countyscore
55.9
County Score
Safety 97.5Cost of Living 73.6Water Quality 67.1

County Report Card

About Franklin County, Illinois

Well Above the National Median

Franklin County earns a strong composite score of 55.9, significantly outpacing the national median of 50.0. This places the county in a high percentile for general livability nationwide.

Stronger Performance Than State Peers

At 55.9, Franklin County is more than three points ahead of the 52.8 Illinois average. It stands out as a regional leader in balancing costs and public safety.

Superior Safety and Housing Value

Safety is nearly perfect here with a score of 97.5, complemented by a cost score of 73.6. Median home values are exceptionally accessible at $87,700.

Income and Natural Risk Concerns

The income score is a low 21.6, with median household earnings sitting at $53,471. The county also faces a risk score of 19.1, suggesting higher vulnerability to environmental hazards.

Perfect for Secure, Low-Cost Living

Franklin County is an excellent fit for those seeking a safe, small-town atmosphere with very low housing costs. It appeals most to those who can trade higher income for peace of mind.

Score breakdown

Tax12.8Cost73.6Safety97.5Health41.1Schools53.4Income21.6Risk19.1Water67.1Weather58.1
🏛12.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼21.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤41.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡19.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱61.5
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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49.9
Jefferson County
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51.7
Perry County
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59.8
Hamilton County
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Jackson County
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Washington County
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Deep Dives

Franklin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Franklin County

via TaxByCounty

Franklin County offers exceptional value

Franklin County's 1.501% effective tax rate ranks in the bottom 30% of U.S. counties, falling well below the national median of 1.562%. With the lowest median home value in this survey at $87,700, residents pay just $1,316 annually—less than half the national median tax.

Illinois's most tax-friendly county

At 1.501%, Franklin County has Illinois's lowest effective tax rate among these eight counties, beating the state average of 1.831% by 0.330 percentage points. The median tax of $1,316 is less than half the state median of $2,782, making Franklin a standout for affordability.

Clear winner in south-central region

Franklin County's 1.501% rate is the lowest in the region, edging Gallatin (1.506%), Fayette (1.517%), and Effingham (1.509%). Compared to Ford (2.069%) and Fulton (2.133%), Franklin costs roughly 27–42% less to own property, making it the region's most attractive for budget-conscious buyers.

What your home costs to own

Franklin County's median home value is $87,700, and residents pay just $1,316 annually in property tax—the lowest median bill among these counties. Homeowners with mortgages pay $1,599, while those without mortgages pay $1,143, offering genuine affordability for working families.

Even lower-taxed homes can appeal

Even though Franklin County boasts the region's lowest tax rate, overassessment still occurs when home values are set too high. If your assessment doesn't match recent comparable sales, requesting a reassessment is free and could reduce your already-low bill further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Franklin County

via CostByCounty

Franklin County faces affordability crunch

Renters in Franklin County dedicate 17.3% of their median income to housing—the highest ratio among all counties in this comparison and well above the national comfort threshold. The median income of $53,471 falls $21,000 below the national average, while $771 monthly rents consume an outsized share of limited wages.

Among Illinois's least affordable counties

Franklin County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Illinois's state average of 14.7%, placing it among the state's housing-stressed communities. The gap reflects structural income challenges common in southern Illinois coal-country economies.

Most stretched budget in the region

Franklin County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio tops all neighbors—exceeding Fayette (15.6%), Fulton (16.5%), and Ford (16.5%), while rents ($771) fall mid-range. The combination of low incomes and mid-level rents creates the region's most constrained household budgets.

Housing dominates household budgets

Franklin County residents earn just $53,471 annually but allocate $771 monthly toward rent (17.3% of income) or $652 for mortgages, leaving minimal room for savings or emergencies. The median home value of $87,700 is lowest in the comparison, reflecting depressed property values tied to economic conditions.

Franklin best for remote workers or pensioners

Franklin County's lowest home values ($87,700) and modest rents make it attractive only if you bring stable income from outside—remote work, retirement, or relocation with an existing job. Compare with Gallatin County (similarly low rent) or Effingham (stronger wage prospects) before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Franklin County

via IncomeByCounty

Franklin struggles against national median

Franklin County's median household income of $53,471 trails the national median of $74,755 by $21,284, ranking it in the 20th percentile nationally. This significant gap reflects the deeper economic challenges facing southern Illinois coal and agricultural communities.

Lowest-income county in this group

Franklin County's household income of $53,471 ranks among the lowest in Illinois, falling $15,109 below the state average of $68,580. Per capita income of $29,659 is the lowest in this analysis, reflecting limited wage-earning opportunities.

