countyscore
42.4
County Score
Soil Quality 83.9Safety 82Lawn Care 67.7

County Report Card

About Winnebago County, Illinois

Winnebago County Faces National Headwinds

Winnebago County receives a composite score of 42.4, falling below the national median of 50.0. This ranking reflects significant challenges in taxation and environmental risk compared to national peers.

Trailing the Illinois State Average

The county's 42.4 score is well below the Illinois state average of 52.8. It faces specific structural pressures that make it a more challenging environment than many other Illinois counties.

Reliable Safety and Clean Water

Public safety is a notable strength, earning a solid score of 82.0. The county also maintains decent water quality at 57.1 and a steady median household income of $64,363.

Heavy Tax Burden and Environmental Risk

A tax score of 0.7 reflects an effective property tax rate of 2.482%, one of the highest in the region. Environmental risk also remains a concern, with a score of only 7.6.

Best for Workers in Secure Enclaves

This county suits residents who work in local industries and value high personal safety but can navigate high tax bills. It is a functional location for those prioritizing safety and local income stability.

Score breakdown

Tax0.7Cost29.3Safety82Health47.5Schools45.3Income51.6Risk7.6Water57.1Weather52
🏛0.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠29.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡82
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤47.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓45.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡7.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧57.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨83.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱67.7
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

Boone County
Illinois
43.7
Ogle County
Illinois
38.7
Stephenson County
Illinois
45.6
Rock County
Wisconsin
38.9
Green County
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DeKalb County
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Walworth County
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Lee County
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Deep Dives

Winnebago County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Winnebago County

via TaxByCounty

Winnebago County taxes rank above national median

Winnebago County's 2.482% effective rate sits well above the national median, with homeowners paying $3,850 annually—43% more than the U.S. median of $2,690. The county ranks in the upper 35% nationally for property tax burden.

Winnebago ranks among Illinois' highest-tax counties

At 2.482%, Winnebago County's effective rate far exceeds the state average of 1.831%, placing it in the top quartile statewide. The median tax of $3,850 substantially outpaces Illinois' median of $2,782.

Winnebago taxes high among northern Illinois peers

Winnebago County's 2.482% rate leads most surrounding counties in the Rockford region, including Boone and DeKalb. Only a few northern Illinois counties match or exceed Winnebago's tax intensity.

Typical Winnebago homeowner pays $3,850 yearly

On a median home valued at $155,100, annual property taxes total $3,850—about $321 per month. Homeowners with mortgages typically add another $85 monthly to escrow, reaching roughly $406 per month.

Appeal your Winnebago assessment if overvalued

High-tax Winnebago County homeowners should closely review their property assessments, as overvaluation contributes significantly to inflated bills. Filing a formal appeal with supporting comparable sales data can result in meaningful annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Winnebago County

via CostByCounty

Winnebago ranks among least affordable

Winnebago County renters spend 18.4% of income on rent, significantly exceeding the national average of 14.7% and straining household finances. This $986 monthly rent on a $64,363 median income represents one of Illinois' most challenging housing affordability situations.

Illinois' most strained rental market

At 18.4% rent-to-income ratio, Winnebago County ranks among Illinois' least affordable counties, well above the state average of 14.7%. Its $986 median rent runs $149 above state average, reflecting acute local housing demand and limited supply.

Highest costs among regional peers

Winnebago County's $986 rent and 18.4% ratio exceed all nearby counties—White, Whiteside, Williamson, and Woodford—making it the region's priciest market. This positions it distinctly less affordable than surrounding communities despite similar income levels.

Ownership slightly eases rent burden

Homeowners pay $1,034 monthly versus renters' $986, a modest $48 premium, with median home values at $155,100. Both renters and owners allocate roughly 16-18% of the $64,363 median income to housing, leaving tight margins for other necessities.

Winnebago demands financial flexibility

Relocating to Winnebago County works only for households with significant income cushions above the $64,363 median or willing to accept high housing-cost burdens. Compare its 18.4% ratio against neighboring counties to understand the affordability premium you'll pay here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Winnebago County

via IncomeByCounty

Winnebago County significantly below national income

Winnebago County's median household income of $64,363 lags the U.S. median of $74,755 by 13.9%, a gap of $10,392. The shortfall reflects the county's manufacturing-dependent economy and limited access to high-wage service sectors.

Lower tier among Illinois counties

At $64,363, Winnebago County sits $4,217 below Illinois's state median of $68,580. Per capita income of $34,775 falls slightly below the state average of $36,009, indicating less balanced income distribution than some peers.

Among Illinois's most challenged counties economically

Winnebago County's $64,363 median slightly edges out Whiteside County ($64,536) but trails Woodford County ($85,629) by over $21,000. The northcentral location hasn't translated to the prosperity visible in nearby suburban counties.

