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Florence County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#34 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
39.5
County Score
Property Tax 91.5Water Quality 86Cost of Living 47.9

County Report Card

About Florence County, South Carolina

Florence Faces Uphill National Climb

Florence County registers a composite score of 39.5, well below the national median of 50.0. This score highlights broad challenges in safety and environmental risk.

Trailing the State Average

The county's 39.5 score falls below the South Carolina average of 42.8. It lags behind peers due to vulnerabilities that offset its tax-friendly policies.

Tax Efficiency and Water Reliability

Florence is a tax leader with a score of 91.5 and an effective tax rate of 0.438%. Additionally, its water score of 86.0 demonstrates a commitment to high-quality local infrastructure.

Addressing Safety and Natural Risks

Safety is the county's most significant hurdle, reflected in a score of just 2.4. Environmental vulnerabilities also weigh on the profile, resulting in a low risk score of 10.4.

Best for Budget-Conscious Households

Florence serves residents who prioritize low tax bills and reliable utilities above all else. It is a functional choice for those willing to navigate safety concerns in exchange for fiscal benefits.

Score breakdown

Tax91.5Cost47.9Safety2.4Health34.1Schools31.8Income29.3Risk10.4Water86Weather45.1
🏛91.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠47.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼29.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡2.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤34.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡10.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨19.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30.3
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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Nearby counties

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Marion County
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Darlington County
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Dillon County
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Deep Dives

Florence County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Florence County

via TaxByCounty

Florence among nation's most affordable

Florence's 0.438% effective property tax rate ranks in the bottom 5% nationally, significantly below the U.S. median of 0.87%. The median annual tax of $724 is less than 27% of the national median of $2,690, making Florence one of the cheapest-taxed counties in America.

South Carolina's second-lightest burden

At 0.438%, Florence's effective rate is the second-lowest in South Carolina, edged only by Georgetown County's 0.426%. The median property tax of $724 trails the state average of $939 by 23%, reflecting among the state's most favorable tax climates.

Florence leads on tax affordability

Florence's 0.438% rate is the second-lowest in the eight-county region, surpassed only by Georgetown's 0.426%, yet paired with a reasonable median home value of $165,500. This combination delivers the region's most favorable tax proposition outside Georgetown itself.

Lowest rate, balanced home values

A typical Florence County home valued at $165,500 generates an estimated annual property tax of $724. With a mortgage, homeowners report paying $898; without, the figure drops to $527.

Still worth reviewing your assessment

Even with Florence's already-low effective rate, assessment errors occur—especially on properties where sales data is limited. A free appeal could confirm fair value or reveal modest overvaluation, putting extra dollars back in your pocket.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Florence County

via CostByCounty

Florence strikes near-perfect affordability balance

Renters in Florence spend 19.2% of their income on housing—just below South Carolina's 20.1% state average and comfortably aligned with national affordability standards. With a median household income of $56,650 and rents of $908 monthly, the county delivers genuine middle-ground accessibility.

Florence ranks solidly within state norms

Florence's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below South Carolina's 20.1% baseline, placing it among the state's more affordable mid-sized counties. Median rents of $908 run just below the state average of $945, reflecting balanced local economics.

Moderate costs anchor the Pee Dee region

Florence's $908 rent falls between Dillon ($692) and Greenwood ($880), positioning it as the regional middle ground. Compared to coastal peers like Georgetown ($1,166), Florence offers substantial savings while maintaining comparable incomes.

Renters and owners share similar burden

Renters spend 19.2% of income on housing, while homeowners pay $796 monthly—roughly 16.8% of the median household income of $56,650. Both paths remain affordable, with a median home value of $165,500 supporting mixed-tenure accessibility.

Florence works for budget-conscious relocators

If you're comparing South Carolina counties for steady, predictable housing costs, Florence's 19.2% rent-to-income ratio and $165,500 median home value deserve consideration. You'll find balanced affordability alongside a stable regional economy.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Florence County

via IncomeByCounty

Florence earns below the national median

Florence County's median household income of $56,650 trails the national median of $74,755 by 24%, reflecting middle-to-lower economic standing relative to America. Per capita income of $31,803 falls just below national norms, indicating moderate earnings distribution. Florence represents a typical working-class community with room for economic growth.

Slightly below South Carolina average

Florence's median household income of $56,650 falls just shy of South Carolina's state average of $57,006, ranking it near the middle of the state's 46 counties. Per capita income of $31,803 lags the state average of $32,382 by 2%, suggesting relatively balanced income distribution. Florence occupies a stable, average position within South Carolina's economic landscape.

Similar earnings to Pee Dee region peers

Florence's $56,650 median income aligns closely with Darlington County and exceeds Dillon County's $44,038 by 28%. Marion County to the east earns comparably, while Sumter County to the west records slightly higher incomes. Florence anchors the middle tier of Pee Dee region prosperity.

