countyscore
67.6
County Score
Safety 97.5Cost of Living 93.3Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Gallatin County, Illinois

Exceptional National Standing

Gallatin County’s composite score of 67.6 is far above the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the upper echelon of US counties for general livability.

A Top Performer in Illinois

Gallatin County crushes the state average of 52.8 with its own score of 67.6. It is one of the highest-rated counties in Illinois across several diverse categories.

Safety, Cost, and Schools Excel

The county hits high marks in safety (97.5), cost (93.3), and schools (81.9). With a median rent of just $500, it is one of the most affordable places to live in the state.

Moderate Income and Tax Burdens

Income remains a challenge with a score of 24.3 and a median of $54,626. Despite its overall high score, the tax score of 12.5 remains a persistent cost for households.

Best Value for Young Families

Gallatin County is a premier destination for families who prioritize great schools and absolute safety. It offers some of the best value in Illinois for those on a fixed or modest budget.

Score breakdown

Tax12.5Cost93.3Safety97.5Health47.6Schools81.9Income24.3Risk66.1Water86Weather57.5
🏛12.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠93.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼24.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤47.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓81.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡66.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨64.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱74.2
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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Nearby counties

Union County
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60.1
Hardin County
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70.7
Posey County
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60.5
Saline County
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White County
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Crittenden County
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Hamilton County
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Henderson County
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Deep Dives

Gallatin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Gallatin County

via TaxByCounty

Gallatin County costs less than nation

Gallatin County's 1.506% effective tax rate sits comfortably below the national median of 1.562%, placing it in the bottom 35% of U.S. counties. With the second-lowest median home value at $84,700, residents pay just $1,276 annually—less than half the national median tax of $2,690.

Well below Illinois average

Illinois averages 1.831%, and Gallatin County's 1.506% rate beats that handily, ranking among the state's lowest-taxed counties. At $1,276 median annual tax, residents pay less than half the state median of $2,782, making Gallatin exceptionally affordable for homeowners.

Third-lowest in the region

Gallatin's 1.506% rate ranks third-lowest in south-central Illinois, behind Franklin (1.501%) and Fayette (1.517%), but ahead of Effingham (1.509%). Counties like Ford (2.069%) and Fulton (2.133%) impose 37–42% higher rates, positioning Gallatin as a bargain for property buyers.

What your home costs to own

Gallatin County residents pay just $1,276 annually on the median home of $84,700—among the lowest tax bills in the region. Without a mortgage, owners pay $1,044; with one, $1,429—a manageable expense for families seeking affordable homeownership.

Even small assessments merit review

Though Gallatin County's taxes are low, overassessment still reduces your effective return on homeownership. Review your assessment against recent comparable sales in your neighborhood; if it's inflated, a free appeal to the county assessor could lower your bill further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Gallatin County

via CostByCounty

Gallatin County delivers rare rental bargain

Renters in Gallatin County spend just 11.0% of their income on housing—among the lowest ratios in this entire comparison and well below the national comfort threshold of 30%. The $500 monthly rent is exceptional for Illinois, though paired with a below-average median income of $54,626, it still requires careful budgeting.

Illinois's most affordable rental market

Gallatin County's 11.0% rent-to-income ratio and $500 median rent represent exceptional value compared to Illinois's state average of 14.7% for affordability and $837 for rent. The county stands out as a genuine affordability bright spot in a state increasingly stretched by housing costs.

Unmatched rental affordability regionally

Gallatin's $500 monthly rent is dramatically cheaper than all neighbors—$234 below Effingham ($734), $271 below Franklin ($771), and a remarkable $336 below Ford ($836). The 11.0% rent-to-income ratio edges out even Effingham (11.7%), making Gallatin the region's affordability leader.

Ultra-low rents offset modest wages

Gallatin households earn $54,626 annually, dedicating just $500 monthly to rent (11.0% of income)—nearly half the national average household housing burden. Owner costs of $572 monthly and a median home value of $84,700 preserve this county's status as Illinois's most affordable housing market.

Gallatin for renters prioritizing savings

If lowest rent is your priority, Gallatin County is unbeatable in Illinois—$500 monthly leaves room for savings or other needs impossible elsewhere in this comparison. Verify job market strength and services before moving, as low costs sometimes reflect economic challenges, but the rental bargain is undeniable.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Gallatin County

via IncomeByCounty

Gallatin below national, but efficient

Gallatin County's median household income of $54,626 trails the national median of $74,755 by $20,129, placing it in the 22nd percentile nationally. However, the county's unusually high per capita income of $39,976 suggests more efficient income distribution across households.

Lower income, strong per-capita earnings

Gallatin County's household income of $54,626 falls below the Illinois state average of $68,580, but its per capita income of $39,976 actually exceeds the state average of $36,009. This paradox suggests some very high earners or fewer dependents per household than state averages.

Unique earnings pattern in the region

Gallatin County's median household income of $54,626 is below peers like Ford County ($60,782) and Fayette County ($57,113), yet its per capita income ($39,976) is among the strongest in the group. This suggests a smaller population with disproportionately high-wage workers.