Rent burden reaching concerning levels

Winnebago County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among these six counties, approaching the 30% cost-burden threshold. The median home value of $155,100 remains affordable, but rising housing costs require close household budgeting.

Focus on financial stability and emergency savings

With rent costs climbing toward problematic levels, Winnebago County households should prioritize building 3-6 months of emergency savings. Pursuing career development in higher-wage fields and exploring side income opportunities offer paths to financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Winnebago County

via CrimeByCounty

Winnebago County Stays Safer Than Average

Winnebago County earns a high safety score of 99.3, placing it well above the typical American community. Its total crime rate of 432.2 per 100,000 is roughly five times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Strong Safety Performance in Illinois

The county’s safety score of 99.3 surpasses the Illinois average of 98.7 across its eleven reporting agencies. Residents face a total crime rate of 432.2, which is nearly half the statewide average of 835.0 per 100,000.

Comparing Northern Illinois Safety Trends

Winnebago’s total crime rate of 432.2 sits slightly higher than Will County’s 421.5, showing consistent safety levels across the region. Both counties maintain significantly lower crime profiles than the broader state average.

Breaking Down Violent and Property Crime

The county reports 95.6 violent crimes per 100,000 residents, remaining well below the national figure of 369.8. Property crimes account for 336.6 incidents per 100,000, reflecting the most common but still infrequent concern for residents.

Smart Steps for Home Security

Maintaining these high safety ratings requires consistent community effort and smart home security habits. Simple measures like smart doorbells and secure locks help keep Winnebago County's property crime rates among the lowest in the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Winnebago County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy significantly below national average

Winnebago County residents live an average of 74.5 years, nearly two years short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years. At 22.2% poor/fair health, the county significantly exceeds the national average of 18%, indicating considerable health challenges across the population.

Winnebago County among Illinois' least healthy

At 74.5 years, Winnebago County's life expectancy falls 1.5 years short of Illinois' state average of 76.0 years. The county's 22.2% poor/fair health rate is among the worst in Illinois, signaling urgent need for health interventions and prevention programs.

Lagging health outcomes, limited provider access

Winnebago County's life expectancy of 74.5 years ranks second-lowest among peer counties, beating only White County (73.5) by one year. Despite having 70 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 240 mental health providers per 100K, health outcomes remain comparatively poor.

Highest uninsured rate in this county group

Winnebago County's 7.1% uninsured rate is the highest among these counties and exceeds the state average of 6.3%. While primary care access (70 per 100K) is adequate, the combination of insurance gaps and ongoing health challenges suggests barriers beyond just provider availability.

Urgent: explore health insurance options now

Winnebago County's 7.1% uninsured rate demands immediate action—visit the Illinois State Insurance Exchange or contact a local health navigator to find affordable coverage. Preventive care access through insurance can reverse current health trends, so don't delay enrollment.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Winnebago County

via SchoolsByCounty

Winnebago County’s Extensive School Network

Winnebago County operates 91 public schools, including 49 elementary and 16 high schools, across 13 districts. This large system serves 43,310 students, primarily in urban and suburban areas.

Investing in Student Success Challenges

The graduation rate is 73.9%, which trails the state average, but the county invests $10,148 per pupil to address student needs. This spending level exceeds the Illinois average of $9,250, reflecting a strong local financial commitment.

Rockford SD 205 and Charter Options

Rockford SD 205 is the largest district, serving 27,442 students across 45 schools. The county is home to three charter schools, which represent 3.3% of the total school landscape.

Large Urban and Suburban High Schools

Forty schools are located in city settings, and the average school size is a substantial 535 students. Jefferson High School and Guilford High School are the largest, both serving over 2,000 students each.

Find Your Fit in Winnebago Districts

Winnebago County offers high per-pupil investment and a variety of urban school choices. Families researching the area can explore diverse housing options near Rockford's major high schools and local charter programs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Winnebago County

via RiskByCounty

Winnebago faces exceptional disaster risk

Winnebago County's composite risk score of 92.37 ranks in the "Relatively Moderate" category but sits 69% above the state average, placing it among the nation's highest-risk counties. This north-central Illinois county experiences compounded exposure to multiple severe hazards.

Among the very highest-risk Illinois counties

Winnebago County ranks in the top tier of Illinois counties for disaster risk, significantly exceeding the state average. It is one of only a handful of Illinois counties facing this level of comprehensive natural hazard exposure.

Far riskier than nearby counties

Winnebago County's score of 92.37 substantially exceeds neighboring Boone County and similar north-central Illinois peers. Only Will County (97.26) in the region carries comparable or higher overall risk.

