countyscore
35.5
County Score
Soil Quality 74.2Lawn Care 72.2Cost of Living 68.7

County Report Card

About Vermilion County, Illinois

Vermilion Faces National Livability Challenges

With a composite score of 35.5, Vermilion County ranks well below the national median of 50.0. It sits in the bottom quartile of American counties based on current livability metrics.

A Difficult State Comparison

The county's score of 35.5 is substantially lower than the Illinois average of 52.8. It faces unique economic and social hurdles that set it apart from the rest of the state.

Deeply Affordable Housing Markets

Vermilion offers a strong cost score of 68.7, driven by a very accessible median home value of $92,900. Water quality remains a relative bright spot with a score of 54.5.

Significant Safety and Economic Risks

The safety score of 4.4 is among the lowest in the state, and a low income score of 24.2 reflects restricted local earning power. Economic and environmental risks are also high, as evidenced by a risk score of 21.2.

Suited for Ultra-Low-Cost Living

This county is most appropriate for those whose primary goal is achieving homeownership at the lowest possible price point. Prospective residents should weigh the extreme housing affordability against significant safety and income challenges.

Score breakdown

Tax5.2Cost68.7Safety4.4Health49.5Schools48.6Income24.2Risk21.2Water54.5Weather55.9
🏛5.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠68.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼24.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡4.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤49.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡21.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧54.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤55.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨74.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.2
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

Warren County
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70.7
Vermillion County
Indiana
60.4
Fountain County
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62
Champaign County
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Edgar County
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Parke County
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Iroquois County
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Deep Dives

Vermilion County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Vermilion County

via TaxByCounty

Vermilion taxes slightly below U.S. average

Vermilion County's effective tax rate of 1.793% runs slightly below the national median of 1.831%, positioning it as a relatively affordable county for property taxes nationwide. The median property tax of $1,666 is 38% lower than the national median of $2,690.

Below-average taxes for Illinois

Vermilion County ranks in the bottom 30% of Illinois counties for effective tax rate at 1.793%, below the state average of 1.831%. This modest advantage helps keep homeowner costs lower than most of Illinois.

Competitive taxes in central Illinois

Vermilion County's 1.793% rate falls between Tazewell County (2.116%) and Wayne County (1.526%), making it middle-ground for the region. Despite lower median home values ($92,900), Vermilion residents enjoy tax rates comparable to or better than neighboring counties.

Median home costs under $1,700 yearly

A median-valued home in Vermilion County ($92,900) carries an estimated annual property tax of just $1,666. This low absolute dollar amount reflects both the modest home values and favorable tax rate.

Challenge your assessment if overvalued

Even with affordable taxes, some Vermilion County homeowners are overassessed and can file appeals to reduce their bills. A successful challenge costs nothing and could save you hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Vermilion County

via CostByCounty

Vermilion renters face tighter affordability

Vermilion County's 17.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds both the national average of 14.7% and the Illinois state average of 14.7%, signaling genuine affordability strain. The county's relatively low median household income of $54,537—$20,218 below the national median—leaves renters with less cushion to absorb housing costs.

Among Illinois's least affordable counties

Vermilion ranks as one of Illinois's most expensive counties for renters relative to income, with a 17.6% rent-to-income ratio well above the state average. Only Wabash County (17.3%) comes close to matching Vermilion's affordability burden, indicating a regional housing-cost squeeze.

Vermilion faces regional affordability crisis

At 17.6%, Vermilion's rent burden significantly exceeds all neighboring counties except Wabash (17.3%), with Union County (14.0%) and Wayne County (14.3%) demonstrating much tighter spending ratios. This suggests Vermilion's rents—$802 monthly—strain household budgets despite being modest in absolute dollars.

Rents consume nearly one-fifth of income

Vermilion residents earning $54,537 annually pay $802 in median rent, consuming 17.6% of household income—nearly one-fifth. Owner costs of $663 are more manageable, but renters here face noticeably tighter finances than peers in neighboring counties.

Compare Vermilion against nearby alternatives

If you're considering Vermilion, weigh its affordability against nearby Union County—just miles away with 14.0% rent-to-income versus Vermilion's 17.6%. A modest relocation within the region could significantly reduce your housing-cost burden while maintaining community ties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Vermilion County

via IncomeByCounty

Vermilion significantly lags national income

Vermilion County's median household income of $54,537 falls $20,218 short of the national median of $74,755. This steep deficit places the county in the bottom quartile nationally, requiring households to stretch every dollar.

Among the lowest earners in Illinois

At $54,537, Vermilion County earns $14,043 less than Illinois's state average of $68,580 and ranks among the state's most economically challenged counties. Per capita income of $30,447 significantly underperforms the state average of $36,009, signaling limited job quality.

Lowest-earning county in regional comparison

Vermilion's $54,537 median ranks last among the eight-county region, trailing Tazewell by $22,167 and even Union County by $1,883. The county faces the steepest economic headwinds among its peers, requiring targeted economic development.

