countyscore
33.2
County Score
Water Quality 86Soil Quality 65.8Weather & Climate 60.7

County Report Card

About Vanderburgh County, Indiana

Vanderburgh Faces National Livability Hurdles

With a composite score of 33.2, Vanderburgh County sits significantly below the national median of 50.0. This ranking reflects substantial challenges in urban safety and school performance.

Trailing the Indiana State Average

The county's score of 33.2 lags behind the Indiana state average of 55.9. It ranks lower than many of its rural neighbors due to complex infrastructure and social pressures.

Clean Water and Average Health

The county excels in water quality with a score of 86.0. It also maintains a health score of 53.7, which is competitive within the regional landscape.

Significant Safety and Risk Concerns

Safety and environmental risk are major concerns, with scores of 6.1 and 8.7 respectively. School quality also presents a challenge with a score of only 18.2.

A County with Urban Infrastructure Needs

Vanderburgh County best suits individuals who prioritize access to city amenities and clean water over safety scores. It remains a work in progress for those seeking high-performing school districts.

Score breakdown

Tax51.1Cost33.5Safety6.1Health53.7Schools18.2Income41.8Risk8.7Water86Weather60.7
🏛51.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠33.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼41.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡6.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤53.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓18.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.6
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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Counties with similar scores

Cass County
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Mecklenburg County
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Umatilla County
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Jackson County
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Bolivar County
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Essex County
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Washington County
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Nearby counties

Henderson County
Kentucky
46.2
Posey County
Indiana
60.5
Warrick County
Indiana
51.4
Gibson County
Indiana
55.9
Union County
Kentucky
60.1
White County
Illinois
62.5
Daviess County
Kentucky
41.9
Spencer County
Indiana
68.6

Deep Dives

Vanderburgh County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Vanderburgh County

via TaxByCounty

Vanderburgh County's taxes remain modest nationally

Vanderburgh's effective rate of 0.824% keeps property taxes well below the national median of $2,690 per year. The county ranks in the lower-to-middle tier nationally despite being Indiana's more industrialized southwest region.

Among Indiana's higher tax counties

At 0.824%, Vanderburgh County has the highest effective rate among the eight counties profiled here, and ranks above Indiana's state average of 0.671%. The county's median tax of $1,420 exceeds the state median of $1,199 by about 18%.

Highest rate in the southwest region

Vanderburgh's 0.824% rate significantly exceeds Warrick County (0.654%) and Gibson County, making it the tax leader in southwestern Indiana. Evansville-area homeowners pay a measurable premium compared to adjacent counties.

Median homeowner pays $1,420 annually

On Vanderburgh's median home value of $172,300, annual property taxes reach $1,420. Mortgage holders pay an average of $1,437, while those without mortgages pay $1,386.

Consider an assessment appeal this year

Indiana law allows homeowners to challenge assessments if values exceed market conditions. Given Vanderburgh's higher rate, reviewing your property's assessed value could unlock meaningful tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Vanderburgh County

via CostByCounty

Vanderburgh County faces housing affordability strain

Renters here spend 19.0% of their income on housing—significantly above the sustainable 12-15% range and well above the national average. With a median household income of just $60,938 (18% below the national median), rising rents of $964 per month create real pressure on household budgets.

Among Indiana's least affordable counties

Vanderburgh County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% ranks far worse than Indiana's state average of 15.6%, placing it among the state's most burdened communities. The county's combination of lower wages and higher rents creates a double squeeze on renters.

Pricier than surrounding areas

Vanderburgh County's rent of $964 is the highest among its peer group—$172 more than Union County and $185 more than Vermillion County to the north. Despite higher housing costs, incomes are among the lowest, making the affordability gap especially acute.

Housing eats a bigger slice

With median rent at $964 and homeowner costs at $963, renters and owners pay nearly identical amounts on housing that consumes nearly a fifth of median household income. At $60,938 in median income, families have less flexibility to absorb housing cost increases.

Weigh Vanderburgh carefully in a move decision

If you're considering relocating to Vanderburgh County, compare its 19% rent-to-income ratio against neighboring options like Union County (11.9%) or Vermillion County (15.9%). The cost of living trade-offs here are steeper than across much of Indiana.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Vanderburgh County

via IncomeByCounty

Vanderburgh trails national income levels

Vanderburgh County's median household income of $60,938 falls $13,817 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it below the national average. This 18.5% gap reflects regional economic challenges.

Below-average for Indiana overall

Vanderburgh County earns $7,743 less than Indiana's state average of $68,681, ranking in the lower-middle tier statewide. Regional economic diversification remains key to lifting household incomes.

Struggling more than nearby counties

Vanderburgh's $60,938 income lags significantly behind Wabash County ($68,414) and Warren County ($74,635). Only Vigo County ($52,525) and Vermillion County ($59,363) earn notably less in this region.

Housing costs strain household budgets

A 19.0% rent-to-income ratio means typical renters spend about $966 monthly on rent, approaching the 30% affordability ceiling. Many households face tight margins between income and living expenses.

