countyscore
53.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Lawn Care 82.7Schools 79.9

County Report Card

About Union County, Iowa

Above the National Median

Union County scores 53.6, placing it slightly above the national median of 50.0. It offers a solid baseline of services and affordability for its residents.

Competitive State Standing

The county trails the Iowa average of 55.6 slightly due to economic pressures. However, it remains a competitive and attractive option within the state's southern region.

Strong Schools and Low Rents

Education and affordability are major highlights, with a school score of 79.9 and a cost score of 70.5. Median rents of $683 provide significant relief for household budgets.

Taxes and Income Gaps

The tax score is very low at 5.3 due to a 1.790% effective rate. Furthermore, the income score of 29.9 reflects a lower median household income of $56,813.

A Choice for Young Families

Union County is an excellent choice for families who prioritize quality education and low housing costs. It is best for those who value strong community schools over low tax rates.

Score breakdown

Tax5.3Cost70.5Safety43.5Health69.7Schools79.9Income29.9Risk50.5Water86Weather48.3
🏛5.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠70.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼29.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡43.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤69.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓79.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡50.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨74.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱82.7
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

Adair County
Iowa
62.5
Madison County
Iowa
58.6
Clarke County
Iowa
43.7
Adams County
Iowa
61.1
Ringgold County
Iowa
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Taylor County
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Decatur County
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Worth County
Missouri
59.2

Deep Dives

Union County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Union County

via TaxByCounty

Union County has Iowa's highest tax rate

Union County's effective tax rate of 1.790% ranks among the highest in the nation, about 63% above the national median of 1.1%. The median property tax of $2,108 is 22% below the national median of $2,690, as lower home values offset the high rate.

Highest-taxed county in Iowa

Union County's 1.790% effective rate is the highest in Iowa, significantly exceeding the state average of 1.344%. At $2,108 in median taxes, it falls below the state median of $2,160 only because of unusually low home values in the county.

Union County stands out for high rates

Union County's 1.790% rate dwarfs all nearby counties—nearly double that of Sac County at 1.028% and substantially higher than even Story County's 1.472%. This represents the steepest property tax burden in the entire state.

What homeowners actually pay here

A homeowner with a $117,800 median-valued home in Union County pays approximately $2,108 annually in property taxes. That's about $176 per month—the highest rate in the state on a per-value basis.

Assessment appeals are especially critical

With Union County's exceptionally high tax rate, verifying your assessment's fairness is essential. Any overassessment will cost you significantly more here than elsewhere—making an appeal potentially worth substantial annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Union County

via CostByCounty

Union County faces affordability headwinds

Union County renters spend 14.4% of income on housing, slightly above the national average of 14.1%, while earning notably below-average wages of $56,813. This combination—lower income paired with average housing costs—creates genuine affordability pressure for residents.

Lowest income paired with average costs

Union County's 14.4% rent-to-income ratio matches the state average, but median household income of $56,813 trails Iowa by nearly $18,000. This income disadvantage makes housing costs feel proportionally heavier despite reasonable absolute rent levels of $683.

Lowest income in the region

Union County's median income of $56,813 significantly lags peer counties—nearly $8,000 below Taylor County and $28,000 below Sioux County—while rent of $683 runs higher than the most affordable peers. Home values of $117,800 reflect the county's lower economic baseline.

Housing burden heaviest on lowest earners

Residents earning just $56,813 allocate 14.4% to rent or 17.3% to mortgage payments—a proportionally larger share of more limited resources. This leaves less financial cushion for emergencies or savings compared to higher-earning Iowa counties.

Union County requires careful planning

Union County combines modest housing costs with Iowa's lowest incomes, making it viable only if relocation includes job prospects or income growth. Before moving, confirm local employment will match or exceed current earnings; otherwise, the affordability math becomes challenging despite reasonable rent levels.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Union County

via IncomeByCounty

Union faces significant income gap

Union County's median household income of $56,813 falls nearly 24% below the national median of $74,755—the largest gap in this group. This substantial shortfall reflects Union's rural, aging population and limited economic opportunity.

Lowest income in Iowa comparison

Union County's $56,813 median household income sits approximately $13,000 below Iowa's state average of $69,830. Union ranks in Iowa's lower quartile for household earnings, reflecting demographic and economic challenges.

Lowest earner among regional peers

Union County's $56,813 income lags all seven comparison counties, with Taylor County ($67,279)—the next-lowest—earning nearly $10,000 more annually. Union's income gap widens dramatically when compared to Sioux ($84,736) or Scott ($76,363).

