countyscore
63.7
County Score
Safety 94.3Water Quality 86Health 81.3

County Report Card

About Washington County, Illinois

Washington County Among National Leaders

With a high composite score of 63.7, Washington County significantly outperforms the national median of 50.0. It ranks as one of the most livable areas in the central United States.

Top-Tier Performance in Illinois

Washington County far exceeds the Illinois average of 52.8. Its high marks across multiple categories make it a standout performer within the state's 102 counties.

Elite Safety and High Incomes

The county boasts a near-perfect safety score of 94.3 and a high income score of 78.1. These are complemented by excellent water quality and a median household income of $75,652.

Navigating High Property Taxes

Despite its many strengths, the tax score of 4.8 reflects a relatively high 1.847% effective tax rate. The risk score of 44.9 suggests there is still room for improvement in community resilience.

The Premier Choice for Families

Washington County is a premier destination for families who demand high safety, great schools, and strong earning potential. While taxes are higher, the overall quality of life and community stability provide a significant return on that investment.

204060801004.853.794.381.374.678.144.98658.6Tax4.8Cost53.7Safety94.3Health81.3Schools74.6Income78.1Risk44.9Water86Weather58.663.7/100
This county
National avg
5 above average1 below average

Washington County DNA

D+overall

How Washington County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Washington County excels in 5 of 9 measured dimensions, led by Safety (94.3/100). A few areas trail the national average, including Property Tax (4.8/100).

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
4.8-47.2
Cost
53.7
Safety
94.3+39.3
Health
81.3+31.299999999999997
Schools
74.6+20.599999999999994
Income
78.1+27.099999999999994
Risk
44.9
Water
86+28
Weather
58.6
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Washington County?

Many homeowners in Washington County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$149,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$776/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$149,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$31,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $75,652/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

21.9

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

Baca County
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King and Queen County
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Upshur County
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Sheridan County
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Sabine Parish
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Nearby counties

Clinton County
Illinois
52
Perry County
Illinois
59.8
Jefferson County
Illinois
51.7
Marion County
Illinois
46.7
St. Clair County
Illinois
41.3
Randolph County
Illinois
58.7
Bond County
Illinois
55.2
Franklin County
Illinois
55.9

Deep Dives

Washington County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Washington County

via TaxByCounty

Washington taxes slightly above U.S. average

Washington County's effective tax rate of 1.847% exceeds the national median of 1.831% by a small margin, positioning it just above average nationally. The median property tax of $2,766 falls nearly equal to the national median of $2,690.

Slightly above Illinois average

Washington County ranks in the upper-middle of Illinois counties for effective tax rate at 1.847%, modestly above the state average of 1.831%. Most Illinois counties either tax at lower rates or fall into similar ranges.

Taxes higher than most surrounding areas

Washington County's 1.847% rate exceeds Vermilion County (1.793%), Wabash County (1.471%), Wayne County (1.526%), and Union County (1.405%). Homeowners here pay a modest premium compared to neighbors in adjacent counties.

Median home costs $2,766 yearly

A median-valued home in Washington County ($149,800) generates an estimated annual property tax of $2,766. With mortgage-related assessments, owners may owe up to $3,073 per year.

Appeal your assessment if warranted

Many Washington County homeowners are overassessed and eligible to challenge their valuations free of charge. An appeal could save you hundreds of dollars annually on your property taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washington County

via CostByCounty

Washington County excels in housing affordability

Washington County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks best among these eight counties and notably beats the national average of 14.7%. With median household income of $75,652—near the national median—Washington delivers exceptional affordability through reasonably priced housing despite higher home values.

Illinois's gold standard for affordability

Washington County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio stands among Illinois's best, significantly outperforming the state average of 14.7%. The county combines above-average household incomes of $75,652 with moderate rents of $776, creating genuine financial breathing room for residents.

Washington leads regional affordability

Only Warren County (12.9%) competes with Washington's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio; all other surveyed counties lag behind. Washington's $776 monthly rent and strong household incomes of $75,652 set it apart as the region's affordability leader.

Incomes comfortably cover housing costs

Washington residents earning $75,652 annually allocate just $776 to median rent—a mere 12.3% of income—and $920 for owner costs, reflecting median home values of $149,800. This optimal ratio leaves families substantial discretionary income.

Washington County rewards strategic movers

If you're relocating within Illinois, Washington County delivers the strongest affordability fundamentals in this survey paired with higher home values indicating long-term stability. Calculate your housing-cost savings by comparing your current ratio against Washington's exceptional 12.3%.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washington County

via IncomeByCounty

Washington County nearly matches national income

Washington County's median household income of $75,652 closely tracks the U.S. median of $74,755, exceeding it by just $897. This near-parity places the county among stronger-earning regions nationally, reflecting stable labor markets.

