countyscore
62.2
County Score
Cost of Living 92Water Quality 86Safety 83.2

County Report Card

About Calhoun County, Florida

Calhoun exceeds national livability standards

Calhoun County's composite score of 62.1 tops the national median of 50.0 by 24%, placing it in the upper 35% of U.S. counties. This rural Panhandle county achieves impressive livability through exceptional affordability, low taxes, and safety, though it accepts trade-offs in income and health. The profile proves that high-quality living doesn't require metropolitan prosperity.

Florida's best-performing county type

At 62.1, Calhoun ranks among Florida's top counties, well above the state average of 45.1. The county excels by prioritizing affordability and safety—median home values of $134,000 and monthly rents of $680 are the state's most accessible. This standing demonstrates that rural, fiscally disciplined counties can outperform larger, wealthier counterparts on overall livability.

Affordability, taxes, and safety are exceptional

Calhoun's cost score of 92.0 is among Florida's highest, with median home values of $134,000 and rents of $680/month offering extraordinary affordability. Safety score of 83.2 ensures residents live in one of Florida's safest counties, while tax efficiency (79.9 score, 0.554% effective rate) maximizes household resources. Water quality (86.0) adds environmental security.

Income and health outcomes present real limits

Calhoun's income score of just 9.2 reflects median household income of $46,901—the state's lowest—constraining economic mobility and wealth-building. Health score of 21.9 indicates limited medical infrastructure, requiring residents to travel for specialist care and advanced services. These gaps reflect the county's rural character and limited institutional resources.

Ideal for retirees and resilient self-starters

Calhoun County suits retirees with fixed incomes, remote workers with stable earnings, and families seeking affordable homeownership in a safe, tight-knit community. Those requiring specialized medical care or seeking high-earning potential should look elsewhere; this county demands self-sufficiency and acceptance of limited services. The livability profile rewards independence, financial discipline, and commitment to rural authenticity.

2040608010079.99283.221.938.99.255.18625.4Tax79.9Cost92Safety83.2Health21.9Schools38.9Income9.2Risk55.1Water86Weather25.462.2/100
This county
National avg
4 above average4 below average

Calhoun County DNA

Doverall

How Calhoun County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Calhoun County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (92/100) but notably weak in Income (9.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
79.9+27.900000000000006
Cost
92+44
Safety
83.2+28.200000000000003
Health
21.9-28.1
Schools
38.9-15.100000000000001
Income
9.2-41.8
Risk
55.1+8.100000000000001
Water
86+28
Weather
25.4-30.6
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$134,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$680/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$134,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$27,200/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $46,901/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

7.4

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

Liberty County
Florida
53.4
Jackson County
Florida
53.9
Gadsden County
Florida
51.7
Bay County
Florida
36.9
Washington County
Florida
53.5
Seminole County
Georgia
45.5
Gulf County
Florida
54.7
Decatur County
Georgia
30.8

Deep Dives

Calhoun County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Calhoun County

via TaxByCounty

Calhoun offers lowest possible taxes

Calhoun's effective tax rate of 0.554% sits substantially below the national median of 0.73%, ranking in roughly the 20th percentile nationally. The median property tax of just $743 runs $1,947 below the national median, making Calhoun an exceptional value.

Calhoun ranks Florida's lowest tax

Calhoun's 0.554% effective rate is the lowest among all Florida counties in this analysis, well below the state average of 0.731%. The median property tax of $743 is the lowest in this eight-county sample, saving homeowners $1,142 versus the state average of $1,885.

Calhoun beats all regional peers

Calhoun's 0.554% rate edges out even Bradford County at 0.567%, establishing it as Florida's most tax-friendly county in this region. The county is unmatched among North and Central Florida alternatives.

Your annual tax bill in Calhoun

On a median home value of $134,000, Calhoun residents pay just $743 annually in property taxes. With mortgage-related expenses included, the total bill reaches approximately $1,141 per year—the lowest in this entire sample.

Even Calhoun homeowners can appeal

Despite already low baseline taxes, some Calhoun residents remain overassessed and eligible for further relief. Contacting the Property Appraiser about a free informal appeal is worthwhile, regardless of county tax levels.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Calhoun County

via CostByCounty

Calhoun offers genuine rural affordability

Calhoun County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio and $680 monthly rent deliver exceptional affordability despite a lower median income of $46,901. Residents here spend far less on housing than typical Americans, preserving maximum income for other needs.

Among Florida's most affordable counties

Calhoun's 17.4% housing burden and $680 rent rank in Florida's affordability elite, beating the state average of 22.5% by 5 percentage points. Only a handful of rural counties match this value proposition.

Second-cheapest in North Florida region

Calhoun's $680 rent trails only Bradford ($838) in the panhandle and North Central region, undercutting Alachua ($1,255), Baker ($1,011), and Bay ($1,424). The ultra-low rent reflects genuine rural character and limited urban amenities.

