countyscore
60.5
County Score
Health 88.8Disaster Risk 86.1Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Wayne County, Nebraska

Above the National Living Standard

Wayne County secures a composite score of 60.5, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high overall standard of living relative to the rest of the country.

Exceeding the Nebraska State Average

The county's 60.5 score edges out the Nebraska state average of 59.3. Wayne County stands as a competitive and desirable location within the state's diverse landscape.

Strong Health and Environmental Resilience

Health and safety are key strengths, with scores of 88.8 and 86.1 in health and environmental risk, respectively. A high water score of 86.0 further underscores the quality of local infrastructure.

Tax Pressures and School Metrics

The county faces challenges in its tax score of 25.9, driven by a 1.194% effective tax rate. Additionally, the school score of 53.1 indicates that educational outcomes are middle-of-the-road compared to high-performing neighbors.

Ideal for Stability-Minded Families

Wayne County is a perfect fit for families and retirees looking for a safe, low-risk environment with high-quality health services. Its balanced profile offers a reliable quality of life with strong environmental protections.

Score breakdown

Tax25.9Cost51.5Safety73.2Health88.8Schools53.1Income60.8Risk86.1Water86Weather45.3
🏛25.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠51.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼60.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡73.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤88.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡86.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨65.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.1
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

Stanton County
Nebraska
67.9
Cuming County
Nebraska
64.1
Dixon County
Nebraska
63.6
Pierce County
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Thurston County
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Dakota County
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Cedar County
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Madison County
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Deep Dives

Wayne County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wayne County

via TaxByCounty

Wayne County taxes below national average

Wayne County's effective tax rate of 1.194% sits slightly above the national median of 1.1%, placing it near the 50th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $2,432 remains below the national median of $2,690, despite a median home value ($203,700) that's lower than the national average.

Wayne County just under state average

Wayne County's effective rate of 1.194% falls marginally below Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, ranking it in the middle tier of Nebraska counties. Its median property tax of $2,432 exceeds the state median of $1,972 by about 23%, reflecting above-average home values for the region.

Wayne County moderate among regional peers

Wayne County's 1.194% effective rate sits comfortably between Wheeler County's 0.912% (the region's lowest) and Washington County's 1.475% (the region's highest). It ranks below Webster County (1.439%) and York County (1.202%), making it one of the more affordable options in this five-county area.

Median annual property tax: $2,432

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $203,700 in Wayne County pays roughly $2,432 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the annual bill reaches $2,539; without one, it drops to $2,186—a distinction based on how assessors value the property.

Appeal your assessment at no cost

Many Wayne County property owners pay more than their homes are worth due to overassessment, and challenging your assessment is free through the county's appeal process. Success rates for reasonable appeals remain strong, potentially lowering your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wayne County

via CostByCounty

Wayne County undercuts national rent burden

Wayne County's 13.0% rent-to-income ratio outperforms the national standard, where renters typically spend more of their income on housing. While the median household income of $67,687 trails the national average of $74,755, the county's lower rent of $732 creates genuine affordability for those willing to embrace rural Nebraska living.

Mid-pack rental affordability statewide

Wayne County's 13.0% rent-to-income ratio edges below Nebraska's 14.2% state average, offering slightly better rental affordability than the typical Nebraskan. The median rent of $732 sits well below the state average of $783, making this county an accessible option for budget-conscious renters.

Affordable with room to grow

Wayne County's median rent of $732 is lower than Washington County's $958 and York County's $885, though incomes are correspondingly lower too. The county offers genuine affordability compared to its wealthier neighbors, appealing to those prioritizing lower housing costs over maximum income potential.

Modest housing costs, modest incomes

Renters spend $732 monthly (13.0% of income) while homeowners pay $1,103 (19.5% of income), with the median home value standing at $203,700. The balance shows a county where housing remains genuinely affordable relative to local earnings, though both renters and homeowners dedicate meaningful shares to shelter.

Wayne offers true affordability

Relocating to Wayne County makes sense if you prioritize low housing costs and small-town living over maximum income potential. With rents below state average and homeownership within reach for working families, the county rewards those seeking a simpler, more affordable Nebraska lifestyle.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wayne County

via IncomeByCounty

Wayne County Earns Near National Median

Wayne County's median household income of $67,687 falls about $7,068 below the national median of $74,755. While slightly below the national average, the county maintains steady middle-class earnings.

Wayne County Edges Above State Average

Wayne County's median household income of $67,687 exceeds Nebraska's state average of $66,880 by just $807. Per capita income of $31,864 sits below the state average of $36,101, indicating some income concentration among households.

Middle-Ground Income in the Region

Wayne County's $67,687 median sits between the higher-earning Washington County ($90,188) and the lower-earning Wheeler County ($55,893). The county ranks as a moderate earner within its regional peer group.

