countyscore
62.5
County Score
Safety 94.5Disaster Risk 87.1Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Wadena County, Minnesota

Wadena County Rises Above National Median

Wadena County earns a composite score of 62.5, placing it significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This identifies it as a high-quality location for residents seeking a quiet, secure life.

Beating the Minnesota State Average

At 62.5, Wadena County sits comfortably above the Minnesota state average of 55.8. Its performance is particularly strong given its rural character and focus on community safety.

Exceptional Safety and Environmental Stability

Wadena County is defined by an incredible safety score of 94.5 and a risk score of 87.1. It is one of the safest counties in the nation, with very little exposure to environmental or criminal threats.

Low Incomes and School Scores

The county struggles with an income score of 30.0 and a school score of 38.1. With a median household income of $56,882, economic opportunities and educational funding lag behind other state regions.

Best for Peace, Safety, and Low Costs

Wadena County is an excellent fit for those on a fixed income or retirees prioritizing absolute safety and low living costs. It provides a peaceful, low-risk environment for those who don't require high local wages.

Score breakdown

Tax35.2Cost64Safety94.5Health72Schools38.1Income30Risk87.1Water86Weather48.5
🏛35.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠64
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼30
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡94.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤72
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡87.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤48.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨59.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.5
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

Todd County
Minnesota
55.4
Otter Tail County
Minnesota
51.7
Hubbard County
Minnesota
50.3
Becker County
Minnesota
52.7
Cass County
Minnesota
57.2
Crow Wing County
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49.3
Morrison County
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50.8
Douglas County
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56.4

Deep Dives

Wadena County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wadena County

via TaxByCounty

Wadena County taxes moderately above US median

Wadena County's effective tax rate of 1.040% sits above the national median of 0.98%, placing it in the upper 40% of US counties. The median property tax of $1,773 falls well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting a median home value of $170,500 that's considerably lower than the national average.

Above Minnesota average with modest homes

Wadena County's 1.040% effective tax rate exceeds Minnesota's state average of 0.968%, placing it among the higher-tax counties. At $1,773, its median property tax is below the state median of $2,168, a result of lower home values compensating for the higher rate.

Mid-to-upper range in regional comparison

Wadena's 1.040% rate falls between Todd (0.995%) and Stearns (1.020%), making it mid-range regionally but higher than most peers. Homeowners here pay roughly $300-400 annually more than in Todd or Swift counties on comparably valued homes.

Annual tax bill averages $1,773

On Wadena County's median home valued at $170,500, property taxes average approximately $1,773 per year. With a mortgage, expect about $1,684; without, closer to $1,887.

Assessment review recommended for all owners

Wadena homeowners benefit from exploring assessment appeals, as overvaluation affects roughly one in three property owners statewide. A successful challenge could reduce your tax bill by $150-300 annually—a straightforward process handled by your county assessor.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wadena County

via CostByCounty

Wadena struggles despite low rents

Wadena County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio matches national averages, but the $56,882 median income—the lowest in this eight-county sample—reveals underlying economic strain. The $706 monthly rent is affordable, yet even modest rents consume a significant share of below-average earnings.

Slightly above Minnesota's average pressure

At 14.9%, Wadena County's ratio edges above Minnesota's 14.5% state average, despite the $706 rent running below the state median of $915. The gap reflects Wadena's lower income base, which amplifies housing burden even when rents are competitive.

Lowest income with modest rents

Wadena County's $706 rent is the second-lowest in the cluster (after Traverse at $617), yet the $56,882 income is the lowest—creating proportional strain. Only Swift County ($62,601) comes close to Wadena's income constraints.

Low income limits affordability gains

Renters spend $706 monthly while homeowners invest $883, with a median home value of $170,500. At 14.9% of a $56,882 income, Wadena residents dedicate a concerning share to rent alone, leaving minimal room for savings or unexpected expenses.

Only for those with external income

Wadena County's low rents won't overcome limited local employment and wages without supplemental income like remote work or pensions. Consider this market only if your income is secure and independent of local job prospects.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wadena County

via IncomeByCounty

Wadena faces significant income gap nationally

Wadena County's median household income of $56,882 falls $17,873 below the national median of $74,755—the largest deficit among all counties analyzed. This substantial income challenge stems from limited employer scale and dependence on agriculture and declining manufacturing sectors.

Minnesota's lowest-income county studied

At $56,882, Wadena ranks as the lowest-earning county in this Minnesota analysis, trailing the state average of $75,757 by over $18,000. The county's per capita income of $30,037 also ranks lowest, indicating systemic income constraints across the entire workforce.

Wadena struggles most among all peers

Wadena County's $56,882 median income ranks lowest among all eight counties, falling well below Steele ($83,448), Stearns ($76,447), and even other rural counties like Swift ($62,601) and Todd ($63,039). The county faces structural economic disadvantages requiring targeted investment and workforce development.

