countyscore
60.2
County Score
Safety 94.1Property Tax 78.4Disaster Risk 63.2

County Report Card

About Bradford County, Florida

Bradford outperforms the national average

Bradford County's composite score of 60.1 exceeds the national median of 50.0 by 20%, placing it in the upper 40th percentile of U.S. counties. This strong showing reflects exceptional safety and affordability balanced by moderate income and health outcomes. Bradford demonstrates that livability doesn't require coastal prosperity—rural efficiency can compete nationally.

One of Florida's top-performing counties

At 60.1, Bradford County ranks well above Florida's 45.1 average, placing it among the state's better-performing counties. The county achieves this standing through outstanding affordability and safety despite below-average incomes, showing that livability depends on balanced tradeoffs. Bradford's rural profile proves strong livability is attainable outside metropolitan areas.

Safety and affordability are exceptional

Bradford's safety score of 94.1 is among the highest in Florida, offering residents one of the state's lowest crime environments. Housing affordability is outstanding: median gross rent of $838/month and median home values of $180,300 make this one of Florida's most accessible counties. Tax efficiency (78.4 score, 0.567% effective rate) compounds the financial advantage.

Health outcomes and income growth lag

Bradford's health score of 30.4 is among the state's lowest, suggesting limited medical infrastructure and possible health outcomes challenges. Median household income of $59,740 trails state norms, limiting earning potential and wealth-building opportunities. School quality (39.3) is moderate but doesn't stand out.

Perfect for retirees and safety-focused families

Bradford County is ideal for retirees, remote workers, and families prioritizing safety and affordability over high incomes and medical specialization. Those with chronic health conditions or seeking cutting-edge medical care should plan for travel or consider counties with stronger health infrastructure. The livability profile suits independent, self-sufficient residents who value peace, low crime, and financial breathing room.

2040608010078.461.694.130.439.338.163.259.619.8Tax78.4Cost61.6Safety94.1Health30.4Schools39.3Income38.1Risk63.2Water59.6Weather19.860.2/100
This county
National avg
4 above average4 below average

Bradford County DNA

Doverall

How Bradford County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Bradford County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (94.1/100) but notably weak in Weather & Climate (19.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
78.4+26.400000000000006
Cost
61.6+13.600000000000001
Safety
94.1+39.099999999999994
Health
30.4-19.6
Schools
39.3-14.700000000000003
Income
38.1-12.899999999999999
Risk
63.2+16.200000000000003
Water
59.6
Weather
19.8-36.2
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$180,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$838/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$180,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$33,520/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $59,740/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

7.2

per 100K

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Union County
Florida
57.2
Alachua County
Florida
32.1
Clay County
Florida
44
Baker County
Florida
45.7
Columbia County
Florida
44.2
Putnam County
Florida
37.5
Gilchrist County
Florida
61.1
St. Johns County
Florida
50.9

Deep Dives

Bradford County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Bradford County

via TaxByCounty

Bradford taxes far below national norm

Bradford's effective tax rate of 0.567% substantially undercuts the national median of 0.73%, placing it in roughly the 25th percentile nationally. The median property tax of just $1,022 runs $1,668 below the national median of $2,690.

Bradford offers Florida's cheapest taxes

Bradford ranks among Florida's absolute lowest-tax counties with an effective rate of 0.567%, far below the state average of 0.731%. The $1,022 median annual tax represents the lowest in this eight-county sample, saving homeowners $863 versus the state average.

Bradford beats nearly all neighbors

Bradford's 0.567% rate ranks among the state's most affordable, undercut only by Calhoun at 0.554%. Compared to Alachua (0.983%) and Bay (0.597%), Bradford offers exceptional tax savings.

Your annual tax bill in Bradford

On a modest median home value of $180,300, Bradford homeowners pay just $1,022 annually in property taxes. With mortgage-related fees included, the total bill reaches approximately $1,365 per year.