Renters and owners both find relief

Calhoun renters spend 17.4% of income while homeowners spend 12.6%—among the lowest burdens in Florida. A $134,000 median home value and $494 monthly owner cost make homeownership exceptionally accessible.

True small-town living at unbeatable cost

Calhoun County suits retirees and remote workers seeking maximum affordability with zero urban amenities. If you prize budget over big-city access, Calhoun's $680 rent and 17% burden offer unmatched financial freedom in Florida.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Calhoun County

via IncomeByCounty

Calhoun faces severe income challenges

Calhoun County's median household income of $46,901 is the lowest in this eight-county group, trailing the national median of $74,755 by $27,854. This 37% deficit places Calhoun in the bottom 10% of U.S. counties, indicating severe structural economic challenges.

Lowest income county in Florida

Calhoun's $46,901 median household income falls $18,567 below Florida's state average of $65,468, representing the lowest earnings among all surveyed Florida counties. The rural, sparsely populated county struggles with limited employment diversity and brain drain to larger urban centers.

Severely trails all regional peers

Calhoun ($46,901) lags every neighbor by substantial margins, with Bradford ($59,740) the closest comparable county—still $12,839 ahead. This isolation reflects Calhoun's unique challenges as a remote, rural county with minimal industrial or service sector employment.

Rent ratio low but income insufficient

While Calhoun's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% appears affordable, the underlying income of $46,901 is simply too low to support household necessities. Median home values of just $134,000 underscore limited wealth accumulation across the community.

Pursue education and relocation strategies

Calhoun County residents face structural economic barriers that local action alone cannot overcome; education and strategic relocation offer the most realistic paths to higher incomes. Consider vocational training in high-demand fields like healthcare or skilled trades, potentially requiring relocation to larger labor markets where employers can justify higher wages.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Calhoun County

via CrimeByCounty

Calhoun County Ranks Highly for Safety

Calhoun County earns a high safety score of 99.4, backed by a low total crime rate of 399.9 per 100,000. This makes it one of the more secure counties when compared to the national average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding Florida’s High Safety Standards

Calhoun’s safety score of 99.4 is better than the Florida state average of 98.4. Its crime rate of 399.9 is significantly lower than the statewide average of 1027.9.

A Peaceful Choice in the Panhandle

Calhoun is much safer than neighboring Bay County, where the crime rate is 1786.7. This rural community offers a level of security that distinguishes it from nearby coastal hubs.

Minimal Violent Crime and Property Theft

The county records a violent crime rate of only 50.9 and a property crime rate of 349.0 per 100,000. These figures are well below national averages, reflecting a very safe local climate.

Keeping Calhoun Homes Safe and Secure

Maintain your home’s security by ensuring all outdoor areas are well-lit at night. Simple perimeter checks and keeping valuables out of sight can help preserve the county’s high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Calhoun County

via SchoolsByCounty

Intimate and Specialized Learning in Calhoun

Calhoun County operates a very small school network with just six public schools serving 2,129 students. The system includes two elementary schools, one high school, and three specialized centers. This small footprint allows for a highly personalized approach to public education within a single district.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates in Rural Florida

Calhoun County boasts an impressive 92.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the national (87%) and state (89.8%) averages. With a school score of 52.0, the county outperforms the state median of 51.5. Despite lower spending of $5,828 per pupil, the results speak to a highly effective local school system.

Consolidated District Excellence

The Calhoun District serves as the sole provider for all 2,129 students in the county. There are zero charter schools, which keeps the community's focus and resources entirely on the six core district locations. This centralized structure helps maintain the county's high graduation rates and consistent performance.

Rural Roots and Community Schools

The educational experience is primarily rural, with four schools in rural locales and two in town settings. The average school size is 426 students, though the main campus, Blountstown High, serves 695 students. It is a place where everyone knows everyone, from the smallest primary classes to the high school level.

Quality Education in a Quiet Setting

Calhoun County is a hidden gem for families who value high academic outcomes and a small-town atmosphere. The 92% graduation rate is a testament to the district's effectiveness and is a major asset for local property values. Look for homes in Blountstown or Altha to be part of this high-achieving rural community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Calhoun County

via RiskByCounty

Calhoun enjoys relatively low disaster risk

Calhoun County's composite risk score of 44.94 earns a "Relatively Low" rating, placing it well below the U.S. average. This Panhandle location avoids the extreme coastal and tropical exposures that challenge much of Florida.

Below-average risk for Florida

Calhoun's score of 44.94 sits significantly below Florida's 75.74 state average, ranking it in the safer half of the state's counties. The county's inland, rural character provides natural shelter from many major hazards.

Safer than Bay, comparable to Bradford

Calhoun County (44.94) ranks more favorably than neighboring Bay County (94.12) but slightly riskier than Bradford County (36.86). Its inland Panhandle position provides protection unavailable to Gulf Coast neighbors.

Hurricane risk persists despite inland location

Hurricane risk scores 89.11—Calhoun's highest—reflecting tropical systems' inland reach, while tornado risk (56.62) and wildfire risk (59.64) pose secondary threats. The county's small population reduces the practical impact of these moderate hazards.