Housing costs require tight budgeting

Wadena's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% indicates housing costs consume a substantial portion of household earnings, compounded by the county's overall income constraints. A median home value of $170,500 means most families must carefully balance housing costs against other essential expenses.

Persistence builds wealth from modest means

Wadena County households should embrace accessible wealth tools: maximize employer matches, use low-cost index funds through programs like Roth IRAs, and consider side income opportunities to supplement wage earnings. Starting with even $25 monthly and increasing contributions as income grows establishes wealth-building momentum that compounds dramatically over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wadena County

via CrimeByCounty

Wadena County reaches a perfect safety score

Wadena County reports a nearly nonexistent crime rate of 14.2 per 100,000 residents. This results in a perfect safety score of 100.0, placing it at the very top of national safety rankings. Three reporting agencies maintain an incredibly quiet and secure environment.

Leading the state in public safety excellence

The county's crime rate of 14.2 is a tiny fraction of the Minnesota average of 1,123.5. With a perfect 100.0 safety score, Wadena far exceeds the state average of 98.2. It is effectively the gold standard for safety within the state.

Unmatched security compared to neighboring counties

Wadena County's crime rate is drastically lower than Todd County's rate of 815.0. No other nearby county approaches the near-zero crime figures reported here. This makes Wadena one of the most uniquely peaceful places in the Upper Midwest.

Virtually zero violent or property crime

The county reports a violent crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 people. Property crime is nearly as low at 14.2, meaning criminal activity is almost unheard of for most residents. These numbers represent an extraordinary level of community safety.

Preserving a culture of safety and trust

In a county with virtually no crime, safety is maintained through strong community bonds and trust. Basic precautions like locking away tools and bikes are enough to prevent the rarest of incidents. Your active presence in the community keeps Wadena County at its perfect score.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wadena County

via HealthByCounty

Wadena below U.S. health benchmarks

Wadena County's life expectancy of 77.1 years falls 1.3 years short of the U.S. average of 78.4 years. The county's 17.4% poor or fair health rate—the highest among all profiled counties—significantly exceeds the national average of 16.0%.

Among Minnesota's lowest health performers

Wadena County's 77.1-year life expectancy trails Minnesota's state average of 78.7 years by 1.6 years. Its 17.4% poor or fair health rate ranks among the worst in the state, signaling significant population health challenges.

Struggles alongside Todd and Swift

At 77.1 years, Wadena County's life expectancy exceeds only Traverse (76.3 years) among profiled counties. Wadena's 17.4% poor or fair health rate surpasses even Todd County's 16.8%, making it the most health-challenged county in this analysis.

Mental health capacity despite access gaps

Wadena County has 386 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in the region—but only 49 primary care providers, leaving gaps in basic care access. With 6.3% uninsured, slightly above the state average, many residents struggle to access the primary care they need first.

Wadena needs coverage and care

Wadena County faces the steepest health challenges in this analysis, and insurance is your first line of defense. Visit MNsure.org today to explore coverage options that can connect you with the primary and mental health care your community needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wadena County

via SchoolsByCounty

Wadena County’s Diverse Education Landscape

Wadena County supports 14 public schools across 5 districts, serving a student population of 3,221. The system includes 4 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 6 high schools, alongside 3 specialized educational facilities. This network provides coverage for students across the county’s largely rural terrain.

Investing in the Next Generation

The county spends $8,234 per pupil, which is close to the Minnesota state average of $8,463. While the graduation rate currently sits at 78.6%, the county maintains a school score of 50.2, which is in line with the national median. Local leaders continue to focus on improving outcomes through these targeted investments.

Spotlight on Wadena-Deer Creek Schools

The Wadena-Deer Creek School District is the largest provider in the county, serving 1,088 students. Menahga Public School District is also a significant player, educating nearly 1,000 students. There are no charter schools in Wadena County, as the existing five districts manage all public enrollment.

A Predominantly Rural Learning Experience

With 13 of its 14 schools located in rural settings, Wadena County offers a classic countryside education. Menahga Elementary is the largest school with 681 students, but the overall average school size remains small at 230. This rural focus creates a tight-knit and supportive environment for local learners.

Discover a Home in Wadena County

Families seeking a rural lifestyle with strong community roots will find Wadena County very appealing. Living near the Wadena-Deer Creek or Menahga schools ensures your children are part of a school system that is the heart of the community. Explore the area today to find a home that fits your educational priorities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wadena County

via RiskByCounty

Wadena County enjoys very low disaster risk

Wadena County's composite risk score of 12.95 sits well below Minnesota's state average of 42.38, placing it firmly in the very low risk category. The county represents a relatively safe community for natural disaster exposure.

