countyscore
54.9
County Score
Disaster Risk 79.9Lawn Care 76.3Soil Quality 71.8

County Report Card

About Van Wert County, Ohio

Van Wert Outperforms the National Median

With a composite score of 54.9, Van Wert County sits comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This score places the county in a favorable position compared to many rural peers across the country.

Leading the Pack in Western Ohio

The county's overall score of 54.9 significantly outpaces the Ohio state average of 48.6. It represents a strong value proposition for residents seeking a higher quality of life within the state.

Exceptional Safety and School Performance

Van Wert excels in environmental safety with a risk score of 79.9 and a strong school score of 67.6. These figures reflect a stable community with reliable educational infrastructure for local families.

Addressing Water Quality Concerns

The primary challenge is the water score, which sits at a low 13.6. Residents also navigate a safety score of 38.6, suggesting room for improvement in local security metrics.

A Haven for Education-Focused Families

With median rents at just $792 and high school scores, this county is ideal for young families seeking affordability and good classrooms. It offers a balanced lifestyle for those prioritizing community stability over urban amenities.

2040608010040.765.138.666.167.655.579.913.654Tax40.7Cost65.1Safety38.6Health66.1Schools67.6Income55.5Risk79.9Water13.6Weather5454.9/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Van Wert County DNA

Foverall

How Van Wert County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Van Wert County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (79.9/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (13.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
40.7-11.299999999999997
Cost
65.1+17.099999999999994
Safety
38.6-16.4
Health
66.1+16.099999999999994
Schools
67.6+13.599999999999994
Income
55.5
Risk
79.9+32.900000000000006
Water
13.6-44.4
Weather
54
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$137,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$792/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$137,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$31,680/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $65,344/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

6.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

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58.3
Putnam County
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65.2
Paulding County
Ohio
57.1
Allen County
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34
Mercer County
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Auglaize County
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Defiance County
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Deep Dives

Van Wert County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Van Wert County

via TaxByCounty

Van Wert's tax rate runs low nationally

At 0.967%, Van Wert County's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 1.09%, placing it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. The median annual property tax here is $1,327—less than half the national median of $2,690. This affordability advantage reflects both lower home values and a lighter tax burden on real estate.

Among Ohio's lowest-taxing counties

Van Wert ranks among the most tax-friendly counties in Ohio, with an effective rate 16% below the state average of 1.148%. The median property tax of $1,327 trails the state median by $818, making Van Wert one of the state's best deals for homeowners seeking property tax relief.

Competitive with surrounding rural counties

Van Wert's 0.967% rate is comparable to nearby Washington County (0.956%) and Wyandot County (0.888%), though slightly higher than both. Among this cluster of northwest Ohio counties, Van Wert occupies the middle ground—affordable but not the absolute lowest-taxed option in the region.

Own a typical home, pay $1,327 yearly

On the median Van Wert home valued at $137,300, homeowners pay approximately $1,327 in annual property taxes. For those with a mortgage, the effective annual tax is $1,319; without a mortgage, it rises slightly to $1,338. Either way, Van Wert homeowners enjoy one of Ohio's lowest annual tax burdens.

Many homeowners could challenge assessments

Even in low-tax counties, homes are sometimes overassessed relative to market value. Van Wert homeowners who believe their property is valued too high can file a formal appeal with the county auditor—often a straightforward process that can yield refunds of overpaid taxes. It's worth investigating if your assessed value seems out of line with recent sales in your neighborhood.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Van Wert County

via CostByCounty

Van Wert's rent stays well below national squeeze

Renters in Van Wert County spend just 14.5% of their income on housing—beating the national burden by a comfortable margin. That's well below the 30% threshold that housing experts consider affordable, giving residents breathing room in their budgets compared to peers nationwide.

Best affordability deal in northwest Ohio

Van Wert outperforms Ohio's state average rent-to-income ratio of 15.6%, ranking among the most affordable counties in the state. At $792 a month, median rent sits $81 below the state average, making housing genuinely accessible for working families.

Competitive with region's most affordable options

Van Wert's $792 rent matches or beats nearby Vinton County ($663) and Wyandot County ($785), positioning it as a practical choice for budget-conscious movers in northwest Ohio. Home values average $137,300, roughly in line with the region's smaller counties.

Where your Van Wert paycheck goes

A median household earning $65,344 annually spends $792 on rent or $729 on monthly owner costs—leaving substantial income for other needs. Renters dedicate 14.5% of gross income to housing, while homeowners carry a similar burden with $729 monthly payments, creating genuine affordability for both.

Relocating? Van Wert rewards stretching dollars

If you're considering a move to northwest Ohio, Van Wert offers genuinely affordable housing without sacrificing income stability. Compare its 14.5% rent-to-income ratio against your current market—you may find the math transforms your family budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Van Wert County

via IncomeByCounty

Van Wert lags behind national income

Van Wert County's median household income of $65,344 falls $9,411 short of the national median of $74,755. This 12% gap reflects broader economic pressures in rural Ohio communities compared to the nation as a whole.

