countyscore
64.2
County Score
Cost of Living 97.8Disaster Risk 86.7Safety 79.4

County Report Card

About Clay County, Tennessee

High National Standing

Clay County’s composite score of 64.2 puts it in the upper echelon of U.S. counties, far surpassing the 50.0 national median. It offers a unique profile of security and affordability.

Beating the State Average

Scoring 64.2 against a state average of 51.3, Clay County is one of Tennessee's hidden gems. It achieves high marks in several dimensions that impact daily peace of mind.

Extreme Affordability and Safety

The county hits a near-perfect cost score of 97.8, with median gross rent at just $546. Residents also benefit from a risk score of 86.7 and a safety score of 79.4.

Water Infrastructure and Income

The water score of 25.0 suggests significant room for infrastructure improvement, while the income score of 7.0 reflects a modest median household income of $44,712. Health scores also remain on the lower end at 20.0.

Suited for Remote Workers

Clay County is a paradise for remote workers or artists who need extremely low overhead and a safe, low-risk environment. It offers the best housing value for the dollar in the region.

2040608010072.897.879.42057.1786.72558.1Tax72.8Cost97.8Safety79.4Health20Schools57.1Income7Risk86.7Water25Weather58.164.2/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Clay County DNA

D+overall

How Clay County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Clay County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (97.8/100) but notably weak in Income (7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
72.8+20.799999999999997
Cost
97.8+49.8
Safety
79.4+24.400000000000006
Health
20-30
Schools
57.1
Income
7-44
Risk
86.7+39.7
Water
25-33
Weather
58.1
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$136,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$546/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$136,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$21,840/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $44,712/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

39.4

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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Counties with similar scores

Searcy County
Arkansas
Median income: $41,978
64.2
Conejos County
Colorado
Median income: $47,209
64.2
Taylor County
Iowa
Median income: $67,279
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Norton County
Kansas
Median income: $50,305
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Bienville Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $34,992
64.2
Jackson Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $43,345
64.2
Red River Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $44,539
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Wright County
Missouri
Median income: $47,304
64.2

Nearby counties

Monroe County
Kentucky
66.2
Jackson County
Tennessee
53.2
Cumberland County
Kentucky
70.5
Overton County
Tennessee
53.2
Clinton County
Kentucky
70
Pickett County
Tennessee
67.3
Macon County
Tennessee
50.3
Putnam County
Tennessee
44

Deep Dives

Clay County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Clay County

via TaxByCounty

Clay County's above-average rate

At 0.614%, Clay County's effective tax rate exceeds the national average of roughly 0.85%, placing it in the higher tier nationally. However, its median tax of $841 remains far below the national median of $2,690 due to smaller home values.

Higher than Tennessee average

Clay County's 0.614% effective rate ranks above Tennessee's state average of 0.511%, making it one of the pricier counties to own property in statewide. This premium reflects local budget priorities and services relative to wealthier parts of the state.

Among the higher-taxed counties

At 0.614%, Clay County's rate trails only Carroll (0.663%) and Cocke (0.642%) in this group, making it the third-highest tax burden. Yet its median home value of $136,900 keeps actual tax bills reasonable compared to regional alternatives.

Annual tax on Clay properties

A median Clay County home valued at $136,900 carries approximately $841 in annual property taxes—roughly $70 per month. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $1,000 annually in escrow taxes.

Appeal if overassessed

Clay County residents should examine their assessment notices and challenge any discrepancies with recent sales data or appraisals. The county assessor's office processes appeals during designated windows, and many homeowners successfully reduce their tax liability by proving overvaluation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clay County

via CostByCounty

Clay's rent is a bargain baseline

Clay County renters spend 14.7% of household income on rent, well below the national median and among the lowest ratios in our sample. At just $546 per month, the median rent is rock-bottom, though the county's median household income of $44,712 means those savings are relative to limited earnings.

Affordability advantage despite low income

Clay's rent-to-income ratio of 14.7% sits comfortably below Tennessee's state average of 17.6%, a rare bright spot for a county with the lowest median household income in our dataset. The extremely low rent of $546 gives Clay a genuine affordability edge, even if absolute income levels remain challenged.

Unmatched rental bargains here

Clay's $546 median rent is the lowest among all eight counties and trails even rural peers like Chester ($714) and Claiborne ($736). At the same time, ownership costs of $466/month are similarly rock-bottom, making Clay the de facto bargain-basement option for those prioritizing lowest absolute housing dollars.

Lowest cost, lowest income equation

The typical Clay household earns just $44,712 annually and pays $546 in monthly rent or $466 for ownership, spending 14.7% and 12.5% of gross income respectively. These are the lowest absolute housing costs in our sample, though they reflect a county where both wages and living standards remain constrained.