Appeal could mean even more savings

Even with low baseline taxes, some Bradford homeowners are overassessed and eligible for relief. An informal property tax appeal with the county costs nothing and could yield real refunds.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Bradford County

via CostByCounty

Bradford is a rare affordability oasis

Bradford County's 16.8% rent-to-income ratio ranks among America's most affordable housing markets. At $838 monthly rent against a $59,740 median income, residents enjoy substantially more financial breathing room than the typical U.S. household.

Florida's most budget-friendly county

Bradford's 16.8% housing burden and $838 median rent place it at the absolute bottom of Florida's affordability scale—the best the state offers. The rent-to-income ratio beats the state average of 22.5% by nearly 6 percentage points.

Rock-bottom rents in rural North Central

Bradford's $838 rent undercuts all nearby counties: Alachua ($1,255), Baker ($1,011), Bay ($1,424), and Calhoun ($680). Only Calhoun comes close, making Bradford and Calhoun the region's affordability champions.

Extreme affordability for renters and owners

Bradford renters spend just 16.8% of income on housing while owners spend 14.0%—both exceptional ratios. The $180,300 median home value and $696 monthly owner cost represent some of Florida's easiest entry points to homeownership.

Unbeatable value for extreme budget seekers

Bradford County delivers the state's lowest housing costs with minimal income sacrifice, ideal for remote workers or retirees prioritizing affordability. If you can embrace rural living, Bradford offers unmatched financial freedom in modern Florida.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Bradford County

via IncomeByCounty

Bradford falls short of national benchmark

Bradford County's median household income of $59,740 trails the national median of $74,755 by $15,015, placing it firmly in the bottom third nationally. This gap reflects limited access to high-wage employment sectors and dependence on agricultural and small-scale manufacturing jobs.

Below Florida's state average income

At $59,740, Bradford County's median household income falls $5,728 short of Florida's state average of $65,468, ranking it in the lower half of Florida counties. The rural economy has historically struggled to attract diverse, higher-paying industries.

Slightly trails nearby Alachua County

Bradford ($59,740) and Alachua County ($59,659) form a low-income pair in North Florida, each struggling to match regional peers like Baker ($70,833). Both counties face similar structural challenges in diversifying their employment base beyond agriculture and education.

Rent remains affordable in rural setting

Bradford's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% is among the lowest statewide, reflecting very affordable housing costs for residents. However, low median home values ($180,300) also signal limited home equity accumulation compared to stronger-income counties.

Develop skills for higher-wage roles

Bradford County residents should prioritize skills training and education that opens doors to higher-paying sectors like healthcare, technology, or specialized trades. Even modest income growth of 10-15% through career advancement or relocation can dramatically accelerate long-term wealth building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Bradford County

via CrimeByCounty

Bradford County Ranks Among Nation's Safest

Bradford County boasts an elite safety score of 99.9, the highest in this group. Its total crime rate of 32.4 per 100,000 is a tiny fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

A Model of Safety in Florida

Bradford significantly outperforms the Florida state average safety score of 98.4. Its total crime rate of 32.4 is remarkably low compared to the state average of 1027.9.

Unmatched Safety Compared to Neighbors

Bradford is dramatically safer than neighboring Alachua County, which has a crime rate of 2160.7. This quiet county offers a level of security that is rare even among its rural peers.

Extremely Low Violent and Property Totals

The county records just 10.8 violent crimes and 21.6 property crimes per 100,000 residents. These numbers indicate that crime is an exceptionally rare occurrence for local households.

Maintaining a Safe Bradford Community

While crime is minimal, residents can help maintain this standard through community watch programs. Good outdoor lighting ensures that your property remains a difficult target for any opportunistic activity.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Bradford County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Education with Big Results

Bradford County operates a small but efficient network of 10 public schools serving 2,998 students. The system includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools, all managed by a single district. This small scale allows for a highly focused educational environment across the entire county.

