countyscore
50.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 80.6Health 78.5Soil Quality 75.9

County Report Card

About Walworth County, Wisconsin

A Typical Slice of American Life

Walworth County sits right at the national pulse with a composite score of 50.4, barely edging past the national median of 50.0. This score places the county in the middle of the pack for overall livability across the United States.

Matching the Wisconsin Standard

The county's overall score of 50.4 mirrors the Wisconsin state average of 50.3. It maintains a consistent quality of life that reflects the broader economic and social climate of the Badger State.

Strong Incomes and Healthy Living

With an income score of 80.6 and a health score of 78.5, residents enjoy significant economic stability and wellness. The median household income of $77,359 supports a high standard of living compared to many neighboring rural areas.

High Tax Burden and Living Costs

Affordability remains a hurdle, as seen in the low tax score of 15.8 and cost score of 17.0. An effective tax rate of 1.437% and median home values of $275,900 put a tighter squeeze on monthly budgets.

Ideal for Established Professionals

Walworth County is a strong fit for established families or professionals who value quality healthcare and high-performing schools. While taxes and housing are pricier, the robust local income levels help offset the higher cost of entry.

Score breakdown

Tax15.8Cost17Safety70Health78.5Schools73.8Income80.6Risk25.2Water42.7Weather49.5
🏛15.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠17
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼80.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡70
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤78.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡25.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧42.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤49.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨75.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱74
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

Kenosha County
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39.9
Racine County
Wisconsin
38.7
McHenry County
Illinois
52.3
Jefferson County
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Waukesha County
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Boone County
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Rock County
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Milwaukee County
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Deep Dives

Walworth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Walworth County

via TaxByCounty

Walworth taxes above the national norm

Walworth County's effective tax rate of 1.437% sits well above the national median of 1.1%, placing it in the upper half of all U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay $3,964 in median annual property taxes—47% more than the national median of $2,690.

Right in line with Wisconsin average

Walworth's 1.437% effective rate matches Wisconsin's state average almost exactly, ranking it around the middle of Wisconsin's 72 counties. The county's median tax bill of $3,964 exceeds the state average of $3,081 by $883 annually.

Higher than most regional peers

Compared to neighboring Washburn County (1.109%) and Washington County (1.200%), Walworth's rate is notably steeper. Only Waukesha County in the region substantially outpaces Walworth at 1.211% effective rate.

What $275,900 home costs annually

The median Walworth home worth $275,900 incurs $3,964 in annual property taxes at the current rate. If you financed that home with a mortgage, your tax bill reaches $4,004 due to valuation differences.

You might be overassessed

Research shows many Wisconsin homeowners, including those in Walworth, are assessed above fair market value. Consider filing a property tax appeal with your local assessor—it's free and could reduce your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Walworth County

via CostByCounty

Walworth rents slightly above national norm

Walworth County renters spend 16.9% of their income on housing, outpacing the nation's typical 14.9% rent-to-income ratio. The median household income here is $77,359—about 3% above the national median of $74,755—but housing costs climb faster than earnings.

More expensive than most Wisconsin peers

Walworth's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Wisconsin's pricier counties, exceeding the state average of 14.9%. At $1,090 monthly rent versus the state average of $891, Walworth renters pay roughly $200 more per month for the same housing.

Waukesha is pricier; Waupaca is cheaper

Walworth's $1,090 median rent falls between its neighbors: Waukesha County charges $1,300 (19% higher) while Waupaca County averages just $834 (23% lower). Among homebuyers, Walworth's $275,900 median value is also middle-ground—pricier than rural neighbors but less than Waukesha's $373,600.

Renters, not owners, feel the squeeze

Walworth renters dedicate 16.9% of income to housing versus homeowners at just 15.5% of income for mortgage costs. The county's $77,359 median income supports both markets, but rental affordability is the tighter constraint.

Renters: consider Waupaca or Winnebago

If affordability is your priority, nearby Waupaca and Winnebago offer cheaper rents (14.1% and 15.2% rent-to-income ratios) while keeping you in southern Wisconsin. Homebuyers will find Walworth's $275,900 median price competitive regionally if they can clear the $77,000+ income threshold.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Walworth County

via IncomeByCounty

Walworth earns above the national average

Walworth County's median household income of $77,359 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by about $2,600. This positions the county in the upper-middle tier nationally, outperforming roughly half of all U.S. counties in household earnings.

A top earner in Wisconsin

Walworth ranks among Wisconsin's higher-income counties, with its $77,359 median sitting $5,644 above the state average of $71,715. The county's per capita income of $42,771 also exceeds the state average of $38,794 by more than $3,900.

Strong income in the southeast region

Walworth's $77,359 median income outpaces nearby Winnebago County ($72,873) and falls below only the high-earning counties of Waukesha ($104,100) and Washington ($95,851) in the broader region. This positions Walworth as a solid middle ground for household earnings in southeast Wisconsin.

