countyscore
46.3
County Score
Soil Quality 85Lawn Care 72.4Health 68.2

County Report Card

About Whiteside County, Illinois

Whiteside County Sits Below National Median

With a composite score of 46.2, Whiteside County ranks slightly below the national median of 50.0. This score suggests it faces more livability hurdles than the average American county.

Trailing the Illinois State Average

The county’s 46.2 score trails the Illinois state average of 52.8 by more than six points. It remains a competitive mid-market option but lags behind the state's top-performing counties.

Strong Schools and Community Health

The county finds its greatest success in health and education, scoring 68.2 and 62.6 respectively. Families benefit from a median rent of just $808, making housing quite accessible.

High Tax Rates and Safety Concerns

Taxes are a significant drawback here, as seen in a low tax score of 2.3 and an effective rate of 2.127%. The county also faces challenges in public safety and environmental risk, with scores of 42.2 and 34.2.

A Practical Choice for Middle-Income Families

This county suits families who value solid local schools and healthcare more than a low tax bill. It is a functional choice for those seeking northern Illinois living with moderate housing costs.

Score breakdown

Tax2.3Cost53.8Safety42.2Health68.2Schools62.6Income52.3Risk34.2Water52.3Weather51.1
🏛2.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠53.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼52.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤68.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡34.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧52.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨85
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱72.4
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Whiteside County?

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

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Whiteside County with Escambia County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Escambia County
Alabama
Median income: $44,447
46.3
Chattooga County
Georgia
Median income: $47,785
46.3
Leflore County
Mississippi
Median income: $33,188
46.3
Nassau County
New York
Median income: $143,408
46.3
Hardin County
Tennessee
Median income: $49,149
46.3
Lake and Peninsula Borough
Alaska
Median income: $64,000
46.2
Monroe County
Florida
Median income: $82,430
46.2
Henderson County
Kentucky
Median income: $58,239
46.2

Nearby counties

Clinton County
Iowa
38.7
Carroll County
Illinois
60.6
Henry County
Illinois
50.3
Scott County
Iowa
37.2
Rock Island County
Illinois
36.7
Lee County
Illinois
51.7
Jackson County
Iowa
55.6
Bureau County
Illinois
45.7

Deep Dives

Whiteside County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Whiteside County

via TaxByCounty

Whiteside County's taxes rank mid-range nationally

At 2.127%, Whiteside County's effective rate sits near the national median, with homeowners paying $2,676 annually—nearly matching the U.S. median of $2,690. This puts the county in roughly the 50th percentile for property tax burden.

Whiteside ranks above state average in tax rate

Illinois averages 1.831% in effective tax rates, but Whiteside County residents pay 2.127%—about 16% higher than the state median. The county's median tax of $2,676 also exceeds the state's $2,782 despite a smaller median home value.

Whiteside's rate higher than most neighbors

Whiteside County's 2.127% rate tops nearby Rock Island and Henry counties. However, it falls below the higher-taxing northeastern Illinois counties like Will and Winnebago.

Median Whiteside homeowner pays $2,676 yearly

On a median home valued at $125,800, property taxes run $2,676 annually—or $223 monthly. Homeowners with mortgages typically add another $165 to escrow, totaling roughly $388 per month.

Appeals could trim your Whiteside County bill

Overassessment affects many Whiteside County properties; research your home's recent sale comparables and file a formal challenge if your assessed value seems inflated. The county assessor's office accepts appeals during designated windows each year.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Whiteside County

via CostByCounty

Whiteside offers better-than-average affordability

Whiteside County renters spend 15.0% of income on rent, beating the national average of 14.7% by a narrow margin. With median household income at $64,536 and monthly rent of $808, the county remains accessible compared to national patterns.

Above-average on Illinois affordability scale

At 15.0% rent-to-income ratio, Whiteside County sits below the state average of 14.7%, indicating stronger affordability than typical Illinois communities. Its $808 median rent runs just $29 above the state average, positioning it as a balanced housing market.

Moderate costs in northwestern Illinois

Whiteside County's $808 rent sits comfortably between White County's $706 and Will County's $1,413, reflecting its position in northwestern Illinois. The 15.0% ratio beats Winnebago County's 18.4%, offering better housing affordability for similar incomes.

Renters slightly favored over buyers

Renters pay $808 monthly while homeowners spend $853—a modest $45 difference that favors renting slightly. Median home values of $125,800 remain accessible on the $64,536 median income, with housing consuming roughly 15-16% of household budgets.

Whiteside works for balanced-budget seekers

Relocating families appreciate Whiteside County's moderate costs and solid income levels relative to housing needs. Compare its $808 rent against nearby counties to confirm the value proposition for your household situation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Whiteside County

via IncomeByCounty

Whiteside County trails national median significantly

Whiteside County's median household income of $64,536 falls 13.7% short of the national median of $74,755. The $10,219 annual gap reflects Northwestern Illinois's reliance on agriculture and light manufacturing rather than higher-wage service sectors.

