countyscore
58.2
County Score
Safety 84.5Schools 68.9Disaster Risk 67.3

County Report Card

About Washburn County, Wisconsin

Outperforming the National Median

Washburn County earns an impressive composite score of 58.2, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This ranking suggests a higher-than-average quality of life compared to most counties across the country.

A Wisconsin Standout for Livability

With its 58.2 score, Washburn significantly exceeds the Wisconsin state average of 50.3. This performance marks it as one of the more desirable northern counties for residents seeking stability and security.

Exceptional Safety and Low Risk

The county excels in security with a safety score of 84.5 and a risk score of 67.3. Residents benefit from a peaceful environment and a median gross rent of only $815, making it an affordable haven.

Lower Incomes and Water Quality Concerns

Economic growth is slower here, with an income score of 42.9 and a median household income of $61,270. Additionally, the water score of 31.1 indicates room for improvement in local infrastructure and resource management.

Perfect for Seekers of Security

This county is best suited for retirees or remote workers who prioritize safety and low environmental risk over high-climbing salaries. It offers a tranquil, low-cost lifestyle that is hard to find elsewhere in the state.

Score breakdown

Tax30.6Cost49.9Safety84.5Health61.1Schools68.9Income42.9Risk67.3Water31.1Weather50.1
🏛30.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠49.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼42.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡84.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤61.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓68.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡67.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧31.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.8
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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Deep Dives

Washburn County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Washburn County

via TaxByCounty

Washburn's taxes rank among nation's lowest

At 1.109%, Washburn County has an effective tax rate well below the national median, placing it in the bottom quartile of U.S. counties. Residents pay just $2,305 in median annual property taxes—14% less than the national median of $2,690.

Wisconsin's most tax-friendly county

Washburn County ranks among the lowest in Wisconsin with a 1.109% effective rate, significantly below the state average of 1.436%. Its median property tax of $2,305 is the lowest among all profiled Wisconsin counties.

A regional tax bargain

Washburn's rate undercuts nearly every regional peer, from Walworth (1.437%) to Winnebago (1.713%). Only Washington County's 1.200% comes close to challenging Washburn's advantage.

What $207,900 home costs annually

The median Washburn home valued at $207,900 carries a tax bill of just $2,305 per year. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly less ($2,230), while those without see $2,413 in annual taxes.

Even in affordable Washburn, appeal errors exist

Even counties with lower rates can have assessment errors affecting individual properties. If you believe your assessment is too high, Washburn's assessor office handles free appeals that could yield savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washburn County

via CostByCounty

Washburn rents well below national average

Washburn County's 16.0% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds the national 14.9%, but the county's low absolute rents of $815/month are a major relief compared to higher-cost regions. Despite a median household income of $61,270—18% below the national average—Washburn offers genuine housing affordability.

Wisconsin's most affordable rents

Washburn ranks among Wisconsin's most affordable counties with $815 monthly rent versus the state average of $891. At 16.0% rent-to-income ratio, Washburn hovers just slightly above Wisconsin's 14.9% state average despite lower incomes.

Cheapest rents in the region

Washburn's $815 rent undercuts every measured neighbor: Waupaca ($834), Waushara ($789, slightly lower), and Winnebago ($924). For budget-conscious renters, Washburn and rural Waushara are the region's affordability champions.

Low income, low costs align well

Washburn's $61,270 median income is paired with equally modest housing costs: $815 rent and $895 monthly owner costs. While incomes lag the state, the county maintains balance—neither renters nor homeowners face disproportionate housing burdens.

Budget movers: Washburn is your answer

Washburn County delivers genuine affordability with the state's lowest absolute rents and a welcoming 16.0% rent-to-income ratio. If you're relocating with a modest income, Washburn offers breathing room that pricier Wisconsin counties cannot match.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washburn County

via IncomeByCounty

Washburn lags the national income average

Washburn County's median household income of $61,270 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by approximately $13,485. This places the county in the lower third nationally, indicating below-average household earnings compared to the broader U.S.

Below average for Wisconsin

Washburn ranks in the lower tier of Wisconsin counties, with its $61,270 median income trailing the state average of $71,715 by $10,445. Per capita income of $36,411 also lags the state's $38,794 average, signaling economic challenges relative to peer counties.

Lowest income among nearby peers

Washburn's $61,270 median household income is the lowest in its region, falling well below Waupaca ($71,189), Waushara ($64,968), and Wood ($66,417) counties. This economic disparity reflects Washburn's more rural character and limited job market compared to surrounding areas.

Housing costs stretch household budgets

Washburn's rent-to-income ratio of 16.0% is reasonable in absolute terms, but the lower median income of $61,270 makes the median home value of $207,900 relatively less affordable. Households here have tighter margins for non-housing expenses compared to higher-income counties.