Most challenged in the region

Franklin County households earn $53,471, the lowest among these eight counties and nearly $22,000 below Effingham County. Even compared to struggling peers like Fayette and Ford counties, Franklin faces steeper economic headwinds, likely driven by legacy coal industry decline.

Housing costs severely strain budgets

Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% is the highest in this group, meaning housing costs consume an outsized share of already-limited income. While median home values ($87,700) are among the lowest, affordability remains a acute concern for renters and lower-wage households.

Explore local economic development opportunities

Franklin County residents may benefit most from focusing on skills-based training, entrepreneurship, or relocating to higher-wage employment centers. Even before investing, consider consulting a nonprofit credit counselor to optimize debt management and build financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Franklin County

via CrimeByCounty

A perfect safety score for Franklin

Franklin County reports a perfect safety score of 100.0. This indicates exceptionally low reported crime compared to the national average of 2,385.5 per 100K.

Exceeding Illinois state safety averages

The county's perfect 100.0 score surpasses the Illinois state average of 98.7. Ten different agencies report data, showcasing a high level of transparency and safety.

Regional leader in low crime figures

Franklin reports lower crime activity than neighbors like Fayette (847.9) and Hamilton (75.0). It stands out as a particularly quiet region for law enforcement.

Minimal reported violent and property crime

The data shows a 0.0 rate for both violent and property crimes during this period. This represents a remarkably low-risk profile for residents across the county.

Preserving a peaceful home environment

Even with minimal reported crime, home security hardware provides an extra layer of deterrence. Maintaining visible security measures helps preserve this county's high safety rating.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Franklin County

via HealthByCounty

Significant life expectancy shortfall

Franklin County residents live to just 72.5 years, falling 3.9 years behind the U.S. average of 76.4 years. With 20.8% reporting poor or fair health—among the highest in Illinois—the county faces urgent health challenges.

State's lowest life expectancy

At 72.5 years, Franklin County's life expectancy trails Illinois's state average by 3.5 years, ranking among the state's worst. The 7.7% uninsured rate exceeds the state average, limiting access to preventive and chronic care.

Significant gap from peer counties

Franklin County's 72.5-year life expectancy falls well below neighboring Gallatin County (72.6), Fulton County (74.9), and Fayette County (77.0). The disparity suggests systemic health and socioeconomic barriers requiring targeted intervention.

Sparse primary care, high uninsured rate

Just 35 primary care providers serve every 100K Franklin County residents, limiting routine care access, while 7.7% lack insurance—above state average. However, 735 mental health providers per 100K indicate substantial psychiatric capacity for a county of its size.

Coverage is the first step

Franklin County residents face the state's steepest health challenges; securing insurance opens doors to preventive care, medications, and early treatment. Reach out to Healthcare.gov, Medicaid, or a local community health center to begin.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Franklin County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Education Network Across Nine Districts

Franklin County supports a large network of 24 public schools serving 5,658 students. The system includes 10 elementary, six middle, and seven high schools, plus an alternative learning center. Nine districts collaborate to manage this widespread infrastructure across the region.

Above-Average Funding Supporting Student Growth

The county invests $10,386 per student annually, exceeding the Illinois state average by more than $1,100. While the 83.2% graduation rate trails national benchmarks, the county maintains a solid school score of 57.3. This significant financial investment is aimed at closing achievement gaps and enhancing campus facilities.

Frankfort and Benton Districts Drive Enrollment

Frankfort CUSD 168 is the county's largest district, serving 1,540 students across four schools. Benton CCSD 47 follows closely, managing 1,075 students in three campuses focused on primary and middle education. No charter schools operate in the county, leaving education entirely in the hands of traditional local districts.

Rural and Town Learning Environments

The county features a diverse locale mix with 13 rural schools and 11 schools situated in town centers. With an average enrollment of 298 students, schools like Benton Grade K-4 (617 students) offer larger peer groups, while others remain very small. This variety provides families with choices between community hubs and quieter, rural campuses.

Find Your Place in Franklin's Growing Districts

Families can find great value in Franklin County, where per-pupil spending is prioritized in the local budget. Homes near the Benton or West Frankfort districts offer proximity to the county's largest and most established schools. Consider the local school culture as you explore the diverse residential options available here.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Franklin County

via RiskByCounty

Franklin County faces above-average risks

Franklin County's composite score of 80.95 places it well above the national average, though it still carries a "Relatively Low" rating. The county ranks among America's more hazard-exposed areas, particularly for earthquake and tornado events.

Highest risk in this Illinois sample

Franklin County's 80.95 score exceeds Illinois's state average of 54.46 by nearly 27 points, making it the most hazard-prone county in this analysis. This significant gap reflects Franklin's notably elevated exposure to multiple disaster types.

