countyscore
49.9
County Score
Property Tax 94.5Water Quality 86Cost of Living 79.9

County Report Card

About Cherokee County, Alabama

Cherokee County hovers near national livability baseline

At 49.9, Cherokee County sits just below the national median composite score of 50.0, landing near the 50th percentile. This near-average positioning suggests a mixed livability profile with both notable strengths and meaningful gaps.

Slightly below Alabama county average

Cherokee County scores 49.9 compared to Alabama's state average of 52.9, placing it in the middle range of state counties. While not a top performer, it avoids the lower quartile that some neighboring counties face.

Housing affordability and low taxes drive livability

Cherokee County shines with a cost score of 79.9 and median home values of $165,900, plus rock-bottom rents at $750/month. A tax score of 94.5 (effective rate 0.388%) reinforces the county's appeal to budget-watchers.

Safety and income opportunities remain limited

Safety ranks among the county's weakest dimensions at 12.6, while income (16.3) and health (30.3) also lag. With median household income at $50,769, residents may struggle with upward mobility and wealth-building.

Ideal for frugal families seeking small-town life

Cherokee County appeals most to households prioritizing cheap housing and low taxes over high earnings or robust services. Those comfortable in quieter, rural settings and willing to commute for better-paying jobs will find genuine value here.

Score breakdown

Tax94.5Cost79.9Safety12.6Health30.3Schools39Income16.3Risk36.7Water86Weather64
🏛94.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠79.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼16.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡12.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤30.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡36.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤64
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱40.3
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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Nearby counties

DeKalb County
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62
Floyd County
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Chattooga County
Georgia
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Polk County
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Etowah County
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Calhoun County
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Haralson County
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Cleburne County
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Deep Dives

Cherokee County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cherokee County

via TaxByCounty

Cherokee taxes rank in lowest tier nationally

Cherokee County's 0.388% effective rate translates to just $643 annually on the national median home value, placing it in the bottom 12% across America. The typical U.S. homeowner pays $2,690 per year—more than four times what Cherokee residents pay.

Slightly above Alabama's average rate

At 0.388%, Cherokee County edges out Alabama's state average of 0.339% and sits in the upper-middle range among state counties. The county's median tax of $643 runs about 26% higher than Alabama's median of $511.

Similar to Chambers, much higher than Choctaw

Cherokee's 0.388% rate nearly matches adjacent Chambers County at 0.382%, making them regional peers in the tax landscape. By contrast, neighboring Choctaw County at 0.178% shows how much variation exists just miles away.

$643 annual tax on median home

On Cherokee County's median home value of $165,900, homeowners pay roughly $643 per year in property taxes. With mortgage escrow factored in, the annual bill climbs to $745—still modest compared to national standards.

Assessment appeals could save hundreds

Cherokee County homeowners should verify their property assessments are accurate, as overvaluation is common statewide. An appeal process exists to challenge inflated assessments at no cost, potentially reducing your tax burden significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cherokee County

via CostByCounty

Cherokee keeps housing costs manageable

Cherokee County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% sits well below the national norm, with residents spending less than one-fifth of household income on rent. At a median household income of $50,769—32% below the national average of $74,755—the county's lower rents of $750 per month help maintain relative affordability despite lower regional wages.

Among Alabama's most affordable counties

Cherokee County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks below Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it among the more affordable communities in the state. The median rent of $750 is $49 cheaper than the state average of $799, offering genuine savings for renters.

Eastern Alabama's bargain rental market

Cherokee's $750 rent is the lowest among nearby Chambers ($850), Chilton ($855), and Clarke ($785) counties. Combined with respectable median home values of $165,900, Cherokee emerges as a rental and ownership bargain within its region.

Balanced rental and ownership costs

Monthly rent of $750 consumes 17.7% of Cherokee's median $50,769 household income, while homeownership averages $590 per month on $165,900-valued properties. Housing costs total roughly 25–27% of income—among the most favorable ratios in the state.

Relocate here for genuine affordability

Cherokee County delivers one of Alabama's best housing-affordability stories: low rents, reasonable home prices, and manageable rent-to-income ratios. If you're seeking an affordable relocation with below-state-average housing burdens, Cherokee outperforms neighboring counties across metrics.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cherokee County

via IncomeByCounty

Cherokee County earns 32% below national median

Cherokee County's median household income of $50,769 falls $24,000 short of the $74,755 national median, placing it in the lower-income band across the United States. Per capita income of $31,360, however, slightly exceeds Alabama's state average of $29,701, showing some income concentration.

Ranks 35th among Alabama's 67 counties

At $50,769, Cherokee County outperforms Alabama's state median of $54,196 by 6%, placing it near the middle of the state's income rankings. The county's per capita income of $31,360 runs above the state average, indicating strong wealth distribution.

Middle of the pack in rural northeast Alabama

Cherokee County's $50,769 income edges out Chambers County ($49,295) but trails Chilton County ($61,873) and Clay County ($51,852) in the region. These four counties cluster within $12,000 of each other, reflecting similar rural, small-town economies.

