countyscore
68.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 93.9Safety 84.5Cost of Living 78.5

County Report Card

About Traverse County, Minnesota

Traverse County Ranks Among the Best

Traverse County earns a remarkable composite score of 68.1, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This puts it in the elite tier of rural counties for overall resident livability.

Outpacing the Minnesota Average

Surpassing the state average of 55.8 by over 12 points, Traverse County is a standout performer in Minnesota. It offers one of the most compelling value propositions in the entire Upper Midwest.

Unmatched Safety and Affordability

The county dominates with a risk score of 93.9, a safety score of 84.5, and a cost score of 78.5. With a median home value of just $110,100, it is one of the most affordable and secure places in the state.

Critical Water Quality Issues

The primary challenge is a water score of 16.0, indicating significant issues with purity or infrastructure age. Residents may need to rely on filtration systems or bottled sources to navigate local supply constraints.

Perfect for Bargain-Hunting Peace Seekers

Traverse County is ideal for budget-conscious families or seniors who prioritize physical safety and extremely low housing costs. It is a true hidden gem for those who can manage local water limitations.

Score breakdown

Tax40.3Cost78.5Safety84.5Health77.3Schools63.4Income56.7Risk93.9Water16Weather43.1
🏛40.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠78.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼56.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡84.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤77.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓63.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡93.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧16
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨68.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59.5
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

Roberts County
South Dakota
52.8
Grant County
Minnesota
66.1
Big Stone County
Minnesota
68.8
Stevens County
Minnesota
65.6
Richland County
North Dakota
51.7
Wilkin County
Minnesota
65.3
Grant County
South Dakota
68.9
Marshall County
South Dakota
64.5

Deep Dives

Traverse County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Traverse County

via TaxByCounty

Traverse County taxes far below US average

Traverse County's effective tax rate of 0.972% sits just below the national median of 0.98%, but its median home value of $110,100 is the region's lowest, resulting in a median tax bill of just $1,070—62% below the national median of $2,690. This combination makes Traverse one of the most affordable counties nationally for homeownership.

Below Minnesota average with minimal homes

Traverse County's 0.972% effective tax rate sits just below Minnesota's state average of 0.968%, while its median property tax of $1,070 is significantly below the state median of $2,168. The lowest median home value in the region ($110,100) drives this exceptional affordability.

Most affordable total tax burden regionwide

Traverse County's combination of near-average tax rate and the region's lowest home values creates the smallest tax bills: just $1,070 median. Even Todd County ($1,874) residents pay 75% more annually in absolute dollars.

Lowest total tax burden in region

Traverse County's median home value of $110,100 generates property taxes of approximately $1,070 annually—the region's lowest. Mortgaged homes average $1,194 in taxes; outright-owned homes, $967.

Assessment appeal could mean meaningful relief

In a county with such modest tax bills, even a small reduction yields proportionally larger savings due to the lower baseline. Challenging an overassessment in Traverse County could free up $150-250 for other household needs—worth exploring with your assessor.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Traverse County

via CostByCounty

Traverse leads nation in affordability

Traverse County's 11.2% rent-to-income ratio is exceptional—well below national norms—even though the $65,931 median income runs 12% below the national average. The $617 monthly rent is the lowest in this eight-county group, making Traverse genuinely accessible for budget-conscious renters nationwide.

Minnesota's affordability champion

At 11.2%, Traverse County's ratio beats Minnesota's 14.5% state average by over 3 percentage points, making it one of the state's most affordable counties. The $617 median rent is dramatically below the state average of $915, reflecting a rural rental market with minimal pressure.

Unmatched rent bargains

Traverse County's $617 rent undercuts every other county in this sample—Stevens ($833), Todd ($850), and Swift ($900) all run substantially higher. For renters prioritizing affordability above all else, Traverse stands alone as a genuine bargain.

Minimal housing burden, modest income

Renters spend just $617 monthly while homeowners invest $751, with a median home value of only $110,100—the lowest by far. At 11.2% of the $65,931 income, Traverse residents spend less on rent than residents of any other county surveyed, freeing substantial income for savings.

Ultimate affordability play for remote workers

If you're working remotely or living on a fixed income, Traverse County is unbeatable for housing costs. The trade-off is isolation and limited local employment, so ensure your income is portable before making the move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Traverse County

via IncomeByCounty

Traverse falls modestly short nationally

Traverse County's median household income of $65,931 trails the national median of $74,755 by $8,824. Despite this gap, the county's low housing costs and rural quality of life provide economic advantages that offset income limitations.

Below Minnesota average but stable

At $65,931, Traverse ranks below Minnesota's state average of $75,757, placing it in the lower third of Minnesota counties. The county's agricultural economy and small-town character produce steady if modest incomes across the resident workforce.