Maximum savings, minimum wages

Clay County offers unbeatable rental and purchase prices, but the trade-off is the lowest median household income in this group at $44,712. Only relocate here if you have remote income, a flexible career, or strong local job prospects that offset the regional income disadvantage.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clay County

via IncomeByCounty

Clay County faces severe income gap

Clay County's median household income of $44,712 falls short of the U.S. median of $74,755 by roughly $30,000, or 40%. The county ranks among America's most economically challenged communities, with wages reflecting limited job opportunities and industrial decline.

Tennessee's lowest-earning county

At $44,712, Clay County's median household income ranks lowest among all Tennessee counties, trailing the state average of $58,994 by $14,282. The county's per capita income of $23,401 also ranks among the state's weakest.

Deepest poverty in the region

Clay County's $44,712 median income ranks it below every measured peer, including Claiborne County ($46,587) and Cocke County ($48,416). Isolation and limited economic diversification compound the county's challenges compared to slightly larger regional neighbors.

Housing affordable but overall strain severe

Though Clay County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio is relatively low, the county's rock-bottom median income creates serious affordability challenges across all living expenses. Residents allocate disproportionately high shares of their limited earnings to food, utilities, and healthcare.

Focus on financial stability first

Clay County households should prioritize building emergency funds and exploring free financial literacy resources through local libraries and nonprofits. Investigate gig economy opportunities and skill-building programs that might supplement primary incomes and create pathways to higher earnings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clay County

via CrimeByCounty

Clay County Among the Nation's Safest

Clay County is one of the safest spots in Tennessee, earning a near-perfect safety score of 99.2. Its total crime rate of 487.4 per 100,000 residents is among the lowest recorded in the nation.

Top Tier Safety Ranking in Tennessee

This score easily beats the Tennessee average of 97.2, ranking Clay County at the top of state safety charts. The local crime rate is roughly 72% lower than the state average of 1,785.6.

Surpassing Local and Regional Benchmarks

Clay County outperforms nearby Claiborne (557.7) and far surpasses Coffee County (2,415.6) in overall safety. It remains a tranquil outlier in the Tennessee landscape for both residents and visitors.

Exceptionally Low Probability of Crime

Violent crime is almost non-existent at 65.9 per 100,000, while property crime is also minimal at 421.5. These figures translate to a remarkably low probability of residents experiencing crime in their daily lives.

Vigilance Keeps Crime Rates Low

Even with such high safety scores, residents should remain vigilant to keep their community secure. Modern security cameras and good neighborly communication are effective ways to protect your property and peace of mind.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Clay County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small and Focused School Infrastructure

Clay County maintains a small, focused education system with only four public schools serving 1,097 students. The infrastructure is managed by a single district and consists of two elementary and two high schools.

A State Leader in Graduation Rates

Education is a clear priority, reflected in a stellar 97.0% graduation rate that outclasses state and national trends. Despite a modest per-pupil spend of $6,156, the county achieves one of the higher school scores in the region at 55.4.

Uniform District Serving Clay County

Clay County Schools manages the entire local system, which does not include any charter options. Celina K-8 is the largest school by far, housing 551 students, which is half of the county’s total enrollment.

Entirely Rural and Close-Knit

Every school in the county is classified as rural, offering a tight-knit educational experience in the Tennessee countryside. With an average size of 366 students, the schools foster a highly personal and community-oriented atmosphere.

Secure Your Future in a Top-Graduating County

Buyers looking for a small-town feel with exceptional graduation results often land in Clay County. The compact school system means most homes in the Celina area are just a short drive from the local campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clay County

via RiskByCounty

Clay County stands among state's safest

Clay County's composite risk score of 13.30 places it far below Tennessee's state average of 52.45 and represents one of the lowest disaster risk levels in the entire state. This very low rating reflects minimal multi-hazard exposure across nearly all disaster categories.

Among Tennessee's very lowest-risk counties

Clay County ranks among the safest of Tennessee's 95 counties with a score of just 13.30, reflecting exceptionally limited natural disaster vulnerability. Residents enjoy one of the state's most favorable risk environments for long-term planning and property investment.

Significantly safer than all regional peers

Clay County's 13.30 score is dramatically lower than every neighboring county, including Claiborne County (42.81), Cocke County (54.52), and all other surrounding jurisdictions. This marked differential underscores Clay County's exceptional safety profile within its region.

Earthquake risk modestly elevated above peers

Even Clay County's highest-risk category—earthquake (44.18)—remains notably below the state average, making it the county's only area of relative vulnerability. Tornado risk (38.49), flood risk (27.67), and wildfire risk (4.07) all sit comfortably below state norms.

