone 6a, Tipton County is a top-tier location for growing corn, soybeans, and large-scale vegetable gardens. The high water capacity and organic matter offer a safety net for any gardener. Your plants will find a rich, supportive home in this high-performing soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Tipton County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Growing Conditions in Tipton

Tipton County scores a 68.5 on lawn difficulty, indicating a relatively easy environment compared to the national average of 50.0. This Hardiness Zone 6a region is characterized by productive soils and a standard central Indiana climate.

Steady Growth and Manageable Heat

The county sees 42.4 inches of rain annually, which is nearly on par with the state average. With 15 extreme heat days and 3,247 growing degree days, the weather supports consistent grass growth throughout the spring and summer.

Rich Silt Loams Provide Stability

The soil pH of 5.93 is just below the ideal range, meaning a small amount of lime could benefit your turf. A well-drained silt loam texture with nearly 20% clay provides a perfect balance of moisture retention and aeration.

Severe Drought Requires Vigilance

Like its neighbor Tippecanoe, Tipton is currently facing 100% severe drought (D2+) and has spent 30 weeks in drought over the last year. Focus on water conservation by using rain barrels and avoiding any heavy fertilization until rain returns.

Best Grasses for the Heartland

Cool-season grasses like perennial ryegrass and tall fescue are top performers for this region. Aim to seed in late summer for best results, as the season typically runs from the April 23rd last frost to the October 17th first frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tipton County's county score?
Tipton County, Indiana has a composite county score of 65.2 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 Tipton County rank among counties in Indiana?
Tipton County ranks #14 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 Tipton County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Tipton County is $1,069, with an effective tax rate of 0.64%. This earns Tipton County a tax score of 69.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Tipton County?
The median household income in Tipton County, Indiana is $78,309 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Tipton County earns an income score of 81.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Tipton County, Indiana a good place to live?
Tipton County scores 65.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #14 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Tipton 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 Tipton 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.