countyscore
74.8
County Score
Safety 97.5Disaster Risk 94.6Cost of Living 92.8

County Report Card

About Wheeler County, Nebraska

Elite National Livability Ranking

Wheeler County earns an exceptional composite score of 74.8, nearly 25 points above the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the most livable counties in the entire United States.

Nebraska's Top Tier Performer

With a score of 74.8, Wheeler County far exceeds the Nebraska state average of 59.3. It represents the pinnacle of quality of life for the region.

Maximum Safety and Incredible Value

The county excels with a safety score of 97.5 and a risk score of 94.6. Its cost score of 92.8 is bolstered by extremely low median rents of $525 and an effective tax rate of just 0.912%.

Modest Incomes and School Growth

Economic growth is the main challenge, with an income score of 27.4 and a median household income of $55,893. The school score of 52.3 also suggests room for improvement in educational metrics.

Perfect for Retirees and Remote Workers

Wheeler County is a sanctuary for those seeking maximum safety and ultra-low living costs. It is especially suited for retirees or anyone with a portable income looking for a peaceful, high-value lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax44.3Cost92.8Safety97.5Health88.5Schools52.3Income27.4Risk94.6Water86Weather41.4
🏛44.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠92.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤88.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓52.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡94.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤41.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨56.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.3
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

Greeley County
Nebraska
64
Antelope County
Nebraska
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Boone County
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Garfield County
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Valley County
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Madison County
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Nance County
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Holt County
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Deep Dives

Wheeler County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Wheeler County

via TaxByCounty

Wheeler County offers the lowest tax burden

Wheeler County's effective tax rate of 0.912% sits well below the national median of 1.1%, placing it in approximately the 30th percentile—among the lowest-taxed counties in the nation. The median property tax of $1,240 is less than half the national median of $2,690, making it a genuinely affordable county for homeowners.

Nebraska's most tax-friendly county

Wheeler County's effective rate of 0.912% ranks at the bottom of Nebraska counties, significantly below the state average of 1.281%. With a median property tax of just $1,240 compared to the state median of $1,972, Wheeler County offers the most favorable property tax environment in Nebraska.

Wheeler County stands apart as low-tax haven

Wheeler County's 0.912% rate substantially undercuts all four neighboring counties—Washington County (1.475%), Webster County (1.439%), Wayne County (1.194%), and York County (1.202%). It's the clear tax bargain of this five-county region.

Median annual property tax: $1,240

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $135,900 in Wheeler County pays approximately $1,240 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill climbs to $1,563; without one, it falls to $1,096—among the lowest annual tax burdens in the state.

Even in low-tax Wheeler, appeals matter

Although Wheeler County offers low overall rates, some homeowners remain overassessed, and filing a free property tax appeal can still yield savings. Every dollar counts, especially for lower-income residents in rural communities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wheeler County

via CostByCounty

Wheeler County offers exceptional rent relief

Wheeler County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's lowest rent burdens, a significant advantage for cost-conscious renters. The median household income of $55,893 lags the national average of $74,755, but the median rent of just $525 more than compensates with extraordinary affordability.

Nebraska's most relaxed rent burden

Wheeler County boasts the state's lowest rent-to-income ratio at 11.3%, nearly 3 percentage points below Nebraska's 14.2% average. With a median rent of $525—the lowest across all Nebraska counties reviewed—Wheeler delivers the state's most tenant-friendly housing market.

Cheapest rents in the region

Wheeler County's median rent of $525 undercuts every neighboring county, running $207 below Webster County and $360 below Washington County. The county's lowest median income of $55,893 reflects a very rural economy, but the extremely low rent burden makes up for lower earnings potential.

Minimal housing costs across the board

Renters spend $525 monthly (11.3% of income) while homeowners pay $578 (12.4% of income)—both the lowest figures in the group. Wheeler County demonstrates that very affordable housing costs can offset lower incomes, creating genuine opportunity for those prioritizing affordability.

Wheeler County for maximized affordability

Wheeler County suits those seeking the absolute lowest housing costs and willing to embrace deep rural Nebraska in exchange. With the region's cheapest rents, lowest rent-to-income ratio, and minimal homeownership costs, Wheeler County stretches any income furthest.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wheeler County

via IncomeByCounty

Wheeler County Faces Significant Income Gap

Wheeler County's median household income of $55,893 trails the national median of $74,755 by $18,862—a 25.2% shortfall. This represents one of the lower median incomes among comparable counties nationwide.

Lowest Income County in Nebraska

Wheeler County's median household income of $55,893 falls substantially below Nebraska's state average of $66,880, a gap of $10,987. Per capita income of $39,076 ranks highest among the five sampled counties, suggesting some income inequality within households.

