countyscore
42.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 71.4Soil Quality 66Lawn Care 60.4

County Report Card

About Franklin County, Missouri

Navigating National Averages

Franklin County holds a composite score of 42.5, placing it below the national median of 50.0. Despite this, it remains a key player in the St. Louis metropolitan fringe.

Pursuing State Parity

With a score of 42.5, Franklin County ranks lower than the Missouri average of 50.3. This gap is largely due to higher costs and environmental risk factors compared to more rural peers.

Strong Incomes and Health

The county features a robust income score of 71.4, with a median household income of $71,973. It also maintains a respectable health score of 52.8, outpacing many nearby counties.

High Costs and Environmental Risk

A low risk score of 16.5 indicates high vulnerability to hazards, while a cost score of 36.6 reflects higher housing prices. Median home values of $214,900 are significantly higher than the state average.

Suited for Suburban Professionals

Franklin County is ideal for high-earning families who want to live near a metro hub. It appeals to those who value health services and high incomes over low property taxes and rural isolation.

2040608010050.936.632.852.840.671.416.538.654.3Tax50.9Cost36.6Safety32.8Health52.8Schools40.6Income71.4Risk16.5Water38.6Weather54.342.5/100
This county
National avg
1 above average5 below average

Franklin County DNA

Foverall

How Franklin County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Franklin County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Disaster Risk (16.5/100), though Income (71.4/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
50.9
Cost
36.6-11.399999999999999
Safety
32.8-22.200000000000003
Health
52.8
Schools
40.6-13.399999999999999
Income
71.4+20.400000000000006
Risk
16.5-30.5
Water
38.6-19.4
Weather
54.3
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$214,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$874/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$214,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$34,960/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $71,973/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

15.2

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Warren County
Missouri
43.2
Gasconade County
Missouri
59.2
Jefferson County
Missouri
40.4
Washington County
Missouri
51.4
St. Charles County
Missouri
48.2
St. Louis County
Missouri
36.6
Montgomery County
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53.4
Lincoln County
Missouri
45

Deep Dives

Franklin County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Franklin County

via TaxByCounty

Franklin County taxes notably above national average

At 0.826%, Franklin County's effective property tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.87% by a small margin, placing it around the 55th percentile nationally—roughly average for the country. The median annual property tax of $1,774 remains well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting Franklin's moderate home values.

Franklin ranks among Missouri's higher-tax counties

Franklin County's 0.826% effective rate is 13% above Missouri's state average of 0.733%, making it one of the state's higher-tax counties. The median property tax of $1,774 is 48% above the state median of $1,199, translating to a substantially higher burden for Franklin County homeowners.

Higher taxes than most surrounding counties

Franklin County's 0.826% rate exceeds nearly all regional peers, including Gasconade County (0.733%), Dent County (0.563%), and Douglas County (0.409%). Only Gentry County (1.031%) and Grundy County (1.022%) carry higher tax rates in the immediate region, making Franklin the upper-middle burden area.

Your annual tax bill in Franklin County

On a median home valued at $214,900, Franklin County homeowners owe approximately $1,774 per year in property taxes. With mortgage interest deductions, the cost rises to $1,860 annually; without them, it drops to $1,596—a substantial bill that exceeds most neighboring counties.

Assessment appeal could cut your bill significantly

With Franklin County's relatively high tax burden, homeowners should especially consider verifying their property assessment for accuracy. Many homes are overvalued by assessors; a successful appeal could shave hundreds of dollars off your annual tax bill—the county assessor's office can guide you through the process.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Franklin County

via CostByCounty

Franklin Balances Higher Income with Higher Costs

Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% sits below the national benchmark, reflecting stronger local incomes ($71,973) that absorb higher housing costs ($874 rent, $1,055 ownership). Though rents and mortgages run above national norms, Franklin households have the earnings to support them.

Franklin Ranks Above Average in State Affordability

At 14.6%, Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio beats Missouri's state average of 15.6%, positioning it as one of the state's more affordable counties despite higher absolute housing costs. The county's median income of $71,973 is the highest in this group, enabling families to absorb $874 rent with relative ease.

Franklin Commands Premium for Regional Leadership

Franklin's median rent ($874) and ownership costs ($1,055) far exceed neighboring Gasconade ($671 rent, $695 ownership) and Dent ($615 rent, $646 ownership). Yet Franklin's median household income of $71,973 allows residents to maintain a better affordability ratio than lower-income neighbors.

Income Strength Makes Costs Manageable Here

Franklin renters dedicate 14.6% of their $71,973 annual income to $874 monthly rent, while homeowners spend 17.5% on ownership costs ($1,055/month). Both percentages remain below the 30% affordability threshold, giving Franklin residents genuine financial breathing room.

Franklin: Premium Housing, Premium Incomes Required

Franklin County suits relocating professionals and established families seeking suburban growth and quality housing: median home values reach $214,900, the highest in this group. If your salary approaches Franklin's $71,973 median or higher, this county's robust affordability supports a comfortable lifestyle.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Franklin County

via IncomeByCounty

Franklin nears national income levels

Franklin County's median household income of $71,973 comes within 4% of the national median of $74,755, positioning it as one of Missouri's stronger earners. This near-parity reflects more diverse employment opportunities than most rural counties.

