countyscore
55
County Score
Health 86.2Soil Quality 85.4Income & Jobs 75.6

County Report Card

About York County, Nebraska

Solid Standing Above National Median

York County maintains a composite score of 55.0, which is five points higher than the national median of 50.0. This indicates a consistent and reliable quality of life compared to the broader U.S.

Trailing the State Average Slightly

The county’s score of 55.0 sits just below the Nebraska state average of 59.3. While it remains a strong choice, it faces more competition from higher-scoring counties across the state.

Great Health and Strong Incomes

York County performs well in health with a score of 86.2 and income with a score of 75.6. The median household income of $74,058 supports a healthy local economy and family stability.

Infrastructure and Tax Pressures

The water score of 25.2 and tax score of 25.5 represent the county's primary areas for improvement. A cost score of 42.0 also reflects housing costs that are slightly higher than some more affordable rural neighbors.

A Reliable Mid-Sized Community Choice

York County is a good fit for working families who value strong health services and solid earning potential. It offers a balanced, middle-of-the-road experience with steady economic opportunity.

2040608010025.54261.686.265.475.647.825.242.3Tax25.5Cost42Safety61.6Health86.2Schools65.4Income75.6Risk47.8Water25.2Weather42.355/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

York County DNA

Foverall

How York County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

York County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (86.2/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (25.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
25.5-26.5
Cost
42
Safety
61.6
Health
86.2+36.2
Schools
65.4+11.400000000000006
Income
75.6+24.599999999999994
Risk
47.8
Water
25.2-32.8
Weather
42.3-13.700000000000003
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Think property taxes are too high in York County?

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$175,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$885/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$175,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$35,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.4x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $74,058/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Deep Dives

York County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in York County

via TaxByCounty

York County taxes near national median

York County's effective tax rate of 1.202% slightly exceeds the national median of 1.1%, positioning it near the 50th percentile among U.S. counties. The median property tax of $2,115 falls below the national median of $2,690, reflecting a median home value ($175,900) that's notably lower than the national average.

York County slightly below Nebraska average

York County's effective rate of 1.202% falls just below Nebraska's state average of 1.281%, ranking it in the middle of Nebraska's county distribution. Its median property tax of $2,115 exceeds the state median of $1,972 by about 7%, indicating homes here hold relatively steady value.

York County moderate in the region

York County's 1.202% effective rate ranks third among the five-county group, below Washington County (1.475%) and Webster County (1.439%) but above Wayne County (1.194%) and Wheeler County (0.912%). It represents a middle ground for this area's tax burden.

Median annual property tax: $2,115

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $175,900 in York County pays roughly $2,115 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the annual tax bill reaches $2,293; without a mortgage, it drops to $1,947—a pattern reflecting county assessment methodology.

Appeal your assessment free of charge

York County homeowners who believe their properties are overassessed can file a free property tax appeal with strong chances of success. Challenging an inflated assessment can lower your annual bill and ensure you pay only your fair share.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in York County

via CostByCounty

York County meets national affordability standard

York County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio sits just above the national standard, making it reasonably affordable for renters relative to peers nationwide. With a median household income of $74,058—nearly aligned with the national median of $74,755—the county offers balanced affordability for typical American earners.

Slightly above Nebraska average rent burden

York County's 14.3% rent-to-income ratio edges above Nebraska's 14.2% state average, placing it in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. The median rent of $885 runs $102 above the state average of $783, reflecting a county with slightly higher housing costs than typical Nebraska.

Mid-range costs, mid-range incomes

York County's $885 median rent positions it between the lowest-cost rural counties (Wheeler at $525) and highest-cost Washington County ($958). The median income of $74,058 aligns it closer to Washington County's prosperity level than to the more rural, lower-income neighbors.

Balanced housing cost distribution

Renters spend $885 monthly (14.3% of income) while homeowners pay $905 (14.5% of income)—remarkably balanced and close to national norms. York County demonstrates equilibrium where both renters and homeowners dedicate similar portions of income to housing, typical of a stable mid-sized county economy.

York County for balanced Nebraska living

York County appeals to those seeking a middle path between rural affordability and stronger income potential, with housing costs aligned to national standards. The county offers mainstream affordability and a moderately prosperous local economy, making it suitable for those wanting stability without sacrificing economic opportunity.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in York County

via IncomeByCounty

York County Matches National Income Levels

York County's median household income of $74,058 sits just $697 below the national median of $74,755. The county performs nearly identically to the U.S. average, reflecting stable middle-class earnings.

Above Average Earner in Nebraska

York County's median household income of $74,058 exceeds Nebraska's state average of $66,880 by $7,178, a 10.7% advantage. Per capita income of $36,571 slightly outpaces the state average of $36,101.