Affordable housing eases modest budgets

Union County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.4% and median home value of $117,800 are among the most affordable in this group. Housing affordability provides crucial relief for households managing lower incomes.

Start small, build systematically

Union County families face real budget constraints but can still build wealth through consistent, modest savings and financial education. Exploring employer benefits, local credit unions, and micro-investment platforms helps residents begin wealth-building despite income challenges.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Union County

via CrimeByCounty

Union County Holds Strong Safety Score

Union County holds a 98.0 safety score, which is quite competitive on a national scale. Its total crime rate of 1,272.0 per 100,000 is well below the national average of 2,385.5.

Tracking Safety Across Union County

The county's crime rate is slightly higher than the Iowa average of 1,095.3. Two reporting agencies provide the data used to track these trends and allocate public safety resources effectively.

Balanced Safety in a Rural Setting

Union County shows higher crime activity than its most rural neighbors but remains safer than Iowa’s larger urban centers. Its violent crime rate of 272.6 sits just above the state average of 216.5.

The Property and Violent Crime Mix

Property crimes make up the majority of local incidents at 999.4 per 100,000 residents. Violent crimes are less common, occurring at a rate of 272.6, which is still lower than the national average of 369.8.

Deter Theft with Home Security

Focusing on property security can have a major impact on local crime rates. Using smart security cameras and ensuring all windows are locked can help deter opportunistic theft in the area.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Union County

via HealthByCounty

Union County life expectancy lags nation

At 75.6 years, Union County residents live 3.3 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years—the second-lowest in the eight-county region. The 17.0% poor/fair health rate exceeds the national average of 16%, indicating significant population health challenges.

Well below state average on longevity

Union County's 75.6-year life expectancy falls 2.1 years below Iowa's 77.7-year average, placing it among the state's lowest-performing counties. The health deficit is substantial and requires targeted intervention.

Lowest life expectancy, strong provider access

Union County's 75.6-year life expectancy is the lowest among all eight counties, yet paradoxically it offers 100 primary care providers per 100K—tied with Scott County for the region's best. The 218 mental health providers per 100K also ranks among the region's strongest.

Good provider access masks health challenges

Despite having 100 primary care and 218 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—excellent by regional standards—Union County still has the region's lowest life expectancy. The 5.6% uninsured rate is near the state average, suggesting barriers beyond provider access or insurance status drive poor health outcomes.

Ensure coverage and preventive care

Union County's 5.6% uninsured rate is near the state average, but the county's low life expectancy suggests even insured residents face health barriers. Review your coverage at Healthcare.gov and schedule preventive care with your available providers to improve health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Union County

via SchoolsByCounty

High Investment in Local Education

Union County operates six public schools across two districts, serving a total of 1,868 students. The system includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. This structure provides a complete K-12 experience within a small-town framework.

Top-Tier Graduation and School Scores

Union County boasts an impressive 96.5% graduation rate, one of the highest in the region. This is supported by a robust per-pupil expenditure of $8,122, which is significantly higher than the state average. Consequently, the county earns a high school score of 59.4, well above state and national medians.

Creston Community is the Education Anchor

The Creston Community School District is the county's largest, serving 1,379 students across four schools. The East Union Community School District manages the remaining 489 students. Traditional districts are the only option here, as there are no charter schools currently in operation.

A Blend of Rural and Town Locales

The county features four rural schools and two schools located in town settings. Average school size is 311 students, with Creston High School being the largest at 532 pupils. This creates a balanced environment where students benefit from both town resources and rural community ties.

Quality Education Drives Home Value

Union County's high graduation rates and strong per-pupil investment make it a standout for families. Real estate near Creston schools is particularly attractive for those seeking high-performing districts. Consider the long-term benefits of living in a county that prioritizes school funding and student outcomes.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Union County

via RiskByCounty

Union County risk moderately above average

Union County's composite risk score of 49.52 with a Relatively Low rating exceeds the national average by roughly 25 percent. This indicates moderate but manageable exposure to natural hazards.

Union ranks above Iowa's middle threshold

At 49.52, Union County exceeds Iowa's state average of 39.68, placing it in the upper-middle range of the state's risk profile. Several Iowa counties rank lower, while others face substantially steeper hazards.

Union faces moderate regional risks

Union County's 49.52 score sits between safer Taylor County (38.49) and higher-risk Sioux County (52.39) and Story County (68.83). It represents a moderate risk level for south-central Iowa.