Strategic financial planning for Washburn

Lower household incomes require disciplined budgeting and intentional savings. Prioritize emergency funds, explore low-cost retirement savings options, and investigate local workforce development programs that could boost earning potential over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washburn County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite National Safety in Washburn County

Washburn County earns an exceptional safety score of 99.4, making it one of the more secure regions in the country. The total crime rate of 359.6 per 100K is vastly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the Way in Wisconsin Safety

The county's safety score beats the Wisconsin state average of 98.3 by a notable margin. Three local reporting agencies coordinate to maintain a crime rate that is nearly three times lower than the state average.

Regional Security Leader Among Neighbors

Washburn's crime rate of 359.6 per 100K is even lower than Waupaca County's impressive 499.8. It stands as a top-tier safety performer compared to both local and state averages.

Minimal Property and Violent Crime Incidents

Property crime sits at just 269.7 per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 89.9. Both metrics are significantly better than the national levels, where property crime exceeds 2,000 per 100K.

Preserving Your Local Peace of Mind

Even in an exceptionally safe county, basic home security provides essential protection. Locking doors and utilizing motion-sensor lights ensures the community remains a secure haven for all.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Washburn County

via HealthByCounty

Washburn lags national health benchmarks

Washburn County's 76.0-year life expectancy falls 1.2 years short of the U.S. average of 77.2 years, while its 16.9% poor or fair health rate exceeds the national norm. These gaps suggest chronic disease and preventive care gaps that require attention.

Washburn ranks below Wisconsin average

At 76.0 years, Washburn's life expectancy ranks among the lowest in Wisconsin, falling 1.8 years below the state average of 77.8 years. The county's health challenges place it in the lower third of state performance metrics.

Similar challenges to Waupaca County

Washburn and Waupaca County (76.5 years) face comparable health headwinds, significantly trailing Winnebago County (77.9 years) just to the south. Despite Washburn's strong primary care density at 96 per 100K, outcomes suggest barriers beyond provider availability—possibly transportation, income, or preventive engagement.

Rural isolation compounds coverage gaps

Washburn's 8.4% uninsured rate is the second-highest among these counties, exceeding the state average by 1.4 percentage points. Geographic distance and rural poverty likely limit residents' ability to reach care, even with 148 mental health providers available per 100K.

Coverage options start with a conversation

Washburn residents without insurance should contact Rural Health Clinic community navigators or Wisconsin's BadgerCare program to explore low-cost options tailored to farming and seasonal work patterns. Medicaid expansion eligibility can unlock critical preventive and mental health services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Washburn County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-scale education across four rural districts

Washburn County maintains a focused education system with 16 public schools serving just 2,231 total students. These schools are managed by four districts, providing a highly personalized environment for the region's youth. The infrastructure includes six elementary and five high schools, ensuring coverage from early childhood through graduation.

Superior graduation rates in a rural setting

Students here achieve a 91.9% graduation rate, which slightly edges out the state average and beats the national average by nearly five points. The county spends $8,676 per pupil, which is higher than the Wisconsin average of $8,113. A composite school score of 58.1 indicates that these investments are translating into solid academic performance.

A unique emphasis on charter school options

Nearly 44% of the county's schools are charter institutions, representing one of the highest charter concentrations in the state. While Birchwood is the largest district by school count with six campuses, the Shell Lake and Spooner districts serve the largest concentrations of students. Spooner Elementary is the biggest single school in the county, enrolling 375 students.

Intimate schools in a vast rural landscape

Education in Washburn County is defined by its rurality, with 15 of the 16 schools located in rural settings. The average school size is just 139 students, offering a level of individual attention rarely found in more urbanized areas. Families can choose between small specialized charters and traditional hubs like Spooner High.

Find your quiet home near quality schools

Washburn County offers a rare combination of high academic standards and small-town tranquility. Families looking for a close-knit community will find that the high graduation rates and diverse charter options make this an ideal place to put down roots. Explore homes in Shell Lake or Spooner to enjoy a high-quality, rural educational experience.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washburn County

via RiskByCounty

Washburn ranks among safest counties

With a composite risk score of 32.76, Washburn County ranks in the very low risk category—well below Wisconsin's state average of 59.08 and significantly safer than most U.S. counties. This northwestern Wisconsin county faces substantially lower natural disaster exposure overall.

Wisconsin's safest county

Washburn ranks lowest for natural disaster risk among all Wisconsin counties, with a score dramatically below the state average. The county's remote location and northern geography provide natural protection from several major hazard types.

Safest in a relatively protected region

Washburn's risk score of 32.76 is substantially lower than most surrounding counties, including Bayfield and Ashland. Its very low risk profile reflects geographic advantages shared only by the most isolated Wisconsin counties.

