countyscore
48.6
County Score
Property Tax 98Income & Jobs 77.4Water Quality 65.3

County Report Card

About Baldwin County, Alabama

Slightly below national livability baseline

Baldwin County scores 48.6, just below the national median of 50.0, placing it near the middle of the American livability spectrum. Its strength lies in income (77.4), the highest among these eight Alabama counties, reflecting a more affluent population.

Just below Alabama's average ranking

Baldwin County trails the state average of 52.9 by 4.3 points, positioning it in the upper-middle tier of Alabama counties. It's the most prosperous of the eight counties profiled here by income.

Income and minimal natural disaster risk

Baldwin's median household income of $75,019 leads this group by a wide margin, and its risk score of just 3.3 reflects minimal exposure to natural disasters or environmental hazards. Tax burden is also favorable at 98.0, similar to peer counties.

Housing costs and school quality lag

Housing is notably expensive: median home values reach $287,000 with rents at $1,211/month, the highest in this group. School quality (37.6) and health outcomes (58.7) are mediocre, and safety (42.4) remains a persistent concern.

Ideal for affluent professionals seeking warmth

Baldwin suits higher-income families and retirees drawn to coastal living and mild winters, particularly around the Gulf Shores area. Those with school-age children or tight budgets should weigh options carefully.

Score breakdown

Tax98Cost19.3Safety42.4Health58.7Schools37.6Income77.4Risk3.3Water65.3Weather39.6
🏛98
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠19.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼77.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤58.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓37.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡3.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧65.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤39.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱16
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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Jackson County
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Clarke County
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Deep Dives

Baldwin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Baldwin County

via TaxByCounty

Baldwin's taxes remain well below national average

Baldwin County's effective tax rate of 0.307% is still less than one-ninth the national median property tax. Even with the highest median home values in this group at $287,000, Baldwin residents pay roughly $881 annually—far below the national median of $2,690.

Mid-range taxes within Alabama

Baldwin County's 0.307% rate sits slightly below Alabama's 0.339% state average, placing it in the middle tier of the state's 67 counties. The county's $881 median property tax exceeds the state median of $511, reflecting Baldwin's higher home values and strong coastal property market.

Moderate rates for Alabama's most valuable properties

Baldwin's 0.307% effective rate is slightly lower than neighboring Houston County and comparable to Covington County. With the region's strongest median home values at $287,000, Baldwin offers relatively favorable tax treatment for its premium real estate market.

Plan for about $881 on Baldwin's median home

A homeowner with Baldwin's $287,000 median-value property pays approximately $881 annually in property taxes. Those paying via mortgage will see roughly $945 in annual escrow, while debt-free homeowners typically pay around $770.

Appeal your assessment if values have shifted

Rapid development in Baldwin County can lead to overassessed properties, especially as the market cools. If your assessment doesn't reflect recent comparable sales in your neighborhood, filing an appeal could reduce your annual tax bill significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Baldwin County

via CostByCounty

Baldwin keeps pace with national affordability

At a 19.4% rent-to-income ratio, Baldwin County's renters spend just slightly more than the national average of 18%, indicating solid housing affordability despite higher absolute costs. The county's median income of $75,019 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, helping offset its premium rents.

Alabama's most expensive housing market

Baldwin County ranks as Alabama's least affordable county, with the highest median rents and home values across the state. Its 19.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the state average of 18%, reflecting the coastal economic premium and tourism-driven property markets.

Gulf Coast premium over inland peers

Baldwin's median rent of $1,211 towers over rural Barbour County ($644) and Bibb County ($802), though mirrors nearby Autauga County at $1,200. The county's median home value of $287,000 is the highest in this eight-county comparison, reflecting beachfront and resort-adjacent appreciation.

High rents and mortgages strain budgets

Renters pay $1,211 monthly while homeowners commit $1,098 to mortgages from a median income of $75,019, totaling over 30% of household income toward housing alone. This dual burden makes Baldwin's housing costs the steepest in Alabama, though still manageable compared to national metros.

Baldwin rewards higher earners seeking Gulf access

If your income exceeds Baldwin's $75,019 median, the county's coastal lifestyle and strongest job market in this group may justify premium housing costs. Weigh the $1,211 median rent against amenities like beaches, tourism employment, and above-average local wages before relocating.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Baldwin County

via IncomeByCounty

Baldwin slightly leads the national median

Baldwin County's median household income of $75,019 edges above the national median of $74,755, placing it in the upper-middle income tier across all U.S. counties. This $264 cushion above the national benchmark reflects Baldwin's position as one of Alabama's economic engines.

Alabama's highest household income county

Baldwin County's $75,019 median household income exceeds Alabama's state average by 38%, the highest margin among the eight counties analyzed. This commanding income advantage reflects Baldwin's mix of coastal tourism, military presence, and professional employment sectors that draw higher-wage workers to the region.

Clear income leader among peer counties

Baldwin's $75,019 median household income outpaces every comparable county in this analysis, including nearby Autauga ($69,841) and Blount ($61,096). As Alabama's Gulf Coast anchor, Baldwin captures regional economic activity and draws affluent retirees and professionals, creating a distinct income profile.