Below average for Ohio counties

At $65,344, Van Wert County earns 4% less than Ohio's state average of $68,101. The county ranks in the lower half of Ohio's 88 counties by median household income.

Modest incomes in northwest Ohio

Van Wert's $65,344 median household income is slightly higher than nearby Williams County ($61,834) but trails Wood County ($73,124) and Wayne County ($71,769). The northwest region shows mixed income patterns, with Van Wert positioned mid-range.

Housing remains affordable here

Van Wert's 14.5% rent-to-income ratio indicates housing costs are manageable, well below the 30% affordability threshold. With a median home value of $137,300, homeownership is accessible to many households earning the county median.

Build financial security in Van Wert

With moderate housing costs and a $65,344 median income, Van Wert households have room to save and invest. Starting a retirement plan or emergency fund now can help close the income gap and build long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Van Wert County

via CrimeByCounty

Van Wert County Outperforms National Safety Standards

Van Wert County reports a total crime rate of 1401.2 per 100K, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2385.5. The county earns an impressive safety score of 97.8 out of 100.

Matching Ohio’s High Average Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 97.8 aligns perfectly with the Ohio state average. Its total crime rate of 1401.2 per 100K sits just below the statewide average of 1412.3.

Strong Local Safety Across Three Agencies

Data from three reporting agencies shows Van Wert County maintains a secure profile compared to regional neighbors. The county successfully keeps both violent and property crime rates below national benchmarks.

Property Crimes Outnumber Violent Incidents

Property crimes account for 1179.2 incidents per 100K, while the violent crime rate is 222.0. This means residents are far more likely to experience theft than physical harm.

Securing Your Property in Van Wert

With 1179.2 property crimes occurring per 100K residents, home security remains a valuable investment. Protecting your home helps maintain the county's strong 97.8 safety score.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Van Wert County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Solid Foundation for 4,700 Students

Van Wert County supports 4,785 students across 14 public schools, including five elementary and five high schools. Four distinct districts manage this network, providing a structured educational environment for the local community.

High Graduation Rates and Efficient Spending

The county boasts a 92.1% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the national average of 87%. While spending $8,052 per pupil—just above the state average—the county achieves a high school score of 56.9.

Van Wert City Leads Local Districts

Van Wert City is the largest district, serving 2,024 students across four schools. There are currently no charter schools in the county, meaning education is entirely provided by traditional local districts.

A Balanced Rural and Town Experience

The landscape features nine rural and five town-based schools, with an average enrollment of 342 students. Van Wert Elementary is the largest campus with 647 students, while Van Wert Middle School serves a smaller cohort of 396.

Invest in a High-Performing Community

With graduation rates exceeding state benchmarks, this county is an attractive option for families. Explore local real estate to find a home near these high-achieving public schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Van Wert County

via RiskByCounty

Van Wert's Risk Profile: Well Below Average

Van Wert County scores 20.10 on the composite natural disaster risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and placing it well below the national average. This means residents face significantly less exposure to major natural hazards compared to most American counties, though localized risks still warrant attention.

Among Ohio's Safest Counties

Van Wert ranks among the lowest-risk counties in Ohio, with a composite score of 20.10 against the state average of 55.03. The county's Very Low rating reflects its favorable position relative to other Ohio communities facing greater disaster exposure.

Lower Risk Than Regional Peers

Van Wert's score of 20.10 compares favorably to neighboring Williams County (44.40), which faces greater tornado and earthquake risks. Among northwestern Ohio counties, Van Wert enjoys some of the most protective geography in the region.

Earthquakes and Tornadoes Top the List

While overall risk is low, earthquake risk scores 57.00 and tornado risk reaches 48.19 in Van Wert—the two hazards requiring the most attention. Residents should know where to shelter during severe weather and maintain earthquake safety awareness, even in a relatively low-risk county.

Smart Coverage for Peace of Mind

Standard homeowners insurance typically covers tornado damage, but earthquake coverage requires a separate policy in Ohio. Given Van Wert's modest earthquake and tornado exposure, bundling these riders with comprehensive coverage offers cost-effective protection without overextending your budget.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Van Wert County

via WaterByCounty

Van Wert County Faces Significant Compliance Challenges

Van Wert County receives a water quality grade of F after recording 30 health violations over the last five years. The county violation rate of 220.1 per 100,000 residents is nearly seven times the state average of 32.9. This indicates a high frequency of Safe Drinking Water Act issues compared to neighboring regions.

Assessed Watersheds Show Zero Impairment

Federal assessors evaluated two local water bodies during the 2022 reporting cycle and found zero percent impairment. Both assessed areas currently meet Clean Water Act standards. This aligns with the state average of zero percent impairment for these specific designations.

Intensive Monitoring Focuses on Nutrients

Water quality experts track 10 different sites across the county, gathering 7,289 measurements over the last five years. The monitoring teams prioritize nutrient levels, physical characteristics, and sediment. This data density provides a robust view of local chemical and physical changes.