Balanced Housing Costs in Wayne County

A rent-to-income ratio of 13.0% shows Wayne County residents spend a manageable share of income on housing. The median home value of $203,700 aligns reasonably with household earnings, though careful budgeting remains important.

Strategic Planning Strengthens Wayne County Finances

Wayne County residents should focus on building emergency savings and exploring homeownership as wealth-building tools. Even modest contributions to retirement accounts and education savings can significantly improve long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wayne County

via CrimeByCounty

Far Safer Than the National Average

Wayne County boasts a total crime rate of 639.1 per 100,000, nearly four times lower than the national figure of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 99.0 reflects an environment far more secure than the typical American community.

A Model for Nebraska Safety

The county perfectly matches the Nebraska state average safety score of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 639.1 is nearly identical to the state average of 626.7, signaling a consistent safety profile.

Leading the Way Among Neighbors

Wayne County is safer than neighboring York County, which reports a higher crime rate of 886.6 per 100,000. It also edges out Washington County, which sees 694.3 crimes per 100,000 people.

Property Concerns Outweigh Violent Crime

Violent crime is rare here with a rate of 82.5 per 100,000 compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime makes up 556.6 of the total incidents, indicating most offenses are non-violent in nature.

Invest in Proactive Protection

Residents enjoy high security, but proactive home protection like smart cameras remains a valuable asset. Maintaining awareness helps preserve the tranquil atmosphere of this Nebraska county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wayne County

via HealthByCounty

Wayne County leads the nation

Wayne County's 82.5-year life expectancy ranks among America's highest, exceeding the U.S. average of 78.1 years by over 4 years. Despite strong longevity, 13.9% of residents report poor or fair health, slightly above the national rate of 17%. This county has cracked the code on living longer.

Nebraska's longest-living county

Wayne County residents live 5 years longer than the Nebraska average of 77.5 years, making it a clear outlier for health and longevity in the state. The county's 13.9% poor/fair health rate, while higher than some peers, still reflects a relatively healthy population compared to state norms.

Far ahead of nearby peers

Wayne County's 82.5-year life expectancy towers over Webster County (75.3 years) and exceeds Washington County (79.9 years). With robust mental health provider access at 81 per 100,000, Wayne offers healthcare resources that support its aging population well.

Strong providers, reasonable coverage

Wayne County's 6.7% uninsured rate is below Nebraska's 8.1% state average, though still leaves room for improvement. The county offers 61 primary care providers and 81 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, ensuring residents have meaningful access to doctors and behavioral health specialists.

Secure your family's health now

About 1 in 15 Wayne County residents currently lack health insurance, exposing them to medical bankruptcy and preventive care gaps. Check healthcare.gov, Medicaid options, or workplace plans to close any coverage gaps before unexpected illness strikes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wayne County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Across Four Diverse Districts

Wayne County supports a total enrollment of 1,808 students across nine public schools. The landscape is composed of three elementary schools, three high schools, and one middle school, alongside two specialized facilities. These institutions are managed by four distinct school districts spread throughout the county.

Consistent Performance and Solid Investment

The county's 87.9% graduation rate edges out the national average of 87.0% and the Nebraska state average of 86.9%. Local districts invest $8,239 per pupil, which is below the state average of $10,521 but yields a respectable composite school score of 55.1. These metrics indicate a stable academic environment that prepares the majority of students for post-secondary success.

Wayne Community Schools Leads Enrollment

Wayne Community Schools is the largest district, serving 997 students across four schools. Wakefield Public Schools follows with 567 students, while Winside Public Schools educates a smaller cohort of 244 students. Traditional public schools account for 100% of the local options, as there are no charter schools currently operating.

Intimate Learning in Town and Rural Settings

Students attend schools that average 226 learners, creating a personalized atmosphere for growth. The county features five town-based schools and four rural schools, with Wayne Elementary being the largest at 481 students. At the smaller end, Wayne Junior High serves just 158 students, ensuring educators can focus on individual student needs.

Your Future in Wayne County

Families seeking a community with steady academic performance will find great value in Wayne County’s housing market. The balance of town amenities and rural quietude makes it an attractive spot for those looking to settle near reliable schools. Use district performance as your guide when searching for the perfect family home.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wayne County

via RiskByCounty

Wayne County ranks among safest nationally

At 13.96, Wayne County's composite risk score is less than half the state average of 25.80, placing it well below the national baseline. This very low rating means residents enjoy one of the lowest natural disaster risk profiles in the country.

Nebraska's safest county for natural hazards

Wayne County leads Nebraska with the lowest composite risk score among the state's counties. The county's geographic and climatic conditions create a notably protective environment against major natural disasters.