Exceptional Graduation and School Scores

Bradford County excels in student outcomes, achieving a 92.0% graduation rate that far exceeds the national average of 87.0%. The county's school score of 52.2 also beats both the state and national medians. Despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $5,882, the district manages to outperform many larger neighbors.

Traditional Education without Charters

The Bradford District is the sole provider of public education for all 2,998 students in the county. There are currently no charter schools in operation, maintaining a focus on traditional public education. This structure ensures that resources and academic standards are consistently applied across every campus.

Town-Centered Schools and Small Sizes

Nine of the county's ten schools are located in town settings, creating a very traditional school experience. With an average school size of just 375 students, classrooms are more intimate than in neighboring counties. Even the largest school, Bradford High, only enrolls 790 students, ensuring no student is just a number.

High Performance in a Quiet Setting

Families seeking top-tier graduation rates without the congestion of a major city will find Bradford County ideal. The 92% graduation rate is a major draw for home buyers looking to maximize their children's academic success. Consider Starke for a home purchase to be central to the county's highest-performing schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Bradford County

via RiskByCounty

Bradford County offers exceptional safety

Bradford County's composite risk score of 36.86 places it well below the U.S. average, earning a "Very Low" rating. This inland, northern location largely insulates the county from Florida's most severe coastal and tropical hazards.

Among Florida's safest counties

Bradford's score of 36.86 is less than half Florida's 75.74 state average, ranking it among the state's lowest-risk counties. Only a handful of inland counties offer comparable safety to Bradford residents.

Safer than most surrounding counties

Bradford County (36.86) significantly outperforms neighboring Alachua (90.33) and Calhoun (44.94) counties. Its inland position provides protection that coastal neighbors cannot match, though it remains slightly riskier than Baker County (13.26).

Wildfire and hurricane remain minor concerns

Wildfire risk scores highest at 80.79, reflecting Florida's seasonal fire season, while hurricane risk (87.57) persists despite the county's distance from the coast. Both hazards remain modest threats compared to tornado risk (41.35) and other weather events.

Standard coverage addresses Bradford risks

Bradford County residents benefit from low overall risk; standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection. Adding wildfire coverage is prudent if your property borders forested areas, though flood insurance is usually unnecessary.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Bradford County

via WaterByCounty

Bradford Maintains Average Drinking Water Performance

Bradford County earns a Grade C for drinking water compliance, recording one health violation in the past five years. Its violation rate of 6.6 per 100,000 residents remains well below the Florida state average of 43.4. Most residents receive water that consistently meets federal safety thresholds.

Iron and Mercury Affect One-Third of Waterways

Of the 692 water bodies assessed in 2022, 33.7% are classified as impaired under Clean Water Act standards. Iron levels, mercury in fish tissue, and low dissolved oxygen are the primary drivers of these environmental failures. This rate is nearly five percentage points lower than the state's average impairment level.

Focused Monitoring Tracks Inorganic Contaminants

Local agencies manage 62 monitoring sites that have produced 11,778 measurements over a five-year period. Data collection emphasizes inorganic chemicals, metals, and nutrients. This monitoring footprint provides a baseline for tracking the high iron levels noted in the county's watershed assessments.

Santa Fe River Near Graham Hits Zero Flow

The primary USGS gauge on the Santa Fe River near Graham currently reports a discharge of 0 cfs. This represents a total stoppage of flow compared to the long-term mean of 48 cfs. This critical drainage area of 95 square miles is currently experiencing an extreme hydrologic deficit.

Monitor Water Sources During Flow Stoppage

The total lack of flow in the Santa Fe River can lead to stagnant water and increased concentration of pollutants like iron. Residents should be vigilant about drinking water quality as these conditions can impact groundwater recharge and well aesthetics. Check local reports to see if the Grade C status has improved.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Bradford County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Florida Subtropical Profile

Bradford County averages 70.9°F annually, sitting well above the national median for temperature. The humid subtropical environment ensures that freezing temperatures are rare compared to the rest of the country.

