countyscore
49.3
County Score
Water Quality 86Cost of Living 79.4Property Tax 71.3

County Report Card

About Attala County, Mississippi

Just Below the National Median

Attala County posts a composite score of 49.3, narrowly missing the national median of 50.0. It maintains a competitive profile for a rural Southern county despite some systemic challenges.

Aligned with State Performance

The county performs slightly better than the Mississippi average of 48.4. This suggests a standard of living that is very typical for the region.

Resilient and Affordable

Attala County excels in environmental resilience with a Risk Score of 65.9. It also offers a friendly financial climate, with a Cost Score of 79.4 and a Tax Score of 71.3.

Education and Health Gaps

The county faces difficulties in public services, specifically a low School Score of 24.4 and a Health Score of 14.5. Low income levels also persist, with an Income Score of 11.2.

Suited for Budget-Minded Households

This county is a practical choice for families looking for low cost-of-living and environmental stability. It requires a trade-off, however, in the quality of local health and educational infrastructure.

2040608010071.379.447.414.524.411.265.98653.5Tax71.3Cost79.4Safety47.4Health14.5Schools24.4Income11.2Risk65.9Water86Weather53.549.3/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Attala County DNA

Foverall

How Attala County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Attala County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (79.4/100) but notably weak in Income (11.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
71.3+19.299999999999997
Cost
79.4+31.400000000000006
Safety
47.4
Health
14.5-35.5
Schools
24.4-29.6
Income
11.2-39.8
Risk
65.9+18.900000000000006
Water
86+28
Weather
53.5
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Think property taxes are too high in Attala County?

Many homeowners in Attala 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

$107,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$774/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$107,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$30,960/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.2x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $48,098/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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Nearby counties

Leake County
Mississippi
49
Choctaw County
Mississippi
62.7
Montgomery County
Mississippi
58
Carroll County
Mississippi
64.5
Winston County
Mississippi
48.5
Holmes County
Mississippi
57
Neshoba County
Mississippi
42
Scott County
Mississippi
42.8

Deep Dives

Attala County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Attala County

via TaxByCounty

Attala County taxes well below national norm

Attala County's 0.627% effective tax rate sits modestly above the national median of 0.80%, but at $675 median annual property tax, residents pay less than 25% of the $2,690 national figure. The gap reflects Mississippi's lower home values relative to national averages.

Near Mississippi's middle-range tax burden

Attala County's 0.627% effective rate sits slightly below Mississippi's state average of 0.743%, placing it in the favorable middle tier. The median tax of $675 runs 27% below the state median of $931, providing above-average savings for homeowners.

Middle ground among nearby counties

Attala County's 0.627% rate and $675 median tax place it squarely between high-burden Adams County (0.885%, $941) and low-burden Alcorn County (0.596%, $788). This makes Attala a reasonable middle option within the regional tax landscape.

Median home generates $675 annual tax

On Attala County's median home value of $107,600, homeowners pay approximately $675 per year at the 0.627% effective rate. Adding mortgage escrow costs brings the total to roughly $896 annually.

Many assessments can be successfully challenged

Property tax appeals in Mississippi have high success rates when homeowners document their case with comparable sales data. Contact Attala County's assessor office to learn how to formally challenge an assessment you believe is excessive.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Attala County

via CostByCounty

Attala sits near statewide affordability norms

Attala County's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio closely tracks Mississippi's 19.6% average, offering near-statewide affordability. With median income of $48,098 and rent of $774, Attala balances moderate costs against reasonable earning power.

Middle ground in Mississippi housing

At 19.3%, Attala sits virtually at Mississippi's statewide average rent-to-income ratio, placing it squarely in the middle tier of county affordability. This stability reflects consistent income and rental markets across the county.

Attala's balanced position among peers

Attala's $774 rent is the highest in this peer group, yet its 19.3% burden ratio remains competitive because median income ($48,098) runs stronger than Adams, Benton, and Amite. This county rewards higher earners with manageable housing costs relative to what they bring home.

Attala's monthly affordability snapshot

Renters pay $774 monthly while homeowners average $558, against median household income of $48,098—roughly $4,008 monthly. This leaves renters about $291 after rent and homeowners $325, reasonable margins for other essentials.

Relocating to Attala County?

Attala offers moderate rents ($774) and ownership costs ($558) paired with solid median income of $48,098 and affordable home values of $107,600. Compare this stability against higher-cost Alcorn ($665 ownership) or lower-income Amite to assess whether Attala's middle-ground positioning fits your budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Attala County

via IncomeByCounty

Attala earns roughly 64% of U.S. median

Attala County's median household income of $48,098 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by $26,657, or 36%. While below the national benchmark, the county performs better than the lowest-income Mississippi counties.

