countyscore
59.2
County Score
Cost of Living 96.5Disaster Risk 91.8Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Worth County, Missouri

Outperforming the National Average

Worth County delivers a strong performance with a composite score of 59.2, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high quality of life driven by environmental safety and affordability.

Leading Missouri in Rural Livability

Worth County significantly outpaces the Missouri state average composite score of 50.3. It stands as a top performer in the region, particularly for those who value low-risk environments and extreme cost savings.

Exceptional Affordability and Safety

Housing is incredibly accessible here with a Cost Score of 96.5 and median gross rent at just $353 per month. The county also boasts a Risk Score of 91.8, indicating very low exposure to natural disasters or environmental hazards.

Economic and Educational Headwinds

The county struggles with an Income Score of 8.5, as the median household income of $46,167 is significantly lower than national figures. School performance also lags with a score of 38.9, suggesting limited educational resources.

A Haven for Thrifty Living

Worth County is best suited for retirees or remote workers who prioritize ultra-low housing costs and physical safety. It offers a quiet, low-risk lifestyle for those who do not rely on high-wage local employment.

Score breakdown

Tax53.1Cost96.5Safety58.3Health41.5Schools38.9Income8.5Risk91.8Water86Weather51
🏛53.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠96.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼8.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡58.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤41.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡91.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨71.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱81.1
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

Ringgold County
Iowa
60.8
Taylor County
Iowa
64.2
Gentry County
Missouri
57.1
Nodaway County
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Harrison County
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Decatur County
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Union County
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Page County
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Deep Dives

Worth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Worth County

via TaxByCounty

Worth County slightly above national median

At 0.801%, Worth County's effective tax rate edges above the national median of 0.72%, placing it in the 55th percentile nationally. Despite this higher rate, the county's median property tax of $758 remains far below the national median of $2,690, thanks to much lower home values in the area.

Among Missouri's higher-tax counties

Worth County's 0.801% effective rate exceeds Missouri's 0.733% state average, making it one of the state's steeper property tax jurisdictions. The median tax of $758 sits below the state average of $1,199, reflecting the county's lower median home value of $94,600.

Highest rate in this region

Worth County's 0.801% effective rate is the highest among its regional peers, outpacing Webster County (0.539%) and Wright County (0.384%). This makes it the steepest-taxing county in the immediate area, despite modest home values.

What a typical home costs annually

On a median home valued at $94,600, Worth County residents pay approximately $758 per year in property taxes without mortgage deduction, or $918 with mortgage interest included. This breaks down to roughly $63–$77 monthly, well below national averages despite the higher rate.

You might be overassessed

Many Worth County homeowners are paying taxes on inflated assessed values, and an appeal to the assessor's office could reduce your burden. Given the county's higher effective rate, verifying your home's accurate market value is especially worthwhile.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Worth County

via CostByCounty

Worth County: Missouri's housing bargain

Worth County's rent-to-income ratio of 9.2% is exceptional—nearly 6 percentage points below the national standard—making it one of the most affordable places to rent in America. At just $353 monthly, median rent is less than half the state average of $768, though the median income of $46,167 is notably lower than the national $74,755.

Top affordable county in Missouri

Worth County dominates Missouri's affordability rankings with a 9.2% rent-to-income ratio—more than 6 percentage points better than the state average of 15.6%. This makes Worth the clear winner for renters prioritizing housing cost relief.

Worth leads region in cheap housing

Worth County's $353 median rent is dramatically lower than Webster County's $777 and Wright County's $558, offering unmatched affordability in the region. The tradeoff: Worth's median income of $46,167 lags both neighbors, making the low housing costs essential to household survival rather than a luxury.

Worth's lean housing budget

Renters allocate just $353 monthly to housing while homeowners spend $522, leaving meaningful portions of the $46,167 median income for food, utilities, and other needs. At 9.2% of income for renters and 13.6% for owners, Worth residents enjoy uncommonly low housing burdens.

Worth County works for budget-conscious movers

If affordability is your priority and you can manage a rural lifestyle with lower wages, Worth County's $353 rent is hard to beat anywhere in the nation. Compare your current housing costs: unless you're currently paying under 9% of income on rent, moving to Worth could deliver substantial savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Worth County

via IncomeByCounty

Worth County lags national income

Worth County's median household income of $46,167 falls considerably below the U.S. median of $74,755—a gap of $28,588 that reflects the economic challenges facing rural Missouri. The shortfall represents a real constraint on household purchasing power and wealth-building capacity.

Among Missouri's lowest-income counties

At $46,167, Worth County's median household income sits $13,336 below Missouri's state average of $59,503, placing it in the lower tier statewide. However, the county's per capita income of $32,793 exceeds the state average of $31,011, indicating more income equality across households.

Similar economics to nearby counties

Worth County's median income of $46,167 closely mirrors Wright County's $47,304, though both trail Webster County's $69,731 by roughly $20,000. Worth and Wright face similar rural economic pressures, though Worth's lower housing values ($94,600 vs. $152,300) offer an affordability advantage.