Wildfire poses the main concern

Wildfire risk reaches 39.47 in Washburn, the highest hazard score in the county, though still moderate compared to state averages. Tornado risk (35.53) and flood risk (32.54) round out the top three, all remaining well below dangerous thresholds.

Focus on wildfire preparedness

Washburn residents should maintain defensible space around homes and keep gutters clear to reduce wildfire risk. Standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate coverage for the county's low-risk profile, but verify your policy includes wind and fire protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washburn County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cold Humid Continental Climate

Washburn County's average annual temperature of 42.5°F sits nearly 10 degrees below the national median of roughly 53°F. The region experiences a classic humid continental climate defined by its stark seasonal shifts and long winters.

Colder Than the Wisconsin Average

Washburn is cooler than the state average of 44.4°F, reflecting its northern position. While southern Wisconsin enjoys more moderate conditions, this county faces a more rigorous thermal environment.

Snowier Than Its Central Neighbors

With 55.7 inches of annual snow, Washburn is significantly more wintry than central counties like Waushara. It records much lower January temperatures than southern neighbors, averaging just 11.4°F during the year's coldest month.

Brief Summers and Brutal Winters

The county only experiences 4 extreme heat days above 90°F annually, making for very comfortable summers. However, winter temperatures average a frigid 15.2°F, demanding heavy preparation for deep freezes.

Prepare for the Long Freeze

Heavy-duty snow blowers and high-rated attic insulation are essential for the 55.7-inch annual snowfall. Residents can skip intensive cooling upgrades, as July averages stay under 70°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washburn County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Northern Soils

Washburn County features highly acidic soil with an average pH of 4.96, which is much lower than the national median of 6.5. This acidity is also notable compared to the state average of 5.63. While specific taxonomic data for the dominant soil is limited, the low pH defines the local growing environment.

Sandy Texture with Minimal Clay

The soil here is relatively light, composed of 45.6% sand and only 6.5% clay. With silt making up 28.0% of the mix, the soil is easy to till but may struggle to hold certain nutrients. This high sand content suggests that water moves quickly through the ground.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Fertility is high in Washburn, where organic matter reaches 17.45%, far exceeding the state average of 11.02%. The available water capacity is also strong at 0.215 in/in, surpassing the state average of 0.204 in/in. These factors help compensate for the sandy texture by keeping the soil biologically active.

A Focus on Localized Hydrology

Standard drainage and hydrologic group classifications are not available for the dominant soil profile in this county. However, the high sand percentage typically points toward rapid drainage. Gardeners should monitor moisture levels closely, especially in areas where clay is scarce.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 4a

In the cold climate of zone 4a, you should focus on acid-loving plants like blueberries and potatoes that thrive in these conditions. The high organic matter provides a great energy source for hardy northern crops. Use lime if you want to grow vegetables that prefer a more neutral pH.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washburn County

via LawnByCounty

A tougher test for northern lawns

With a lawn difficulty score of 47.8, Washburn County is more challenging than both the national average and the state average of 64.4. This Hardiness Zone 4a region requires specific strategies to handle a shorter, more intense growing season. Homeowners must work harder than their southern neighbors to keep turf healthy.

Cold winters and dry spells

Annual precipitation of 31.6 inches is below the state average, requiring supplemental irrigation during the summer months. The region only sees about 4 extreme heat days per year, but the 2,193 growing degree days limit the total time grass has to recover from damage. Mowing cycles are shorter here, starting after the May 14 frost.

Acidic soils require careful management

The soil pH sits at a very acidic 4.96, well below the ideal range for standard lawn grasses. With a high sand content of 45.6%, nutrients and water leach away quickly. While specific drainage data is limited, the sandy texture suggests you will need regular lime applications and organic matter to boost performance.

Persistent drought challenges turf

Washburn County spent 27 weeks in drought over the past year, and 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. With 8.3% of the county in severe drought, water conservation is critical for lawn survival. Focus on keeping high-traffic areas hydrated while allowing peripheral lawn sections to enter natural dormancy.

Resilient grass for Zone 4a

Fine fescues and cold-hardy Kentucky Bluegrass varieties are essential for surviving the harsh Zone 4a winters. Aim to seed in early August to give roots time to establish before the first fall frost on October 4. Despite the challenges, proper species selection ensures a durable green space.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washburn County's county score?
Washburn County, Wisconsin has a composite county score of 58.2 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 Washburn County rank among counties in Wisconsin?
Washburn County ranks #9 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 Washburn County, Wisconsin?
The median annual property tax in Washburn County is $2,305, with an effective tax rate of 1.11%. This earns Washburn County a tax score of 30.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washburn County?
The median household income in Washburn County, Wisconsin is $61,270 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washburn County earns an income score of 42.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washburn County, Wisconsin a good place to live?
Washburn County scores 58.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Wisconsin. The best way to evaluate Washburn 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 Washburn 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.