Fractionally below state average

Attala County's median household income of $48,098 sits just beneath Mississippi's state average of $48,514 by $416. The county's per capita income of $28,061 exceeds the state average by $925, suggesting more balanced income distribution.

Mid-range performer in central region

Attala County earns more than Adams County ($40,250) and Amite County ($35,385), but less than Alcorn County ($49,404) and Carroll County ($55,275). Its income profile reflects a mixed economy with agriculture, retail, and small manufacturing sectors.

Housing affordability reasonable

Attala County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.3% sits above the ideal 15% but remains manageable compared to state peers. The median home value of $107,600 is accessible for many households, supporting both rental and ownership pathways.

Build wealth through steady saving

Attala County residents are positioned to save 10–12% of household income regularly for long-term investments. Consider tax-advantaged retirement accounts, affordable homeownership programs, and local small business opportunities to strengthen financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Attala County

via CrimeByCounty

Attala County Below National Crime Rates

Attala County’s total crime rate of 1,182.6 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. It earns a safety score of 98.1, indicating a generally secure environment for residents.

Moderate Safety Profile in Mississippi

The safety score of 98.1 sits just below the Mississippi state average of 98.4. It represents a moderate crime profile for the region based on data from two reporting agencies.

Mid-Range Crime Among Area Counties

Attala's crime rate is higher than Calhoun's 682.2, yet it remains much lower than Alcorn's 3,041.7. It serves as a middle-ground for safety in this part of the state.

Property Theft the Primary Risk

Property crime is the main concern at 1,020.1 per 100K, compared to a violent crime rate of 162.5. This data implies that theft is the primary risk facing local residents in their daily lives.

Enhance Your Home Defense

Strengthening window locks and using smart doorbells can help combat the local property crime rate. Staying informed about neighborhood activity helps keep these crime numbers trending downward.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Attala County

via SchoolsByCounty

Two Districts Serving Attala County

Attala County features 11 public schools, providing a balanced mix of five elementary, one middle, and four high schools. These schools serve a total of 3,127 students across the region.

Steady Growth and Strategic Spending

The county spends $6,389 per pupil, outperforming the state average investment of $5,954. While the 85.3% graduation rate is slightly below the state average of 87.1%, the composite school score of 49.7 is effectively on par with state-wide performance.

Kosciusko and Attala District Roles

The Kosciusko School District is the primary provider with 2,123 students across six schools. The Attala County School District covers the remaining five schools, supporting 1,004 students in more outlying areas.

From Town Squares to Rural Classrooms

The county offers a mix of six town-based schools and five rural campuses, with an average school size of 347 students. Kosciusko Senior High is the largest hub with 604 students, while Greenlee Attendance Center represents the smaller rural side with 291 students.

Find Your Home in the Heart of Mississippi

With a variety of town and rural school settings, Attala County offers options for every family's preference. Check out real estate near the Kosciusko district to capitalize on central town amenities and school access.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Attala County

via RiskByCounty

Attala County ranks very low nationally

Attala County scores just 34.16 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the very low risk category and significantly below the national average. This favorable standing reflects relatively modest exposure to most major natural hazards.

Among Mississippi's safest counties

Attala County's 34.16 score places it well below Mississippi's 50.94 state average, ranking it among the state's safer counties. This below-average risk makes Attala an attractive option for those seeking lower natural hazard exposure within Mississippi.

Safer than surrounding central Mississippi

Attala County's 34.16 score significantly outperforms neighbors like Leake and Madison counties in terms of overall safety. Its central location in Mississippi provides distance from Gulf hurricane zones and coastal flood risks that affect counties to the south and east.

Tornado and earthquake risks are moderate

Tornado risk registers at 73.03, the highest hazard for Attala County, though still below state and national norms. Earthquake risk of 70.01 represents an unusual secondary concern for the region, while flood risk is notably low at 27.89.

Standard coverage protects most risks

A standard homeowners policy with comprehensive wind and hail coverage should adequately address Attala County's modest tornado risk. Given the relatively low overall risk profile, basic flood insurance may be optional for most residents outside designated high-risk zones.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Attala County

via WaterByCounty

Attala County Earns Grade A Compliance

Attala County maintains a Grade A for its drinking water systems, reporting zero health violations over a five-year period. This level of compliance is significantly better than the Mississippi average of 92.1 violations per 100K.

Watershed Health Data Pending Assessment

Water bodies in Attala County are not currently listed in the federal Clean Water Act §303(d) assessment. No data is available regarding impairment percentages or specific pollutant causes for this reporting cycle.

