countyscore
49.7
County Score
Property Tax 99.3Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 68.2

County Report Card

About Cullman County, Alabama

Cullman slightly below national median

Cullman County's composite score of 49.7 falls just short of the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 49th percentile nationally. The county sits at the cusp of national performance.

Below state average, lower-middle tier

Cullman's 49.7 score trails Alabama's state average of 52.9 by 3.2 points, positioning it in the lower-middle range statewide. Among Alabama's 67 counties, Cullman performs below the state norm.

Income levels and tax burden lead the way

Cullman boasts the highest median household income in this group at $60,916 (income score: 41.7) and features the state's lowest effective tax rate at 0.253%. The county also maintains excellent water quality (86.0) and respectable schools (56.6).

Safety and housing affordability present obstacles

Cullman's safety score of just 16.9 is among the lowest of the eight counties, raising public safety concerns. Housing affordability lags with the highest median rent ($883/month) and home values ($180,500) in this group, straining budgets.

Best for working families with stable income

Cullman County suits employed families and professionals who prioritize income growth, low taxes, and decent schools over lowest-cost housing. If your household has stable employment and safety concerns don't deter you, Cullman offers better economic prospects than most rural peers.

Score breakdown

Tax99.3Cost55.1Safety16.9Health30Schools56.6Income41.7Risk18.1Water86Weather68.2
🏛99.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠55.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼41.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤30
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡18.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.3
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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Counties with similar scores

Modoc County
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Median income: $75,380
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Osage County
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Piscataquis County
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Johnston County
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Red River County
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El Dorado County
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Nearby counties

Blount County
Alabama
52.9
Morgan County
Alabama
62.9
Winston County
Alabama
60.4
Marshall County
Alabama
54.8
Walker County
Alabama
47
St. Clair County
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49.4
Jefferson County
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34.7
Etowah County
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47.7

Deep Dives

Cullman County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cullman County

via TaxByCounty

Cullman's taxes fall far below national median

At 0.253%, Cullman County's effective property tax rate is roughly 72% lower than the national average of 0.89%. The median annual tax of $457 represents just 17% of the national median of $2,690.

Well below Alabama's state average

Cullman's 0.253% rate ranks among the lowest in Alabama, sitting well below the state average of 0.339%. Its median tax of $457 trails the state median of $511 by approximately 11%.

Lower-middle tax burden in the group

Cullman's 0.253% rate ranks third-lowest in this eight-county sample, with only Coosa (0.271%) and Covington (0.251%) offering lower rates. For a county with higher median home values, this represents good affordability.

What homeowners pay annually

A homeowner with Cullman County's median-valued property ($180,500) pays approximately $457 per year in property taxes. With mortgage adjustments, that can reach around $514.

Challenge your assessment if needed

Cullman homeowners should review their property assessment annually to ensure it hasn't inflated beyond the home's actual market value. Challenging an inflated assessment is often free and can save you hundreds over the years.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cullman County

via CostByCounty

Cullman offers solid national comparison

Cullman County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio sits below the national average, marking it as an affordable option despite the highest median rent in its peer group. With a median household income of $60,916, residents here have the income to sustain $883 monthly housing costs.

Cullman near Alabama average, premium pricing

At 17.4%, Cullman matches several peer counties but slightly outperforms Alabama's 18.0% state average for rent burden. The $883 median monthly rent is 10% above the state average, reflecting the county's relative prosperity and higher-value housing market.

The region's premium rental market

Cullman's $883 monthly rent is the highest among peer counties, but its $60,916 median household income is among the strongest, justifying the premium. The county attracts residents willing to pay more for stronger employment and community amenities.

Higher income supports higher costs

At $60,916 median income, Cullman households dedicate 17.4% to rent at $883 monthly—a burden justified by stronger earning power. Homeownership costs $723 monthly with a $180,500 median home value, the region's priciest but reflecting market strength.

Cullman for growth-oriented movers

Cullman County suits relocators seeking stronger employment prospects and community investment—you'll pay premium prices but for better income potential. Compare the $883 rent and $180,500 median home price against cheaper neighbors, weighing cost against opportunity.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cullman County

via IncomeByCounty

Cullman County earns above state and region

Cullman County's median household income of $60,916 exceeds Alabama's state average of $54,196 by $6,720 and ranks solidly in the upper range statewide. Though still $13,839 below the U.S. median of $74,755, the county outearns most of its regional counterparts.

Cullman ranks among Alabama's top earners

Cullman County ranks in the upper tier of Alabama's 67 counties for median household income at $60,916. The county significantly outperforms state average, reflecting a stronger local economy and diverse employment base.

Cullman leads north Alabama income rankings

Cullman County's $60,916 median household income ranks among the highest in north-central Alabama. Its per capita income of $30,977 and stable manufacturing and agricultural sectors support solid wage growth compared to neighboring counties.

