countyscore
46.3
County Score
Property Tax 94.1Cost of Living 88.6Water Quality 63.2

County Report Card

About Escambia County, Alabama

Escambia trails national livability average

Escambia County's composite score of 46.3 falls below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the bottom 42nd percentile nationally. This reflects meaningful livability challenges relative to average American counties.

Below-average livability within Alabama

At 46.3, Escambia scores notably below Alabama's state average of 52.9, placing it in the lower third of the state's 67 counties. Significant gaps exist in multiple livability dimensions.

Exceptional affordability and low taxes

Escambia shines on affordability with a cost score of 88.6 and minimal tax burden (score 94.1, effective rate 0.395%). Median home prices of $122,700 and rents of just $709/month rank among Alabama's lowest.

Safety, health, and income persistently weak

The county faces serious headwinds with a safety score of just 17.5, health score of 15.7, and income score of 6.5 (median household income $44,447). These structural challenges limit overall livability despite low costs.

For resolute bargain-hunters only

Escambia County appeals primarily to retirees or remote workers on tight budgets seeking rock-bottom housing costs. Safety and health concerns make it less suitable for families with young children or those prioritizing community services.

Score breakdown

Tax94.1Cost88.6Safety17.5Health15.7Schools31.3Income6.5Risk15Water63.2Weather36.5
🏛94.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠88.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼6.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡17.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤15.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡15
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧63.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨29.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱14.7
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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Deep Dives

Escambia County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Escambia County

via TaxByCounty

Escambia taxes rank well above the national median

Escambia County's effective tax rate of 0.395% significantly exceeds the national median, placing it among the higher-taxing counties nationwide. Though the national median property tax is $2,690 annually, Escambia residents pay $485—lower in absolute dollars due to the county's modest median home value of $122,700.

Escambia ranks among Alabama's highest tax rates

At 0.395%, Escambia County's effective tax rate runs considerably above Alabama's state average of 0.339%, placing it in the upper tier of the state's 67 counties. The median property tax of $485 is below the state median of $511, though this reflects Escambia's lower home values rather than a tax advantage.

Escambia's rate exceeds most regional counties

Escambia's 0.395% rate is higher than DeKalb (0.338%), Elmore (0.264%), Fayette (0.286%), Franklin (0.338%), and Geneva (0.318%), making it the steepest tax burden in this southern Alabama cluster. Only Greene County's 0.488% exceeds Escambia's burden.

Median Escambia home costs $485 yearly

On a median home value of $122,700, Escambia property owners pay approximately $485 annually in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $593 when including county fees, while those owning outright pay around $399.

Escambia homeowners should scrutinize their assessments

Given Escambia's above-average tax rate, verifying your assessment's accuracy is especially important—overassessed properties are common throughout Alabama. A successful appeal can deliver significant annual savings; contact your county assessor about requesting a reassessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Escambia County

via CostByCounty

Escambia rents squeeze tight household budgets

Renters in Escambia County face a 19.1% rent-to-income ratio despite paying just $709/month—the highest burden among all eight counties examined. This tension reflects Escambia's median household income of $44,447, nearly 40% below the national average, making housing an outsized expense for local families.

Above-average rent burden signals economic pressure

Escambia's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it among the state's more strained housing markets. Though local rents of $709 fall below the state median of $799, weak median household income ($44,447) reverses any savings advantage.

Worst affordability in the regional comparison

Escambia's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds neighboring DeKalb (16.0%), Fayette (14.7%), and Franklin County (15.5%), despite comparable rent levels. The county's lower median household income ($44,447) versus its peers' $50,000–$51,000 explains the outsized housing burden.

Housing dominates household budgets here

Renters spend $709/month (19.1% of income) while homeowners pay $523/month on median-valued homes of $122,700. Combined, housing costs can claim up to 38% of annual household income, leaving less for food, transportation, and savings.

Escambia challenges unless your income aligns

Relocating to Escambia works best for households earning $45,000–$50,000+ who accept tighter budgets; lower incomes will struggle with the 19.1% rent burden. Compare Escambia's affordability carefully with neighboring DeKalb and Franklin counties before deciding—both offer better rent-to-income ratios at similar price points.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Escambia County

via IncomeByCounty

Escambia households earn well below average

Escambia County's median household income of $44,447 trails the national median of $74,755 by 41%, representing one of the steepest income shortfalls in the nation. Typical Escambia households earn approximately $30,300 less annually than U.S. counterparts.

Among Alabama's lowest-income counties

Escambia's $44,447 median income falls 18% below Alabama's state average of $54,196, positioning it among the state's lowest-earning counties. The $9,749 gap underscores Escambia's economic challenges relative to the broader state.

