countyscore
64.4
County Score
Health 96.1Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 84

County Report Card

About Wabasha County, Minnesota

Wabasha County Excels Nationally

With a composite score of 64.4, Wabasha County easily beats the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a premier destination for those seeking a high-standard American lifestyle.

A Top Performer in Minnesota

Wabasha County outperforms the already high Minnesota state average of 55.8. It combines high incomes with excellent public services to create a highly desirable regional hub.

Elite Health and High Incomes

Wabasha County boasts a near-perfect health score of 96.1 and a high income score of 84.0. With a median household income of $80,133, residents enjoy both financial success and world-class medical access.

Higher Tax Burdens

The county’s main drawback is its tax score of 32.0, reflecting an effective tax rate of 1.088%. While school and health services are strong, the cost of funding these amenities is visible in the local tax bills.

Built for Affluent, Health-Conscious Families

Wabasha County is the ultimate destination for established families who value health and safety above all else. It offers a high-end lifestyle for those who don't mind paying slightly higher taxes for superior services.

Score breakdown

Tax32Cost41.8Safety81.4Health96.1Schools68Income84Risk54.5Water86Weather46
🏛32
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠41.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼84
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡81.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤96.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡54.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱79.1
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

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56.5
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Goodhue County
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Winona County
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Deep Dives

Wabasha County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wabasha County

via TaxByCounty

Wabasha County taxes among US highest

Wabasha County's effective tax rate of 1.088% ranks well above the national median of 0.98%, placing it in the top 25% of US counties by tax burden. The median property tax of $2,675 nearly matches the national median of $2,690, despite a median home value of $245,800 that's below the national average.

Second-highest Minnesota county rate

Wabasha County's 1.088% effective tax rate ranks second-highest in Minnesota, exceeded only by Steele County's 1.206%. Its median property tax of $2,675 is $507 above the state median of $2,168, affecting every homeowner significantly.

Among region's highest tax burdens

Wabasha's 1.088% rate trails only Steele County (1.206%) in the region and exceeds all others: Stearns (1.020%), Wadena (1.040%), and Todd (0.995%). A $245,000 home in Wabasha generates roughly $600 more annual tax than in Stearns.

Median annual tax reaches $2,675

On Wabasha County's median home valued at $245,800, property taxes average approximately $2,675 per year. With a mortgage, homeowners pay about $2,754; without, approximately $2,566.

High-tax county makes appeals especially valuable

In Wabasha's high-tax environment, a successful assessment appeal could save you $300-500 annually—substantial money back into your household budget. Given the county's elevated rates, it's worth scheduling a review with your assessor at no cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wabasha County

via CostByCounty

Wabasha balances income and affordability

Wabasha County's 11.9% rent-to-income ratio is excellent—well below the national average—supported by a $80,133 median income that exceeds national norms by 7%. The $798 monthly rent remains moderate, making Wabasha an attractive option for those seeking both solid earnings and housing affordability.

Among Minnesota's most affordable counties

At 11.9%, Wabasha County beats Minnesota's 14.5% state average, ranking among the state's most affordable housing markets. The $798 rent runs $117 below the state average, while the $80,133 income provides residents a comfortable buffer.

Strong affordability with higher incomes

Wabasha County's $798 rent is competitive with Stevens ($833) and Todd ($850), but the $80,133 income—second-highest in the cluster—makes housing more accessible here. The $245,800 median home value reflects modest appreciation potential for homeowners.

Optimal balance for homeowners

Renters pay just $798 monthly while homeowners invest $1,161, with a median home value of $245,800. At 11.9% of the $80,133 income, Wabasha residents allocate minimal housing burden to rent while retaining strong equity-building capacity through homeownership.

Sweet spot for stability seekers

Wabasha County combines above-average wages with below-average housing costs, appealing to families and homebuyers seeking stability. Compare it to Steele County if you want similar income levels with slightly more affordable rents.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wabasha County

via IncomeByCounty

Wabasha earns solidly above national average

Wabasha County's median household income of $80,133 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $5,378. This strong income position reflects diversified employment across healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services anchored by communities like Winona and Rochester.

Among Minnesota's top earners

At $80,133, Wabasha ranks well above Minnesota's state average of $75,757, placing it among the higher-income counties statewide. The county's per capita income of $42,262 also exceeds the state average of $39,335, signaling strong wage distribution across the population.

Second-highest earner in the region

Wabasha's $80,133 median income ranks second only to Steele County ($83,448), significantly outpacing Stearns ($76,447), Stevens ($71,060), and all lower-income neighbors. The county's proximity to the Rochester metro area drives competitive wages and economic stability.

Balanced housing costs, strong affordability

Wabasha's rent-to-income ratio of 11.9% ranks among the lowest in the region, meaning housing costs are comfortably manageable for most households. A median home value of $245,800 reflects healthy market dynamics where strong incomes support sustained homeownership and equity building.

