countyscore
53.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 76.1Lawn Care 72.8

County Report Card

About Watonwan County, Minnesota

Comfortably Above the National Median

Watonwan County outperforms the national median of 50.0 with a composite score of 53.6. It offers a balanced profile that sits in the upper tiers of American counties for livability.

Keeping Pace with Minnesota Peers

The county score of 53.6 is slightly behind the Minnesota state average of 55.8. It remains highly competitive but faces pressure from neighboring counties with stronger educational metrics.

Environmental Stability and Safety

Stability is a major win here, evidenced by a risk score of 76.1 and a safety score of 63.5. Residents also enjoy respectable incomes and high water quality, which scores 86.0.

Improving Schools and Tax Rates

Education scores lag at 34.5, suggesting a need for more investment in local school systems. Additionally, the tax score of 36.2 indicates a burden that is higher than many high-performing peers.

A Solid Choice for Stability

Watonwan is ideal for budget-conscious households looking for environmental safety and community stability. It offers a solid, middle-of-the-road lifestyle for families and retirees alike.

Score breakdown

Tax36.2Cost51.4Safety63.5Health63.7Schools34.5Income67.9Risk76.1Water86Weather46.6
🏛36.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠51.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼67.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡63.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤63.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓34.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨70.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.8
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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Counties with similar scores

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Nearby counties

Brown County
Minnesota
60.3
Martin County
Minnesota
59.2
Cottonwood County
Minnesota
63.2
Nicollet County
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54.4
Blue Earth County
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41.7
Jackson County
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72.5
Emmet County
Iowa
61.6
Redwood County
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62.9

Deep Dives

Watonwan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Watonwan County

via TaxByCounty

Watonwan taxes exceed national average

Watonwan County's effective tax rate of 1.027% surpasses the national median of 0.968%, placing it above typical American counties. The median property tax of $1,557 is substantially lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting the county's median home value of $151,600—well below the national median of $281,900.

Watonwan above average for Minnesota

Watonwan County's 1.027% effective rate exceeds Minnesota's state average of 0.968% by six percentage points. The median annual tax of $1,557 falls below the state median of $2,168, as county homes are typically valued well below the state average.

Watonwan taxes higher than Wilkin

Watonwan's 1.027% rate exceeds Wilkin County's notably low 0.760% and Winona County's 0.942%, but remains lower than Waseca County's 1.190% and Yellow Medicine County's 1.042%. The county's modest home values keep absolute tax bills among the region's lowest.

Typical Watonwan tax bills

The typical Watonwan homeowner with a $151,600 home pays approximately $1,557 annually in property taxes. Bills vary based on mortgage status: $1,854 with a mortgage versus $1,308 without.

Even modest homes merit appeals

Lower-valued properties are often overlooked in assessment reviews, but overvaluation can still occur and drain household budgets. Request a reassessment if your property was valued during a market peak or if recent sales nearby suggest your tax basis is inflated.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Watonwan County

via CostByCounty

Watonwan offers genuine affordability

At 13.7%, Watonwan's rent-to-income ratio undercuts Minnesota's 14.5% state average and remains well below the national benchmark. Renters spend $807 monthly while earning $70,593 in median household income—providing comfortable housing cost burden statewide.

Solid affordability ranking among Minnesota counties

Watonwan ranks among Minnesota's more affordable housing markets with a 13.7% rent-to-income ratio and monthly rents of $807. The county's rental costs run $108 below the state average, making it genuinely accessible for working families.

Moderate pricing in a rural region

Watonwan's $807 rent sits between Wilkin County's bargain $561 and Waseca's $819, offering middle-ground pricing in Minnesota's southern corridor. Home values ($151,600) are among the region's most affordable, competing favorably with Yellow Medicine and rural peers.

Balanced housing costs across all income levels

Renters dedicate 13.7% of income to rent, while homeowners spend roughly 15.1% on monthly owner costs ($888). This equilibrium demonstrates Watonwan's genuine affordability across both rental and ownership pathways.

Watonwan works for budget-conscious families

Relocating to Watonwan delivers one of Minnesota's most affordable housing markets: 13.7% rent ratios and median homes under $152,000. If cost of living is your priority, Watonwan's sub-$810 rents and low home values beat 80% of Minnesota counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Watonwan County

via IncomeByCounty

Watonwan falls short nationally

Watonwan County's median household income of $70,593 falls 6% below the national median of $74,755, placing it below the American average. The typical Watonwan family earns roughly $4,160 less per year than a typical U.S. household.

Among Minnesota's lower-income counties

Watonwan's median income of $70,593 ranks below Minnesota's state average of $75,757, placing it in the lower half of Minnesota's 87 counties. The income gap of $5,164 reflects the economic challenges facing Minnesota's rural agricultural areas.