Above-average earner statewide

At $71,973, Franklin County exceeds Missouri's state average of $59,503 by 21%, placing it in the upper tier of Missouri counties. Per capita income of $36,524 significantly outpaces the state's $31,011 average, indicating robust economic productivity.

Economic powerhouse of the region

Franklin County's $71,973 median income substantially outearns all nearby counties—Gasconade County ($65,096), Gentry County ($57,458), and Greene County ($57,488) all lag behind. Proximity to greater St. Louis likely drives superior employment options.

Strong income supports homeownership

Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% reflects comfortable affordability, and median home values of $214,900 remain achievable for the median household. Higher incomes enable both stability and wealth-building through property ownership.

Leverage advantage for long-term wealth

Franklin County households earning above national average are positioned to maximize retirement contributions and diversify investments beyond real estate. Consider working with a financial advisor to optimize tax-advantaged accounts and build a balanced investment portfolio.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Franklin County

via CrimeByCounty

Franklin County remains safer than most of America

Franklin County’s total crime rate of 1,578.3 per 100,000 is well below the national mark of 2,385.5. This contributes to a respectable safety score of 97.5. Eight reporting agencies work together to monitor and respond to local safety needs.

Exceeding safety standards for the state

With a safety score of 97.5, Franklin County ranks higher than the Missouri average of 97.0. It provides a more secure environment than many other populated counties in the state. The data suggests local residents enjoy a higher level of protection than the state norm.

Comparing safety levels to regional neighbors

Franklin County is safer than Dunklin County (2,236.1) but more active than Gasconade County (662.1). It holds a middle-tier position for safety when compared to its Missouri peers. This balance reflects a moderately active law enforcement environment.

Low violent crime rate highlights regional security

Violent crime in Franklin County is low, at 192.6 per 100,000, roughly half the national average. Property crime sits at 1,385.7, representing the vast majority of local law enforcement cases. Residents generally face very low risks of physical confrontation.

Stay vigilant against property-related incidents

Focusing on home security can help mitigate the property crime risks that exist in the county. Simple steps like installing smart doorbells and securing windows can make a home a less attractive target. Awareness and preparation are the best tools for maintaining personal safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Franklin County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust School System in Franklin

Franklin County features a large-scale education system with 41 public schools serving 15,540 students across 11 districts. This includes 23 elementary schools and 7 high schools, making it one of the more significant school networks in the state.

Meeting State High Standards

The county achieves a 90.9% graduation rate, nearly matching the Missouri state average and easily beating the 87.0% national average. Spending is prioritized here, with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,434 that exceeds the state average.

Washington and Meramec Valley Lead

The Washington district is the largest, serving 3,720 students across 11 schools, followed closely by Meramec Valley R-III. There are no charter schools in the county, ensuring all 41 campuses are traditional public institutions.

Large Campuses in Town and Country

Schools are evenly split between town and rural settings, with an average enrollment of 389 students per school. Washington High School is the county's largest at 1,322 students, providing a vibrant, large-campus atmosphere.

Building a Future in Franklin County

With higher-than-average spending and solid graduation rates, Franklin County is a premier destination for families. Explore residential options in Washington or Pacific to secure access to some of the county's largest and best-funded schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Franklin County

via RiskByCounty

Franklin County faces multiple serious hazards

At 83.46, Franklin County's composite risk score is among the nation's highest, with "relatively moderate" overall rating but severe exposure to floods (85.43), tornadoes (86.55), and earthquakes (89.85). This multi-hazard profile demands comprehensive planning and protection.

Second-highest risk in Missouri

Franklin County scores 83.46—well above Missouri's state average of 50.56 and second only to Greene County among the state's 114 counties. Its hazard footprint is unusually broad, spanning floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, and wildfires.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Gasconade County nearby scores just 31.97, placing Franklin in an entirely different risk class. Franklin's flood risk (85.43) and tornado risk (86.55) are roughly double or more than most adjacent counties.

Floods, tornadoes, earthquakes demand attention

Flood risk (85.43), tornado risk (86.55), and earthquake risk (89.85) are Franklin County's "big three," each scoring in the upper 80s or 90s. Spring flooding along the Missouri River and Mississippi River tributaries, coupled with severe spring storms, creates a potent seasonal hazard cycle.

Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable

Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is critical if you're in or near a flood zone (mandatory if you have a mortgage in a mapped floodplain). Pair that with robust homeowners coverage that includes wind/tornado protection and seriously consider earthquake insurance given your 89.85 seismic risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Franklin County

via WaterByCounty

Health Violations Drive Grade F in Franklin County

Franklin County has recorded 19 health violations over the last five years, resulting in a Grade F for drinking water. Although its violation rate of 35.9 per 100,000 is better than Missouri’s average of 81.5, the volume of violations is high. These records highlight ongoing difficulties in maintaining federal water safety standards.