Strong income fuels wealth acceleration

Wabasha County's above-average income and low housing ratios create ideal conditions for aggressive wealth building—maximize retirement contributions, diversify into taxable investments, and consider additional savings vehicles like HSAs. With household earnings $5,000+ above the national average and housing costs well-controlled, residents can meaningfully close the wealth gap within 10–15 years.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wabasha County

via CrimeByCounty

Wabasha County enjoys a very high safety rating

With a total crime rate of 442.7 per 100,000, Wabasha County is much safer than the national average of 2,385.5. The county holds a strong safety score of 99.3. Three agencies provide comprehensive coverage to ensure a safe riverfront community.

A standout performer for safety in Minnesota

Wabasha County's crime rate of 442.7 is well below the statewide average of 1,123.5 per 100,000 residents. Its safety score of 99.3 ranks higher than the state average of 98.2. This county remains one of the more peaceful areas in the southern part of the state.

Comparing safety across the southern region

Wabasha County is significantly safer than nearby Steele County, which has a crime rate of 1,131.1. It also maintains lower incident rates than many other counties in the Mississippi River corridor. This makes Wabasha a prime choice for families seeking security.

Violent crime is extremely rare in Wabasha

The violent crime rate is just 37.3 per 100,000, which is nearly ten times lower than the national average. Property crime stands at 405.4, indicating that most law enforcement calls are for non-violent issues. Residents enjoy a very low risk of physical confrontation.

Enhancing home safety with simple precautions

Low crime rates can lead to complacency, so remember to lock doors and windows. Installing motion-activated lights is a cost-effective way to prevent the property crimes that do occur. Your participation in community safety programs helps keep Wabasha County secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wabasha County

via HealthByCounty

Wabasha enjoys above-average health

Wabasha County's life expectancy of 80.8 years exceeds the U.S. average by 2.4 years. At 12.5% poor or fair health, Wabasha performs significantly better than the national average of 16.0%, suggesting strong population wellness.

Top-ranked health outcomes in Minnesota

Wabasha County's 80.8-year life expectancy beats Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years by 2.1 years. The county's 12.5% poor or fair health rate ranks among the best in the state.

Southeast Minnesota's health leader

Wabasha County's 80.8-year life expectancy trails only Stevens County (82.9 years) in the region and beats Steele and Stearns at 80.0 years. With the lowest poor or fair health rate among southern peers, Wabasha delivers strong health outcomes.

Excellent coverage and primary care access

Wabasha County has 79 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and a low 4.7% uninsured rate—the best in the region and well below the state average of 6.0%. Mental health provider access at 37 per 100,000 lags regional standards, but overall care accessibility remains strong.

Maintain Wabasha's health momentum

Wabasha County's success rests partly on having the lowest uninsured rate in this analysis. If you're uninsured, visit MNsure.org to join your neighbors in protecting your health.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wabasha County

via SchoolsByCounty

Wabasha County’s Regional School Network

Wabasha County features 11 public schools across 4 districts, serving 3,581 students. The infrastructure is well-rounded, including 4 elementary, 2 middle, and 4 high schools, plus a specialized alternative facility. This variety ensures that students of all ages and needs are accommodated.

Leading the State in Graduation Success

Wabasha County excels with a 93.9% graduation rate, nearly 7 points higher than the national average. The county achieves these results with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,637, demonstrating significant efficiency. The school score of 57.0 is well above the state and national averages.

Spotlight on Plainview-Elgin-Millville

The Plainview-Elgin-Millville district is the county's largest, educating 1,502 students across 4 schools. Other major districts include Zumbrota-Mazeppa and Wabasha-Kellogg. No charter schools operate in the county, as the traditional public districts maintain a very high standard of performance.

Community Schools in a Scenic Landscape

The county's schools are split between 6 rural locations and 5 town settings, offering a diverse feel for students. Bluff View Elementary in Lake City is the largest campus with 616 students. With an average school size of 358, the schools are large enough for diverse programs but small enough for a community feel.

Move Near Wabasha’s Top-Performing Schools

Wabasha County is a standout choice for home buyers who prioritize academic excellence. Homes in Plainview or Lake City offer direct access to districts with some of the best graduation rates in Minnesota. Make a smart investment in your family's future by exploring the real estate here.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wabasha County

via RiskByCounty

Wabasha County exceeds state average risk

Wabasha County's composite risk score of 45.55 surpasses Minnesota's state average of 42.38, placing it in the relatively low category. The county faces above-average exposure primarily to flooding and tornado activity.

Mid-range risk among Minnesota counties

Wabasha County ranks in the upper-middle tier of Minnesota's counties for natural disaster risk, with a 45.55 composite score. The county's flood and tornado risks notably exceed those of safer counties to the west.