Faces stiffest rural income competition

Watonwan's $70,593 income trails all nearby counties—Waseca ($75,052), Wilkin ($69,635), and Winona ($70,198)—placing it among the region's most economically challenged. Only Wilkin County comes close, highlighting Watonwan's struggle against regional income trends.

Housing remains affordable locally

Watonwan's rent-to-income ratio of 13.7% stays comfortably below the 30% affordability standard, and the median home value of $151,600 remains one of the county's most accessible in Minnesota. Lower housing costs help stretch household budgets despite modest incomes.

Start small, build momentum steadily

While Watonwan incomes are modest, the county's affordable housing and living costs create opportunities for saving and gradual wealth building. Begin with automatic transfers to savings accounts and explore low-cost investment options designed for steady, long-term growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Watonwan County

via CrimeByCounty

Watonwan County Boasts Superior Safety

Watonwan County achieves an impressive 98.7 safety score, far exceeding national averages. The total crime rate of 847.8 per 100K is roughly one-third of the national figure.

Leading the State in Public Safety

The county's safety score of 98.7 ranks it above the Minnesota state average of 98.2. Two dedicated reporting agencies keep crime rates significantly lower than the state total average of 1123.5.

Safety Leader Among Regional Peers

Watonwan’s crime rate of 847.8 is lower than both Waseca and Wilkin counties. It remains one of the safest jurisdictions in its portion of the state.

Low Risk of Violent Incidents

Violent crime is very rare here, occurring at a rate of 124.9 per 100K residents. Property crime stands at 722.9, suggesting that most local issues are non-confrontational in nature.

Maintaining the 98.7 Safety Score

Keep your community safe by participating in local neighborhood watch programs and securing your home. Even in low-crime areas, simple precautions like deadbolts and alarms provide valuable protection.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Watonwan County

via HealthByCounty

Watonwan health challenges above national norm

Watonwan County's life expectancy of 79.0 years is slightly above the U.S. average of 78.9 years, but 17.6% of residents report poor or fair health—significantly higher than the national 16%. This disparity suggests ongoing health vulnerabilities in the population.

Below-average health across Minnesota metrics

Watonwan's 79.0-year life expectancy slightly exceeds Minnesota's 78.7-year average, but the county ranks lower on overall health outcomes. The 17.6% poor or fair health rate stands out as one of the highest among Minnesota's 87 counties.

Struggling more than nearby rural counties

Watonwan residents report worse health than those in adjacent Waseca (14.3% poor/fair) and Yellow Medicine (15.4% poor/fair) counties, and significantly worse than Washington County (9.3%). Life expectancy also trails Waseca by 0.3 years and Winona by 1.2 years.

Uninsured rate highest among peer counties

Watonwan has the highest uninsured rate among these seven counties at 10.3%—nearly double the state average of 6.0%. Provider access is moderate with 54 primary care providers per 100,000 and 72 mental health providers per 100,000.

Urgent: explore coverage at MNsure

One in ten Watonwan residents lack health insurance. Visit MNsure.org or call 1-855-366-7873 to find affordable coverage options, financial assistance, and preventive care resources.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Watonwan County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Learning in Southern Minnesota

Watonwan County features a compact school system with just eight public schools serving 1,954 students. The county's education is managed by three districts, providing three elementary and three high schools. There are currently no charter schools in the county, focusing resources on traditional district models.

Focusing on Student Success Metrics

The graduation rate in Watonwan County stands at 77.1%, trailing the Minnesota state average of 86.6%. The county spends $7,930 per pupil, which is below both the state and national expenditure levels. Improving these outcomes remains a priority for the local school score, which currently measures 48.7.

The St. James Public School District

The St. James Public School District is the county's primary educator, serving 1,107 students across four schools. Madelia Public School District also plays a vital role, supporting 620 students in the eastern part of the county. These districts maintain a strong local presence with no alternative charter options currently available.

A Rural and Town Educational Mix

The school landscape is evenly split between rural settings and town centers, with four schools in each locale. The average school size is modest at 244 students, though St. James Middle/High School is the largest with 551 students. Attending school here means being part of a close-knit community where every student is known.

Build a Life in St. James or Madelia

For families looking for a quiet, community-focused lifestyle, Watonwan County offers schools with very small class sizes. Buying a home here allows for a direct connection to local educators and school traditions. Explore available properties near St. James Northside Elementary to plant roots in this southern Minnesota region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Watonwan County

via RiskByCounty

Watonwan ranks among safest places

Watonwan County scores 23.89 with a Very Low risk rating, roughly half the national average for natural disaster exposure. The county enjoys minimal hazard concentration compared to most U.S. communities.