Rent burden peaks at 17.6 percent

Vermilion County's 17.6% rent-to-income ratio is the highest in the region, indicating renters here sacrifice larger income shares to housing. Median home values of $92,900 offer affordable entry points, but lower incomes mean homeownership requires down-payment assistance.

Focus on income growth and career advancement

Vermilion households earning $54,537 face tight cash flow but can allocate roughly $1,091 monthly to savings through strict budgeting. Pursuing higher-wage careers, seeking education or training grants, and leveraging low home prices to build equity through ownership should be primary wealth strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Vermilion County

via CrimeByCounty

Vermilion Faces Elevated Crime Challenges

Vermilion County reports a safety score of 94.2, which falls below the national benchmark. Its total crime rate of 3,678.2 per 100,000 residents is roughly 50% higher than the national average of 2,385.5.

Trailing Illinois Statewide Safety Averages

The county ranks below the state average safety score of 98.7 and sees much higher activity than the state average crime rate of 835.0. Sixteen reporting agencies are actively working to address these local safety trends.

Regional Disparities in Public Safety

Compared to nearby Wabash or Wayne, Vermilion sees a much higher volume of both violent and property offenses. This highlights a significant regional gap in safety levels compared to surrounding rural counties.

Property and Violent Crime Breakdown

The violent crime rate is 823.1 per 100,000, more than double the national average of 369.8. Property crime is even more prevalent at 2,855.1 per 100,000, indicating a high volume of theft and related reports.

Proactive Security Essential for Residents

High property crime rates make home security systems and neighborhood watch programs vital for local families. Taking steps like installing smart cameras can help mitigate risks in areas with elevated activity.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Vermilion County

via HealthByCounty

Vermilion facing critical health crisis

Vermilion County's life expectancy of 72.5 years is the lowest in its cohort, trailing the U.S. average of 74.5 years by 2 years and Illinois's 76.0-year average by 3.5 years. With 21.1% reporting poor or fair health—the highest in the group—Vermilion residents bear a significant burden of chronic disease and reduced health resilience.

Vermilion ranks among Illinois's lowest

Vermilion's 72.5-year life expectancy represents a 3.5-year gap below Illinois's 76.0-year average, placing it near the bottom of state counties. The uninsured rate of 5.4% is slightly below the state average of 6.3%, but this modest advantage cannot offset the severe health outcome disparities.

Dramatically worse than surrounding counties

Vermilion's 72.5-year life expectancy trails every peer county in the analysis, including Union (74.7), Warren (76.0), and Tazewell (76.6). While the county has strong mental health provider density at 408 per 100,000—far above neighbors—only 36 primary care providers per 100,000 limits access to preventive care.

Chronic disease burden, provider shortages

With only 36 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Vermilion lacks the primary care infrastructure to manage the county's high rates of chronic disease and poor/fair health. The 408 mental health providers per 100,000 suggest significant behavioral health need, but without adequate primary care, residents cannot access the foundational preventive services that extend life and improve health.

Insurance is a critical first step

Vermilion's health crisis demands action: ensure your family has coverage to access the mental and primary care services that can change outcomes. Contact Vermilion County Health Department or visit healthcare.gov to enroll today—coverage is the gateway to preventive care and healthier futures.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Vermilion County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Large Educational Map

Vermilion County hosts 40 public schools serving 11,236 students within 14 different districts. The infrastructure is diverse, consisting of 17 elementary schools, 7 middle schools, and 15 high schools.

Investing Above the State Average

The county spends $9,929 per pupil, which is higher than the Illinois state average of $9,250. However, the graduation rate currently sits at 80.4%, trailing the national benchmark of 87.0% as the county works to improve outcomes.

Danville District Leads Enrollment

Danville CCSD 118 is the massive centerpiece of the county, serving 4,754 students across 11 schools. This district includes the county's largest school, Danville High School, which enrolls 1,204 students.

A Mix of City and Country Classrooms

Students in Vermilion County experience everything from urban centers to rural fields, with 11 schools in the city and 15 in rural areas. The average enrollment of 340 students per school ensures a variety of educational environments.

Explore Real Estate Near Vermilion Schools

With its higher-than-average per-pupil spending, Vermilion County offers significant resources for students. Research the diverse school locales from Danville to the rural districts when choosing your next home.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Vermilion County

via RiskByCounty

Vermilion faces above-average national risk

With a composite risk score of 78.82, Vermilion County ranks in the upper tier of natural disaster risk nationally. This "Relatively Low" rating reflects substantial exposure to tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes across its central Illinois location.

Well above Illinois state average

Vermilion's 78.82 score significantly exceeds Illinois's 54.46 state average, placing it among the state's higher-risk counties. The county faces elevated hazards across multiple categories, not concentrated in a single disaster type.