Middle ground in rural Minnesota

Traverse's $65,931 median income places it ahead of Swift ($62,601), Todd ($63,039), and Wadena ($56,882), while trailing the more prosperous counties like Steele ($83,448) and Stearns ($76,447). The county occupies a stable middle position among rural peers.

Lowest housing cost ratio in the region

Traverse County stands out with a rent-to-income ratio of just 11.2%—the lowest among all eight counties analyzed—meaning housing costs are notably affordable here. At a median home value of only $110,100, Traverse offers exceptional homeownership accessibility and strong potential for housing wealth.

Leverage affordability into savings

Traverse County's exceptional housing affordability creates rare opportunity: households can dedicate the income saved on housing costs directly to retirement and investment accounts. With home prices at $110,100 and low monthly payment ratios, residents can build equity faster than peers while maintaining aggressive savings discipline.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Traverse County

via CrimeByCounty

Traverse County maintains a high national safety rank

Traverse County's total crime rate of 358.8 per 100,000 is approximately 85% lower than the national average. This earns the county an impressive safety score of 99.4. With a small population and a quiet atmosphere, the risk of crime remains very low.

Exceeding the safety standards of Minnesota

The county's crime rate is significantly lower than the Minnesota state average of 1,123.5. Its safety score of 99.4 is much higher than the state's average score of 98.2. Note that data comes from a single reporting agency, so local trends are very specific to this small community.

Comparing safety in the western border region

Traverse County is safer than neighboring Stevens County, which has a rate of 557.8 per 100,000. However, it sees more activity than Swift County to the south. Despite its small size, Traverse holds its own as a secure agricultural hub.

Property crime dominates the local data

Property crime sits at 239.2 per 100,000, while violent crime is reported at 119.6. These numbers reflect very few actual incidents given the county's small population. The presence of just one reporting agency suggests that community-led safety is particularly effective here.

Building on a foundation of community trust

In small counties like Traverse, knowing your neighbors is the best security system available. Simple measures like locking vehicles and securing high-value equipment keep property crime rates down. Staying alert to strangers in rural areas further enhances local security.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Traverse County

via HealthByCounty

Traverse's health snapshot unclear

Traverse County's life expectancy of 76.3 years falls 2.1 years below the U.S. average of 78.4 years, raising concerns about population health. More detailed provider and health outcome data would clarify the drivers of this gap.

Lowest life expectancy in Minnesota

Traverse County's 76.3-year life expectancy is 2.4 years below Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years. The county faces the steepest health longevity challenge among all profiled Minnesota counties.

Traverse lags all regional peers

At 76.3 years, Traverse County's life expectancy trails every neighboring county profiled, including Wadena (77.1 years) and Swift (79.0 years). This gap warrants urgent investigation into local health drivers.

Limited data, urgent questions

Provider data for Traverse County is unavailable, making it impossible to assess care access directly. With 6.1% uninsured—slightly above the state average—and the lowest life expectancy in this analysis, the county needs targeted investigation into health barriers.

Explore coverage options today

Traverse County residents should prioritize health insurance as a first step toward better health outcomes. Visit MNsure.org to understand your coverage options and take control of your health journey.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Traverse County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small and Specialized: Traverse County Schools

Traverse County has one of the smallest school systems in the state, with just 4 schools serving 546 total students. These schools are managed by 2 districts and cover elementary, middle, and high school levels. The tiny scale allows for a highly personalized education for every student.

Top-Tier Graduation and Focused Spending

Despite its small size, Traverse County achieves a 90% graduation rate, significantly outperforming the state average of 86.6%. The county spends $8,783 per pupil, which is higher than the Minnesota average. A school score of 57.4 indicates that this small system is delivering high-quality results.

Leading Districts in Traverse County

The Wheaton Area Public School District is the county's largest, serving 366 students in its elementary and secondary schools. The Browns Valley Public School District serves the remaining 180 students. There are no charter schools, as the two local districts provide all necessary public education services.

A Truly Rural Learning Environment

All 4 schools in the county are located in rural areas, reflecting the county’s agricultural character. Wheaton Secondary is the largest school with 192 students, while the average school size is just 137. It is a place where teachers and students form deep, multi-year connections.

Find Your Peace and Quality Education

Traverse County is perfect for those who want a quiet lifestyle without sacrificing school quality. With graduation rates well above the national average, your children will be well-prepared for the future. Look for homes in Wheaton or Browns Valley to join these small, high-performing school communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Traverse County

via RiskByCounty

Traverse County ranks among safest nationwide

Traverse County's composite risk score of 6.17 places it in the lowest risk category nationally, far below Minnesota's state average of 42.38. The county represents an exceptionally safe community for natural disaster exposure.