St Marys River Flow Drops Below Average

The St Marys River at Walcot Street currently flows at 177 cubic feet per second. This discharge represents only 40% of its long-term mean flow of 442 cfs. Local water managers monitor this significant decrease as it affects both drainage and available source water.

Prioritize Filtration and Drought Awareness

Given the F-grade compliance snapshot, residents should consider certified home filtration systems and regular private testing. Because the St Marys River is at just 40% of its typical flow, conservation remains important to protect diminishing source water. Monitor local EPA alerts for any new health violations in public systems.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Van Wert County

via WeatherByCounty

A classic continental climate profile

Van Wert County averages 51.0°F annually, placing it slightly below the national median. The region experiences sharp contrasts between its warm summers and freezing winter months.

Consistent with Ohio’s temperature baseline

The county’s average temperature of 51.0°F is just half a degree cooler than the state average. Its 40.4 inches of annual precipitation is nearly identical to the state average of 41.2 inches.

Drier and less snowy than Union

Van Wert is drier than Union County, receiving about 17 inches of snow compared to Union’s 24 inches. However, both counties share an identical number of extreme heat days at 18 per year.

Bracing for cold January winds

January is particularly cold here with an average of 25.3°F, though annual snowfall is a modest 17.1 inches. Summer brings 18 days of temperatures at or above 90°F.

Focus on insulation for cold winters

Proper home insulation is critical to counter the 28.1°F winter average. Since the county sees 18 extreme heat days, efficient cooling systems are a necessary summer investment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Van Wert County

via SoilByCounty

Prime Alfisol Ground in Van Wert

Van Wert’s soil belongs to the Alfisol order and maintains a nearly neutral pH of 6.54. This aligns perfectly with the national median of 6.5 and is significantly higher than the Ohio state average of 5.97. These characteristics make it a robust foundation for diverse agricultural uses.

Balanced Sandy Loam Texture

The county features a sandy loam texture consisting of 28.8% sand, 45.2% silt, and 26.0% clay. This specific mix offers high workability for farmers while preventing the heavy compaction often found in clay-heavy regions. It strikes a rare balance between structural stability and ease of cultivation.

Solid Water Capacity and Organic Matter

With an organic matter content of 2.77%, Van Wert falls below the state average of 4.85% but stays ahead of the national average. Its available water capacity of 0.189 in/in is slightly better than the state average of 0.186. This ensures the soil holds moisture well during the peak of the growing season.

Excellent Natural Drainage for Van Wert

The soil is classified as well-drained and belongs to hydrologic group A, which is the most permeable category. This makes the land ideal for building and heavy-duty farming, as it resists flooding and ponding. Rapid infiltration means plants rarely suffer from saturated roots here.

A Productive Start in Zone 6a

Sitting in USDA hardiness zone 6a, Van Wert’s high soil score of 71.8 indicates exceptional growing potential. The neutral pH allows you to grow everything from corn and soy to vibrant home vegetable gardens with minimal amendments. Start your planting in early spring to take full advantage of this premium Ohio soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Van Wert County

via LawnByCounty

Van Wert’s Reliable Lawn Success

Van Wert County earns a high lawn difficulty score of 76.3, placing it slightly above the Ohio average of 76.0 and far ahead of the national median of 50.0. This Hardiness Zone 6a region provides a stable environment for cool-season grasses to thrive. Homeowners here generally find maintenance straightforward compared to many other parts of the country.

Steady Growth in a Moderate Climate

The county receives 40.4 inches of annual precipitation, which sits right in the ideal range for healthy turf. With 18 extreme heat days per year, you should monitor for heat stress more frequently than the state average of 15 days. A robust 3,291 growing degree days fuels consistent growth from the last spring frost on April 21 through late October.

Perfectly Balanced Sandy Loam

Your lawn sits on a sandy loam foundation with a soil pH of 6.54, which falls perfectly within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The 26% clay and 28.8% sand mix offers excellent natural drainage for root systems. This balanced profile means you rarely need heavy lime applications or intensive soil modifications.

Managing Severe Dry Spells

Despite good soil, 100% of the county currently experiences severe drought conditions, and residents faced 30 weeks of drought over the past year. Use deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to encourage deep root growth during these dry periods. Mulching grass clippings helps retain essential soil moisture when the rain stops.

Start Strong in Zone 6a

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue perform best in this climate and soil type. Aim to seed or sod in late August or early September to capitalize on the cooling temperatures before the first frost on October 26. These varieties take full advantage of the well-drained soil to establish a resilient, lush carpet.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Van Wert County's county score?
Van Wert County, Ohio has a composite county score of 54.9 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 Van Wert County rank among counties in Ohio?
Van Wert County ranks #23 among all counties in Ohio 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 Van Wert County, Ohio?
The median annual property tax in Van Wert County is $1,327, with an effective tax rate of 0.97%. This earns Van Wert County a tax score of 40.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Van Wert County?
The median household income in Van Wert County, Ohio is $65,344 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Van Wert County earns an income score of 55.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Van Wert County, Ohio a good place to live?
Van Wert County scores 54.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #23 in Ohio. The best way to evaluate Van Wert 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 Van Wert County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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