Housing costs are well-managed

Worth County's rent-to-income ratio of 9.2% is one of the lowest in the nation, meaning housing costs consume a minimal share of earnings—a genuine economic strength. The county's modest median home value of $94,600 makes homeownership highly accessible despite lower overall income.

Prioritize savings despite lower income

Worth County households can capitalize on their low housing costs to redirect savings toward emergency funds, education, and retirement accounts. Even modest monthly contributions to a savings plan can build meaningful wealth over time and create financial security for future generations.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Worth County

via CrimeByCounty

Worth County safety ranks among the best

Worth County boasts an impressive safety score of 98.5, far exceeding national norms. The total crime rate of 958.7 per 100,000 is less than half of the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading Missouri in public safety metrics

Worth County sits comfortably above the Missouri average safety score of 97.0. Its total crime rate is less than half the state average of 1,926.2, marking it as one of the safer jurisdictions in the state.

Understanding safety in a small-agency county

Worth County reports crime through a single agency, meaning residents should interpret these positive numbers with some caution. Even so, the reported crime rates are significantly lower than both the state average and neighboring Webster County.

Exceptionally low rates for property and violence

Both violent crime at 252.3 and property crime at 706.4 fall well below national benchmarks. These figures indicate that Worth County residents face much lower risks than the average American in both categories.

Build on a strong foundation of safety

Even in low-crime areas, maintaining home security helps preserve the peace. Consider joining a local neighborhood watch or installing basic alarm systems to keep Worth County secure for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Worth County

via HealthByCounty

Worth County leads in life expectancy

Worth County residents live to 75.1 years on average—more than 1.5 years longer than the U.S. average of 73.5 years. However, 19.2% report poor or fair health, suggesting chronic conditions persist despite longer lifespans.

Missouri's healthier counties

At 75.1 years, Worth County significantly outpaces Missouri's state average life expectancy of 74.3 years. Its 12.6% uninsured rate is nearly identical to the state average of 12.5%.

Best primary care access locally

Worth County leads its region with 50 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—far exceeding Wright County's 16 per 100,000. Mental health provider data is limited, but strong primary care capacity supports early intervention and disease prevention.

Coverage nearly universal, but gaps remain

About 1 in 8 Worth County residents lack health insurance, a fraction higher than Missouri's 12.5% state average. Access to primary care is strong, but uninsured neighbors may skip preventive visits due to out-of-pocket costs.

Secure affordable health coverage

Worth County residents without insurance have clear pathways to coverage through Medicaid, marketplace plans, and federally qualified health centers. Explore options at healthcare.gov or call your local health department to find a plan within your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Worth County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate Education in a Single District

Worth County operates a streamlined educational system consisting of just two public schools housed within a single district. Serving a total of 275 students, the county provides one elementary school and one high school to cover the entire K-12 spectrum. This localized approach ensures every student remains within the Worth Co. R-III family for their entire academic career.

Strong Results Through Focused Spending

The county boasts a 90.0% graduation rate, significantly beating the national average of 87.0% and nearly matching the state's high bar. Investment is a priority here, with per-pupil spending at $6,540, which exceeds the Missouri state average of $6,334. These investments yield a school score of 52.5, placing the county right on par with the state's overall performance levels.

Worth County R-III Manages All

Worth Co. R-III is the sole provider of public education in the county, managing both of its local schools with a total enrollment of 275. There are no charter schools in the area, meaning the district serves as the exclusive educational hub for the community. This centralized structure allows for highly personalized attention and a close-knit academic environment.

The Essence of Rural Schooling

Both schools in the county are classified as rural, providing a quiet and focused atmosphere for learning. Worth Co. Elementary is the larger of the two with 149 students, while Worth Co. High serves 126 students in grades 7-12. With an average school size of just 138 students, every child benefits from an environment where teachers and administrators know them by name.

Join a Close-Knit School Community

Relocating to Worth County offers the rare opportunity to live in a place where the school is truly the heart of the town. For home buyers seeking high graduation rates and a safe, rural setting, this single-district county provides a predictable and high-quality path for children. Consider the benefits of a community that invests more in its students than the state average.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Worth County

via RiskByCounty

Worth County stands among safest nationwide

With a composite risk score of 8.21 and a 'Very Low' rating, Worth County ranks well below the national average and far below Missouri's state average of 50.56. This exceptionally low exposure makes it one of the most disaster-resilient counties in the United States.

Missouri's lowest-risk county

Worth County's 8.21 composite score represents the best disaster risk profile in Missouri, dramatically outperforming the state average of 50.56. Every major hazard category—from earthquakes (5.57) to hurricanes (7.22)—scores significantly below statewide norms.

Distinctly safer than regional peers

Worth County's composite risk of 8.21 is less than one-fifth of Webster County's 44.59 and one-seventh of Wright County's 57.41, making it uniquely protected in the region. This advantage spans multiple hazard types, from floods to tornadoes.