Escambia struggles against nearby peers

Escambia's $44,447 median income is $6,702 lower than Franklin County ($51,493) and $6,504 lower than Geneva County ($50,951) in adjacent areas. Among immediate neighbors, Escambia faces the most significant income headwinds.

Housing costs strain household budgets

Escambia's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio—the highest among surveyed neighbors—signals that housing consumes a meaningful portion of paychecks. Median home values of $122,700 represent nearly 2.8 years of median household income, suggesting homeownership requires careful financial planning.

Start small, save consistently

Escambia residents earning $44,447 should prioritize building emergency savings and accessing employer 401(k) matches before investing elsewhere. Even $50-100 monthly contributions to a savings account builds resilience and opens doors to future wealth-building as income grows.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Escambia County

via CrimeByCounty

Escambia County Nears National Crime Benchmarks

Escambia's total crime rate of 2,203.8 per 100K sits just below the national average of 2,385.5. This activity levels results in a safety score of 96.5, indicating more challenges than the national median.

Safety Levels Fall Below State Average

The county's safety score of 96.5 is lower than the Alabama average of 97.3. Additionally, its total crime rate is roughly 27% higher than the statewide average of 1,731.0 per 100K.

Highest Crime Rate Among Nearby Counties

Compared to nearby Geneva County, Escambia reports more than double the amount of crime per 100K residents. The county experiences higher incident density than many of its rural neighbors in South Alabama.

Violent Crime Rates Surpass State Levels

The violent crime rate of 522.4 per 100K is significantly higher than the Alabama average of 312.6. Property crime accounts for 1,681.4 incidents per 100K, requiring consistent community vigilance.

Prioritize Home Security and Awareness

With property crime as a primary local factor, homeowners should invest in robust security systems. Neighborhood watch programs and alarm systems are effective tools for reducing local risk.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Escambia County

via HealthByCounty

Escambia's life expectancy trails national averages

At 70.1 years, Escambia residents live 1.4 years below the U.S. average of 71.5 years. More than one in four (25.7%) report poor or fair health, indicating widespread health challenges in the county.

Among Alabama's least healthy counties

Escambia's 70.1-year life expectancy falls 2.0 years below Alabama's 72.1-year state average, placing it among the state's most challenged counties. The disparity underscores persistent health struggles residents face.

Lowest longevity in this county grouping

Escambia has the shortest life expectancy of all eight counties—4.5 years less than top-performing Elmore County and notably lower than adjacent counties like Geneva (70.6 years). The gap signals significant health disparities within the region.

Uninsured rates compound health struggles

One in eight Escambia residents (12.4%) lack health insurance, above the state average of 11.1%. With only 30 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, accessing preventive care remains difficult for many families.

Get covered to improve your health

In Escambia, insurance gaps contribute to worse health outcomes. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to find affordable plans and start building a path to better health.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Escambia County

via SchoolsByCounty

Strategic School Systems

Escambia County operates 15 public schools serving a total of 5,432 students across two districts. The academic landscape is evenly split with six elementary schools and six high schools, providing clear pathways for student advancement.

Strong Results on a Budget

The county's 88.2% graduation rate beats the national average, showcasing effective results despite modest resources. At $6,322 per pupil, spending is slightly higher than the state average and supports a competitive school score of 51.1.

A Tale of Two Districts

The Escambia County district serves 4,208 students across 12 schools, while Brewton City manages 1,224 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, emphasizing the role of these two primary local districts.

Small Town Learning Environments

Most schools are located in town settings, creating a close-knit atmosphere where the average school size is a manageable 418 students. W S Neal Elementary is the county's largest school with 542 students, while others maintain even smaller enrollments.

Settle Near Escambia's Schools

Families value Escambia County for its smaller school sizes and town-centered education. As you browse local real estate, consider how proximity to well-regarded schools in Brewton or Flomaton can enhance your home's long-term value.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Escambia County

via RiskByCounty

Escambia's Risk Well Above National Norms

Escambia County scores 85.02 with a Relatively Moderate risk rating, substantially exceeding the national average across multiple hazard types. The county's notable hurricane risk of 96.58 places it among the nation's most hurricane-exposed regions, a critical factor for coastal preparedness.

Alabama's Highest Hurricane Exposure

Escambia's 85.02 composite score ranks it among Alabama's riskier counties, well above the state average of 61.54. The county's 96.58 hurricane risk is the highest in the state, reflecting its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and vulnerability to tropical systems.

Coastal Hazards Set It Apart

Escambia's 85.02 score positions it as significantly higher-risk than neighboring Geneva County (53.37) and most inland Alabama counties. Its extreme hurricane exposure of 96.58 makes it categorically different from inland peers and comparable only to Alabama's other Gulf-facing regions.