Below state average but stronger than rural peers

At $64,536, Whiteside County sits modestly below Illinois's $68,580 median household income. Per capita income of $36,788 nearly matches the state average of $36,009, suggesting more equitable income distribution than some neighboring rural counties.

Outearns southern Illinois but lags collar counties

Whiteside County residents earn roughly $11,400 more than White County residents ($53,097) but $43,263 less than Will County's prosperous $107,799. The $64,536 median positions Whiteside as solidly middle-tier statewide.

Housing costs well within affordable range

With a 15% rent-to-income ratio, Whiteside County households spend well below the 30% cost-burden threshold. The median home value of $125,800 offers reasonable entry points for first-time homebuyers seeking to build equity.

Stable income supports steady wealth-building

Whiteside County's relatively balanced income distribution and affordable housing create opportunities for homeownership and investment in education. Residents should prioritize building emergency funds and exploring employer-sponsored retirement plans to accelerate wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Whiteside County

via CrimeByCounty

Whiteside County Maintains Solid Safety

Whiteside County holds a safety score of 97.9, providing a secure environment relative to national figures. Its total crime rate of 1,310.0 per 100,000 is roughly half the U.S. average of 2,385.5.

Slightly Below Illinois Safety Averages

The county's safety score of 97.9 lags slightly behind the Illinois average of 98.7. Nine local reporting agencies manage a crime rate that is higher than the state average of 835.0.

More Active Than Rural Neighbors

Whiteside sees more crime activity than neighbors like Washington or Wayne, likely due to its higher population density. It manages a higher volume of calls and incidents than many nearby rural districts.

Understanding Violent and Property Rates

Property crime is the most common issue at ,1056.3 per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate of 253.7 is also higher than the Illinois state average of 160.1.

Visibility Deters Property Crime

Since property crime is the main concern, residents should focus on visible security like outdoor cameras and motion-sensor lights. These simple deterrents can significantly reduce the risk of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Whiteside County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy meets national benchmark

Whiteside County residents live an average of 75.5 years, slightly below the U.S. average of 76.4 years but within striking distance. Only 17.1% report poor or fair health, outperforming the national average of 18% and signaling relatively solid health outcomes for the region.

Whiteside holds middle ground in Illinois

At 75.5 years, Whiteside County's life expectancy trails Illinois' state average of 76.0 years by just half a year. The county's 17.1% poor/fair health rate ranks better than state averages, placing it in the middle tier of Illinois counties for overall health status.

Solid health standing among regional peers

Whiteside County's life expectancy of 75.5 years ties Williamson County and beats White County (73.5) by two years. With 51 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, the county offers better access than White County but trails the strongest performers like Williamson County (79 per 100K).

Low uninsured rate and decent provider access

Whiteside County's 5.8% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 6.3%, indicating relatively strong insurance coverage. Primary care providers (51 per 100K) and mental health providers (154 per 100K) are adequate, though rural residents may face travel distances for specialized care.

Maintain coverage and stay insured

Whiteside County has strong insurance uptake, but those without coverage should verify eligibility for marketplace plans or Medicaid expansion benefits. Renew policies promptly before enrollment deadlines to avoid gaps in coverage and ensure continued access to preventive care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Whiteside County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse School Options in Whiteside County

Whiteside County features 49 public schools, including 14 elementary, six middle, and 10 high schools. Eleven school districts manage this system, providing education to 8,439 total students across the county.

Steady Academic Results and Investment

The county achieves an 88.3% graduation rate, staying competitive with the national average of 87.0%. Spending reaches $9,657 per pupil, which exceeds the Illinois state average of $9,250 and supports a school score of 58.4.

Sterling CUSD 5 Leads the County

Sterling CUSD 5 is the largest district, serving 3,264 students across six schools. Traditional public education is the standard here, as the county currently has zero charter schools in operation.

A Blend of Town and Country Schools

Most schools are located in town settings, with 37 town locales and 12 rural settings shaping the student experience. Sterling High School is the county's largest facility with 1,049 students, while the overall average school size remains manageable at 301 students.

Discover Homes in Growing School Districts

Prospective buyers can find a variety of educational environments near Sterling and Rock Falls. The county’s consistent academic performance and above-average state spending make it a reliable choice for families.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Whiteside County

via RiskByCounty

Whiteside faces above-average disaster risk

Whiteside County's composite risk score of 65.81 exceeds both its state average (54.46) and the national median, earning a "Relatively Low" rating despite being 21% above state baseline. This northwest Illinois county experiences notably more natural hazard exposure than most of Illinois.