Moderate housing cost burden

Florence's rent-to-income ratio of 19.2% indicates housing consumes just under one-fifth of household income—a reasonable but notable burden. Median home values of $165,500 are achievable for moderate-income families, particularly those building equity over decades. Florence offers balanced housing affordability relative to its income profile.

Steady earnings support gradual wealth growth

Florence households should emphasize consistent saving from stable employment, targeting homeownership as a primary wealth-building vehicle. Refinancing opportunities and down payment assistance programs can help residents access affordable mortgages. Local credit unions and community banks offer personalized guidance suited to Florence's working-class economy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Florence County

via CrimeByCounty

Elevated Crime in Florence County

Florence reports a total crime rate of 4,467.4 per 100K, which is nearly double the national average of 2,385.5. This high volume results in a safety score of 92.9.

Below the State Safety Average

Florence's safety score of 92.9 is lower than the South Carolina average of 95.4. The county faces more frequent public safety incidents than many other parts of the state.

High Activity Compared to Neighbors

With a total crime rate of 4,467.4, Florence experiences more crime per capita than nearby Georgetown County. It remains one of the busier jurisdictions in the Pee Dee region.

High Property Crime Incidence

Property crime is the primary concern at 3,568.2 per 100K, while violent crime reaches 899.2. These rates indicate that theft and burglary occur more frequently here than in the average U.S. county.

Safeguarding Florence Households

High property crime rates suggest that securing valuables and installing alarm systems are wise precautions. Regular neighborhood watch participation can also help reduce incident rates across the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Florence County

via HealthByCounty

Florence's health outlook moderately challenged

Florence residents live an average of 70.8 years, approximately 5.3 years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. With 18.9% reporting poor or fair health, the county performs slightly better than the national median of 18%, suggesting mixed health trends. This moderate profile masks pockets of significant health vulnerability.

Florence ranks near South Carolina median

At 70.8 years, Florence's life expectancy falls below South Carolina's state average of 72.5 years by 1.7 years but outperforms the worst-performing counties. The county's poor/fair health rate of 18.9% sits near state norms, suggesting Florence represents the state's typical health profile. However, the county offers more robust provider access than many peers.

Florence excels in provider availability

Florence's 99 primary care providers per 100K far exceeds neighboring Dillon County (39 per 100K) and most South Carolina counties. Mental health providers number 301 per 100K—the highest in this cohort—offering strong behavioral health support. This provider density gives Florence residents better access to both preventive and mental health care than most rural counties.

Strong provider access supports outcomes

Florence's uninsured rate of 10.5% sits slightly below the state average of 11.6%, with most residents carrying coverage. The county's exceptional provider network—99 primary care providers and 301 mental health providers per 100K—means residents can access care when needed. This combination of insurance and availability positions Florence well for managing chronic conditions.

Use Florence's strong provider network

Florence's 301 mental health providers per 100K offer outstanding behavioral health access; uninsured residents should check healthcare.gov for plans. With 99 primary care providers available, securing insurance connects you to preventive care and routine checkups. Florence's health infrastructure is strong—make sure you're covered to access it.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Florence County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Educational Landscape

Florence County operates 38 public schools serving a large population of 21,623 students across four districts. The system is well-balanced with 21 elementary schools, six middle schools, and eight high schools. This provides a wide range of educational environments from urban centers to quiet countryside.

Educational Challenges and Opportunities

The graduation rate currently stands at 83.1%, slightly trailing the South Carolina average of 84.2%. However, the county invests $7,285 per pupil, which is higher than the state average and demonstrates a commitment to improving student outcomes. The overall school score of 50.5 remains competitive with the state median.

Florence 01 Drives Regional Growth

Florence 01 is the largest district by far, managing 24 schools and 15,723 students. Two charter schools operate within the county, offering specialized alternatives to the traditional district model. Other districts like Florence 03 and 05 serve the outlying communities with smaller student bodies.

Urban Energy Meets Rural Quiet

The county features 17 rural schools and 13 city schools, reflecting a unique mix of environments for its 584-student average school size. West Florence High is a major regional institution with 1,807 students, offering extensive extracurricular and academic programs. Families can choose between the bustle of city campuses or the stability of rural elementary schools.

Find Your Home in the Heart of Florence

Florence County offers diverse housing options, from historic city homes near Wilson High to quiet suburban lots. Proximity to the county’s major high schools is a key factor for many local homebuyers. Start your search today to discover how Florence's educational variety can suit your family’s needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Florence County

via RiskByCounty

Florence faces very high disaster risk

Florence County scores 89.57 on the composite risk scale, placing it significantly above both the national average and South Carolina's state average of 70.75. This relatively moderate rating masks exceptionally high exposure across multiple hazard categories.

Florence ranks among the state's riskiest

With a composite score of 89.57, Florence ranks near the very top of South Carolina's natural disaster risk profile, with only a handful of coastal and urban counties exceeding its exposure. The Pee Dee region's geography creates compound vulnerability to multiple simultaneous hazards.