Tornadoes and wildfires demand attention

Tornado risk (57.09) and wildfire risk (49.84) represent Union County's primary hazards, while flood risk (30.09) and earthquake risk (24.20) pose secondary concerns. The combination of wind and fire threats requires active preparedness.

Cover wind, fire, and flood exposure

Union County residents should ensure homeowner's policies include robust tornado and wind coverage, plus consider flood insurance for extra protection. Maintain defensible space around your home to reduce wildfire risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Union County

via WeatherByCounty

Union County Sees Moderate Continental Weather

Union County's annual average temperature of 48.8°F reflects a temperate version of the continental climate. It stays cooler than the national median but avoids the most extreme cold found further north.

Slightly Warmer Than the Iowa Average

The county's average of 48.8°F is 0.8 degrees warmer than the Iowa state average. This makes it a moderately warm entry in the state's southern half.

Ample Precipitation for the Region

Union County receives 37.5 inches of precipitation annually, which is about 1.4 inches more than the state average. This consistent rainfall supports the local agricultural economy and natural greenery.

Hot Summers and Balanced Snowfall

The area experiences 18 days of extreme heat over 90°F with a July average of 74.0°F. Winters are manageable but cold, averaging 27.7 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for Heat and Rainfall

Residents should plan for 18 days of intense summer heat and higher-than-average precipitation. Keeping gutters clear and HVAC systems serviced will help manage the humid, rainy summers.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Union County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Foundations in Union County

The average soil pH here is 6.28, which is slightly more acidic than the statewide average of 6.43. While specific taxonomic data is missing, this acidity is characteristic of many productive Southern Iowa fields.

High Silt and Balanced Clay

With 52.4% silt and 26.7% clay, the soil provides a dense medium for root development. The 20.9% sand content helps maintain some porosity, though the high silt levels dominate the soil's behavior.

Consistent Moisture for Crops

The soil holds 0.201 inches of water per inch, beating the state average of 0.195. Organic matter levels are 3.14%, offering a healthy environment for beneficial soil microbes and worms.

Steady Hydrology and Deep Silt

Though formal drainage classes aren't specified, the silt-heavy mix suggests moderate water retention. This provides a buffer against dry weather, though it may take longer to dry out in the spring.

Planting Pride in Zone 5b

Union County's 5b zone is perfect for everything from sweet corn to heirloom tomatoes. Take advantage of the above-average water capacity to grow a lush, productive backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Union County

via LawnByCounty

High Success Rates for Union Lawns

Union County achieves a lawn difficulty score of 82.7, making it an excellent location for lush residential turf. This score is significantly higher than the national median of 50.0 and the Iowa average of 77.2. The 5b hardiness zone provides the necessary climate for a variety of popular grass species.

Abundant Water for Thirsty Grass

An annual precipitation of 37.5 inches provides more than enough moisture to keep most lawns thriving without constant irrigation. The 18 extreme heat days are slightly above the state average, but the 3,075 growing degree days ensure plenty of development time. Lawns here grow vigorously during the spring and fall peaks.

Reliable Soil for Strong Roots

The soil pH in Union County is a healthy 6.28, which is ideal for nutrient absorption. The texture consists of 26.7% clay and 20.9% sand, providing a standard Iowa foundation that holds moisture well. While drainage class data is missing, this balanced composition typically supports good turf establishment with regular maintenance.

Minimal Drought History in Union

Union County has been remarkably resilient, with only 2 weeks of drought in the past year. Although 100.0% of the county is currently abnormally dry, the overall lack of long-term drought stress is a major advantage. Keeping up with basic watering during dry weeks will easily preserve the health of the turf.

Start Your Lawn in Late April

The frost-free window typically opens on April 28 and closes on October 11, offering a reliable season for 5b gardens. Cool-season grass blends will thrive here, particularly when seeded in the optimal late-summer window. With such a high difficulty score, Union County is a fantastic place to start a new lawn project.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Union County's county score?
Union County, Iowa has a composite county score of 53.6 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 Union County rank among counties in Iowa?
Union County ranks #66 among all counties in Iowa 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 Union County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Union County is $2,108, with an effective tax rate of 1.79%. This earns Union County a tax score of 5.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Union County?
The median household income in Union County, Iowa is $56,813 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Union County earns an income score of 29.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Union County, Iowa a good place to live?
Union County scores 53.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #66 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Union 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 Union 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.