Strong earner within Illinois counties

At $75,652, Washington County outearns the Illinois state average of $68,580 by $7,072 and ranks among the higher-income counties statewide. Per capita income of $38,507 tops the state average of $36,009, indicating broadly distributed earning power across the population.

Second-highest income in eight-county region

Washington's $75,652 median trails only Tazewell County ($76,704) by $1,052 among regional peers. The county demonstrates strong economic fundamentals alongside Tazewell, creating a two-county high-income corridor in the region.

Housing costs minimal at 12.3 percent

Washington County's 12.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the region's lowest, well below affordability thresholds and signaling strong housing accessibility. Median home values of $149,800 remain achievable for median-income households, supporting robust homeownership.

Invest aggressively with strong income foundation

Washington County households earning $75,652 can commit roughly $1,513 monthly to savings and investments after essentials. This regional income advantage enables maxing retirement contributions, diversifying into taxable accounts, and pursuing real estate investments to accelerate wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washington County

via CrimeByCounty

Washington Achieves Perfect Safety Score

Washington County boasts a perfect safety score of 100.0, placing it in the top tier of U.S. counties. Its total crime rate is a remarkable 21.8 per 100,000, far below the national average of 2,385.5.

The Gold Standard for Illinois Safety

The county far exceeds the Illinois safety average of 98.7 and the state crime rate of 835.0. Four reporting agencies maintain an environment that is nearly crime-free compared to the rest of the state.

Safest Profile in the Region

Washington is significantly safer than its neighbors like Warren or Whiteside. It reports almost no violent crime, establishing it as a primary haven for public safety in the area.

Analyzing the Near-Zero Crime Rate

The county reported zero violent crimes in 2022, a rare and impressive statistic. Property crime is also minimal, with only 21.8 incidents per 100,000 residents reported during the entire year.

Maintain the Peace in Washington

Even with a perfect safety score, residents should maintain basic safety habits to preserve this low-crime environment. Community-wide vigilance and smart security choices help keep these numbers at zero.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Washington County

via SchoolsByCounty

Primary-Focused Infrastructure in Washington

Washington County manages 7 public schools for 1,776 students across six small districts. The landscape is unique, featuring 5 elementary schools and only 2 high schools, with no dedicated middle schools.

Outstanding Results with Efficient Spending

Washington County achieves a 93.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the Illinois state average of 88.8%. It manages these results with a per-pupil expenditure of $8,616, maintaining a composite school score of 58.6.

Spotlight on Nashville and West Washington

West Washington Co CUD 10 is the largest district by enrollment, though Nashville Grade School is the largest individual school with 584 students. No charter schools operate here, leaving education in the hands of six local districts.

The Quiet Feel of Rural Education

Education in Washington County is primarily rural, with four schools in the country and three in town. An average enrollment of 254 students per school creates a close-knit and safe environment for young learners.

Establish Your Family in Washington County

With one of the highest graduation rates in the region, Washington County is an ideal place to raise a family. Explore housing options near Nashville or Okawville to join these successful school communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washington County

via RiskByCounty

Washington near national risk baseline

With a composite risk score of 55.15, Washington County sits just below the national median for natural disaster risk. This "Relatively Low" rating masks exceptional earthquake vulnerability (90.52), which dwarfs other hazards in the county.

Slightly below Illinois average

Washington's 55.15 score sits marginally below the Illinois state average of 54.46, making it a middle-of-the-road county statewide. However, its earthquake risk ranks among the state's highest.

Similar risk profile to Union County

Washington (55.15) and Union County (55.38) have nearly identical overall risk scores, both distinguished by exceptionally high earthquake exposure. Both counties sit well below their neighbor Wayne County (40.74) in overall risk.

Earthquake dominates hazard landscape

Earthquake risk of 90.52 is Washington's defining feature and among the nation's highest, reflecting proximity to active fault zones in southern Illinois. Tornado (44.24) and hurricane (38.76) risks are secondary but still meaningful.

Earthquake insurance is essential

Earthquake coverage is critical for Washington County residents—standard policies exclude all seismic damage. Anchor heavy furniture and appliances to walls, bolt your house foundation, and keep emergency supplies accessible for rapid earthquake response.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Washington County

via WaterByCounty

Perfect Compliance Record for Washington

Washington County earns an A grade with zero health violations over the last five years. This perfect record stands in stark contrast to the state average of 48.7 violations per 100K.