Housing costs are manageable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.9%, Walworth households spend just under one-fifth of income on housing—in line with the national standard. The median home value of $275,900 is accessible for a household earning $77,359, suggesting strong housing affordability relative to earnings.

Build financial security in Walworth

Walworth's above-average income provides real opportunity to invest beyond housing. Consider automating savings, diversifying into retirement accounts, or consulting a financial advisor to maximize wealth-building in this stable economic environment.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Walworth County

via CrimeByCounty

Walworth County Outpaces National Safety Averages

With a safety score of 98.9, Walworth County is significantly safer than the average American community. Its total crime rate of 705.8 per 100K residents is less than one-third of the national rate of 2,385.5.

Exceeding Wisconsin's Strong Safety Standards

Walworth's safety score of 98.9 sits above the Wisconsin state average of 98.3. A network of 16 reporting agencies works to keep the total crime rate well below the state average of 1,103.1.

Favorable Safety Comparison to Regional Neighbors

The county's crime rate of 705.8 per 100K is much lower than Winnebago County's 1,306.7. It also maintains a more secure profile than the overall state average total crime rate.

Low Violent Crime Rates Define the Area

Violent crime is rare at only 74.2 per 100K, far below the national violent crime rate of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 631.6 incidents, which remains a fraction of the national average of 2,015.7.

Staying Vigilant in a Safe Community

Maintaining these low numbers requires consistent community awareness and home security. Simple measures like smart doorbells and improved outdoor lighting help keep local neighborhoods secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Walworth County

via HealthByCounty

Walworth lives slightly longer than average

At 78.0 years, Walworth County residents live about 0.8 years longer than the U.S. average of 77.2 years. The county's 13.7% poor or fair health rate aligns closely with national trends, suggesting overall health outcomes comparable to the country as a whole.

Walworth edges ahead in state standings

Walworth's 78.0-year life expectancy ranks slightly above Wisconsin's 77.8-year average, positioning the county in the upper half of the state's health rankings. This modest advantage reflects relatively consistent healthcare access across the county's communities.

Stronger than rural northern neighbors

Walworth outpaces Washburn County (76.0 years) and Waupaca County (76.5 years), but trails the higher-performing eastern suburbs like Waukesha (80.3 years) and Washington (79.6 years). The gap widens notably in mental health provider availability: Walworth has 149 per 100K while Waukesha offers 315 per 100K.

Rising uninsured rates challenge access

Walworth's 7.8% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 7.0%, leaving roughly 1 in 13 residents without coverage. With 43 primary care providers per 100K—below the state's peer average—residents in underserved pockets may face longer waits for preventive appointments.

Explore your coverage options today

If you're among Walworth's 7.8% uninsured, connecting with a health insurance broker or visiting Wisconsin's marketplace can unlock affordable options and preventive care. Many employers and community health centers offer enrollment assistance during open season or upon qualifying life events.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Walworth County

via SchoolsByCounty

A diverse network of seventeen local districts

Walworth County operates a robust infrastructure of 46 public schools serving 15,219 students. The landscape features a balanced mix of 23 elementary schools and 10 high schools spread across 17 distinct districts. This decentralized system ensures local oversight for communities ranging from Lake Geneva to Whitewater.

High graduation rates with efficient spending

The county boasts an impressive 94.8% graduation rate, significantly outperforming the national average of 87%. While the per-pupil expenditure of $7,961 is lower than the $13,000 national benchmark, the composite school score of 58.1 exceeds the state average of 56.9. These figures suggest the county delivers high academic value for its investment.

Elkhorn Area leads the county's largest districts

The Elkhorn Area School District is the largest provider, educating 3,587 students across seven different schools. Families also have significant school choice options, with seven charter schools representing over 15% of the county's total public offerings. Delavan-Darien and Whitewater Unified also play major roles, serving nearly 4,000 students combined.

A mix of small towns and rural settings

Attending school here often means a small-town atmosphere, with 27 schools located in town centers and 17 in rural locales. Schools maintain an intimate feel with an average size of 346 students, though Badger High serves as the largest hub with 1,326 students. Educational attainment data for Bachelor's degrees is currently unavailable for this specific region.

Invest in a home near top-performing schools

With graduation rates nearly eight points higher than the national average, Walworth County is a premier destination for families. Prospective buyers can find homes near high-performing schools in districts like Elkhorn or Lake Geneva. Prioritizing school quality here means securing a future in a community that values academic results.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Walworth County

via RiskByCounty

Walworth's risk sits above the middle

Walworth County scores 74.78 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the relatively low risk category nationally. This is 26% higher than Wisconsin's state average of 59.08, but well below the most hazard-prone counties across the country.

Middling risk within Wisconsin

Among Wisconsin's 72 counties, Walworth ranks in the upper-middle tier for overall disaster risk. The county's score reflects elevated tornado and flood risks that exceed state averages, though wildfire and earthquake threats remain modest.