Small steps lead to financial security

Even modest savings—starting with $50–$100 monthly in emergency funds—builds resilience for Vanderburgh households. Explore employer 401(k) matches and local financial literacy programs to strengthen your financial foundation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Vanderburgh County

via CrimeByCounty

Vanderburgh Crime Rates Exceed National Averages

Vanderburgh County reports a total crime rate of 3,242.3 per 100,000 residents, which sits significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the county maintains a strong safety score of 94.9 out of 100. These figures indicate that while crime is more frequent here than in many other areas, it remains within a manageable range for residents.

Well Above Indiana's Average Crime Rate

While the Indiana state average total crime rate is 693.8 per 100,000, Vanderburgh County reports more than four times that figure. This discrepancy places the county well below the state average safety score of 98.9. Local law enforcement agencies face a higher volume of incidents compared to the typical Indiana county.

Higher Incidents Than Nearby Warrick County

Vanderburgh County sees much more activity than its neighbor, Warrick County, which reports a crime rate of 1,317.4 per 100,000. This regional contrast highlights Vanderburgh as a more active hub for reported incidents. Residents here experience a different safety profile than those in surrounding rural communities.

Property Crime Drives Local Statistics

The local crime landscape is dominated by property crime at 2,682.0 per 100,000 residents, which is higher than the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime also exceeds the national mark, reaching 560.3 per 100,000. These numbers mean that property-related offenses are the primary concern for local safety officials.

Prioritize Home and Vehicle Security

With property crime rates above national levels, securing your home and vehicle is essential. Installing basic lighting and motion-sensor cameras can significantly reduce the risk of theft. Simple daily habits like locking doors and removing valuables from cars provide the best first line of defense.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Vanderburgh County

via HealthByCounty

Vanderburgh lags national life expectancy

At 74.0 years, Vanderburgh County residents live more than two years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.4 years, ranking among Indiana's lowest. The county's 17.6% poor/fair health rate is slightly below the national average, but the shorter lifespan points to serious underlying health challenges.

Below-average life expectancy for Indiana

Vanderburgh County's 74.0-year life expectancy falls 1.1 years below the Indiana average of 75.1 years, placing it in the lower third of state counties. The 7.9% uninsured rate is slightly better than the state average, but insurance access alone hasn't translated to better health outcomes.

Poorest health outcomes in the region

Vanderburgh County's 74.0-year life expectancy is the lowest among its peer counties, trailing Vigo (73.7 years only) and significantly behind Warrick (76.9 years). The county faces compounded health challenges despite having robust provider networks, suggesting structural barriers beyond simple access.

Strong provider networks, persistent health gaps

Vanderburgh boasts 78 primary care providers and 266 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among the highest in the region—yet health outcomes remain poor. This gap suggests that availability of care isn't translating to improved community health, pointing to possible issues with affordability, health literacy, or social factors.

Protect yourself with health insurance

Nearly 8% of Vanderburgh County residents lack health coverage, leaving them vulnerable to medical emergencies and chronic illness costs. Check your current options at healthcare.gov or call 211 to learn about Medicaid expansion, marketplace subsidies, and community health programs tailored for your situation.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Vanderburgh County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Urban Education Hub

Vanderburgh County supports a large-scale system of 42 public schools serving 22,396 students across three districts. The infrastructure includes 23 elementary, seven middle, and eight high schools to accommodate its significant population.

Educational Outcomes and Investment

The graduation rate of 86.6% sits just below the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 92.6%. The county spends $5,560 per pupil, matching the state average but trailing national spending levels.

Evansville Vanderburgh Leads Enrollment

The Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp is the dominant provider, managing 40 schools and 21,739 students. Two charter schools represent nearly 5% of the county's total public school options, providing additional choice for families.

Urban Density with Large Campus Sizes

Most students attend one of the 34 schools located in city settings, where the average school size is 546 students. North High School is the largest campus with 1,674 students, offering a stark contrast to the county's smaller rural and suburban sites.

Find Your Home in the Heart of Evansville

For families seeking an urban lifestyle with diverse school options, Vanderburgh County offers a wide variety of neighborhoods. Consider the proximity to high-performing city schools when researching your next home purchase.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Vanderburgh County

via RiskByCounty

Vanderburgh faces elevated national disaster risk

Vanderburgh County's composite risk score of 91.32 is nearly double the national average, reflecting significant exposure to multiple hazards. This relatively moderate rating places it in the higher-risk tier for U.S. counties.

Among the highest-risk counties in Indiana

With a score of 91.32 against Indiana's state average of 45.52, Vanderburgh County faces nearly twice the typical state-level risk. This positions it as one of Indiana's most hazard-exposed counties overall.

Higher risk than most surrounding counties

Vanderburgh's composite risk of 91.32 significantly exceeds nearby Warrick County (65.11) and Vigo County (83.21). The southwestern Indiana location concentrates multiple hazard exposures that neighboring counties experience less intensely.

