countyscore
48.9
County Score
Safety 93.4Water Quality 86Property Tax 74.5

County Report Card

About Escambia County, Florida

Above national average with clear strengths

Escambia County scores 48.9, nearly matching the national median of 50.0 and exceeding Florida's average of 45.1 by 3.8 points. The county's performance reflects a strong safety profile and tax efficiency that offset modest affordability constraints.

Above Florida's typical county performance

At 48.9, Escambia County ranks in Florida's upper-middle tier, outperforming 70% of state counties. The county demonstrates solid, reliable livability across most dimensions, making it a competitive choice within Florida.

Safety and tax efficiency are exceptional

Escambia County's safety score of 93.4 is among Florida's best, with an effective tax rate of just 0.600% (tax score 74.5). These strengths create a secure, tax-efficient environment that appeals to both retirees and working families.

Affordability and health need improvement

The cost score of 19.2 reflects challenging housing affordability, with median rent of $1,234 and home values of $234,200 requiring substantial household income. Health score of 34.7 and school score of 22.6 also lag desired levels, limiting appeal to education-focused families.

Safe haven for tax-conscious households

Escambia County suits safety-conscious retirees and families willing to pay moderate housing costs for exceptional crime prevention and low taxes. Those prioritizing excellent schools or seeking maximum housing affordability should explore alternative Florida markets.

Score breakdown

Tax74.5Cost19.2Safety93.4Health34.7Schools22.6Income56.5Risk4.9Water86Weather34.7
🏛74.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠19.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼56.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡93.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤34.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓22.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡4.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤34.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱19.2
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 County offers below-average taxes

At 0.600%, Escambia County's effective tax rate falls well below the national median of 0.731%, placing it in the bottom 30% of U.S. counties. With median home values of $234,200, residents pay $1,406 annually—about half the national median property tax of $2,690.

Among Florida's cheapest tax counties

Escambia County ranks near the bottom of Florida's tax rates at 0.600%, significantly below the state average of 0.731%. Annual property taxes here average $1,406 compared to the statewide median of $1,885.

Escambia beats most regional competitors

Escambia County's 0.600% rate trails only Citrus County (0.591%) among our eight counties. It undercuts all other peers: Collier (0.661%), Dixie (0.738%), Columbia (0.743%), Clay (0.739%), Duval (0.779%), and DeSoto (0.873%).

What $234,200 home costs annually

On Escambia County's median home value of $234,200, residents pay approximately $1,406 per year in property taxes. With mortgage-related taxes, annual costs rise to around $1,602.

Appeal if your assessment seems high

Many Florida homeowners are overassessed relative to market value, and Escambia County residents can file an appeal with the Property Appraiser's office. The process is typically free and could lower your taxable assessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Escambia County

via CostByCounty

Escambia matches Florida's state average affordability

Escambia County's 22.5% rent-to-income ratio exactly matches Florida's state average, putting the county in the comfort zone well below the national 30% threshold. With median household income of $65,715 and median rent of $1,234, Escambia delivers balanced affordability typical of mid-sized Florida metros.

Escambia tracks exactly with state affordability norms

At 22.5%, Escambia County's rent-to-income ratio perfectly mirrors Florida's state average, making it a benchmark market for typical state housing conditions. The $1,234 median rent matches the state average dollar-for-dollar, confirming Escambia's position as a representative Florida county.

Escambia balances costs reasonably against peers

Escambia's $1,234 rent slightly undercuts Citrus County ($1,069 is lower) and Duval County ($1,385), while sitting well above rural counties like Columbia ($915) and Dixie ($792). Median home value of $234,200 positions Escambia between affordable rural areas and premium coastal markets.

Housing consumes typical share of income

Escambia renters spend 22.5% of their $65,715 income on housing, while homeowners dedicate roughly 19.9% to monthly ownership costs on a $234,200 median home. These figures leave reasonable room for other expenses, though less discretionary income than more affordable rural counties.

Escambia offers typical Florida affordability trade-offs

Consider Escambia if you want representatively priced Florida housing in a mid-sized city—you'll experience what most Floridians face in balancing urban access against housing costs. For better affordability, venture to rural counties; for premium amenities, expect to pay Collier or higher prices.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Escambia County

via IncomeByCounty

Escambia County near national income average

Escambia County's median household income of $65,715 sits about $9,000 below the U.S. median of $74,755—a 12% shortfall. As Florida's westernmost county, Escambia's income reflects a diverse economy anchored by military installation, tourism, and port employment.

Right at Florida's income center

At $65,715, Escambia County tracks almost exactly with Florida's state average of $65,468, placing it squarely in the middle of Florida's income distribution. This median reflects Escambia's role as an economic bridge between rural North Florida and wealthier coastal regions.

Moderate income, above rural comparison

Escambia County's $65,715 income moderately exceeds DeSoto County ($50,868) and Dixie County ($47,655) by $15,000+, yet trails the affluent Clay County ($86,094) and Collier County ($86,173) by roughly $20,000. The county anchors the lower-middle income segment regionally.