Standard coverage with wildfire consideration

Calhoun County residents typically need only standard homeowners insurance to cover local hazards, though wildfire coverage is wise if you live near forested areas. Flood insurance is generally not a priority unless your property is in a flood zone.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Calhoun County

via WaterByCounty

Calhoun County Achieves Perfect Compliance Record

Calhoun County maintains a Grade A for drinking water with zero health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents is among the best in Florida, where the average rate is 43.4. Local water systems are successfully meeting all Safe Drinking Water Act mandates.

Mercury and Bacteria Impact County Waterways

In the 2022 assessment, 36.4% of Calhoun's 593 water bodies failed to meet health standards. Top impairment causes include mercury in fish tissue, fecal coliform, and low dissolved oxygen. This rate of impairment is slightly lower than the Florida state average of 38.8%.

Pesticide and Organic Testing in Local Streams

Environmental monitoring in Calhoun County relies on 28 sites that have recorded 6,567 measurements since 2019. Testing efforts prioritize organics and pesticides alongside standard physical measurements. While the monitoring network is smaller than others, it provides essential data on chemical runoff in the region.

Apalachicola River Flow Drops by Half

The Apalachicola River gauge near Blountstown currently records a discharge of 11,400 cfs. This is 53% of the long-term mean flow of 21,653 cfs for this 17,600-square-mile drainage basin. This significant reduction in flow can impact both local navigation and the health of the downstream estuary.

Monitor Bacterial Risks in Local Watersheds

Residents can rely on the county’s perfect drinking water record, but should use caution in local streams due to fecal coliform impairments. Low river flows may also increase the concentration of natural contaminants. Stay updated on fish consumption advisories related to mercury levels in the Apalachicola basin.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Soil Quality in Calhoun County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic inland Panhandle soils

Calhoun County has an average pH of 4.76, aligning with the regional trend of high acidity. This is lower than the 4.88 state average and significantly below the national 6.5 median.

Highest silt levels in the region

The soil contains 77.0% sand and 10.1% silt, which is higher than many neighboring Florida counties. This increased silt, combined with 6.9% clay, gives the soil better nutrient retention than purely sandy areas.

Leaner organic matter, higher water

Organic matter is lower than the state average at 4.59%, though still above the national 2.0% average. Surprisingly, the available water capacity is high at 0.124 in/in, indicating these soils hold moisture effectively for crops.

Inland moisture management

Detailed drainage and hydrologic group classifications are not available for Calhoun County. The high water capacity suggests that these soils are less prone to drought than their thirstier coastal neighbors.

Zone 9a farming potential

Calhoun’s Zone 9a climate and moisture-retentive soil are excellent for traditional row crops and timber. If you are starting a home garden, focus on building up organic matter to boost the soil's natural fertility.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Calhoun County

via LawnByCounty

Calhoun County: Better Than Average for Florida

Calhoun County is a relative bright spot for Florida lawn care with a difficulty score of 23.8. While this is still much harder than the national median, it is significantly easier than the state average of 19.2. Homeowners here in Zone 9a have a better chance of maintaining a lush lawn with standard effort.

Extreme Heat Defines the Summer

Calhoun hits a blistering 100 extreme heat days per year, well above the Florida average of 92. This heat is balanced by 51.1 inches of annual precipitation, which falls perfectly into the ideal range for most warm-season grasses. However, the triple-digit heat days mean your watering schedule must be precise to prevent midday wilting.

A Sandy Foundation with Moderate Acidity

The soil in Calhoun consists of 77% sand and 6.9% clay, offering slightly better structure than the sandier coastal counties. The pH of 4.76 is acidic, meaning you'll need to apply lime to bring it closer to the 6.0-7.0 range for optimal growth. This combination of sand and clay allows for decent drainage without losing all nutrients immediately.

Severe Drought Hits the Inland Panhandle

The county is currently 100% covered by severe drought and has endured 27 weeks of drought over the past year. During these times, it's best to mow your grass at the highest recommended setting to encourage deeper root growth. Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization during drought peaks, as this can increase the plant's water demand.

Choosing the Right Turf for Calhoun

Centipede grass is a standout performer here because it thrives in the acidic soil and handles the intense heat well. While frost dates were not recorded, the general Zone 9a window suggests starting your lawn in late March. This timing allows the grass to establish before the 100 days of extreme heat arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calhoun County's county score?
Calhoun County, Florida has a composite county score of 62.2 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 Calhoun County rank among counties in Florida?
Calhoun County ranks #2 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 Calhoun County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Calhoun County is $743, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Calhoun County a tax score of 79.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Calhoun County?
The median household income in Calhoun County, Florida is $46,901 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Calhoun County earns an income score of 9.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Calhoun County, Florida a good place to live?
Calhoun County scores 62.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #2 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Calhoun 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 Calhoun 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.