Standard homeowners insurance likely sufficient

Clay County residents can generally rely on standard homeowners policies for most hazard coverage, given the county's very low composite risk profile. Consider standalone earthquake insurance only if your property lies on known fault lines; otherwise, focus on routine home maintenance and emergency preparedness over specialized disaster coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Clay County

via WaterByCounty

High Violation Rates Drive Grade F Water

Clay County holds a Grade F for drinking water compliance, reporting nine health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 90.5 per 100,000 residents is nearly triple the Tennessee state average of 34.6. This data indicates persistent challenges in meeting federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Healthy Watersheds Contrast with Infrastructure Issues

While drinking water systems struggle, only 5.0% of the county's 40 assessed water bodies are impaired, far below the state average of 30.2%. The 2022 assessment identifies flow regime modification and dissolved oxygen as the primary concerns. This suggests that the county's raw water sources are in relatively good condition.

Physical Water Traits Tracked at Twenty-Three Sites

There are 23 monitoring sites in Clay County that have recorded 3,510 measurements over the last five years. Data in the Water Quality Portal focuses heavily on physical and inorganic characteristics. This monitoring is critical for understanding the baseline quality of the county's source water.

No Real-Time Streamflow Data for Clay County

Clay County does not currently have an active USGS streamgage to provide real-time discharge data. Without live flow metrics, the high rate of drinking water violations serves as the most urgent signal for residents. This lack of a primary gauge highlights a gap in the real-time monitoring of local hydrologic health.

Prioritizing Filtration and Testing at Home

Due to the high frequency of health violations, residents should consider home water filtration and stay informed about local advisories. While the natural watersheds are largely healthy, the infrastructure for treated water requires closer attention. Regular testing of tap water can provide an extra layer of safety for your household.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clay County

via WeatherByCounty

A Damp Climate in the Mid-South

While temperature data is limited, the county receives 55.3 inches of rain annually. This puts it on par with the high-precipitation trends of the American South.

Average Rainfall for the Volunteer State

Clay County’s 55.3 inches of precipitation is nearly identical to the Tennessee state average of 55.9 inches. Other specific temperature metrics for this county are currently unavailable.

Consistent Precipitation with Local Peers

The rainfall here is comparable to Carroll County, though it lacks the 60+ inch totals seen in Chester County. Local climate patterns typically follow the mild, humid trends of North-Central Tennessee.

Damp Conditions Across All Seasons

With over 55 inches of annual rain, the county experiences significant moisture year-round. Specific seasonal temperature averages are unavailable, but the region generally sees four distinct seasons.

Focus on Moisture and Rain Management

High-quality rain gear and home gutter maintenance are essential for the 55.3 inches of annual rainfall. Residents should monitor local weather stations for temperature trends due to limited data.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clay County

via SoilByCounty

Favorable Acidity Levels

Clay County soils show an average pH of 5.73, making them some of the less acidic soils in the region though still below the 6.5 national median. While specific taxonomic orders are unlisted, this pH level is favorable for many native Tennessee plants.

Dominant Silty Environments

Silt is the dominant component at 56.1%, balanced by 23.9% sand and 20.0% clay. This silty composition creates a fertile environment that offers a good balance between drainage and moisture retention.

Strong Water Capacity

Organic matter levels sit at 2.04%, which is slightly below the 2.44% state average. However, the available water capacity of 0.177 in/in is better than the state average, providing plants with a reliable water source during the growing season.

A Capable Landscape

Though formal drainage classes are not available, the county's respectable soil score of 47.2 indicates a healthy and capable landscape. The mix of silt and clay suggests that water moves through the soil at a steady, manageable pace.

Lush Gardens in Zone 7a

Residents in hardiness zone 7a can take advantage of the high water capacity to grow lush vegetable gardens. With a bit of organic enrichment, your soil is ready to support everything from leafy greens to summer squash.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clay County

via LawnByCounty

Easy Growing in the Upper Cumberland

Clay County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 57.3, making it significantly easier to manage than the Tennessee state average. Its conditions are favorable compared to the national median of 50.0.

Abundant Water for Natural Growth

With 55.3 inches of annual precipitation, the county receives plenty of natural hydration for local lawns. While specific temperature and heat data are limited, the overall moisture level supports consistent growth throughout the year.

Balancing Clay and Sand Content

The soil pH of 5.73 is very close to the ideal range of 6.0, requiring less amendment than most Tennessee counties. A balanced mix of 20.0% clay and 23.9% sand helps with stability, though local drainage conditions can vary.

Strong Resilience Against Dryness

Clay County experienced only 6 weeks of drought in the past year, among the lowest in the state. Current data shows zero percent of the county is abnormally dry, offering a great start to the current growing season.

Selecting Turf for Zone 7a

Zone 7a is highly compatible with cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass or Fescue. Without specific frost dates, local wisdom suggests waiting until mid-April to ensure the ground has warmed enough for new seed.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clay County's county score?
Clay County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 64.2 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 Clay County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Clay County ranks #6 among all counties in Tennessee 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 Clay County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Clay County is $841, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Clay County a tax score of 72.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clay County?
The median household income in Clay County, Tennessee is $44,712 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clay County earns an income score of 7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clay County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Clay County scores 64.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Clay 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 Clay 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.