Wheeler County Faces Regional Income Challenges

Wheeler County's $55,893 median household income lags all sampled neighbors, with the nearest peer—Webster County—earning $9,304 more. The county's median sits $34,295 below neighboring Washington County.

Strong Housing Affordability Offsets Lower Wages

Wheeler County's 11.3% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among sampled counties, providing genuine housing relief. The median home value of $135,900 remains attainable, though the income-to-price ratio requires careful household budgeting.

Start Small, Build Steadily in Wheeler County

Wheeler County residents should focus on stable employment and skill development to increase earning potential. Even small, consistent savings contributions and exploring affordable homeownership can build financial resilience over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wheeler County

via CrimeByCounty

A Perfectly Safe Community Profile

Wheeler County reports a perfect safety score of 100.0 and a total crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents for 2022. This contrasts sharply with the national average of 2,385.5, indicating an extremely secure environment.

Exceeding State Safety Averages

With its perfect score, Wheeler County exceeds Nebraska’s already high state average safety score of 99.0. It ranks as one of the safest possible locations within the state's borders.

Rural Quiet Surpasses Neighbors

Compared to Washington County's rate of 694.3, Wheeler County is virtually crime-free. It offers a level of quiet and security that is hard to find in more populated Nebraska counties.

No Reported Violent or Property Crime

Both violent and property crime rates sit at 0.0 per 100,000 for the reporting year. While this often reflects the quiet nature of rural life, it underscores a community where crime is an anomaly.

Preserve the Peace Locally

A perfect safety score is a point of pride, and community awareness helps maintain it. Simple neighborly check-ins and basic home security are all that is needed to preserve this peaceful atmosphere.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Wheeler County

via HealthByCounty

Limited data tells partial story

Life expectancy data for Wheeler County is not currently available, making detailed national comparisons difficult. However, 14.6% of residents report poor or fair health, approaching the U.S. average of 17%, suggesting moderate health challenges.

Small county, sparse health data

Wheeler County's specific life expectancy is unavailable, but its 14.6% poor/fair health rate sits below Nebraska's typical burden of chronic disease. The county remains understudied in health surveillance, making it harder to assess full health status versus state averages.

Data gaps obscure comparisons

Without life expectancy data for Wheeler County, direct comparison to surrounding counties like Wayne (82.5 years) and Webster (75.3 years) is incomplete. The 14.6% poor/fair health rate suggests conditions somewhere between healthier and more challenged neighbors.

Promising coverage, unknown provider access

Wheeler County's 5.4% uninsured rate beats Nebraska's 8.1% state average, a bright spot for healthcare access. However, specific data on primary care and mental health provider availability is not available, leaving a gap in understanding the full care landscape.

Don't let coverage lapse

Even with a low uninsured rate, Wheeler County residents should verify their coverage is current and adequate. Contact your local health department or visit healthcare.gov to confirm you have the protection your family needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Wheeler County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Education in a Single District

Wheeler County operates a highly focused school system consisting of just two schools within one single district. A total of 127 students are enrolled, divided between one elementary school and one high school. This centralized structure serves the entire county's public education needs.

Unmatched Investment and High Scores

While the graduation rate is reported at 75.0%, the county's school score is an impressive 72.6, far exceeding the state average of 59.1. This performance is backed by a massive per-pupil expenditure of $19,491, nearly double the state average. Such significant financial backing per student allows for highly individualized attention and resources.

Home of Wheeler Central Schools

Wheeler Central Schools is the sole provider of public education in the county, managing both its elementary and high school facilities. All 127 students in the county are part of this single district community. As with many rural Nebraska counties, there are no charter schools available, keeping the focus on the local public system.

Ultra-Small Rural Classrooms

The school experience here is exclusively rural, with an average school size of only 64 students. Wheeler Central Elementary is the larger of the two facilities with 83 students, while Wheeler Central High serves just 44 students in grades 7-12. This creates an environment where every student is known by name and receives direct support.

Personalized Learning in the Heartland

For those seeking an environment where their child will never be just a number, Wheeler County offers an unmatched student-to-funding ratio. The high academic scores demonstrate the effectiveness of this small-scale, high-investment model. Look for homes in this area to give your children a truly personalized educational experience.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wheeler County

via RiskByCounty

Wheeler County is exceptionally safe

At just 5.47, Wheeler County's composite risk score ranks among the lowest in the nation and represents only 21% of Nebraska's state average of 25.80. This very low rating reflects a genuinely protective natural environment across virtually all major hazard categories.

State's safest county for disasters

Wheeler County holds Nebraska's lowest composite risk score, making it the safest county in the state against natural disasters. The county's remote location and geographic characteristics create exceptional protection against multiple hazard types.