Florence's risks dwarf nearby county averages

Florence's 89.57 score substantially exceeds Greenwood County (72.74) and edges out neighboring Dillon County (84.32). Only the most hazard-exposed coastal counties like Greenville (93.96) and Georgetown (92.49) match or exceed Florence's comprehensive risk profile.

Tornadoes and flooding are critical threats

Tornado risk peaks at 94.59 in Florence County—among the highest in South Carolina—while flood risk reaches 82.57 due to the county's low-lying terrain and river systems. Wildfire risk (86.45) and hurricane exposure (96.00) round out a severe four-hazard combination.

Multiple insurance layers are essential

Florence residents must secure flood insurance and windstorm coverage immediately, as standard homeowners policies cover neither. With tornado, flood, and hurricane risks all exceeding 82, comprehensive protection through separate policies is not a luxury—it's financial survival.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Florence County

via WeatherByCounty

Strongly warmer than national norms

Florence County's 64.5°F average temperature is well above the national median, placing it in the warmer tier of U.S. counties. This ensures long growing seasons and very mild winters.

A warm spot in South Carolina

Florence exceeds the state average annual temperature of 62.8°F by 1.7 degrees. Its 48.2 inches of rain aligns almost perfectly with the South Carolina average of 48.9 inches.

Warmer than its inland neighbors

Compared to counties further west, Florence maintains a higher average temperature of 64.5°F. It receives steady rainfall that supports its position as a regional agricultural hub.

Sweltering Julys and mild winters

Summer dominates the calendar with 71 days over 90°F and a July average of 82.0°F. Winter is very temperate at 48.2°F, producing only 0.4 inches of snow per year.

Budget for peak summer cooling

Expect high utility bills during the 71 extreme heat days when July temps average 82.0°F. Winter clothing needs are minimal, as January rarely stays cold with a 46.3°F average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Florence County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Sandy Ultisols

Florence County features Ultisols with an average pH of 5.18, slightly below the state average. These weathered soils are typical of the region and require management to keep productivity high.

Dominated by Gritty Sand

The soil is 79.0% sand, the highest in this group, with only 8.2% clay. This creates a sand texture that is highly permeable, allowing water to pass through with very little resistance.

Above Average Water Storage

Available water capacity is 0.118 in/in, which is surprisingly better than the state average despite the high sand content. Organic matter sits at 1.98%, which is very close to the national average of 2.0%.

Well-Drained Agricultural Lands

Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group B, these soils are easy to manage for large-scale farming. They offer moderate infiltration rates that prevent waterlogging after heavy South Carolina rains.

Watermelons and More in 8b

The sandy texture in zone 8b is perfect for crops like watermelons and peanuts that prefer loose soil. Start a garden here knowing your soil has decent water capacity, but keep the mulch heavy to retain moisture.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Florence County

via LawnByCounty

Managing High-Maintenance Turf in Florence

Florence County scores a 30.3 for lawn difficulty, indicating a tougher-than-average environment compared to the state's 35.1. Situated in Hardiness Zone 8b, the county faces high temperatures and fast-draining soils. Homeowners here must be proactive to maintain a lush, green landscape.

Long, Hot Summers Drive Turf Growth

The county sees 71 extreme heat days, which is higher than the state average and stresses traditional lawns. Precipitation is strong at 48.2 inches annually, but the 5839 growing degree days mean grass grows fast and requires frequent mowing. Irrigation needs are constant when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.

Thriving in Well-Drained Sandy Soils

Florence features sandy soil (79.0%) that is officially classified as well-drained, preventing root rot but requiring more water. The pH of 5.18 is quite acidic, so regular soil testing and liming are necessary for nutrient uptake. With only 8.2% clay, the soil lacks the natural ability to hold onto fertilizers.

Recent Relief from Severe Drought Stress

While 100% of the county is abnormally dry, only 8.7% currently experiences severe drought, a major improvement over neighboring counties. Still, Florence has weathered 25 weeks of drought in the past year. Use rain barrels to capture some of those 48.2 inches of annual rain for use during the hottest weeks.

Choosing the Right Grass for Florence

Centipede grass is a popular choice here due to its tolerance for the acidic, sandy conditions found throughout the county. The growing window opens after March 20 and stays active until the first frost on November 13. Focus on soil amendments now to boost your lawn's health before the heat of July arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Florence County's county score?
Florence County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 39.5 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 Florence County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Florence County ranks #34 among all counties in South Carolina 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 Florence County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Florence County is $724, with an effective tax rate of 0.44%. This earns Florence County a tax score of 91.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Florence County?
The median household income in Florence County, South Carolina is $56,650 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Florence County earns an income score of 29.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Florence County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Florence County scores 39.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #34 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Florence 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 Florence 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.