Rent costs less than one-fifth of income here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 17.7%, Cherokee County residents spend well below the federal 30% affordability benchmark, indicating strong housing affordability. Median home values of $165,900 remain within reach for families earning the county median income.

Your income supports both saving and investing

Cherokee County's $50,769 median income supports a balanced approach: save 3–6 months of expenses, then funnel 10–15% into diversified investments like 401(k)s or IRAs. Starting early takes advantage of compound returns—a $5,000 annual contribution over 30 years can exceed $400,000.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cherokee County

via CrimeByCounty

Cherokee County Public Safety Overview

Cherokee County earns a safety score of 96.0, reflecting a consistent safety profile. Its total crime rate of 2560.9 per 100K is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. While the score is stable, the crime volume is slightly elevated compared to the country as a whole.

Cherokee Safety vs. Alabama State Metrics

Cherokee County’s safety score sits at 96.0, which is below the Alabama average of 97.3. The total crime rate of 2560.9 per 100K also exceeds the state average of 1731.0. This suggests that residents experience more reported incidents than the typical Alabama county inhabitant.

Cherokee Compared to Nearby Alabama Counties

Cherokee County faces more total crime than neighbors like Cleburne County, which reports a rate of 1617.8. Its safety score of 96.0 is virtually identical to Coffee County's score of 96.1. This indicates a shared regional trend in crime activity levels.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crime Rates

Property crime is the most frequent issue here, with a rate of 2273.7 per 100K. However, the violent crime rate of 287.2 is significantly safer than the national benchmark of 369.8. This means while people are generally safe, their property requires extra attention.

Deterring Property Crime at Home

Because property crime rates are elevated, homeowners should take proactive steps to secure their valuables. Simple habits like locking all doors and using timers for indoor lights can prevent break-ins. Community watch programs also help keep local neighborhoods secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cherokee County

via HealthByCounty

Beating national health averages

Cherokee County residents live to 72.4 years, about 5 years below the U.S. average of 77.4 years, but with a relatively low 19.5% reporting poor or fair health. The county stands among Alabama's healthier communities, suggesting more stable access to preventive care.

Above-average health for Alabama

At 72.4 years, Cherokee County edges past Alabama's 72.1-year state average and ranks in the healthier half of Alabama counties. Its 19.5% poor/fair health rate is notably better than the state median.

Health leader among surrounding counties

Cherokee County's 72.4-year life expectancy outpaces Chambers (71.9) and Clay (71.8), matching Coffee County's solid performance. Its mental health provider density of 66 per 100,000 substantially exceeds regional neighbors like Chambers (15) and Choctaw (16).

Good access, moderate insurance gaps

Cherokee has 44 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—better than many rural counties—and robust mental health support at 66 providers per 100,000. Yet 13.3% remain uninsured, slightly higher than the state average of 11.1%.

Close the insurance gap now

With 13.3% uninsured, Cherokee County families are missing out on preventive care and routine screenings. Visit healthcare.gov this enrollment season to find affordable plans—subsidies may be available to lower your costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cherokee County

via SchoolsByCounty

Consolidated Learning Across Cherokee County

A single school district manages all 3,886 students in Cherokee County across eight public schools. The landscape features a unique structure with four 'other' schools that often combine multiple grade levels into single campuses.

Strong Scores and Higher Per-Pupil Investment

Cherokee County earns a 52.5 composite school score, which exceeds both the state and national medians. The county invests $6,542 per pupil, while maintaining a solid 90% graduation rate that sits comfortably above the national benchmark.

Unified District Serving Every Community

The Cherokee County district operates as the sole educational provider for the region's 3,886 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, ensuring a unified traditional public school experience for all residents.

Rural Roots and All-Grade Campuses

Education here feels personal, with five of the eight schools located in rural settings and an average size of 555 students. Sand Rock High School is the county's largest hub with 773 students, serving a broad PK–12 population.

Your Future in Cherokee County Schools

With school scores that outshine state averages, this county is a prime destination for families seeking quality education. Start your home search today to join a community where rural character meets academic excellence.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cherokee County

via RiskByCounty

Cherokee County Faces Above-Average Risk

Cherokee County's composite risk score of 63.33 exceeds the national average, reflecting genuine multi-hazard exposure across the county. This Relatively Low rating still indicates manageable risk—but higher than most American counties.

Mid-Range Risk for Alabama Standards

At 63.33, Cherokee County slightly exceeds Alabama's state average of 61.54, placing it in the middle tier of state counties. This positioning reflects stronger tornado and earthquake exposure than many neighboring areas.

More Hazardous Than Nearby Chambers County

Cherokee County's 63.33 score substantially exceeds Chambers County's 47.23, though both remain Relatively Low-risk areas. The difference centers on Cherokee's elevated tornado risk (82.95) and earthquake risk (73.44), making it notably more vulnerable to seismic and severe weather events.

