countyscore
51.5
County Score
Property Tax 95.8Disaster Risk 74.5Weather & Climate 65.8

County Report Card

About DeKalb County, Tennessee

Steady Performance Against National Median

DeKalb County’s score of 51.5 edges out the national median of 50.0. This makes it a reliably average American county with a slight edge in overall desirability.

Matching the Tennessee Average

The county's composite of 51.5 aligns almost perfectly with the Tennessee state average of 51.3. It offers a balanced profile that reflects the state's typical living standards.

Low Taxes and Disaster Resiliency

A tax score of 95.8 highlights an effective rate of just 0.362%, one of the best in the state. Furthermore, a risk score of 74.5 shows it is well-protected against environmental hazards.

Health and Water Infrastructure

Health scores are low at 15.3, and the water score of 32.0 suggests infrastructure needs. The income score of 11.9 also indicates that residents earn well below national benchmarks.

A Quiet Haven for Landowners

DeKalb is best suited for those who want low property taxes and a safe environmental profile. It is a strong choice for residents who are self-sufficient and value rural privacy.

Score breakdown

Tax95.8Cost62.4Safety50.4Health15.3Schools38.6Income11.9Risk74.5Water32Weather65.8
🏛95.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠62.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼11.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡50.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤15.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡74.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧32
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨39.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.9
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Cannon County
Tennessee
63.5
Smith County
Tennessee
50.5
Warren County
Tennessee
50.6
White County
Tennessee
57.9
Putnam County
Tennessee
44
Jackson County
Tennessee
53.2
Van Buren County
Tennessee
69
Wilson County
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50.8

Deep Dives

DeKalb County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in DeKalb County

via TaxByCounty

DeKalb County ranks among nation's lowest

DeKalb County's effective tax rate of 0.362% places it in the bottom 15% nationally, with median property taxes of just $747 compared to the national median of $2,690. Residents here enjoy some of the most favorable property tax treatment in the United States.

Third-lowest rate in Tennessee

DeKalb County's 0.362% effective rate ranks among the most favorable in Tennessee, trailing only Cumberland County (0.307%) and Fayette County (0.346%). This places DeKalb well below the state average of 0.511%, offering residents a significant tax advantage within the state.

Most favorable rate in the immediate region

DeKalb County's 0.362% rate undercuts all nearby counties, including Decatur County (0.488%) and Crockett County (0.645%). Only Cumberland County in the broader region offers comparable tax relief, making DeKalb a standout for property tax-conscious homeowners.

What a typical DeKalb County homeowner pays

On the median home value of $206,600, DeKalb County homeowners pay approximately $747 annually in property taxes. Mortgage holders typically see $693, while outright owners average $834.

Even low-tax DeKalb residents can appeal

Despite favorable rates, some DeKalb County homeowners may still carry overvalued assessments from previous market cycles. Filing an appeal ensures your assessment reflects current market conditions, potentially lowering your already modest tax burden further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in DeKalb County

via CostByCounty

DeKalb faces above-average housing pressure

DeKalb County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds both the national average and most Tennessee peers, signaling tighter affordability despite modest absolute rents. At $773 monthly rent against $48,484 median household income—well below the national $74,755—DeKalb residents sacrifice income for rural living, intensifying housing burdens.

DeKalb ranks below-average for Tennessee rents

DeKalb's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio sits above Tennessee's 17.6% state average, placing it among the state's more stretched counties. The $773 median rent falls below the state average of $860, yet the low median income of $48,484 pushes the affordability ratio upward.

DeKalb competes on low rents, not low income

DeKalb's $773 rent approximates Dyer County ($760) and sits above Decatur ($716), but DeKalb's $48,484 median income exceeds Decatur's $46,190. This combination produces DeKalb's above-average rent-to-income ratio—lower nominal rent cannot overcome income disadvantages.

DeKalb's housing consumes significant income share

Renters allocate $773 monthly while owners pay $799 for mortgages, both consuming roughly 19% of the $48,484 median household income. The median home value of $206,600 towers above what most county residents can afford without significant external assistance.

DeKalb offers modest rents but limited income

Considering DeKalb requires confidence in stable employment above the county's $48,484 median or significant savings reserves. Compare this county's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio against wealthier options like Dickson (15.9%) or Fayette (12.5%) to evaluate whether rural proximity justifies higher housing burden.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in DeKalb County

via IncomeByCounty

DeKalb County income falls below national levels

DeKalb County's median household income of $48,484 lags the national median of $74,755 by $26,271—a 35% gap. This significant shortfall reflects rural Tennessee's economic challenges relative to national prosperity.