Among Minnesota's safest counties

Wadena County ranks in the lowest quartile of Minnesota's 87 counties for natural disaster risk, with a 12.95 composite score. Only a handful of counties in the state present less overall hazard exposure.

Safer than Stearns, comparable to Todd

Wadena County (12.95) dramatically outperforms its eastern neighbor Stearns County (87.56), while approaching the risk profile of Todd County (37.72). Its position in central Minnesota provides geographic separation from highest-risk zones.

Wildfire represents primary concern

Wildfire risk at 65.55 is Wadena County's most significant natural disaster exposure, though it remains below crisis thresholds. Tornado (30.31) and flood (27.64) risks trail substantially behind, creating manageable overall hazard exposure.

Wildfire preparedness plus standard coverage

Wadena County residents should maintain defensible space around homes to address the 65.55 wildfire risk. Standard homeowners insurance adequately covers most weather-related perils in this low-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wadena County

via WeatherByCounty

A Frigid Northern Climate Profile

Wadena County is one of the coldest spots in the nation, with an annual average of only 40.2°F. This puts it nearly 13 degrees below the national median temperature.

Colder than Most of Minnesota

At 40.2°F, Wadena is much cooler than the state average of 42.8°F. It ranks in the lower tier of Minnesota counties for overall annual warmth.

Heavy Snow and Limited Heat

Wadena sees 50.8 inches of snow, trailing only slightly behind Todd County's 54.0 inches. It records just 3 days of extreme heat, making it much cooler than Swift County.

Deep Winter and Brief Summers

January is brutal with an 8.1°F average, while summer peaks at a modest 67.8°F in July. Winter lasts through a 12.0°F average during the December-February stretch.

Winter Survival is a Lifestyle

Homeowners must prioritize insulation and heating system reliability for the 8.1°F January lows. Outdoor summer planning is easy, as extreme heat days are very rare.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wadena County

via SoilByCounty

Strongly Acidic Soils of the North

Wadena County has a very low average pH of 5.31, making it one of the most acidic regions in the state. This is significantly below the national median and usually indicates a landscape shaped by pine forests and glacial outwash.

Coarse and Sandy Texture

The soil is nearly 60% sand (59.5%) with a very low clay content of 7.1%. This creates a coarse texture that is easy to dig but doesn't hold onto water or nutrients particularly well on its own.

Incredible Organic Richness

Despite its sandy nature, the county boasts a massive 13.98% organic matter content, well above the state average. This high organic load helps improve the available water capacity, which sits at a decent 0.182 in/in.

Managing Rapid Drainage

Although specific drainage data is N/A, the nearly 60% sand content ensures that water moves through the soil quickly. This prevents ponding but means that gardens in Wadena County will likely need more frequent watering during dry spells.

Cold-Hardy Gardening in Zone 4a

In the cooler Zone 4a, Wadena’s 59.4 soil score reflects the challenge of acidity and sand. It is a perfect place for blueberries, potatoes, and evergreens that prefer a low pH and well-aerated ground.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wadena County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Conditions for Wadena

Wadena County faces a difficult lawn difficulty score of 42.5, well below the state and national averages. Located in Zone 4a, the county deals with a very short growing season and harsh soil conditions. Homeowners here must be proactive to maintain a healthy lawn through the year.

A Short Window for Growth

With just 1,962 growing degree days, grass has a limited time to recover from the long Minnesota winters. The growing season is squeezed between a May 10 spring frost and a September 30 fall frost. Annual precipitation is 29.3 inches, which is slightly below the state average.

Acidic Sand and Nutrient Loss

The soil is 59.5% sand with a very acidic pH of 5.31, which is significantly below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. This acidity can lock out essential nutrients, and the high sand content allows water to bypass the roots too quickly. Significant lime and compost additions are required to stabilize this soil.

Battling Chronic Drought Stress

Wadena County spent 41 weeks in drought last year, and 100.0% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. In such sandy soil, this lack of moisture is devastating for traditional lawn grasses. Constant monitoring and water conservation strategies are essential to keep turf alive here.

Hardy Species for Tough Soils

Given the 5.31 pH and sandy soil, Fine Fescues are your best option because they tolerate acidity and poor soils better than Bluegrass. Aim to seed as early as possible after the May 10 frost to maximize the short growing season. Be prepared to provide consistent irrigation given the current 100% dry status.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wadena County's county score?
Wadena County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 62.5 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 Wadena County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Wadena County ranks #27 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 Wadena County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Wadena County is $1,773, with an effective tax rate of 1.04%. This earns Wadena County a tax score of 35.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wadena County?
The median household income in Wadena County, Minnesota is $56,882 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wadena County earns an income score of 30/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wadena County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Wadena County scores 62.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #27 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Wadena 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 Wadena County with other counties side by side.

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