Local Watersheds Await Clean Water Act Assessment

There is currently no ATTAINS data regarding impaired water bodies for Franklin County. None of the local streams are documented as failing Clean Water Act §303(d) standards in the most recent reporting cycle. This lack of assessment means the full impact of local runoff has not been federally measured.

Massive Data Collection Efforts Track Contaminants

Franklin County boasts an extensive monitoring footprint with 78 sites and 21,464 measurements over five years. The primary focus includes organics and pesticides, reflecting a high priority on tracking chemical runoff. This robust data set provides one of the most detailed water quality pictures in the state.

Missouri River Flows Near Labadie Show Moderate Levels

The Missouri River gauge near Labadie reports a discharge of 83,000 cfs, which is 82% of the long-term mean. This reflects a slight reduction in volume compared to typical historical flows. The river drains a massive 523,300-square-mile area before reaching this point in the county.

Proactive Steps for Franklin County Residents

With 19 health violations on record, residents should check if their home filtration systems are certified to remove organics and pesticides. The extensive monitoring in the area suggests a high awareness of potential pollutants that may enter the water supply. Regularly reviewing your local water utility’s consumer confidence report is highly recommended.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Franklin County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer than the national average

Franklin County’s 55.8°F annual average is higher than the national median, reflecting its mid-latitude position. The climate is characterized by significant seasonal swings and high humidity.

Topping the Missouri temperature average

The county is about one degree warmer than the Missouri state average of 54.9°F. Precipitation is also slightly above the state norm, totaling 44.1 inches annually.

Hotter summers than nearby Dent

Franklin experiences 45 extreme heat days, significantly more than the 33 days recorded in Dent County. It also sees much more snow, averaging 10.4 inches annually.

Sweltering Julys and snowy Januaries

July averages 78.3°F, leading to 45 days of 90-degree heat. Winter brings a solid 10.4 inches of snow and a January average of 31.6°F.

Prepare for extreme summer heat

With 45 days of extreme heat, a robust cooling system and sun protection are necessary. Keep a snow shovel and salt ready for the 10.4 inches of typical winter accumulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Franklin County

via SoilByCounty

The Forest-Derived Alfisols of Franklin

Franklin County's soil belongs to the Alfisols order, indicating a history of forest development and natural productivity. The average pH of 5.98 is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.09, requiring occasional lime for some crops.

Silt Loam Textures and Fine Grains

The dominant texture is silt loam, formed by 57.3% silt and only 18.4% sand. This mix provides excellent nutrient retention, though the 15.3% clay content can lead to surface crusting if not managed correctly.

Rich Organic Reserves in the Valley

The soil contains 8.10% organic matter, nearly doubling the state average of 4.74%. While fertility is high, the available water capacity of 0.172 in/in is just below the Missouri average of 0.183.

Slow Drainage Challenges for Group D

The soil is classified as poorly drained and belongs to Hydrologic Group D, indicating very slow infiltration. This makes the land prone to runoff and soggy spots, so raised beds are recommended for home gardeners.

Bountiful Harvests in Zone 6b

Zone 6b supports a wide range of vegetables from tomatoes to cool-season greens. Franklin’s high organic matter provides a fantastic base for heavy feeders like corn or squash; get digging this spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Franklin County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Franklin County Grass Care

Franklin County presents a lawn difficulty score of 60.4, making it slightly more challenging than the state average of 63.7. While it beats the national difficulty median, the local 6b climate requires a balanced approach to maintenance. Homeowners here must manage transition-zone weather that swings between cold winters and humid summers.

Balancing Heat and Precipitation

The county receives 44.1 inches of rain annually, which is almost identical to the state average. However, the 45 extreme heat days each year put additional stress on lawns compared to cooler northern counties. Mowing frequency should follow the 4140 growing degree days to ensure the lawn stays healthy through the peak summer.

Working with Silt Loam Soils

Franklin County features silt loam soil with a pH of 5.98, putting it just on the edge of the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The soil is poorly drained and consists of 15.3% clay and 18.4% sand, which can lead to compaction and ponding. Core aeration is highly recommended to improve oxygen flow and water penetration in these dense soils.

Managing Moderate Drought Cycles

Lawns have navigated 23 weeks of drought over the last year, with the entire county currently classified as abnormally dry. Because there is currently no severe drought area, preventative watering will help maintain turf strength. Avoid over-watering poorly drained soils, as this can lead to fungal diseases during humid Missouri nights.

Timing Your Franklin County Planting

Turf-type tall fescue is the most reliable choice for Franklin County's 6b hardiness zone. Plan your major lawn projects around the April 11 last frost and the October 25 first frost dates. Seeding in the fall is particularly effective here, as it allows roots to establish before the summer heat returns.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Franklin County's county score?
Franklin County, Missouri has a composite county score of 42.5 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 Franklin County rank among counties in Missouri?
Franklin County ranks #93 among all counties in Missouri 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, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Franklin County is $1,774, with an effective tax rate of 0.83%. This earns Franklin County a tax score of 50.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Franklin County?
The median household income in Franklin County, Missouri is $71,973 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Franklin County earns an income score of 71.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Franklin County, Missouri a good place to live?
Franklin County scores 42.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #93 in Missouri. 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.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.