Housing costs remain manageable with good planning

Cullman County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% sits well below the 30% affordability threshold, protecting renters from cost burden. The median home value of $180,500 reflects the county's stronger economy, though buyers should still verify 28% mortgage affordability thresholds.

Cullman households well-positioned to build wealth

With above-average county income and manageable housing costs, Cullman residents can prioritize investment diversification and long-term retirement planning. Regular contributions to 401(k)s, IRAs, or taxable investment accounts compound significantly when started early.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cullman County

via CrimeByCounty

Cullman County Aligns with National Safety

Cullman County reports a total crime rate of 2,245.1 per 100,000 residents, slightly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.5.

Tracking Against Alabama Safety Averages

The county's safety score of 96.5 sits just below the Alabama average of 97.3. However, Cullman’s violent crime rate of 189.2 is significantly lower than the state average of 312.6.

Cullman's Standing Among Neighboring Counties

Cullman County faces higher property crime rates than some rural neighbors but offers superior violent crime protection. Its property crime rate of 2,055.9 is slightly above the national average of 2,015.7.

Low Violence Despite High Property Crime

Violent crime is notably low at 189.2 per 100,000, while property crime accounts for 2,055.9 incidents. This suggests that the primary safety challenge for residents is theft and burglary rather than physical harm.

Prioritizing Property Security in Cullman

Because property crime is the main contributor to local statistics, residents should invest in home security. Smart locks and driveway sensors can provide significant deterrents against opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cullman County

via HealthByCounty

Cullman Exceeds National Health Benchmarks

Cullman County's 72.8-year life expectancy surpasses the U.S. average of 72.6 years, giving residents a slight longevity advantage. The county's 21.8% poor/fair health rate is just below the national average of 21.8%, indicating health status near American norms. Cullman performs at or slightly above national health standards across key metrics.

Cullman Leads Alabama's Health Performance

At 72.8 years, Cullman's life expectancy noticeably exceeds Alabama's state average of 72.1 years, ranking it among the state's healthiest counties. The county's 11.7% uninsured rate is slightly higher than the state average, but the superior life expectancy suggests strong underlying health infrastructure. Cullman stands out as one of Alabama's health leaders despite average insurance coverage rates.

Cullman Tops Its Regional Peers

Cullman's 72.8-year life expectancy is the highest among its neighbors, outpacing Colbert (73.0 in a statistical tie) and significantly outdistancing Covington (70.6 years). The county boasts exceptional mental health support at 164 providers per 100,000—far above regional averages—and adequate primary care at 48 providers per 100,000. Cullman is a regional health leader with particularly strong mental health infrastructure.

Strong Behavioral Health, Adequate Primary Care

Cullman's 164 mental health providers per 100,000 residents represents the strongest behavioral health infrastructure in the region, suggesting excellent access to counseling and psychiatric services. Primary care is available at 48 providers per 100,000, meeting regional standards though not exceeding them. The county's exceptional mental health capacity likely contributes to its above-average life expectancy.

Maintain Your Coverage in Cullman

Even in Cullman, 11.7% of residents remain uninsured, potentially missing preventive care that supports the county's good health outcomes. If you lack insurance, visit the Alabama Health Insurance Marketplace to explore plans that maintain your access to Cullman's robust healthcare providers. Coverage ensures you can take full advantage of available services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cullman County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Education Infrastructure in North Alabama

Cullman County features a massive educational network of 34 public schools serving 13,072 students. The county provides 15 elementary, six middle, and 11 high schools across two primary districts. This vast array of options ensures that specialized programs and diverse school settings are available to every resident.

Elite Graduation Rates and High Scores

Cullman County is an academic powerhouse with a 95.4% graduation rate, far exceeding both state and national averages. The county achieves these results with efficient spending of $6,367 per pupil, just above the state average. A composite school score of 55.0 highlights the county's status as a top-tier educational destination.

A Tale of Two High-Performing Districts

Cullman County district is the largest with 27 schools and 9,846 students, while Cullman City serves 3,226 students across seven schools. There are no charter schools, as the existing districts provide robust traditional and alternative options. Cullman High School is the most prominent campus, serving nearly 1,000 students.

A Balance of Town and Country

The county offers 21 rural schools and 13 town-based schools, giving parents the ultimate choice in learning environments. Average school size is 436 students, though the larger Cullman High and several elementary hubs offer more urban-style resources. This mix defines the county, where high-tech town schools coexist with tight-knit rural campuses.

A Premier Destination for Families

With a 95.4% graduation rate, Cullman County is one of the most attractive markets for families in the state. Whether you prefer the specialized city district or the expansive county system, the local real estate market supports a high-quality lifestyle. Look for homes in Cullman or Hanceville to secure a spot in these top-rated school zones.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cullman County

via RiskByCounty

Cullman's Risk Exceeds National Average

Cullman County scores 81.93 on composite risk, earning a Relatively Moderate rating and well above the national average. The score reflects significant exposure to tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires across the county.