Riskier than surrounding counties

Walworth faces notably higher composite risk (74.78) compared to nearby Waushara County (43.26) and Waupaca County (67.59). However, neighboring Waukesha County (88.87) presents substantially greater overall hazard exposure.

Tornadoes and floods dominate here

Tornado risk reaches 88.20 in Walworth—among the highest in the state—while flood risk scores 73.16, meaning significant portions of the county sit in flood-prone areas. Wildfire risk remains low at 25.25, posing minimal threat to most residents.

Prioritize flood and wind coverage

Walworth residents should ensure comprehensive homeowners insurance that covers wind damage from severe storms and tornadoes. Standard policies don't cover flooding; separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is essential for properties in high-risk zones.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Walworth County

via WeatherByCounty

Wisconsin's Warmest Edge

Walworth County averages 48.2°F annually, making it one of the warmest regions in Wisconsin. While still cooler than the national median, it represents a more temperate southern-tier climate.

Above the State Average

The county is significantly warmer than the state average of 44.4°F. It also receives more precipitation than many northern counties, averaging 36.8 inches per year.

Warmer and Rainier Than Neighbors

Walworth is warmer than Sheboygan and receives more annual precipitation than most other counties in this group. It experiences far more extreme heat days than any of its northern counterparts.

Hot Summers and Milder Winters

Summers are intense with 15 days of heat over 90°F and a July average of 72.4°F. Winters are the mildest in the group, with a January average of 21.7°F and 40.1 inches of snow.

Focus on Cooling Capacity

Ensure your air conditioning can handle 15 days of 90-degree heat, the highest frequency in the region. While winters are milder, efficient heating is still needed for the 24.6°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Walworth County

via SoilByCounty

The Nutrient-Rich Alfisols of Walworth

Walworth County is dominated by Alfisols with a silt loam texture and an average pH of 6.13. This pH is slightly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 but remains significantly higher than the Wisconsin state average of 5.63. These soils are characteristic of the region's productive agricultural history.

A Balanced Silt Loam Mix

The soil composition features 46.4% silt, 30.3% sand, and 16.4% clay. This silty blend offers excellent workability and enough clay to hold onto vital nutrients without becoming overly heavy. It represents a versatile foundation for both large-scale farming and home gardening.

Solid Water Capacity and Organic Matter

With an organic matter content of 4.51%, Walworth easily beats the national average of 2.0%, though it sits below the state average of 11.02%. Its available water capacity of 0.203 in/in is nearly identical to the state benchmark of 0.204 in/in. This means the soil reliably holds moisture for crops during dry spells.

Well-Drained Land for Stable Building

The dominant soils are classified as well-drained and belong to hydrologic group C. This drainage profile is ideal for most crops because it prevents root rot while maintaining sufficient moisture. For builders, this indicates a soil that manages rain effectively without excessive ponding.

Bountiful Growth in Zone 5b

Walworth County sits in USDA hardiness zone 5b, making it a prime spot for corn, soybeans, and hardy vegetables. The silt loam texture provides an inviting environment for deep-rooted perennials and orchard fruits. You should feel confident starting a diverse vegetable garden in this high-scoring soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Walworth County

via LawnByCounty

Lush lawns are easier in Walworth

Walworth County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 74.0, making it significantly easier to maintain than the national median of 50.0. Its location in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b provides a hospitable environment for cool-season turf to thrive compared to the state average score of 64.4. Residents here enjoy a distinct advantage in establishing a green landscape.

Ample rain fuels vigorous growth

The county receives 36.8 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the Wisconsin average of 34.5 inches. While 15 extreme heat days double the state average, 2,812 growing degree days ensure plenty of warmth for a productive season. Mowing schedules remain busy from the last spring frost on April 30 until late October.

Ideal pH supports nutrient uptake

Soil here hits the sweet spot with a pH of 6.13, falling perfectly within the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for grass health. The well-drained silt loam texture, containing 16.4% clay and 30.3% sand, prevents waterlogging while holding enough moisture for roots. This natural balance reduces the need for heavy soil amendments or corrective liming.

Navigating seasonal dry spells

Despite the high precipitation, the county endured 13 weeks in drought over the past year, and 22.9% of the area currently faces abnormally dry conditions. Deep, infrequent watering is the best strategy to encourage deep root systems that can withstand these moderate dry periods. Keeping mower blades high helps shade the soil and retain precious moisture.

Start your Zone 5b lawn today

Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue are top choices for this climate and zone. The window between the April 30 spring frost and the October 21 fall frost provides a generous timeframe for establishing new sod. Late August or early September is the premium time to seed for best results before the winter freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Walworth County's county score?
Walworth County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 50.4 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 Walworth County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Walworth County ranks #41 among all counties in Wisconsin 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 Walworth County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Walworth County is $3,964, with an effective tax rate of 1.44%. This earns Walworth County a tax score of 15.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Walworth County?
The median household income in Walworth County, Wisconsin is $77,359 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Walworth County earns an income score of 80.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Walworth County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Walworth County scores 50.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #41 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Walworth 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 Walworth County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.