Higher risk than western neighbors

Wabasha County (45.55) faces noticeably elevated risk compared to Steele (37.15) and Todd (37.72) counties to the west. Its position in southeastern Minnesota places it closer to established flood and severe weather corridors.

Flooding and tornadoes dominate threats

Wabasha County faces significant flood risk at 61.07 and tornado risk at 61.67, making these dual hazards the county's defining natural disaster profile. Wildfire (13.52) and earthquake (3.56) risks remain minimal by comparison.

Flood coverage essential here

Flood insurance is critical for Wabasha County residents given the 61.07 flood risk score—standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage. A reinforced safe room or storm shelter addresses the significant tornado threat (61.67).

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wabasha County

via WeatherByCounty

Milder Temperatures in the River Valley

Wabasha County is relatively warm for its latitude, averaging 45.0°F annually. While still cooler than the national median, it benefits from the topography of the Mississippi River valley.

Warmer than the Minnesota Average

With a 45.0°F average, Wabasha is significantly warmer than the 42.8°F state mean. It ranks as one of the most temperate counties in southern Minnesota.

Wetter and Warmer than Central Counties

Wabasha is much wetter than Todd County, receiving 35.3 inches of precipitation compared to Todd’s 31.0. It also experiences 12 extreme heat days, more than double the count in Wadena.

Rainy Springs and Humid Summers

July averages 71.7°F, while winter is softened by an 18.1°F December-February average. The county sees 40.5 inches of snow, which is lower than many of its northern peers.

Plan for High Humidity and Rainfall

Effective drainage and basement waterproofing are important given the high 35.3 inches of annual rain. Residents should also prepare for 12 days of 90°F heat each summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wabasha County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Loams in Driftless Country

Wabasha County features an average pH of 6.42, which is remarkably close to the national median of 6.5. This balanced acidity makes it a versatile environment for a wide variety of plant species without needing significant adjustment.

High Silt Content for Silky Soils

The soil is dominated by 52.2% silt, combined with 30.7% sand and 16.9% clay. This 'silky' texture offers great fertility and moisture retention, though it can be prone to erosion on the county's famous bluffs.

Lower Organic Matter, High Water Storage

At 2.62%, the organic matter is much lower than the Minnesota average of 9.90% but still stays above the national average. Fortunately, the available water capacity of 0.197 in/in is very strong, keeping plants hydrated.

Excellent Water Retention

Detailed drainage classes are not provided, but the high silt percentage suggests a soil that absorbs water efficiently. In the hilly terrain of Wabasha County, managing runoff is key to protecting these productive silty layers.

Thriving in the 4b Hardiness Zone

A soil score of 73.1 puts Wabasha right at the state average for quality. This is an ideal environment for orchards and diverse vegetable gardens that appreciate the consistent moisture and neutral pH.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wabasha County

via LawnByCounty

Ideal Growing in Wabasha County

Wabasha County earns a high lawn difficulty score of 79.1, making it a premier location for lush grass. This score far exceeds the state average of 63.9 and the national median. The local environment in Zone 4b is naturally supportive of healthy, vibrant turfgrass.

Abundant Moisture Drives Success

With 35.3 inches of annual precipitation, Wabasha receives more than enough rain to keep a lawn thriving. It experiences 12 days of extreme heat, but the high rainfall and 2,582 growing degree days provide a robust recovery window. Growth is active from early May through the first frost on October 2.

Perfect pH for Lush Turf

The soil pH is 6.42, which falls squarely in the sweet spot for nutrient uptake in grass. A sand content of 30.7% and clay at 16.9% provides a balanced structure for root growth. While drainage class data is N/A, these soil numbers indicate a healthy, productive foundation for any landscape.

Strong Resilience Against Dryness

Wabasha County only saw 5 weeks of drought over the past year and remains at 0.0% abnormally dry today. This stability, combined with 35.3 inches of rain, means homeowners rarely face brown-out conditions. Even during heat waves, the balanced soil helps the lawn stay resilient without constant intervention.

Prime Time for Seeding

Begin your lawn projects after the May 7 frost date for the best results. The 2,582 growing degree days provide more than enough warmth to establish a thick, weed-resistant lawn by autumn. Kentucky Bluegrass thrives in these nearly ideal pH and moisture conditions.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wabasha County's county score?
Wabasha County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 64.4 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 Wabasha County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Wabasha County ranks #24 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 Wabasha County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Wabasha County is $2,675, with an effective tax rate of 1.09%. This earns Wabasha County a tax score of 32/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wabasha County?
The median household income in Wabasha County, Minnesota is $80,133 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wabasha County earns an income score of 84/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wabasha County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Wabasha County scores 64.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #24 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Wabasha 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 Wabasha 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.