Wildfire risk edges ahead slightly

Even Worth County's highest hazard—wildfire risk at 34.10—remains well below state and national norms. All other major disaster risks, including floods (4.61) and earthquakes (5.57), score among the nation's lowest.

Basic coverage likely sufficient

Worth County residents' primary insurance focus should be standard homeowners coverage, as specialty disaster policies carry less urgency here than in higher-risk areas. Nevertheless, reviewing wildfire preparedness and ensuring adequate liability coverage remains prudent for all property owners.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Worth County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool Continental Climate in Northern Missouri

Worth County maintains a cool annual average temperature of 50.4°F, falling several degrees below the national median. This reflects its position in the northern reaches of the Midwest where cooler air masses dominate.

One of Missouri's Coldest Counties

The county's 50.4°F annual average is significantly lower than the Missouri state average of 54.9°F. This gap places Worth County among the coolest jurisdictions in the state, driven by its high northern latitude.

Matching the Northern Plains Profile

Worth County shares a similar climate profile with neighbors like Harrison and Gentry counties, though it lacks the specific local precipitation records available in those areas. Its climate remains much brisker than the Ozark counties located in the southern half of the state.

Brisk Winters and Manageable Summers

Winters are sharp with a January average of 23.1°F, while summers stay relatively comfortable with only 20 days exceeding 90°F. The July average of 74.8°F is milder than many other Missouri regions that face more intense humidity.

Preparing for Significant Winter Heating Needs

Residents should invest in high-efficiency heating systems to handle winter averages of 26.2°F. While summer heat is less frequent than elsewhere in Missouri, proper insulation remains key to managing the 20 days of extreme heat each year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Worth County

via SoilByCounty

High-performing Alfisols lead the way

Worth County's Alfisols boast a soil score of 71.9, placing it well above the Missouri state average of 64.2. Its 6.14 pH is slightly acidic compared to the 6.5 national median but remains higher than the state average of 6.09.

Classic silt loam for easy tilling

As a classic silt loam, this soil contains 55.1% silt and 25.0% clay, offering a heavy but fertile structure. The 19.9% sand content ensures the earth remains manageable for tilling while providing excellent nutrient retention.

Superior water storage for thirsty crops

The available water capacity of 0.202 in/in is superior to the Missouri average of 0.183, indicating a high potential for sustained growth. While the 3.20% organic matter is lower than the state average, it remains well above the 2.0% national benchmark.

Moderate drainage supports diverse agriculture

The county features moderately well-drained soil, providing a balanced environment for most agricultural and residential uses. Because it belongs to Hydrologic Group D, builders should expect slower water infiltration during heavy rain events.

A fertile haven for Zone 5b crops

This fertile silt loam is ideal for growing high-yield corn, soybeans, and hearty root vegetables in Hardiness Zone 5b. Start your garden today with confidence, as these nutrient-dense soils support some of the best growing conditions in the state.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Worth County

via LawnByCounty

Exceptional Conditions for Easy Lawn Care

Worth County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 81.1, making it one of the easiest places in the state to maintain turf. This score far exceeds both the national median of 50.0 and the Missouri average of 63.7. The county is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, which is ideal for northern, cool-season grass varieties.

Cooler Summers Reduce Turf Stress

The region experiences only 20 extreme heat days annually, which is significantly lower than the Missouri state average of 37 days. While local precipitation data is limited, 3,269 growing degree days indicate a shorter, more manageable growing season. This cooler climate reduces the risk of heat-related browning and fungal diseases common in southern Missouri.

Optimal Soil Foundation for Healthy Grass

The soil foundation is a favorable silt loam with a pH of 6.14, placing it right within the ideal range for healthy grass. It is moderately well drained, which helps maintain moisture without drowning the root system. Homeowners here generally need fewer soil amendments and fertilizers compared to those in neighboring counties.

High Resilience and Minimal Drought Stress

Resilience is high in Worth County, which only experienced 3 weeks of drought over the last year. Although 100% of the county is currently flagged as abnormally dry, none of the area is suffering from severe drought. Occasional supplemental watering during dry weeks should be sufficient to keep lawns vibrant throughout the season.

Cool-Season Grasses Thrive in Zone 5b

Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are ideal for this cooler Zone 5b environment. Time your planting between the last spring frost on April 24 and the first fall frost on October 14 to maximize establishment. With such a high difficulty score, a little effort goes a long way toward achieving a lush, green lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Worth County's county score?
Worth County, Missouri has a composite county score of 59.2 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 Worth County rank among counties in Missouri?
Worth County ranks #22 among all counties in Missouri 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 Worth County, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Worth County is $758, with an effective tax rate of 0.80%. This earns Worth County a tax score of 53.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Worth County?
The median household income in Worth County, Missouri is $46,167 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Worth County earns an income score of 8.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Worth County, Missouri a good place to live?
Worth County scores 59.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in Missouri. The best way to evaluate Worth 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 Worth County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.