Riskiest county in the region

Franklin County's 80.95 substantially exceeds regional peers like Effingham (53.75), Fayette (48.76), and even Grundy County (66.51). Only Franklin faces this level of compound natural disaster risk across southern Illinois.

Earthquake and tornado risks are severe

Franklin County's earthquake risk (95.42) and tornado risk (79.33) are its most pressing concerns—both among the highest in Illinois. Flood risk (65.68) adds a third significant hazard that residents must actively prepare for.

Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable

Franklin County residents must prioritize earthquake insurance (95.42 score) and verify robust tornado/wind coverage in their homeowners policies. Consider flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program if you're in a moderate-to-high risk zone, as standard policies exclude flood damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Franklin County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Southern Illinois Influences

Franklin County averages 56.1°F annually, making it notably warmer than the national median. This reflects a humid subtropical influence common in the southern tip of the state.

One of the State's Warmest Spots

The county's annual average of 56.1°F is over three degrees higher than the state average of 52.8°F. It consistently ranks as one of the warmest counties in Illinois.

High Precipitation in the South

At 45.8 inches of annual precipitation, Franklin is much wetter than central and northern Illinois. It shares this high-moisture profile with its neighbors in the coal belt region.

Hot Summers and Light Snow

Residents experience 39 extreme heat days reaching 90°F or higher each year. Conversely, snow is rare compared to the rest of the state, averaging only 9.8 inches annually.

Plan for High Energy Cooling

Air conditioning systems face heavy demand during the nearly 40 days of extreme heat. Light winter gear is usually sufficient, as average winter temperatures rarely drop far below freezing.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Franklin County

via SoilByCounty

Lower pH Levels in Franklin

Franklin County's soil is more acidic than its neighbors, with a pH of 6.09 compared to the national median of 6.5. This acidity level is also notably lower than the Illinois state average of 6.39.

Fine-Textured Silt and Clay Mix

The soil is dominated by 69.4% silt, with a 22.2% clay component and very little sand at 8.4%. This fine-textured mix feels floury when dry and can become slippery when wet during the spring thaw.

Reliable Water Storage Despite Lower OM

Organic matter measures 1.68%, falling below both the national 2.0% average and the state 2.94% average. Despite lower organic levels, the available water capacity of 0.209 in/in remains slightly above the state benchmark of 0.204.

Strategies for Slow-Draining Soil

While local drainage class records are sparse, the high silt and clay levels often lead to slow natural drainage. Strategic garden placement is important to avoid waterlogged roots in this dense soil profile.

Warm Seasons in Zone 7a

As part of the warmer Zone 7a, Franklin County offers a longer growing season for heat-loving plants. Focus on soil amendments to boost organic matter and support a thriving vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Franklin County

via LawnByCounty

Southern Heat Challenges Franklin Lawns

Franklin County’s lawn difficulty score of 61.5 is lower than the Illinois average of 69.8, signaling a tougher environment for grass. Positioned in the warmer Hardiness Zone 7a, this county requires more attention to heat and water management than northern peers. However, it still remains significantly easier to manage than the national average score of 50.0.

High Heat and High Rain

Lawns here face 39 extreme heat days per year, well above the state average of 27. While 45.8 inches of annual rain helps mitigate the heat, the 4,192 growing degree days mean grass grows rapidly and requires frequent mowing. Be prepared for a high-intensity maintenance schedule during the peak of summer.

Acidic Soils with Low Sand

The soil pH of 6.09 is on the lower end of the ideal range, meaning some lawns might eventually benefit from light lime applications. With only 8.4% sand and 22.2% clay, the soil is prone to holding water but can become very hard when dry. Improving aeration will be key to maintaining a healthy root system in this texture.

Intense Drought in the Deep South

Nearly 95.8% of Franklin County is currently in a severe drought, despite having only 21 drought weeks over the past year. This sudden intensity can be hard on cool-season grasses that aren't used to such prolonged dry heat. Irrigation is essential during these periods to prevent permanent turf loss.

A Long Season for Warm-Season Turf

With the last frost ending early on April 4 and the first fall frost held off until October 28, you have a very long growing window. Consider heat-tolerant varieties like Tall Fescue or even Zoysiagrass, which thrive in Zone 7a. Early April is a prime time to begin your spring lawn preparations.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Franklin County's county score?
Franklin County, Illinois has a composite county score of 55.9 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 Franklin County rank among counties in Illinois?
Franklin County ranks #39 among all counties in Illinois 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 Franklin County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Franklin County is $1,316, with an effective tax rate of 1.50%. This earns Franklin County a tax score of 12.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Franklin County?
The median household income in Franklin County, Illinois is $53,471 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Franklin County earns an income score of 21.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Franklin County, Illinois a good place to live?
Franklin County scores 55.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #39 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Franklin 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 Franklin 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.