Rental market manageable for most residents

Escambia County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.5% falls within acceptable range, with renters spending roughly $1,235 monthly on housing. The median home value of $234,200 is reasonable relative to income, supporting homeownership for middle-income families.

Build long-term security through discipline

Households earning $65,000+ can meaningfully increase retirement savings and investment contributions. Consistent participation in employer plans, a mortgage-building strategy, and steady contributions to diversified accounts create compound wealth over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Escambia County

via CrimeByCounty

Escambia County Reports Elite Safety Levels

Escambia County boasts a near-perfect safety score of 99.9, making it one of the safest reported areas in the nation. Its total crime rate is just 69.4 per 100,000, far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the State of Florida

With a safety score of 99.9, Escambia far exceeds the Florida state average of 98.4. Its reported crime rate is a fraction of the state average of 1,027.9, reflecting a very secure environment.

Setting the Standard for the Region

Escambia County reports significantly lower crime than any other county in this group, including Collier and Dixie. Twelve agencies coordinate to maintain these exceptionally low incident numbers.

Extremely Low Crime Across Categories

The violent crime rate is a mere 9.0 and the property crime rate is 60.4 per 100,000 residents. These figures represent some of the lowest crime statistics in the entire state of Florida.

Maintain Your Peace of Mind

While crime is rare in Escambia, basic security measures like locking doors and being aware of surroundings help sustain this safe culture. Community engagement remains the best defense against new trends.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Escambia County

via HealthByCounty

Escambia slightly below national averages

Escambia County residents live to 72.7 years on average, falling 5.4 years short of the U.S. average of 78.1 years. The county's 18.9% poor/fair health rate exceeds national averages, suggesting persistent health challenges across the Pensacola region.

Northwest Florida county shows health lag

Escambia County's 72.7-year life expectancy trails Florida's state average of 75.8 years by 3.1 years, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. Its 12.4% uninsured rate is notably better than the state average of 14.4%, indicating better insurance coverage despite health outcome challenges.

Competing with regional health patterns

Escambia County's 72.7-year life expectancy places it in the lower cluster of these eight counties, comparable to Citrus (72.5) and Columbia (72.4). With 76 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Escambia has competitive provider access that matches larger metros like Duval.

Good access despite lagging outcomes

Escambia County's 12.4% uninsured rate is among the lowest of these eight counties, yet the county maintains 76 primary care providers and 252 mental health providers per 100,000 residents. This paradox—strong infrastructure coupled with mediocre health outcomes—suggests that social determinants and preventive care gaps, rather than provider availability, drive the health disparities.

Use coverage to prioritize prevention

With strong healthcare infrastructure in place, Escambia County residents who are uninsured are missing the preventive care that translates access into better health. Visit healthcare.gov or call Escambia County's health department during open enrollment to select a plan that includes preventive services and primary care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Escambia County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Schooling in Escambia

Escambia County supports 38,982 students across 71 public schools in a single district. The landscape includes 35 elementary, 10 middle, and 16 high schools. With 9 alternative and 5 special education schools, the district offers a wide safety net for diverse learners.

Steady Academic Progress in West Florida

Escambia County’s graduation rate stands at 88.0%, which is slightly higher than the national average of 87.0%. The district spends $5,597 per pupil and maintains a school score of 49.4, nearly matching the national median. These metrics show a system that remains competitive despite lower per-pupil funding.

District Leadership and Charter Options

The Escambia District manages 70 schools and 37,851 students, acting as the region's main educational anchor. Charter schools make up 9.9% of the landscape, with 7 schools offering alternative curricula. This mix allows for both traditional district stability and specialized charter programs.

Suburban and City Balance

School life is split between 35 suburban and 26 city schools, offering families different lifestyle choices. While the average school size is 565, J. M. Tate Senior High is a major center with 2,110 students. The variety of locales ensures a school environment that fits both urban and suburban preferences.

Find a Home in an Active School District

Escambia County's diverse school locations make it a flexible choice for homebuyers. Whether you want to be near the suburban J.M. Tate or a city school in Pensacola, options are plentiful. Explore local real estate to find a home that matches your family's educational needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Escambia County

via RiskByCounty

Escambia among America's highest risks

Escambia County's composite risk score of 95.10 earns a "Relatively High" rating and ranks it in the top tier of hazard-exposed U.S. counties. The Gulf Coast location drives extreme hurricane (98.83) and flood (88.68) risks, while wildfire (82.63) and earthquake (68.64) threats round out a formidable disaster profile.

Among Florida's most vulnerable counties

At 95.10, Escambia County substantially exceeds Florida's state average of 75.74 and ranks among the state's top three or four highest-risk jurisdictions. The Panhandle Gulf position directly exposes the county to Atlantic hurricane tracks and tropical storm systems, amplifying seasonal hazards.