Among Illinois's higher-risk counties

Whiteside ranks in the upper portion of Illinois counties for disaster risk, placing it well above the state average. The county is notably more exposed than the safest Illinois counties but below the state's true hotspots.

Riskier than most neighbors

Whiteside County's score of 65.81 significantly outpaces nearby Rock Island County and similar northern Illinois neighbors. It trails only the highest-risk counties like Will County (97.26) and Winnebago County (92.37) in its region.

Tornadoes and floods are primary threats

Tornado risk (78.12) and flood risk (70.07) dominate Whiteside County's hazard profile, making severe weather the dominant concern. Earthquake risk (62.66) is moderate, while wildfire and hurricane risks remain relatively low.

Prioritize flood and tornado coverage

Whiteside County residents need robust flood insurance—standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage, and the 70.07 risk score demands coverage. Ensure your policy includes wind/hail damage for the county's elevated tornado threat.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Whiteside County

via WeatherByCounty

A true northern continental climate

Whiteside County averages 49.1°F, which is notably cooler than the national median. It is drier than many peers, with 37.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Among the coldest in Illinois

At 49.1°F, Whiteside is much colder than the state average of 52.8°F. It ranks as one of the northernmost and coldest counties in Illinois, with harsh winter conditions.

Highest snowfall in the area

With 30 inches of annual snow, Whiteside is significantly snowier than nearby Will County. It experiences only 15 days of extreme heat, fewer than almost any county to its south.

Harsh winters and mild summers

Winters are intense, with a January average of 20.9°F and substantial snowfall. Summers remain pleasant, averaging 71.8°F with very few days of oppressive heat.

Winter gear is a priority

Heavy-duty snow removal equipment is a must for the 30 inches of annual snowfall. Residents should prioritize home insulation and high-performance heating for the sub-freezing winter months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Whiteside County

via SoilByCounty

Whiteside's High-Performing Soil Identity

Whiteside County features an average pH of 6.31, which closely tracks the Illinois state average of 6.39. While taxonomic details are unavailable, this pH sits slightly below the national median of 6.5. This balanced chemistry helps the county achieve an elite soil score of 85.0.

Balanced Texture for Superior Workability

The soil composition includes 53.3% silt and 22.7% sand, rounded out by 19.5% clay. This mix provides enough sand for aeration while the clay and silt hold essential nutrients. It creates a versatile medium that resists compaction better than silt-only profiles.

Extraordinary Organic Matter Levels

At 6.16%, the organic matter content here is more than double the state average of 2.94%. The soil also boasts an available water capacity of 0.212 in/in, which is higher than most Illinois counties. This exceptional fertility makes Whiteside a powerhouse for crop production.

Natural Efficiency in the Field

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are not recorded in the available data for these soils. However, the high soil score suggests these lands possess superior physical properties for both agriculture and building. The high organic content naturally improves soil structure and water infiltration.

Thriving in Zone 5b

Located in Hardiness Zone 5b, Whiteside is ideal for hardy perennials and classic Midwestern staples like corn and pumpkins. The incredibly high organic matter means your garden beds are already naturally enriched. Grab your tools and plant early to maximize the potential of this rich land.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Whiteside County

via LawnByCounty

Easier Turf Care Along the Rock River

Whiteside County scores a 72.4 on the lawn difficulty scale, indicating an easier maintenance experience than both the state and national averages. This Hardiness Zone 5b region benefits from cooler summers that favor traditional cool-season grasses.

Moderate Temperatures and Steady Growth

With only 15 extreme heat days annually—nearly half the state average—turf escapes much of the midsummer dormancy common elsewhere. The 37.9 inches of annual precipitation provides a solid base, though it falls slightly below the Illinois average of 41.8 inches.

Slightly Sandy Soils Benefit Drainage

A soil pH of 6.31 provides a near-perfect environment for nutrient uptake in Kentucky Bluegrass. The soil contains 22.7% sand, which can improve drainage but may require more frequent watering during the 3,060 growing degree day season.

Combating Extended Dry Periods

Despite the favorable score, the county spent 27 weeks in drought over the last year and remains 100% abnormally dry. Applying a thin layer of compost can help these sandier soils retain moisture during dry stretches.

Planting for Success in Zone 5b

Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass are the standard choices for this climate. Plan your primary seeding after the last frost on April 26 to capitalize on the cool spring growing window.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Whiteside County's county score?
Whiteside County, Illinois has a composite county score of 46.3 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 Whiteside County rank among counties in Illinois?
Whiteside County ranks #79 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 Whiteside County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Whiteside County is $2,676, with an effective tax rate of 2.13%. This earns Whiteside County a tax score of 2.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Whiteside County?
The median household income in Whiteside County, Illinois is $64,536 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Whiteside County earns an income score of 52.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Whiteside County, Illinois a good place to live?
Whiteside County scores 46.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #79 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Whiteside 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 Whiteside 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.