Minnesota's second-lowest risk county

Traverse County ranks second only to Stevens County (7.03) in Minnesota's safety rankings, with a 6.17 composite score. This position reflects minimal exposure to virtually all categories of natural hazards.

Nearly tied with Stevens for lowest risk

Traverse County (6.17) nearly matches Stevens County (7.03) as Minnesota's safest communities, with both counties far exceeding the safety profile of surrounding areas. Neither faces significant natural disaster threat compared to peer counties.

All hazards remain negligible

Traverse County's highest-risk hazard—wildfire at 15.87—remains well below concerning thresholds for natural disaster planning. Tornado (18.48), flood (13.74), and earthquake (4.96) risks are all negligible.

Standard insurance fully adequate here

Traverse County residents enjoy among the lowest insurance cost burdens in Minnesota due to minimal disaster risk. A standard homeowners policy provides complete protection without need for supplemental coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Traverse County

via WeatherByCounty

A Chilly Western Frontier Climate

Traverse County averages 43.2°F annually, which is well below the national median for temperature. The climate is defined by its exposure to open prairie winds and seasonal extremes.

Slightly Warmer than State Norms

The county's 43.2°F average is roughly half a degree warmer than the Minnesota state average of 42.8°F. It represents a slightly milder pocket within the western plains of the state.

One of the Driest in Minnesota

Traverse receives only 25.0 inches of precipitation, far below the state average of 30.0 inches. It is drier than Stevens County, making water management a priority for local agriculture.

Windy Winters and Hot Summers

Traverse experiences 12 days of extreme heat over 90°F during its 71.6°F July summers. Winter brings 41.0 inches of snow and a cold 11.0°F average in January.

Drought and Cold Preparation

Gardeners should choose drought-resistant plants to accommodate the low 25.0-inch annual rainfall. Winter preparations must include windbreaks to shield properties from prairie gusts.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Traverse County

via SoilByCounty

Western Border’s Alkaline Earth

Traverse County’s average pH of 7.19 is much higher than the national median of 6.5. This alkaline profile is common in the Red River Valley region, where ancient lakebed deposits influence the current soil chemistry.

Heavy Silt and Clay Mix

The composition is 45.5% silt and 27.4% clay, making it one of the heavier soil profiles in the region. With only 26.3% sand, this soil is exceptionally good at holding onto minerals and moisture.

Solid Water Storage Capacity

Available water capacity sits at 0.195 in/in, providing a reliable reservoir for crops during the growing season. While the 5.41% organic matter is lower than the Minnesota average, it remains triple the national average.

Slower Drainage on the Flats

Although specific drainage data is missing, the high clay content suggests that water moves slowly through this profile. Proper field tiling or raised beds in gardens can help manage moisture during wet Minnesota springs.

Productive Zone 4b Soils

Traverse County holds a respectable soil score of 68.6. In Zone 4b, your garden will benefit from the high nutrient retention of these silty soils—perfect for heavy-feeding crops like corn and squash.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Traverse County

via LawnByCounty

Dry Conditions Challenge Traverse Lawns

Traverse County presents a more difficult environment with a lawn score of 59.5, below the state average. Its location on the western border means it faces dryer air and more extreme weather shifts. Maintaining a green lawn in Zone 4b here requires more supplemental irrigation than in most of Minnesota.

High Heat and Low Rainfall

The county receives just 25.0 inches of annual precipitation, which is 5 inches below the state average and the ideal range. You will also deal with 12 days of extreme heat over 90°F annually. This combination can quickly lead to parched turf if you rely solely on natural rainfall.

Heavy Clay and Neutral pH

The soil contains 27.4% clay, the highest in this regional group, which helps retain what little moisture falls. A pH of 7.19 is slightly alkaline but manageable for most standard grass mixes. While drainage class data is not available, the clay content suggests you should watch for soil compaction during wet spells.

Persistent Drought Challenges Roots

With 11 weeks of drought in the past year, Traverse County homeowners must stay vigilant. Current conditions are clear, but the historical trend toward 12 extreme heat days makes water conservation essential. Using a rain barrel can help supplement your lawn during those critical dry weeks.

Focus on Drought-Tolerant Species

Buffalo grass or drought-resistant fescue blends are the best bets for the 25.0 inches of rain here. Seed your lawn after the May 3 frost to take advantage of the 2,503 growing degree days. Consistent early-season care is the key to surviving the hot, dry mid-summer weeks.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Traverse County's county score?
Traverse County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 68.1 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 Traverse County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Traverse County ranks #12 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 Traverse County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Traverse County is $1,070, with an effective tax rate of 0.97%. This earns Traverse County a tax score of 40.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Traverse County?
The median household income in Traverse County, Minnesota is $65,931 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Traverse County earns an income score of 56.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Traverse County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Traverse County scores 68.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Traverse 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 Traverse County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.