Matching the Florida State Average

At 70.9°F, Bradford sits right near the statewide average temperature of 71.1°F. It represents the typical climate profile for North-Central Florida, balanced between the cooler Panhandle and hotter South Florida.

Inland Warmth and Steady Rain

Bradford is warmer than neighbor Alachua County but shares a similar inland humidity profile. While snowfall data is limited for this area, its 53.4 inches of rain is slightly below the state average.

Hot Summers and Comfortable Winters

The county endures 92 extreme heat days annually, with July temperatures averaging a hot 83.3°F. Winter remains comfortable, averaging 58.3°F from December through February.

Prepping for Long Summer Stretches

Prepare for a long summer season by servicing air conditioning units before the 92 days of 90-degree heat begin. With no snow and moderate rainfall of 53.4 inches, year-round outdoor maintenance is manageable.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Bradford County

via SoilByCounty

Sharp acidity in Bradford soils

Bradford County records an average soil pH of 4.04, indicating very acidic conditions compared to the 6.5 national median. This reflects the high concentration of organic matter and local geological history.

Sandy soil with low clay

The composition is 80.3% sand and just 3.4% clay, which creates a loose, easy-to-till texture. This high sand percentage facilitates good aeration for root systems but may lose nutrients through leaching.

Abundant organic matter levels

The soil contains 10.81% organic matter, which is well above the 8.03% state average. This high carbon content is paired with an available water capacity of 0.123 in/in, making it a potentially fertile environment for the right crops.

Consistent moisture retention

Specific drainage classifications are not currently available for Bradford County in this record. However, the high water capacity suggests the soil stays moist longer than typical sandy Florida soils.

Productive gardening in 9a

Hardiness Zone 9a provides a long growing season for Bradford residents. With its high organic matter, this soil is a great candidate for raised beds or heavy mulching to support a diverse garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Bradford County

via LawnByCounty

Bradford County's Tough Turf Environment

With a difficulty score of 18.9, Bradford County sits just below the Florida state average for lawn care ease. It is nearly three times harder to maintain a lawn here than the average American county. Residents in Hardiness Zone 9a deal with a climate that is both hot and frequently dry, requiring a disciplined approach to maintenance.

Intense Heat and Long Growing Cycles

Bradford sees 92 extreme heat days per year, perfectly matching the state average and creating significant stress for cool-season grasses. The 53.4 inches of annual precipitation is slightly higher than the ideal range but common for the region. A total of 7,759 growing degree days means your grass stays active for most of the year, demanding constant attention.

Addressing Extreme Soil Acidity

The soil in Bradford County is incredibly acidic with a pH of 4.04, one of the lowest in the state. Combined with a 80.3% sand content, this creates a environment where many nutrients become chemically locked away from grass roots. You will need a consistent liming program and potentially supplemental micronutrients to keep a lawn looking green.

Severe Drought Challenges for Homeowners

Bradford County is currently 100% under severe drought conditions and has experienced 27 weeks of drought in the past year. In this environment, it is vital to avoid over-fertilizing during dry spells, as this can burn the grass. Using drought-tolerant cultivars is the best defense against the recurring water shortages in the area.

Jumpstart Your Bradford County Lawn

Bahiagrass is the most resilient option for the acidic, sandy conditions found throughout the county. The planting season kicks off early after the last frost on February 8, providing an expansive window for establishment. Check your soil pH every year to ensure your lime applications are effectively moving the needle toward the 6.0 target.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bradford County's county score?
Bradford County, Florida has a composite county score of 60.2 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 Bradford County rank among counties in Florida?
Bradford County ranks #4 among all counties in Florida 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 Bradford County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Bradford County is $1,022, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns Bradford County a tax score of 78.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Bradford County?
The median household income in Bradford County, Florida is $59,740 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Bradford County earns an income score of 38.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Bradford County, Florida a good place to live?
Bradford County scores 60.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Bradford 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 Bradford 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.