Below Tennessee's state income average

DeKalb's $48,484 median household income sits 18% below Tennessee's state average of $58,994. Among the state's counties, DeKalb ranks among those facing the most serious income and employment challenges.

Competing with similarly challenged rural neighbors

DeKalb's $48,484 edges out only Decatur County ($46,190) among comparison counties but trails Dyer ($54,973), Crockett ($59,049), and Cumberland ($58,475). DeKalb faces steep earnings competition even within its rural peer group.

Affordable housing with limited purchasing power

DeKalb's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio appears manageable, but the median household income of $48,484 provides constrained purchasing power for other necessities. Median home values of $206,600 stretch the typical buyer's capacity given local earning levels.

Financial resilience through careful planning

DeKalb County residents should prioritize building emergency savings—targeting three to six months of expenses given income volatility in rural areas. Explore state-sponsored matched savings programs and financial counseling services designed to help low-to-moderate income households build wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in DeKalb County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety in DeKalb County

DeKalb County achieves a high safety score of 98.2, making it one of the safer regions in the country. The total crime rate of 1,118.3 per 100,000 is less than half the national average.

A Safety Leader in Tennessee

DeKalb's safety score of 98.2 significantly outperforms the Tennessee state average of 97.2. Local law enforcement maintains a high standard of safety across three reporting agencies.

Minimal Crime Compared to State

The total crime rate of 1,118.3 per 100,000 is far lower than the Tennessee average of 1,785.6. It remains a tranquil alternative to nearby urban centers.

Low Property and Violent Crime

Property crime sits at just 875.8, which is exceptionally low compared to the national rate of 2,015.7. Violent crime is also low at 242.5 per 100,000 residents.

Maintain a Secure Household

Even in very safe counties, simple precautions like locking doors and windows are essential. Consider basic security measures to preserve the county's low property crime status.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in DeKalb County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy and health significantly below US

DeKalb County residents live to 71.7 years on average, about 6.4 years below the U.S. average of 78.1 years. The 26.6% poor/fair health rate is among the highest nationally, exceeding the national average by 8.6 percentage points.

Among state's worst health outcomes

DeKalb County's 71.7-year life expectancy matches the state's lower quartile, about 0.7 years below Tennessee's average of 72.4 years. The 26.6% poor/fair health rate represents one of the state's most vulnerable health profiles.

Limited resources in rural context

DeKalb County's 39 primary care providers per 100,000 residents exceeds Decatur County (26) but falls short of better-resourced areas like Cumberland County (64). Mental health providers at 47 per 100,000 are among the region's lowest, signaling significant access gaps.

Uninsured rates compound provider shortages

With 13.7% uninsured—the highest in this county group—and only 39 primary care providers per 100,000, DeKalb residents face a dual barrier to healthcare. The 26.6% poor/fair health rate reflects the combined strain of limited coverage and limited access.

Coverage closes critical access gap

At 13.7% uninsured, DeKalb County has the highest rate in this group, meaning thousands lack basic healthcare coverage. Visiting healthcare.gov or contacting local community health centers could connect you with affordable plans and the county's available providers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in DeKalb County

via SchoolsByCounty

Compact System Serving the DeKalb Region

DeKalb County operates six public schools that serve a total of 2,938 students. The landscape features a balanced mix of three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. This unified district provides a straightforward educational journey for local families.

Solid Graduation Rates and Local Investment

The county maintains a 92.0% graduation rate, which is higher than the national average of 87%. While per-pupil spending of $5,797 is below the state average of $6,215, the county's school score of 52.0 shows it is performing near state standards. This indicates a solid return on investment for the local community's education tax dollars.

One District, No Charter Schools

The DeKalb County school district is the sole provider for the county's 2,938 students across its six campuses. No charter schools operate in the area, reflecting a community focus on a single, cohesive public school system. This allows for a unified curriculum and consistent administrative support for all students.

Town-Centered Schools with Rural Reach

Four of the county's schools are located in town settings, while two remain rural, offering a mix of community environments. De Kalb County High School is the largest facility with 807 students, whereas DeKalb West Elementary is the smallest with 448 students. The average school size is 588, which is slightly higher than many neighboring rural counties but still manageable.

Find Your Community in DeKalb County

Buying a home in DeKalb County offers families access to a reliable, unified school district with graduation rates that beat the national average. Proximity to the town-based schools in Smithville can be a major draw for parents who value a centralized school community. Consider the local schools as a core part of your real estate search in this Tennessee county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in DeKalb County

via RiskByCounty

DeKalb Among America's Safest Counties

DeKalb County's composite risk score of just 25.48 with a Very Low rating places it in the safest tier of U.S. counties. This exceptionally low exposure across multiple hazard categories provides residents substantial protection.