High Phosphorus Levels Strain Watersheds

Over 41% of water bodies are impaired, which is slightly above the state average. The primary stressors are total phosphorus, dissolved oxygen depletion, and mercury contamination.

Consistent Tracking of Physical Water Traits

Eight monitoring sites have generated 1,697 measurements in the past five years. Most data points track physical characteristics, inorganic chemicals, and metals in the water.

Kaskaskia River Experiences High Volume

The Kaskaskia River near Venedy Station is flowing at 7,300 cfs, or 184% of its long-term mean. These high flows can flush significant amounts of phosphorus from the 4,393 square mile drainage area.

Safe Taps but Stressed Streams

While drinking water is exceptionally safe, high river flows can worsen phosphorus impairments in local streams. Residents should be mindful of water quality in recreational areas during these high-volume periods.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washington County

via WeatherByCounty

A classic humid subtropical transition

Washington County averages 55.1°F annually, trending warmer than the national median. It receives 42.2 inches of precipitation, typical for the moist eastern half of the United States.

Above the Illinois state average

The county's 55.1°F average temperature is higher than the state mean of 52.8°F. It represents the warmer climate of southern Illinois, where winters are shorter and summers are more intense.

Drier than its eastern neighbors

While Washington is warm, its 42.2 inches of rain is lower than Wayne County's 46.5 inches. However, it experiences 31 days of extreme heat, significantly more than counties further north.

Hot summers and light snow

July averages a warm 77.2°F, contributing to a month's worth of days over 90°F. Winters are relatively mild, with only 11.7 inches of annual snowfall compared to much higher totals in northern Illinois.

Prepare for frequent summer heat

Air conditioning systems must be robust to handle 31 days of extreme heat each year. For winter, lightweight snow removal tools are usually sufficient for the modest 11.7 inches of snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washington County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Southern Illinois Soil Profile

Washington County has an average pH of 6.32, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.39 and the national median of 6.5. This pH level is typical for the region and generally hospitable to most agriculture. While local taxonomy is not specified, the acidity is well within the manageable range.

Heavy Silt for Deep Moisture

This soil is comprised of 70.7% silt, 21.0% clay, and 8.3% sand. The high silt percentage gives the ground a heavy, moisture-rich character that can feel dense underfoot. Because there is very little sand to break up the particles, the soil requires careful handling to maintain its structure.

Exceptional Water Storage Capacity

With an available water capacity of 0.215 in/in, this soil outperforms the state average of 0.204 in/in. Organic matter is 1.98%, which is lower than the Illinois average of 2.94% but nearly matches the national average. Adding organic amendments like compost will help unlock the soil's full potential.

Hydraulic Powerhouse of the Prairie

Official drainage classes are not recorded, but the high silt content and high water capacity define its hydrology. The soil acts like a sponge, soaking up rainfall and holding it deep in the profile for plant use. This is a major benefit during the hotter, dryer months of the southern Illinois summer.

Sun-Loving Crops for Zone 6b

Washington County's Zone 6b climate allows for a long growing season and early spring planting. The soil's ability to hold onto water makes it excellent for thirsty crops like melons and tomatoes. Start your garden journey here and enjoy the benefits of this moisture-retentive earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washington County

via LawnByCounty

Balanced Growing in Washington County

Washington County scores a 71.2 for lawn difficulty, outperforming the state average of 69.8. Its position in Hardiness Zone 6b provides a long growing season with manageable maintenance requirements.

Ample Rain but Persistent Heat

The county receives 42.2 inches of rain annually, slightly exceeding the state average. However, 31 days of extreme heat and 4027 growing degree days mean lawns will require extra attention during the peak of July.

Manageable Clay and Ideal pH

A soil pH of 6.32 supports a healthy microbial environment for lawn health. With 21.0% clay and only 8.3% sand, growers should monitor for poor drainage in low-lying areas of the yard.

Moderate Drought Exposure

Washington County experienced 21 weeks in drought over the past year, with only 2.5% of the area currently in severe drought. Current conditions are mostly 'abnormally dry,' requiring just basic water conservation measures.

A Broad Seeding Window

The frost-free period from April 7 to October 26 is generous for establishing new sod. Modern Turf-Type Tall Fescue is highly recommended here for its ability to stay green during the 31 annual heat days.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington County's county score?
Washington County, Illinois has a composite county score of 63.7 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 Washington County rank among counties in Illinois?
Washington County ranks #9 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 Washington County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Washington County is $2,766, with an effective tax rate of 1.85%. This earns Washington County a tax score of 4.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washington County?
The median household income in Washington County, Illinois is $75,652 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washington County earns an income score of 78.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washington County, Illinois a good place to live?
Washington County scores 63.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Washington 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 Washington County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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