Housing costs stay well within budget

Baldwin's rent-to-income ratio of 19.4% sits comfortably below the recommended 20% threshold, offering genuine affordability relief for renters. Though the median home value of $287,000 represents the highest in this county set, strong incomes make homeownership achievable for most households seeking owner-occupancy.

Leverage income advantage to build assets

Baldwin households with $75,019 annual income are positioned to aggressively build wealth through diversified investments and strategic real estate. With housing costs under control and incomes above national average, residents should prioritize high-yield savings accounts, 401(k) maximization, and real estate equity to accelerate net worth growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Baldwin County

via CrimeByCounty

Baldwin County Maintains Strong Safety Profile

Baldwin County boasts a total crime rate of 1306.2 per 100K, which is nearly half the national average of 2,385.5. This low frequency of incidents earns the county an impressive safety score of 97.9.

A Leader in Alabama Safety

The county's safety score of 97.9 outperforms the Alabama state average of 97.3. Baldwin also reports a total crime rate well below the state average of 1731.0 per 100K, marking it as one of the state's more secure regions.

Safer Than Nearby Barbour County

Baldwin County’s crime rate of 1306.2 is significantly lower than Barbour County’s rate of 1965.7. This comparison underscores Baldwin's success in maintaining lower incident levels than its regional neighbors.

Violent Crime Trends Notably Low

Violent crime in Baldwin stands at just 134.5 per 100K, far below the national benchmark of 369.8. Property crime is also low at 1171.7, suggesting that residents face fewer risks to both person and property.

Keep Your Peace of Mind

Maintain your home's security by participating in local neighborhood watch programs and keeping entry points well-lit. Even in safer counties, consistent security habits help preserve the community's high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Baldwin County

via HealthByCounty

Baldwin ranks among America's healthiest counties

With a life expectancy of 76.6 years, Baldwin County residents live 3.2 years longer than the U.S. average of 73.4 years, placing the county in the top tier nationally. Just 17.0% of adults report poor or fair health, reflecting strong preventive care and lifestyle factors across the population.

Alabama's beacon for health and longevity

Baldwin's 76.6-year life expectancy exceeds Alabama's state average by 4.5 years, making it one of the healthiest counties in the state. At 10.2% uninsured, Baldwin is also below the state average of 11.1%, meaning strong insurance penetration supports access to care.

Outpacing surrounding counties on all metrics

Baldwin's 76.6-year life expectancy significantly outperforms neighboring Mobile, Escambia, and Geneva counties by 3+ years each. The county boasts 63 primary care providers per 100K and an exceptional 121 mental health providers per 100K—among the highest ratios in the state.

Robust provider network supports daily care

Baldwin residents benefit from strong healthcare infrastructure, with 63 primary care providers and 121 mental health providers per 100K—well above state and national averages. At 10.2% uninsured, most Baldwin residents can schedule appointments without insurance barriers, though nearly 1 in 10 still lack coverage.

Close the coverage gap in Baldwin County

Despite Baldwin's health advantages, 10.2% of residents—roughly 11,000 people—remain uninsured and at risk for medical hardship. Visit Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to explore Marketplace plans, Medicaid, or employer options that work for your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Baldwin County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive Education in Alabama’s Coast

Baldwin County manages a robust network of 50 public schools serving a large population of 35,226 students. The landscape includes 28 elementary schools and 13 high schools spread across three distinct school districts. This extensive infrastructure makes it one of the largest educational systems in the state.

Outperforming National Graduation Benchmarks

The county maintains a 52.3 school score, slightly outperforming the national median. While the 88.5% graduation rate exceeds the national average of 87.0%, it remains just below the Alabama state average of 90.7%. Spending is competitive for the region at $6,819 per pupil, surpassing the state average of $6,270.

Baldwin County and City Systems

The Baldwin County District is the primary provider, serving 31,517 students across 45 schools. Smaller, specialized city districts include Gulf Shores City and Orange Beach City, which together serve over 3,700 students. There are currently no charter schools in operation within the county borders.

Coastal Towns and Rural Classrooms

With 24 rural schools and 11 city campuses, Baldwin offers a highly diverse geographic mix for students. Large high schools like Daphne High (1,725 students) and Fairhope High (1,629 students) define the suburban experience. The average school size of 749 students ensures a vibrant, active campus life across most locations.

Find Your Home by the Shore

Baldwin County is a premier destination for families seeking high-performing schools and a coastal lifestyle. From the bustling neighborhoods of Daphne to the quiet corners of Robertsdale, school quality is a major driver for local real estate. Discover a variety of homes situated near some of Alabama's most popular school districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Baldwin County

via RiskByCounty

Baldwin faces high natural disaster risk

Baldwin County's composite risk score of 96.72 ranks it as Relatively High—among the most at-risk counties nationally. This coastal location makes it vulnerable to multiple concurrent hazards, especially hurricanes and flooding.