Tennessee's Safest County

At 25.48, DeKalb ranks dramatically below Tennessee's state average of 52.45, earning status as the state's single lowest-risk county. No other Tennessee county comes close to this level of safety.

Safest in Its Region by Far

DeKalb's 25.48 score is substantially lower than Crockett (52.58), Dickson (53.47), and Decatur (38.42). The county's geographic positioning and terrain provide measurable protection compared to surrounding areas.

Tornado Risk Modest, Others Minimal

Tornado risk at 48.92 is DeKalb's only moderate hazard exposure. Earthquake risk reaches 69.02, while flood and wildfire risks remain exceptionally low at 34.51 and 7.67 respectively.

Basic Coverage Protects DeKalb Homes

DeKalb's Very Low composite risk of 25.48 means standard homeowners policies provide solid coverage for most disaster scenarios. Maintain an updated tornado safety plan and ensure adequate coverage limits for your property value.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in DeKalb County

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Subtropical Climate

DeKalb County's 58.1°F annual average is warmer than the national median, fitting firmly into the humid subtropical category. The region sees ample rainfall and moderate seasonal shifts.

The Benchmark for Tennessee

DeKalb County perfectly matches the Tennessee state average annual temperature of 58.1°F. However, its 56.9 inches of annual rain is slightly higher than the state average of 55.9 inches.

Wetter Than Nearby Davidson

DeKalb is more prone to rain than Davidson County, receiving about 5 more inches of precipitation annually. It is also cooler in the summer, with 10 fewer extreme heat days than Nashville.

Moderate Peaks and Valleys

The county experiences 38 days of extreme heat and a July average of 77.8°F. Winter brings a modest 3.1 inches of snow and a January average of 37.3°F.

Prepare for Significant Rainfall

With nearly 57 inches of annual rain, residents should prioritize roof maintenance and gutter clearance. The moderate 3.1 inches of snow means basic winter tires are usually sufficient for the season.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in DeKalb County

via SoilByCounty

Superior drainage in DeKalb clay loam

DeKalb County’s dominant soil is a clay loam belonging to the Ultisols taxonomic order. Its pH of 5.43 is slightly less acidic than the state average but remains under the national 6.5 median.

Heavy clay for high nutrient storage

The composition features 22.2% clay and 56.9% silt, creating a heavy soil that holds nutrients very well. While 20.5% sand is present, the clay-heavy mix makes the ground firm and stable.

Matching the state’s water benchmarks

Organic matter sits at 2.01%, which is closer to the national average of 2.0% than the state average of 2.44%. The available water capacity is exactly 0.170 in/in, aligning perfectly with the Tennessee state average.

Excellent well-drained soil profile

DeKalb stands out with well-drained soil in hydrologic group B. This makes it highly desirable for construction and protects plant roots from rot during the wet seasons.

A garden-ready landscape in zone 7b

The well-drained nature of this soil is perfect for peppers, tomatoes, and deep-rooted perennials. Get outside and plant knowing your soil offers a high-performing natural drainage system.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in DeKalb County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions for DeKalb Lawns

DeKalb County offers a relatively friendly environment for lawn care with a difficulty score of 51.9. This puts local homeowners ahead of the national median when it comes to growing a healthy lawn.

Optimizing Rain and Moderate Heat

Annual precipitation of 56.9 inches provides more than enough moisture for most grass species. With 38 extreme heat days, the thermal stress is close to the state average, allowing for more manageable mowing schedules.

Leveraging Well-Drained Clay Loam

The county features well-drained clay loam soil, which is an excellent foundation for turf. Although the pH of 5.43 is somewhat acidic, the superior drainage helps prevent many common root rot issues.

Enjoying Strong Drought Resilience

DeKalb had only 3 weeks of drought over the past year, significantly less than many neighboring counties. Current conditions show only 24.4% of the area is dry, making it a great time for routine maintenance.

Establishing Your Lawn in DeKalb

Tall fescue performs well here, especially if seeded in the early fall. The frost-free window typically runs from April 18 through November 4, providing a long and productive growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DeKalb County's county score?
DeKalb County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 51.5 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 DeKalb County rank among counties in Tennessee?
DeKalb County ranks #49 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 DeKalb County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in DeKalb County is $747, with an effective tax rate of 0.36%. This earns DeKalb County a tax score of 95.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in DeKalb County?
The median household income in DeKalb County, Tennessee is $48,484 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. DeKalb County earns an income score of 11.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is DeKalb County, Tennessee a good place to live?
DeKalb County scores 51.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate DeKalb 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 DeKalb 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.