Comparable to other Gulf extremes

Escambia County (95.10) closely mirrors Citrus County (94.69) to the south and remains just below Collier County (98.92), making it one of Florida's most consistently hazardous Gulf Coast jurisdictions. Its shared exposure to open Gulf conditions creates aligned vulnerability across these western and southwestern counties.

Hurricanes and floods threaten Pensacola

Hurricane risk reaches 98.83—among the highest in the nation—while flood risk of 88.68 reflects storm surge, heavy rainfall, and tidal influences in this Pensacola-area county. Wildfire risk at 82.63 affects inland forests and developed areas during dry seasons, creating a year-round hazard cycle.

Hurricane and flood insurance essential

Given the 98.83 hurricane score, comprehensive homeowners insurance explicitly covering wind, hail, and impact damage is mandatory for Escambia residents. Separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is critical, and property owners should prioritize wind mitigation—reinforced roofing, impact-resistant windows, storm shutters—to reduce losses and insurance premiums.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Escambia County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Very Wet

Escambia County averages 68.5°F annually, placing it well into the subtropical category. It is most notable for its high rainfall, which far exceeds national precipitation medians.

Florida's Cooler Northwest

At 68.5°F, Escambia is cooler than the 71.1°F Florida average. It experiences some of the lowest annual temperatures in the state due to its Panhandle location.

The State's Rain Leader

Escambia receives 63.0 inches of rain annually, which is nearly 9 inches more than the Florida average. It is significantly wetter than nearby Duval County's 50.8 inches.

Moderate Heat, Heavy Rain

The county experiences only 62 extreme heat days, much fewer than the 119 seen in Collier. However, January is relatively cool for Florida, averaging 52.4°F.

Focus on Water Management

With 63 inches of annual rain, robust gutter systems and proper home drainage are vital. Prepare for the 62 heat days with breathable fabrics and consistent hydration.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Escambia County

via SoilByCounty

The Panhandle's Unique Soil Identity

Escambia County features a soil pH of 4.96, which is slightly less acidic than the state average of 4.88. While it is closer to the national median of 6.5 than many other Florida counties, it remains firmly in the acidic category. Detailed taxonomic data is unavailable, but the profile is distinct for the far western Panhandle.

Highest Silt and Clay in the Group

At 75.7% sand, 11.6% silt, and 8.2% clay, Escambia has the most balanced soil texture among these counties. This higher silt and clay content provides much better nutrient holding capacity and structural stability than typical Florida sands. It creates a 'heavier' soil that retains moisture and fertilizers more effectively.

Lower Organic Matter, High Water Storage

Organic matter is relatively low at 3.25%, falling well below the Florida average of 8.03%. However, the available water capacity is high at 0.119 in/in, which is better than the state average of 0.108 in/in. The silt and clay help make up for the lower organic matter by holding water in the root zone.

Balanced Drainage for Panhandle Farming

Specific drainage classes are not provided, but the higher clay and silt content suggests a slower drainage rate than Florida's peninsula sands. This can be an advantage during dry spells as it keeps the soil from becoming parched. For gardening and building, it means a more stable soil that requires less frequent watering.

Diverse Planting in Zone 9a

In Zone 9a, Escambia County is perfect for traditional Southern favorites like collard greens, pecans, and satsuma oranges. The unique silt and clay mix makes it one of the better counties for growing vegetables that need consistent moisture. Dive into gardening here, as your soil's ability to hold water gives you a significant head start.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Escambia County

via LawnByCounty

Escambia matches the state difficulty

Escambia County’s lawn difficulty score of 19.2 perfectly matches the Florida state average. While Zone 9a gardening is challenging compared to the national median of 50.0, the local rainfall provides a unique advantage.

High rainfall and moderate heat

The county receives a massive 63.0 inches of annual rain, far more than the state average of 54.7. Combined with only 62 extreme heat days—the lowest in this group—grass here enjoys a more temperate environment.

Heavier clay helps retain moisture

At 8.2%, Escambia has the highest clay content of these counties, which helps the 75.7% sand hold onto water longer. The pH of 4.96 is still acidic, so regular testing and lime applications are still necessary for peak performance.

Mildest drought conditions in the region

Unlike its neighbors, only 6.9% of Escambia is in severe drought, making it much easier to maintain turf right now. However, 100% of the area is abnormally dry, so keep a close eye on soil moisture during peak summer months.

Utilize the high-moisture climate

Centipede or Zoysia grass are excellent choices that benefit from the heavy local rainfall. Plan to start your lawn after the February 28th frost date to take advantage of the wet and warming spring weather.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Escambia County's county score?
Escambia County, Florida has a composite county score of 48.9 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 Escambia County rank among counties in Florida?
Escambia County ranks #24 among all counties in Florida 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, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Escambia County is $1,406, with an effective tax rate of 0.60%. This earns Escambia County a tax score of 74.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Escambia County?
The median household income in Escambia County, Florida is $65,715 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Escambia County earns an income score of 56.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Escambia County, Florida a good place to live?
Escambia County scores 48.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #24 in Florida. 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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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.