Targeted Monitoring Tracks Local Organics

Monitoring is conducted at 6 distinct sites, resulting in 290 measurements over the last five years. These efforts prioritize physical attributes, nutrients, and organic characteristic groups to ensure water quality.

Big Black River Experiencing Low Flow

Flow at the Big Black River at West is currently 458 cfs, representing just 31% of its long-term mean. This low streamflow affects a drainage area of 1,027 square miles and signals significant seasonal dryness.

Monitor Water Supplies During Dryness

With the Big Black River flowing at less than a third of its typical volume, residents should watch for potential impacts on source water. Maintaining the county's excellent drinking water compliance is vital during these low-flow periods.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Attala County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Southern Climate

Attala County averages 62.8°F annually, which is much warmer than the national median temperature. It falls squarely into the humid subtropical category with high rainfall and long growing seasons. The county experiences a consistent climate typical of the American South.

Slightly Cooler than State Norms

With an average temperature of 62.8°F, Attala is slightly cooler than the Mississippi average of 63.9°F. Its central location keeps it from the extreme heat found further south. It receives 60.0 inches of precipitation, almost exactly matching the state average.

Consistent with Regional Patterns

Attala's climate mirrors Calhoun County, as both share a 62.8°F annual average. It is significantly warmer than Benton County to the north, which sits at 59.9°F. This makes Attala a transition point between the state's cooler north and hotter south.

Hot Summers and Light Snow

Summer temperatures peak at 80.5°F in July, contributing to 62 extreme heat days per year. Winter is mild with a 45.7°F average, though it sees 1.3 inches of snow annually. This snowfall is higher than many southern Mississippi counties.

Prepare for Heat and Rain

Residents should plan for 62 days of temperatures over 90°F with robust cooling systems. The 60 inches of annual rain makes waterproof gear a year-round necessity. Though snow is light at 1.3 inches, basic winter precautions are useful for occasional ice or slush.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Attala County

via SoilByCounty

Attala's Acidic Silt Profile

The soil pH in Attala County is 5.04, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This sharp acidity is characteristic of the region and requires careful management for non-native plants.

High Silt, Low Clay Mix

A high silt content of 54.7% dominates the soil, providing a floury texture when dry. With 30.5% sand and only 14.7% clay, the soil is prone to erosion but remains very easy to cultivate by hand.

Superior Water Retention

Attala excels in water storage, with an available water capacity of 0.198 in/in that beats the state average of 0.174. While organic matter is slightly low at 1.61%, the soil's ability to hold water protects plants during Mississippi summers.

Solid Central Mississippi Performance

The county's overall soil score of 37.4 slightly exceeds the state average of 35.7. This indicates that despite the high acidity, the physical characteristics of the soil support healthy plant growth and stable land use.

Thriving in Zone 8a

Attala County gardeners in zone 8a can find great success with acid-loving berries and native wildflowers. Start a garden today by adding lime to balance the pH for your favorite summer vegetables.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Attala County

via LawnByCounty

Attala County Beats the State Average

Attala County holds a lawn difficulty score of 34.6, outperforming the state average of 30.9. While maintaining a lawn here is easier than in neighboring Amite, it still requires more effort than the national median of 50.0.

Consistent Rain and Moderate Heat

The county sees 60 inches of rain annually and 62 days of temperatures over 90 degrees. This climate supports a robust 5,451 growing degree days, providing a long window for lawn maintenance and active grass growth.

Acidic Soil Requires Attention

A soil pH of 5.04 is well below the ideal range, meaning most lawns will benefit greatly from lime applications. With a sand content of 30.5% and 14.7% clay, the soil provides a decent foundation if the acidity is properly managed.

Exceptional Drought Resistance Lately

Attala County has only seen 3 weeks of drought in the past year, far less than many of its neighbors. Only 4.4% of the county is currently abnormally dry, meaning local water restrictions are rarely a concern for lawn enthusiasts.

Planting Success After March 18

Zone 8a conditions favor Bermuda and Zoysia grasses which can handle the 62 days of extreme heat. Your growing window opens after the last spring frost on March 18, giving you a head start on a lush summer landscape.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Attala County's county score?
Attala County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 49.3 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 Attala County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Attala County ranks #34 among all counties in Mississippi 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 Attala County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Attala County is $675, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Attala County a tax score of 71.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Attala County?
The median household income in Attala County, Mississippi is $48,098 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Attala County earns an income score of 11.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Attala County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Attala County scores 49.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #34 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Attala 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 Attala 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.