York County Ranks Second Regionally

York County's $74,058 median household income ranks second only to Washington County ($90,188) among sampled peers. The county significantly outearns Wayne ($67,687), Webster ($65,197), and Wheeler ($55,893) counties.

Housing Affordability Requires Attention

York County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.3% is the highest among sampled counties, indicating tighter housing affordability margins. The median home value of $175,900 approaches the upper limit of recommended home-price-to-income ratios.

Optimize Finances in York County's Strong Market

York County's solid middle-class earnings support wealth-building through consistent savings and strategic homeownership. Residents should prioritize building down payment reserves and exploring refinancing options to manage housing costs effectively.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in York County

via CrimeByCounty

Secure Living in York County

York County maintains a safety score of 98.6, well above the national average of 2,385.5. Its total crime rate of 886.6 per 100,000 residents remains significantly lower than typical American communities.

Consistent with Nebraska Safety

The county’s safety score of 98.6 falls slightly below the Nebraska state average of 99.0. Its total crime rate of 886.6 is higher than the statewide average of 626.7, though it remains a very safe region.

York as a Regional Hub

York County experiences more crime than nearby Webster County, which sees only 234.7 incidents per 100,000. It also has a higher rate than Wayne County, likely due to its role as a regional transit point.

Property Crime is the Main Concern

Property crime sits at 717.7 incidents per 100,000, while violent crime is 168.9. Even so, the local violent crime rate is less than half of the national average of 369.8.

Secure Your Property Effectively

Since property crime is the most common local issue, residents should prioritize home security. Modern alarm systems and visible deterrents are effective ways to protect your home in this busy county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in York County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Strong Multi-District Infrastructure

York County maintains eight public schools across three districts, serving a total of 2,213 students. The system includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and three high schools, plus one additional learning center. This variety ensures that students of all ages have access to appropriate facilities close to home.

Exceeding State Graduation Standards

The county's graduation rate stands at a strong 91.5%, comfortably beating the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $8,329 is below the state average of $10,521, the school score of 57.2 indicates a healthy academic environment. Local schools effectively translate their resources into high completion rates for their students.

York Public Schools Leads the County

York Public Schools is the largest district, educating 1,620 students across four different schools. Heartland Community Schools and McCool Junction Public Schools also serve the area with 353 and 240 students, respectively. The county relies entirely on these traditional districts, with 0% of schools operating under a charter model.

A Mix of Town and Rural Life

York County features a balanced mix of four town-based schools and four rural schools. The average school size is 277 students, though York Elementary is significantly larger with 594 students. This allows families to choose between the more bustling environment of the city of York or the quieter rural school settings.

Join a High-Achieving Community

With a graduation rate over 91%, York County is an excellent choice for families who value academic completion. The diverse mix of school settings ensures that you can find the right fit for your child’s personality and learning style. Explore local listings to find a home within these reputable school districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in York County

via RiskByCounty

York County faces elevated national risk

With a composite risk score of 52.26, York County ranks relatively low but nearly doubles Nebraska's state average of 25.80. The county's risk profile places it among the more hazard-exposed areas across the United States, driven primarily by tornado activity.

Among Nebraska's riskier counties

York County ranks as one of the state's higher-risk areas, with only a few Nebraska counties exceeding its 52.26 composite score. The county's position reflects significant exposure to severe weather and wind-related hazards.

Riskier than most surrounding counties

York County's 52.26 score exceeds nearby Wheeler County (5.47), Wayne County (13.96), and Washington County (25.51), though Webster County (55.47) presents slightly higher risk. The variation reflects York County's placement in an active tornado corridor compared to its less-exposed neighbors.

Tornado threat dominates hazard profile

Tornado risk (67.02) is York County's defining hazard and its highest single-category score, requiring serious preparedness for spring and early summer storm seasons. Flood risk (24.97) presents a secondary concern, particularly for residents near drainage basins and low-lying areas.

Prioritize tornado and wind protection

York County homeowners should invest in comprehensive coverage for tornado, hail, and wind damage, the county's primary threats. Develop a family tornado plan that includes identification of safe rooms or shelters, practice drills before severe weather season, and maintain an emergency supply kit with essentials for 72 hours.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in York County

via WaterByCounty

York County Faces Drinking Water Challenges

With 10 health violations in five years, York County receives a water quality grade of 'F'. The violation rate of 89.0 per 100,000 people is lower than the Nebraska average of 110.3, yet it indicates consistent issues with meeting federal standards. Residents should pay close attention to local water quality reports.

Atrazine and E. Coli Impair Local Streams

The 2022 ATTAINS assessment shows that 62.5% of York County's 8 assessed water bodies are impaired. Atrazine and E. coli are the primary pollutants degrading local water quality. This impairment rate is slightly better than the 66.4% state average but remains a significant environmental concern.