Far safer than all nearby counties

Wheeler County's 5.47 score dwarfs nearby Wayne County (13.96), Washington County (25.51), Webster County (55.47), and York County (52.26). The county stands out as an island of minimal hazard exposure in its region.

Wildfire is only notable hazard here

Wildfire risk (45.93) is Wheeler County's primary natural disaster concern, though still moderate compared to state and national standards. All other hazards—flood (2.42), tornado (17.18), and earthquake (2.10)—present minimal risk to residents.

Minimal coverage needs in safest county

Wheeler County residents need only standard homeowner's insurance with basic wildfire and wind coverage to address the county's modest hazards. Consider maintaining defensible space around your home and keeping gutters clear, especially during wildfire season in neighboring counties.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wheeler County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Conditions in the Sandhills

Wheeler County averages 49.5°F annually, falling below the national median and reflecting its northern, inland position. The county receives 27.2 inches of precipitation, which is typical for the central Great Plains region.

Aligning with the Nebraska State Baseline

At 49.5°F, the county sits almost exactly at the state average temperature of 49.7°F. It is slightly wetter than the average Nebraska county, receiving 27.2 inches of rain and snow compared to the state's 25.9-inch average.

The Snow Capital of the Region

Wheeler County records 35.1 inches of snow annually, far surpassing Webster's 19.7 inches. It also enjoys cooler summers than York County, with 18 fewer extreme heat days per year.

Snowy Winters and Temperate Summers

Winters are defined by 35.1 inches of snowfall and a January average of 23.5°F. Summer peaks in July at 75.2°F, but the county only sees 32 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F or above.

Prepare for Significant Winter Snowfall

Residents must invest in high-quality snow removal equipment and home insulation to handle over 35 inches of annual snow. The milder summer temperatures mean air conditioning systems face less strain than in southern Nebraska.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wheeler County

via SoilByCounty

Young Entisols of Wheeler County

The county features Entisols with a pH of 6.89, placing it on the alkaline side of the 6.5 national median. These soils are relatively young in geological terms and provide a unique mineral profile for local vegetation.

Sandy Silt Loam Texture

The soil is remarkably sandy at 59.5%, though it is officially classified as a silt loam surface. This high sand percentage ensures rapid drainage but results in a lower available water capacity of 0.145 in/in.

Surprising Organic Matter Levels

Wheeler County boasts a high organic matter content of 4.62%, which is well above the state average of 3.32%. This richness helps offset the lower water capacity by improving the soil's ability to hold onto vital nutrients.

Efficient Drainage and Runoff

Classified as well drained and part of hydrologic group B, this land handles heavy rainfall without significant ponding. These traits are ideal for construction and for plants that require excellent aeration around their roots.

Cooler Growing in Zone 5a

As a zone 5a region, Wheeler County has a slightly shorter growing season than its southern neighbors. However, the high organic content provides a fantastic foundation for hardy perennials and specialized native grasses.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wheeler County

via LawnByCounty

Sandy Soil and Cold Winters

Wheeler County scores a 55.3 for lawn ease, placing it right in line with the Nebraska state average. As a Hardiness Zone 5a county, it faces colder winter extremes and a shorter growing window than its southern neighbors.

Standard Heat and Steady Sun

The county receives 27.2 inches of rain, which is slightly above the state average of 25.9 but still below the national ideal. With 32 extreme heat days, the summer stress is typical for Nebraska and manageable with routine care.

Sandy Silt Loam Drains Fast

A high sand content of 59.5% creates a well-drained silt loam that prevents root rot but may require more frequent watering. The pH of 6.89 is nearly neutral, providing a welcoming environment for standard fertilizers.

Water Conservation for Sandy Ground

The area endured 29 weeks of drought over the past year, and 100% of the county currently shows abnormally dry conditions. Because the sandy soil drains so quickly, use light, frequent watering to keep roots hydrated during dry spells.

Late Spring Starts for Zone 5a

Wait until after the May 4 spring frost to start your lawn, as Zone 5a can be unforgiving to young shoots. Focus on cold-hardy Kentucky Bluegrass to ensure your lawn survives the winter freeze after October 8.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wheeler County's county score?
Wheeler County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 74.8 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 Wheeler County rank among counties in Nebraska?
Wheeler County ranks #4 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 Wheeler County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in Wheeler County is $1,240, with an effective tax rate of 0.91%. This earns Wheeler County a tax score of 44.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wheeler County?
The median household income in Wheeler County, Nebraska is $55,893 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wheeler County earns an income score of 27.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wheeler County, Nebraska a good place to live?
Wheeler County scores 74.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate Wheeler 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 Wheeler 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.