Hurricanes Dominate Escambia's Threats

Hurricane risk at 96.58 is Escambia's defining hazard, making tropical storm season (June–November) the critical planning period for all residents and businesses. Tornadoes (83.05) and wildfires (74.01) present secondary but substantial risks that compound the hurricane threat.

Hurricane Preparedness Is Non-Negotiable

Escambia residents must secure comprehensive homeowners and wind insurance with hurricane deductibles understood and affordable before season arrives each June. Install impact-resistant windows, reinforce roof connections, and maintain a detailed home inventory; regular evacuation drills and a family communication plan are equally vital for this high-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Escambia County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Exceptionally Wet

Escambia County maintains an average annual temperature of 66.4°F, significantly warmer than the national median of roughly 54°F. It receives a staggering 65.6 inches of rain annually, placing it among the wettest regions in the country.

One of Alabama's Warmest Spots

At 66.4°F, the county sits well above the Alabama state average of 63.2°F. Its annual rainfall of 65.6 inches also exceeds the state average by more than 8 inches.

Hotter and Wetter Than Neighbors

Escambia is notably warmer than northern counties like Etowah, which averages just 62.8°F. It also records more rain than Geneva County, which sees about 62.3 inches per year.

Endless Summers and Mild Winters

Residents endure 76 days of extreme heat above 90°F annually, with July averages reaching 81.4°F. Winters are very mild, featuring a January average of 49.5°F and almost no measurable snowfall.

Focus on Heat and Flood Prep

With 76 days of extreme heat, high-efficiency HVAC systems are essential for safety and comfort. Given the 65.6 inches of rain, residents must maintain clear gutters and check property drainage regularly.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Escambia County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Loams of South Alabama

Escambia County's soil consists of Ultisols with a relatively low pH of 5.09. This makes it more acidic than the state average and significantly more so than the national median of 6.5. Despite the acidity, the county maintains a soil score of 29.2, which is higher than many neighboring counties.

Sandy Profiles with Loamy Character

The soil composition is dominated by 65.5% sand, giving it a gritty feel and easy workability. Silt accounts for 20.6%, while clay makes up just 10.5% of the mix. This results in a loamy texture that allows for deep root penetration and easy mechanical tilling.

Exceptional Organic Carbon Storage

Escambia boasts an impressive 4.04% organic matter, more than double the state average of 1.74%. This rich carbon content provides a major nutrient reservoir for plants. However, the available water capacity is only 0.124 in/in, meaning the soil doesn't hold moisture as effectively as it holds nutrients.

Management for Poorly Drained Sites

Despite the high sand content, these soils are often poorly drained and fall into hydrologic group D. This indicates a high runoff potential and a frequent need for drainage management in agricultural fields. Homeowners should check for high water tables before beginning foundation work or landscaping.

Lush Potential in Zone 8b

The warm 8b climate and high organic matter make this county a powerhouse for specialty crops like pecans and blueberries. These plants thrive in the natural acidity found throughout the region. With proper drainage, your Escambia garden can be among the most productive in the state.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Escambia County

via LawnByCounty

Escambia Presents a High Maintenance Hurdle

Escambia County’s lawn difficulty score of 14.7 is among the most challenging in the state, falling far below the national median of 50.0. The combination of high heat and poor drainage makes maintaining a green yard a constant effort.

Brutal Summer Heat and Heavy Rain

The county endures 76 days of extreme heat annually, which is significantly higher than the state average of 64 days. Coupled with a heavy 65.6 inches of rain, your lawn faces a cycle of intense heat stress and potential waterlogging.

Managing Poorly Drained Loam Soils

Escambia’s loam soil is characterized as poorly drained, which can drown grass roots after heavy Alabama thunderstorms. The acidic pH of 5.09 requires significant lime intervention to reach the ideal 6.0 range for turf health.

Extreme Drought Conditions Take Hold

An intense 31 weeks of drought over the past year have left 80.7% of the county in severe drought conditions. Prioritize water conservation by mowing at higher settings to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Tough Turf for the Gulf Coast

Bermuda and Zoysia are your best bets for surviving the 76 days of extreme heat in zone 8b. Get your grass established early in the season, as the last spring frost typically occurs by mid-March.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Escambia County's county score?
Escambia County, Alabama has a composite county score of 46.3 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 Escambia County rank among counties in Alabama?
Escambia County ranks #54 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 Escambia County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Escambia County is $485, with an effective tax rate of 0.40%. This earns Escambia County a tax score of 94.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Escambia County?
The median household income in Escambia County, Alabama is $44,447 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Escambia County earns an income score of 6.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Escambia County, Alabama a good place to live?
Escambia County scores 46.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #54 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Escambia 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 Escambia 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.