Comparable to Tazewell, exceeds Warren

Vermilion (78.82) approaches the risk level of neighboring Tazewell County (84.19) to the northwest while far exceeding Warren County (15.49) to the west. Its balanced multi-hazard profile sets it apart from counties dominated by a single threat.

Tornadoes and floods lead threats

Tornado risk (79.71) and flood risk (76.46) are your county's primary hazards, each substantially exceeding national averages. Earthquake risk (85.24) rounds out a notably complex hazard landscape for a central Illinois county.

Prepare for multiple disaster types

Flood insurance is non-negotiable given your 76.46 flood risk score; it's not included in standard homeowners policies. Invest in a safe room or shelter for tornado protection, and ensure your policy covers wind, hail, and earthquake damage—you face meaningful risk across all three.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Vermilion County

via WeatherByCounty

A temperate humid continental climate

Vermilion County records an average annual temperature of 52.3°F, placing it near the national median for temperate regions. The area receives 41.6 inches of precipitation annually, matching the standard profile for the American Midwest.

Matching the Illinois state average

The county's 52.3°F average is nearly identical to the Illinois statewide average of 52.8°F. It ranks as a mid-tier county for temperature, avoiding the harsher northern cold while missing the southern heat.

Warmer than its northern neighbors

Vermilion stays notably warmer than northern peers like Will County, which averages 50.6°F. However, it remains cooler and drier than southern Wabash County, which sees over 48 inches of annual rain.

Balanced seasons with moderate snowfall

Summers bring 21 days of heat at or above 90°F, while winters average a chilly 29.2°F. Residents can expect about 19.6 inches of snow each year, typically falling between December and March.

Prepare for humidity and winter ice

Efficient HVAC systems are vital for the 21 extreme heat days and humid July nights. Homeowners should also maintain snow blowers or shovels to manage the nearly 20 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Vermilion County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral and Productive Eastern Soils

Vermilion County soil averages a pH of 6.52, almost exactly matching the national median of 6.5. This neutral profile is slightly higher than the Illinois state average of 6.39, creating an ideal environment for nutrient uptake. It provides a stable chemical foundation for both commercial corn and backyard gardens.

Silty Clay with Grit

The composition features 56.8% silt, 23.7% clay, and 19.5% sand. This mix provides a good balance of moisture retention from the clay and aeration from the sand. It is robust enough to hold nutrients but remains more workable than soils with higher clay concentrations.

Consistent Organic Matter Levels

At 2.99%, the organic matter content is slightly above the Illinois state average of 2.94%. However, the available water capacity of 0.190 in/in is a bit lower than the state average of 0.204 in/in. While the soil is naturally rich in nutrients, it may dry out faster than other Illinois soils during peak summer heat.

Managing Drainage for Peak Performance

While specific hydrologic groups are not recorded, the soil’s 19.5% sand content helps facilitate internal drainage. The moderate clay content ensures the soil doesn't lose all its moisture instantly. Proper mulching can help overcome the slightly lower-than-average water storage capacity.

Versatile Growing in Zone 6a

Vermilion County sits in Zone 6a, supporting a diverse range of crops from soybeans to snap peas. The neutral pH means you can grow most vegetables without adding lime or sulfur. It is a fantastic place to establish a home vegetable garden that produces all season long.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Vermilion County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growing Conditions in Vermilion

Vermilion County achieves a lawn difficulty score of 72.2, making it easier than the state average to maintain a healthy yard. The Hardiness Zone 6a classification allows for a wide variety of cool-season grass types.

Moderate Temperatures Support Growth

With 41.6 inches of precipitation and 21 extreme heat days, the climate closely mirrors state averages. The 3527 growing degree days provide a robust window for established turf to recover from winter dormancy.

Rich Clay Soil for Water Retention

A 23.7% clay content helps the soil hold onto moisture during dry spells, though it may require aeration to prevent compaction. The soil pH of 6.52 is ideal, requiring very little chemical adjustment for standard lawns.

Navigating a Year of Scarcity

Lawns here have struggled with 45 weeks of drought in the past year, and the entire county is currently in severe drought (D2+). Using mulch-mowing techniques can help retain soil moisture and protect roots from the current dry conditions.

Planting Around the Frost Window

Aim to seed or sod after the last frost on April 21 to ensure young grass isn't damaged by late cold snaps. Kentucky Bluegrass blends are highly successful here, provided they are established before the first fall frost on October 19.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vermilion County's county score?
Vermilion County, Illinois has a composite county score of 35.5 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 Vermilion County rank among counties in Illinois?
Vermilion County ranks #97 among all counties in Illinois 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 Vermilion County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Vermilion County is $1,666, with an effective tax rate of 1.79%. This earns Vermilion County a tax score of 5.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Vermilion County?
The median household income in Vermilion County, Illinois is $54,537 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Vermilion County earns an income score of 24.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Vermilion County, Illinois a good place to live?
Vermilion County scores 35.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #97 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Vermilion 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 Vermilion 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.