Tornadoes and floods are primary concerns

Tornado risk (97.30) and flood risk (94.37) dominate Winnebago County's hazard profile, ranking among the worst in the nation for both. Earthquake risk (79.99) adds moderate concern, while wildfire risk (32.67) poses secondary threat.

Flood and tornado coverage are essential

Winnebago County residents must obtain separate flood insurance given the 94.37 risk score—among the nation's highest. Maximize tornado/wind/hail coverage in homeowners policies, as the 97.30 tornado risk demands comprehensive protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Winnebago County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool Continental Climate Profile

Winnebago County maintains an annual average temperature of 49.4°F, placing it firmly in the humid continental zone. This average sits nearly five degrees below the national median, reflecting its northern latitude.

Cooler and Brisk Compared to Illinois Averages

The county tracks significantly cooler than the Illinois statewide average of 52.8°F. It also receives 38.3 inches of annual precipitation, which falls short of the state average of 41.7 inches.

Chillier Winters Than Central Neighbors

Winnebago experiences a cooler climate than Woodford County to the south, which averages 51.6°F annually. While it shares a similar precipitation profile with the region, its northern position leads to much heavier snowfall.

Biting Cold and Moderate Summer Heat

Winter temperatures average a frigid 24.9°F, bringing a substantial 37.5 inches of annual snow. Summers remain relatively mild with 15 extreme heat days over 90°F and a July average of 73.8°F.

Prepare for Snow and Seasonal Shifts

Residents should invest in heavy-duty snow removal equipment to handle the 37.5 inches of yearly accumulation. High-efficiency heating systems are essential to manage January temperatures that frequently drop to an average of 21.8°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Winnebago County

via SoilByCounty

Standard Acidity with High Quality

Winnebago County maintains a pH of 6.32, which is nearly identical to the Illinois state average of 6.39. It sits slightly more acidic than the 6.5 national median but remains highly productive. This balanced chemistry supports an impressive overall soil score of 83.9.

Ideal Silt and Sand Balance

A composition of 54.9% silt and 22.4% sand creates a loamy texture that balances drainage and moisture retention. The 19.4% clay content provides necessary mineral structure without making the soil difficult to work. This mix is highly prized for its versatility in the field.

Rich Organic Reserves

With 5.44% organic matter, these soils are far richer than the state average of 2.94%. An available water capacity of 0.210 in/in further boosts the county's growing potential. These nutrient-dense soils require less supplemental fertilizer than the national average.

Superior Agricultural Land Performance

While dominant drainage and hydrologic classes are not specifically recorded, the high soil score suggests excellent performance. The combination of high organic matter and sand helps keep the soil permeable. This land is among the highest-rated in the state for agricultural output.

Hardy Growing in Zone 5b

Gardeners in Zone 5b should take advantage of this nutrient-dense soil to grow vigorous root vegetables and hardy grains. The high organic content provides a massive head start for any planting project. Winnebago County is a premier location for anyone serious about gardening.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Winnebago County

via LawnByCounty

Cooler Climates Near the Wisconsin Border

Winnebago County features a lawn difficulty score of 67.7, slightly below the Illinois average of 69.8. Located in Hardiness Zone 5b, the county experiences shorter growing seasons that favor cool-season turf.

Moderate Rain and Cool Summer Nights

The county receives 38.3 inches of annual precipitation and manages a modest 15 extreme heat days. This combination keeps lawns from scorching, though the 3,083 growing degree days mean turf grows more slowly than in southern Illinois.

Stable pH and Sandy Loam Qualities

A soil pH of 6.32 provides excellent nutrient availability for most grasses. The 22.4% sand content ensures the soil doesn't stay waterlogged, which is vital for preventing root rot during wet Midwestern springs.

Recovering From a Year of Drought

Lawns in Winnebago County endured 43 weeks of drought over the past year, one of the longest durations in the state. While current conditions show no severe drought, the 95.7% abnormal dryness means regular, deep irrigation is still required.

Spring Start for Zone 5b Lawns

Start your seeding after the April 24 frost date to take advantage of the spring moisture. Kentucky Bluegrass remains the gold standard here, providing a hardy and attractive lawn for the northern Illinois climate.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Winnebago County's county score?
Winnebago County, Illinois has a composite county score of 42.4 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 Winnebago County rank among counties in Illinois?
Winnebago County ranks #88 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 Winnebago County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Winnebago County is $3,850, with an effective tax rate of 2.48%. This earns Winnebago County a tax score of 0.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Winnebago County?
The median household income in Winnebago County, Illinois is $64,363 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Winnebago County earns an income score of 51.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Winnebago County, Illinois a good place to live?
Winnebago County scores 42.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #88 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Winnebago 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 Winnebago 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.