Limited Water Quality Monitoring Records

York County has very sparse monitoring data, with only 20 measurements recorded at a single site over the last five years. Most of these readings cover physical characteristics and nutrients. This limited data footprint makes it difficult to fully assess the county's changing water quality trends.

Live Streamflow Monitoring Not Available

There is no active USGS streamgage in York County providing real-time discharge data. Given the 'F' grade in drinking water compliance and the presence of agricultural chemicals like atrazine, the lack of live data is a notable gap. Water quality management currently depends on the limited sampling from a single local site.

Mitigate Risks from Atrazine and Violations

Because of the drinking water grade and atrazine impairments, utilizing certified water filters is a practical step for York County households. The lack of robust monitoring data means that personal testing can provide additional peace of mind. Be cautious of runoff in local streams where atrazine levels may be highest.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in York County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced Temperatures with Higher Rainfall

York County features an annual average temperature of 50.9°F, which sits just under the national median. Its 28.7 inches of annual precipitation is higher than many counties in the western United States.

Wetter and Warmer than State Norms

The county is noticeably wetter than the Nebraska average, recording 28.7 inches of precipitation against the state's 25.9 inches. It also trends warmer than the state average, which typically hovers around 49.7°F.

Middle Ground in Heat and Snow

York falls between its neighbors with 37 extreme heat days, which is fewer than Webster’s 50 but more than Wheeler’s 32. Its 26.7 inches of annual snow is also a midpoint for the region.

Distinctive Peaks in Rain and Heat

July averages 76.2°F, and the county experiences roughly five weeks of days exceeding 90°F. Winter brings a cold January average of 23.9°F along with nearly 27 inches of total snow accumulation.

Manage Moisture and Summer Extremes

With precipitation levels exceeding state averages, residents should ensure proper property drainage and moisture barriers. Dual-season readiness is essential, as the county faces both significant heat waves and regular heavy snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in York County

via SoilByCounty

Prime Agricultural Earth in York

York County features a slightly acidic pH of 6.32, which is lower than both the national median and state average. This specific acidity level is highly prized for its ability to maximize the availability of micronutrients.

Silt-Dominated Composition

The soil is 60.5% silt and 23.2% clay, creating a heavy, dense texture that is excellent for water retention. With only 16.3% sand, this earth is built for intense moisture storage and long-term stability.

World-Class Organic Content

York County features a staggering 5.76% organic matter, nearly double the Nebraska state average. Its available water capacity of 0.222 in/in is exceptional, providing a massive buffer against summer heat and drought.

Top-Tier Soil Performance

The county earns a remarkable soil score of 85.4, far outpacing the state average of 58.9. This score reflects a landscape with superior physical and chemical properties that minimize the need for heavy irrigation or fertilizers.

Abundance in Zone 5b

The rich, dark earth of York County is some of the best in the state for zone 5b gardening. Whether you are planting a small vegetable patch or a large orchard, these soils offer world-class growing potential.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in York County

via LawnByCounty

Central Nebraska Lawn Care Basics

York County’s lawn difficulty score of 58.1 is slightly better than the Nebraska average of 54.2. In Hardiness Zone 5b, you have a solid foundation for a healthy lawn if you can manage the summer dry spells.

Extended Growth with Summer Heat

Your lawn enjoys 3,423 growing degree days, but it must withstand 37 extreme heat days that exceed the state average. While 28.7 inches of rain is better than much of the state, supplemental water is essential for July and August.

Slightly Acidic, Clay-Rich Soil

The soil pH of 6.32 is slightly more acidic than neighboring counties but still falls within the optimal 6.0 to 7.0 range. With 23.2% clay, the soil retains moisture well, though drainage data is not centrally recorded for all areas.

Combatting Long-Term Dry Spells

York County has spent 36 weeks in drought over the last year, making it one of the drier spots recently. Since 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry, leaving grass clippings on the lawn can help retain precious soil moisture.

A Long Window for Strong Turf

Your growing season typically starts after the April 29 frost and lasts until October 18, providing a long window for maturation. Turf-type tall fescue is highly recommended here to withstand the 37 days of extreme heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is York County's county score?
York County, Nebraska has a composite county score of 55 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 York County rank among counties in Nebraska?
York County ranks #69 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 York County, Nebraska?
The median annual property tax in York County is $2,115, with an effective tax rate of 1.20%. This earns York County a tax score of 25.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in York County?
The median household income in York County, Nebraska is $74,058 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. York County earns an income score of 75.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is York County, Nebraska a good place to live?
York County scores 55/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #69 in Nebraska. The best way to evaluate York 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 York County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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