Significantly safer than surrounding areas

Wayne County's 13.96 score is substantially lower than Wheeler County (5.47 for pure score, but rated very low), Washington County (25.51), and dramatically safer than Webster County (55.47) and York County (52.26). This advantage reflects the county's position in Nebraska's least hazard-prone region.

Wildfire and tornado pose modest threats

Even Wayne County's primary hazards are relatively mild: wildfire risk scores 58.21 and tornado risk 43.51, both notably lower than neighboring counties. Flood risk remains minimal at 16.54, giving residents unusually comprehensive safety across multiple disaster types.

Standard coverage sufficient for low-risk area

Wayne County's low-risk profile means basic homeowner's insurance with standard wind and weather coverage provides solid protection for most residents. Still, maintaining emergency supplies and reviewing your policy annually ensures you're prepared for the modest hazards the county does face.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wayne County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler and drier than median

Wayne County maintains an annual average temperature of 48.3°F, which is lower than the national median. It receives 27.1 inches of annual precipitation, typical for the eastern plains. The climate is defined by cold winters and pleasant, though occasionally hot, summers.

Cooler than the state average

Wayne County's 48.3°F average temperature sits below the Nebraska state average of 49.7°F. Despite the cooler temperatures, its 27.1 inches of rain is slightly higher than the state average of 25.9 inches. This creates a slightly cooler, wetter pocket in northeast Nebraska.

Cooler than Stanton and Thurston

Wayne County is cooler than both Stanton (48.9°F) and Thurston (49.0°F) counties. It is also drier than Thurston, which receives nearly 30 inches of annual rain. These differences make Wayne one of the cooler and more moderate counties in its immediate area.

Brisk winters and steady snow

Winters are cold, with a January average of 20.5°F and 31.0 inches of annual snowfall. Summers are manageable, featuring 21 days of extreme heat and a July average of 74.2°F. This creates a year with distinct seasons and a strong emphasis on winter weather.

Focus on winter road safety

The 31 inches of annual snowfall require residents to have reliable winter tires and snow removal tools. Home heating systems must be efficient to handle the cold January average of 20.5°F. Moderate summer heat means that while air conditioning is needed, it is used less frequently than in southern counties.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wayne County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Mollisols Define Wayne County

The county is dominated by Mollisols with a pH of 6.76, nearly matching the Nebraska state average. This neutral environment is highly conducive to nutrient cycling and supports a robust agricultural economy.

Balanced Loam for Easy Working

A dominant loam texture emerges from a mix of 49.5% silt and 28.8% sand. This balanced composition ensures the soil is easy to till while providing enough clay at 21.6% to prevent nutrient leaching.

Reliable Fertility and Storage

Organic matter reaches 2.53%, which is healthy by national standards even if it falls short of the state's 3.32% average. The available water capacity is 0.192 in/in, offering a better moisture reservoir than the typical Nebraska soil.

Well Drained for Diverse Use

The soil is officially well drained and falls into hydrologic group B, making it excellent for both farming and construction. These characteristics mean you won't often deal with standing water or root rot in local gardens.

Thriving in the 5b Garden

Wayne County's zone 5b climate is perfect for cool-season crops and hearty perennials. With a soil score of 65.7, this land is ready to support everything from backyard tomatoes to sprawling soybean fields.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wayne County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growth in the Heartland

Wayne County earns a 55.1 lawn difficulty score, aligning closely with the Nebraska state average of 54.2. In this Hardiness Zone 5b, homeowners find a predictable temperate climate that is slightly easier than the national median.

Low Heat Stress, Limited Rain

Annual precipitation of 27.1 inches is slightly below the ideal 30-inch mark, requiring consistent supplemental watering. However, having only 21 extreme heat days—well below the state average of 34—helps prevent your grass from going dormant in mid-summer.

Well-Drained Loam for Deep Roots

The soil is a well-drained loam with a healthy 28.8% sand content, allowing for excellent root aeration. A pH of 6.76 ensures your lawn can easily absorb essential minerals without needing heavy chemical amendments.

Overcoming Persistent Dry Periods

The county experienced 37 weeks of drought over the last year, with 4.5% of the area facing severe conditions. Because current conditions remain abnormally dry across 100% of the county, deep soaking is necessary to sustain growth.

Timing Your Seeding for Success

The best time to seed is after the April 29 last frost, giving your grass 3,027 growing degree days to mature. Hardiness Zone 5b is ideal for cool-season fescue blends that can withstand the early October first frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wayne County's county score?
Wayne County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 60.5 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 Wayne County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Wayne County ranks #55 among all counties in Nebraska 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 Wayne County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Wayne County is $2,432, with an effective tax rate of 1.19%. This earns Wayne County a tax score of 25.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wayne County?
The median household income in Wayne County, Nebraska is $67,687 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wayne County earns an income score of 60.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wayne County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Wayne County scores 60.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #55 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Wayne 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 Wayne County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

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