Safest county in Minnesota

At 23.89, Watonwan ranks as Minnesota's lowest-risk county—44% below the state average of 42.38. Rural geography and distance from major urban corridors contribute to the county's exceptional safety profile.

Watonwan and Waseca lead the region

Watonwan (23.89) and nearby Waseca (24.68) form a low-risk pocket, while neighbors like Washington County (83.87) and Wright County (68.42) face substantially higher exposure. The southern tier of the region benefits from more moderate hazard profiles overall.

Tornado risk slightly elevated

Tornado risk (44.43) represents Watonwan's primary exposure, though it remains below state averages. Flood risk (24.90) and wildfire risk (9.19) both stay minimal, and earthquake exposure is negligible at 10.69.

Standard storm coverage suffices

Homeowners should maintain solid tornado and severe storm protections within their standard policy. Annual policy reviews ensure coverage keeps pace with property improvements—but Watonwan's risk profile doesn't demand specialized or premium coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Watonwan County

via WeatherByCounty

Watonwan's Place in the National Climate

Watonwan’s 45.4°F average temperature sits below the national median. This reflects a humid continental climate with significant seasonal variation and four distinct periods.

A Warm Pocket in Southern Minnesota

The county is notably warmer than the state average of 42.8°F. It ranks among the warmer southern tier counties in Minnesota due to its lower latitude.

Dampness Compared to Western Neighbors

The county receives 33.1 inches of precipitation annually. This makes it wetter than Yellow Medicine County to the west, which sees only 28.3 inches.

Deep Snow and Summer Spells

Residents face a winter average of 18.0°F and 50.3 inches of snow. July brings heat, with 12 days typically reaching 90°F or above.

Preparing for the Watonwan Elements

Efficient heating is a priority for the 14.3°F January lows. Residents should also maintain heavy-duty snow blowers for the 50.3-inch annual average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Watonwan County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils for Stable Growth

Watonwan County features slightly alkaline soil with an average pH of 6.96. This is higher than both the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.21.

Balanced Particle Distribution

The soil mix consists of 40.1% sand, 36.1% silt, and 21.8% clay. This balanced composition offers a good blend of drainage and structural integrity for local farming.

Reliable Organic Matter Resources

Organic matter content is 6.23%, which is below the state average of 9.90% but well above the national 2.0% mark. Available water capacity is 0.187 in/in, sitting just below the state benchmark of 0.199.

Consistent Moisture Management

Specific drainage and taxonomic classifications are not currently available for this area. The sand and clay balance suggests a soil that drains moderately well without drying out too fast for crops.

Planting Success in Zone 5a

Growing in Zone 5a allows for a long season for a wide variety of vegetables and flowers. A soil score of 70.3 means you have reliable, high-quality earth for your next planting project.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Watonwan County

via LawnByCounty

Consistent Success in Watonwan

Watonwan County scores a 72.8 on the lawn difficulty scale, placing it well above the state average of 63.9. This Zone 5a region offers a hospitable climate that balances decent rainfall with a manageable growing season.

Moderate Heat and Healthy Rains

Lawns benefit from 33.1 inches of annual rainfall and 2,735 growing degree days. Although the 12 extreme heat days are slightly higher than the state average of 8, the moisture levels are usually sufficient to prevent severe turf scorch.

Balanced Soils for Strong Roots

The soil pH of 6.96 is nearly perfect, sitting at the top of the preferred 6.0 to 7.0 range for most grasses. A composition of 40.1% sand and 21.8% clay creates a versatile medium that supports both nutrient retention and root aeration.

Managing Abnormally Dry Conditions

The county spent 6 weeks in drought over the last year, and currently, 100% of the area is classified as abnormally dry. Residents should practice deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root systems during these periods of limited moisture.

Ready for Spring Seeding

Target the window between April 30th and October 7th for the best results with Kentucky Bluegrass or tall fescue. Despite the current dry spell, the high 72.8 score suggests that well-timed planting will lead to a resilient lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Watonwan County's county score?
Watonwan County, Minnesota has a composite county score of 53.6 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 Watonwan County rank among counties in Minnesota?
Watonwan County ranks #49 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 Watonwan County, Minnesota?
The median annual property tax in Watonwan County is $1,557, with an effective tax rate of 1.03%. This earns Watonwan County a tax score of 36.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Watonwan County?
The median household income in Watonwan County, Minnesota is $70,593 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Watonwan County earns an income score of 67.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Watonwan County, Minnesota a good place to live?
Watonwan County scores 53.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in Minnesota. The best way to evaluate Watonwan 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 Watonwan 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.