Tornadoes Dominate Local Hazard Profile

Tornado risk (82.95) stands as Cherokee County's most acute threat, nearly reaching high-risk thresholds. Earthquake risk (73.44) and flood risk (70.42) round out the county's top three hazards, each requiring distinct preparedness strategies.

Invest in Tornado and Earthquake Protection

Cherokee County homeowners should carry comprehensive insurance covering wind damage, with particular attention to tornado-resistant features and safe rooms. Consider earthquake coverage as well, since seismic risk here substantially exceeds national norms.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cherokee County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler than the national median

Cherokee County maintains an annual average temperature of 59.7°F, positioning it as a temperate region compared to the national median. While the humid subtropical climate persists here, its northern location keeps it slightly milder than many southern peers.

Among Alabama's cooler northern regions

The county's 59.7°F average sits well below the Alabama state average of 63.2°F. This makes Cherokee one of the cooler territories in the state, offering a reprieve from the deeper Southern heat.

A regional outlier in temperature

Cherokee is notably cooler than nearby Chilton County, which averages 62.9°F. Its climate is more closely aligned with northern neighbor Cleburne County, reflecting a consistent upland weather pattern.

Mild winters and heavy heat

Winter temperatures average 41.9°F, while July peaks at 78.1°F. Despite the cooler annual average, residents still face 55 extreme heat days per year where temperatures reach or exceed 90°F.

Prepare for significant annual rainfall

With 57.1 inches of annual precipitation, robust drainage and gutter maintenance are essential. Residents should also prepare for frequent summer heatwaves despite the lower winter averages.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cherokee County

via SoilByCounty

The Mystery of Cherokee County Soil

Specific pH data for this county is currently unavailable, but Alabama's state average of 5.21 suggests a naturally acidic environment. This is a sharp contrast to the national median of 6.5, which many common garden plants prefer. Identifying your specific taxonomic order is a key first step for any serious land manager.

Understanding the Foundation of Your Land

The exact proportions of sand, silt, and clay are not listed in the current data for Cherokee County. This mix determines whether your soil is heavy and nutrient-rich or light and fast-draining. Knowing these numbers helps you choose the right tools and timing for spring planting.

Evaluating Organic Potential and Water Capacity

While local organic matter data is missing, the state's average of 1.74% serves as a useful guide for Cherokee County residents. High organic matter improves the soil's ability to hold water, aiming for the national average of 2.0% or higher. Local testing can reveal if you meet the state's average water capacity of 0.138 in/in.

Planning for Water Movement and Drainage

The specific drainage class and hydrologic group for this area are not currently recorded. These metrics are vital for preventing erosion on farms and ensuring stable foundations for new homes. Observing how water pools after a storm can provide immediate clues about your land's natural hydrology.

Thriving in the 8a Growing Zone

Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, Cherokee County is ideal for a wide range of vegetables and ornamental shrubs like camellias. The warm climate supports a long summer season perfect for corn and squash. Get outside and start digging to see what your soil can produce.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cherokee County

via LawnByCounty

Cherokee County Offers an Easier Growing Path

With a lawn difficulty score of 40.3, Cherokee County is one of the more manageable areas in Alabama for homeowners, significantly beating the state average of 29.5. It remains below the national median of 50.0, suggesting some regional challenges still exist. This Zone 8a county provides a solid climate for established Southern turf.

Mild Extremes and Heavy Rainfall

Cherokee County sees 57.1 inches of rain annually, providing plenty of moisture for thirsty lawns. The 55 extreme heat days are lower than the state average of 64, reducing the risk of mid-summer turf burn. A typical growing season starts after the final frost on April 6 and lasts until late October.

Preparing Your Soil for Success

Specific soil data for this county is currently unavailable, so a professional soil test is the best first step for any grower. Achieving the ideal pH of 6.0-7.0 often requires adding soil amendments to correct the natural acidity found in Northern Alabama. Ensuring good drainage is vital to prevent root rot during the heavy spring rains.

Moderate Drought Resistance Strategies

The county spent 20 weeks in drought over the last year, which is lower than many neighboring regions. Currently, 100.0% of the area is abnormally dry, but only 0.2% faces severe conditions. Keeping mower blades high during dry spells protects the soil from sun exposure and helps retain moisture.

Picking the Best Turf for Cherokee

Centipede and Bermuda grass thrive in the Zone 8a environment of Cherokee County. The best time to establish new lawn is in late April after the frost risk has fully subsided. Starting your lawn during this window allows it to root deeply before the heat of July arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cherokee County's county score?
Cherokee County, Alabama has a composite county score of 49.9 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 Cherokee County rank among counties in Alabama?
Cherokee County ranks #41 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 Cherokee County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Cherokee County is $643, with an effective tax rate of 0.39%. This earns Cherokee County a tax score of 94.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cherokee County?
The median household income in Cherokee County, Alabama is $50,769 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cherokee County earns an income score of 16.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cherokee County, Alabama a good place to live?
Cherokee County scores 49.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #41 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Cherokee 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 Cherokee 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.