Highest-risk county in Alabama

Baldwin's 96.72 score far exceeds Alabama's state average of 61.54, making it the state's most disaster-prone county. The gap reflects Baldwin's unique position as Alabama's only coastal county with direct hurricane exposure and extensive water-based development.

Baldwin stands apart from inland counties

Baldwin (96.72) faces dramatically higher risk than inland Alabama counties like Autauga (57.57) and Bibb (39.12). Its exposure to Gulf hurricanes (99.25 risk) and coastal flooding (92.21 risk) creates hazard intensities unmatched elsewhere in the state.

Hurricanes and flooding dominate Baldwin's threats

Hurricane risk peaks at 99.25—among the highest in the nation—while flood risk of 92.21 reflects both storm surge and inland rainfall concerns. Tornado risk of 92.84 adds another layer, meaning Baldwin residents face a rare triple threat of major hazards.

Hurricane coverage is non-negotiable

Baldwin homeowners must carry windstorm or dedicated hurricane coverage—standard homeowners policies exclude wind damage in coastal areas. Flood insurance is equally essential; federal law requires it for mortgaged homes in flood zones, and many Baldwin residents qualify.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Baldwin County

via WeatherByCounty

A warm coastal subtropical climate

Baldwin's 66.4°F annual average temperature far exceeds the national median, placing it in a humid subtropical zone. The county stays significantly warmer than the average U.S. location throughout the year.

One of Alabama's warmest regions

The county ranks among the state's warmest areas, sitting 3.2 degrees above the Alabama average of 63.2°F. This coastal heat is driven by its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico.

Wetter and warmer than inland peers

With 69 inches of annual precipitation, Baldwin is much wetter than Barbour County, which sees nearly 15 inches less rain. This high rainfall makes it one of the most humid spots in the regional corridor.

Mild winters and sweltering summers

Residents face 65 days of extreme heat annually where temperatures top 90°F. Winters remain exceptionally mild with a 52.0°F average and almost no measurable snowfall.

Preparing for heat and humidity

High humidity and 69 inches of rain require robust HVAC systems and moisture-resistant building materials. Outdoor activities are best planned for the mild winter when temperatures average 52°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Baldwin County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Alabama's Acidic Base

Baldwin's soils likely mirror the state pH average of 5.21, significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median. This taxonomic profile reflects the intensive leaching common in high-rainfall coastal environments.

Searching for the Coastal Mix

While precise texture percentages are unavailable in current datasets, Baldwin is known for its sandy coastal plains. These textures typically offer high workability but may require frequent irrigation due to low nutrient retention.

Maximizing Coastal Growing Potential

The state's average available water capacity of 0.138 in/in is a critical benchmark for Baldwin's sandy tracts. With Alabama's organic matter averaging 1.74%, adding mulch is vital to keep nutrients from washing away.

Navigating High-Water Table Drainage

Official drainage classes for Baldwin are not currently listed, but coastal proximity suggests a high water table. Proper site grading is essential for any farming or construction projects near the Gulf.

Subtropical Success in Zone 9a

Baldwin sits in Zone 9a, allowing for unique crops like citrus and satsumas that can't survive further north. The mild winters make this one of the best spots in the state for year-round gardening.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Baldwin County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty for Baldwin County Lawns

Baldwin County earns a lawn difficulty score of 16.0, making it significantly harder to maintain than the national average of 50.0. The coastal environment of Zone 9a presents unique challenges for traditional turf. You face a more demanding maintenance schedule here than in most other Alabama counties.

Soaking Rains and Coastal Heat

The county receives 69.0 inches of annual precipitation, which far exceeds the 30-50 inch ideal range for most lawns. With 65 extreme heat days per year, your grass must withstand both heavy moisture and high temperatures. This combination often leads to rapid growth and increased fungal pressure.

Analyzing Coastal Soil Conditions

Specific soil pH and texture data are unavailable for Baldwin County. Given the high rainfall, nutrients often leach quickly from the soil, requiring careful fertilization. You should test your soil locally to identify specific mineral deficiencies before the spring growing peak.

Watching for Dry Coastal Spells

Despite high annual rainfall, the county spent 32 weeks in drought conditions over the last year. Currently, 100% of the county is abnormally dry, which can stress even established lawns. Implement water-saving measures like morning irrigation to maximize absorption before the heat of the day.

Selecting Salt-Tolerant Grass Varieties

St. Augustine and Zoysia are top performers in the humid, warm Zone 9a climate. For the best results, install sod or seed after the last frost on March 10. These varieties handle the high humidity and occasional salt spray better than traditional inland grasses.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baldwin County's county score?
Baldwin County, Alabama has a composite county score of 48.6 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 Baldwin County rank among counties in Alabama?
Baldwin County ranks #46 among all counties in Alabama 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 Baldwin County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Baldwin County is $881, with an effective tax rate of 0.31%. This earns Baldwin County a tax score of 98/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Baldwin County?
The median household income in Baldwin County, Alabama is $75,019 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Baldwin County earns an income score of 77.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Baldwin County, Alabama a good place to live?
Baldwin County scores 48.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #46 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Baldwin 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 Baldwin 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.