Alabama's Second-Highest Risk County Here

Cullman's 81.93 ranks it among Alabama's most hazard-exposed counties, exceeded only by Covington (82.44) in this group and sitting 20 points above state average. This places Cullman in the upper tier of statewide disaster risk.

Riskier Than Most Regional Peers

Cullman (81.93) faces substantially higher composite risk than Colbert (80.66) to the north and Dallas (70.77) to the south, creating the region's most hazard-exposed profile. Only Covington's 82.44 comes close to Cullman's elevated exposure.

Tornadoes and Floods Lead Multiple Threats

Tornado risk scores 90.04—among Alabama's highest—while floods rank second at 80.25, reflecting Cullman's northern location and topography. Earthquakes (86.58) and wildfires (65.08) add compounding seasonal hazards throughout the year.

Multi-Hazard Coverage Protects Your Investment

The 90.04 tornado and 80.25 flood scores demand comprehensive protection: ensure coverage for wind damage and secure separate flood insurance. Consider earthquake coverage as well, given the 86.58 risk score, and review all policies annually as hazards evolve.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cullman County

via WeatherByCounty

Milder Temperatures in North Alabama

Cullman County averages 60.0°F annually, which is cooler than the Alabama state average but warmer than the national median. Its location in the northern part of the state provides a slightly more temperate climate.

Noticeably Cooler Than the State

At 60.0°F, Cullman is 3.2 degrees cooler than the 63.2°F Alabama average. It experiences more distinct seasonal shifts than the coastal counties to the south.

Similar to Other Northern Counties

Cullman's 60.0°F average closely mirrors DeKalb County's 59.6°F. It is significantly cooler than central Alabama counties like Dallas, which averages 64.6°F.

Chilly Winters and Occasional Snow

Winter temperatures average 42.8°F, and the county receives about 0.9 inches of snow annually. Summers are still warm, with a July average of 78.0°F and 46 days hitting 90°F or higher.

Winterize for Freezing Temperatures

Homeowners should insulate pipes for the January nights that average 40.6°F. While snow is light, the 59.9 inches of annual rain requires sturdy roofing and effective gutter systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cullman County

via SoilByCounty

Cullman's Sandstone-Influenced Soil

Specific pH and taxonomic data for Cullman County are not available in this report. In this mountainous region, soils are often acidic, mirroring Alabama's 5.21 average rather than the national 6.5 median.

The Texture of the Plateau

Sand, silt, and clay percentages for Cullman County remain unmapped in this set. Local farmers often manage fine-grained soils that offer a balance between drainage and workability, perfect for the county's famous poultry and sweet potato farms.

AWC and Organic Matter Benchmarks

No specific organic matter or water capacity data is provided for this county. For context, the state average organic matter of 1.74% is slightly lower than the national 2.0% benchmark that most high-yield gardens aim for.

Water Flow on the Cumberland Plateau

Specific drainage classes are not currently listed for Cullman County. Due to the area's elevation and topography, understanding your local hydrologic group is essential for preventing soil erosion and managing water runoff.

Garden Potential in Zone 8a

Cullman County is located in Hardiness Zone 8a, providing a long and productive growing season. From commercial crops to home vegetable patches, this area is a powerhouse for Alabama agriculture.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cullman County

via LawnByCounty

Cullman: Alabama's Bright Spot for Lawns

With a score of 39.3, Cullman County is one of the easiest places in Alabama to grow a lawn. While still trailing the national median of 50.0, it offers a more temperate environment for Zone 8a grasses than most other counties.

Lower Heat Load Aids Turf Health

Cullman experiences only 46 extreme heat days, significantly lower than the state average of 64. This reduced heat, combined with 59.9 inches of rain, creates a less stressful environment for cool-season and warm-season hybrids alike.

Building a Strong Soil Base

Specific soil attributes are not available for this county, but local success often depends on managing the area's 59.9 inches of annual rain. Aeration is recommended to prevent soil compaction and ensure that nutrients reach the root zone effectively.

Recent Drought Trends in Cullman

The county spent 20 weeks in drought over the last year, and the entire area is currently under Abnormally Dry conditions. Because the heat load is lower here, your lawn will likely recover faster from dry spells than those in southern Alabama.

Planning for Your Cullman Lawn

Wait until after the last frost on April 06 to begin your spring lawn projects. Zoysia is a fantastic choice for this region, providing a dense turf that can handle the transition into the first frost on November 01.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cullman County's county score?
Cullman County, Alabama has a composite county score of 49.7 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 Cullman County rank among counties in Alabama?
Cullman County ranks #42 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 Cullman County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Cullman County is $457, with an effective tax rate of 0.25%. This earns Cullman County a tax score of 99.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cullman County?
The median household income in Cullman County, Alabama is $60,916 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cullman County earns an income score of 41.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cullman County, Alabama a good place to live?
Cullman County scores 49.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #42 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Cullman 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 Cullman County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.