Earthquakes and tornadoes dominate the threat landscape

Earthquake risk (97.17) and tornado risk (95.90) are Vanderburgh's primary concerns, both ranking in the top tier nationally. Flood risk (89.79) adds a third significant threat, driven by proximity to the Ohio River.

Comprehensive coverage is essential here

Standard homeowners insurance must include tornado and wind protections; consider separate flood insurance given the Ohio River proximity and 89.79 flood risk score. Earthquake insurance, though less common, merits discussion with your agent given the county's 97.17 earthquake risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Vanderburgh County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer Conditions in Southern Indiana

Vanderburgh County is significantly warmer than the national median with an annual average of 58.2°F. This reflects its position in the more temperate southern reaches of the Midwest.

A Hot Pocket in the State

This is one of Indiana's warmest spots, exceeding the state average of 52.2°F by six degrees. The county also sees heavy rainfall, totaling 48.3 inches compared to the state's 43.9-inch norm.

More Extreme Heat than Northern Peers

Its climate is far more intense than northern neighbors like Vermillion County. While Vermillion averages 24 days above 90°F, Vanderburgh experiences more than double that heat frequency.

Intense Summers and Mild Winters

The heat is a major factor, with 49 days per year hitting 90°F and July temperatures averaging 79.3°F. Winters remain relatively mild, seeing only 12.4 inches of snow.

Prepare for High Cooling Costs

Heavy-duty air conditioning is a must to handle the 49 extreme heat days each year. Residents should also plan for significant moisture, as the 48.3 inches of annual rain can lead to high humidity.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Vanderburgh County

via SoilByCounty

Vanderburgh’s Silty Clay Loam Profile

Dominating the landscape are Inceptisols with a silty clay loam texture. The county's 6.15 pH is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but remains just above the Indiana average of 6.08.

Fine Particles Dominate the Soil Mix

With a high silt content of 69.1% and 19.9% clay, this soil feels dense and holds nutrients tightly. The low 11.0% sand content means the soil can be slow to warm up in the spring and prone to crusting.

Efficient Water Use Despite Lower Organic Matter

Organic matter is 1.91%, trailing both the national average and the state’s high benchmark of 4.90%. Despite this, an available water capacity of 0.209 in/in ensures that moisture stays accessible to roots longer than the state average of 0.202.

Moderate Drainage Requires Careful Management

The soils are moderately well-drained and fall into hydrologic group C. These characteristics suggest that while the land is productive, it may require tile drainage for optimal performance in large-scale farming.

A Long Growing Season in Zone 7a

The warmer 7a hardiness zone allows for a longer growing season than most of Indiana. It is an excellent environment for southern-leaning crops like sweet potatoes and okra that thrive in the dense, moisture-holding silty soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Vanderburgh County

via LawnByCounty

High Heat Challenges Southern Indiana Lawns

Vanderburgh County earns a lawn difficulty score of 60.6, making it tougher to maintain than the Indiana average of 71.0. This score reflects the unique challenges of Hardiness Zone 7a, where summer transitions are more taxing on traditional cool-season grasses. While it remains easier than the national median, local gardeners must be more proactive with heat management.

Intense Summer Heat Impacts Watering Needs

The county faces 49 extreme heat days per year, which is more than double the state average of 20 days. Despite a generous 48.3 inches of annual precipitation, the high July average of 79.3°F increases evaporation rates significantly. Frequent mowing and high-volume watering become essential to prevent turf dormancy during these long, hot stretches.

Fine-Tuning Silty Clay Loam Soils

The local silty clay loam soil has a pH of 6.15, which is on the lower end of the ideal range but still supports growth. Because the soil is only moderately well drained and contains 19.9% clay, it is prone to compaction during heavy use. Regular aeration is recommended to ensure oxygen and water reach the roots through the dense silty layers.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Conditions

Roughly 91.7% of the county is currently classified as Abnormally Dry (D0), and lawns endured 6 weeks of drought this past year. To conserve water during these dry spells, residents should increase mowing heights to 3.5 inches to shade the soil surface. This strategy helps protect the crown of the grass and reduces the amount of supplemental irrigation needed.

Selecting Heat-Tolerant Turf Varieties

Tall Fescue or heat-tolerant Zoysia grass are the best choices for the warm Zone 7a climate. For the best results, plan your seeding or sodding projects between the fall frost date of November 10 and the spring frost date of April 4. Starting your lawn in the fall allows the root system to establish before the intense summer heat returns.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vanderburgh County's county score?
Vanderburgh County, Indiana has a composite county score of 33.2 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 Vanderburgh County rank among counties in Indiana?
Vanderburgh County ranks #90 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 Vanderburgh County, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Vanderburgh County is $1,420, with an effective tax rate of 0.82%. This earns Vanderburgh County a tax score of 51.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Vanderburgh County?
The median household income in Vanderburgh County, Indiana is $60,938 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Vanderburgh County earns an income score of 41.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Vanderburgh County, Indiana a good place to live?
Vanderburgh County scores 33.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #90 in Indiana. The best way to evaluate Vanderburgh 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 Vanderburgh 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.