Housing highly affordable here

Gallatin County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in this analysis at 11.0%, with a median home value of $84,700—making housing costs highly manageable. This affordability creates real opportunity for households to invest savings beyond housing expenses.

Leverage affordability for aggressive saving

Gallatin County's low housing costs mean households can redirect substantial income toward retirement accounts, college funds, or investment portfolios. Take advantage of this affordability advantage by maximizing tax-advantaged savings vehicles like 401(k)s and IRAs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Gallatin County

via CrimeByCounty

Gallatin County achieves maximum safety score

Gallatin County reports a 100.0 safety score, indicating an incredibly secure environment. This is a stark contrast to the national crime rate of 2,385.5 per 100K.

Higher safety than state averages

The county exceeds the Illinois state average safety score of 98.7. Public safety is managed by three agencies that report minimal criminal activity.

Extremely safe compared to neighbors

Gallatin reports lower crime rates than Hamilton (75.0) and Fayette (847.9) counties. It remains one of the most secure jurisdictions in southern Illinois.

Zero reported violent or property incidents

The 0.0 crime rate per 100K residents encompasses both violent and property categories. This is significantly lower than the national violent crime rate of 369.8.

Keeping your property safe and secure

Residents enjoy a very low-risk environment in Gallatin County. Simple home security systems can provide additional peace of mind and help keep crime rates at zero.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Gallatin County

via HealthByCounty

Significant health disadvantage evident

Gallatin County residents live to just 72.6 years, 3.8 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. With 20.8% reporting poor or fair health, the county faces severe health challenges affecting nearly one in five residents.

Among Illinois's least healthy counties

At 72.6 years, Gallatin County's life expectancy trails Illinois's 76.0-year average by 3.4 years, ranking among the state's worst outcomes. The 6.3% uninsured rate matches the state, suggesting that deeper barriers—poverty, access, social determinants—drive these disparities.

Peer counties show better outcomes

Gallatin County's 72.6-year life expectancy nearly matches Franklin County (72.5) but lags Greene County (73.6) and Fulton County (74.9) significantly. Data on primary care providers is limited, but available mental health support (43 per 100K) ranks among the region's lowest.

Data gaps complicate care assessment

Primary care provider data for Gallatin County remains unavailable, limiting our understanding of routine medical access. With just 43 mental health providers per 100K and 20.8% reporting poor health, the county clearly struggles to support resident well-being.

Start with insurance enrollment

Gallatin County residents deserve access to care; securing Medicaid or marketplace insurance is the foundation. Contact 211 or visit Healthcare.gov to enroll, then ask local clinics about extended hours and telehealth to bridge access gaps.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Gallatin County

via SchoolsByCounty

One Unified District for Gallatin Students

Gallatin County simplifies education with a single district, Gallatin CUSD 7, which serves all 704 students. This streamlined system consists of exactly three schools: one elementary, one middle, and one high school. This structure creates a unified educational journey from preschool through graduation.

Exceptional Graduation Rates and School Scores

Gallatin County shines with a 95% graduation rate, far exceeding the state average of 88.8% and the national 87%. The school score of 60.2 also beats the state benchmark, reflecting high academic standards. These results come on a budget of $8,862 per pupil, demonstrating remarkable efficiency.

A Single District Serving the Community

Gallatin CUSD 7 is the sole educational authority, managing 100% of the county's public enrollment. The district is home to Gallatin Elementary (288 students), Gallatin Junior High (201 students), and Gallatin High (215 students). Without any charter schools, the community remains focused on this central, successful public system.

A Consistent Rural Education Experience

All three schools in the county are classified as rural, offering a consistent and quiet learning environment. The average school size is 235 students, ensuring that every child is part of a close-knit peer group. This 'all-in-one' campus feel means students grow up alongside the same classmates from start to finish.

Join an Elite District in Gallatin County

For families seeking some of the highest graduation rates in the state, Gallatin County is a hidden gem. The unified district model ensures that home values are supported by a single, high-performing educational standard. Explore local real estate to find a home within this exceptional and focused school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Gallatin County

via RiskByCounty

Gallatin among America's safer counties

Gallatin County's composite risk score of 33.87 ranks well below the U.S. average, earning a "Very Low" rating. Residents here face substantially lower natural disaster exposure than most American counties.

Well below Illinois state average

Gallatin's 33.87 score sits more than 20 points below Illinois's state average of 54.46, making it one of the state's safer regions. This significant gap reflects Gallatin's notably favorable risk profile relative to typical Illinois communities.

Among the safest in southern Illinois

Gallatin's 33.87 trails only Ford County (26.21) and Greene County (12.98) in this analysis, far outperforming Franklin (80.95) and Fulton (59.00). Gallatin residents enjoy substantially lower disaster exposure than most surrounding areas.

Earthquake risk dominates minimal threats

Gallatin's highest risk is earthquake (84.51), though all other hazards rank well below regional norms: tornado (36.99), flood (36.04), and hurricane (35.71). Wildfire risk is negligible at just 1.21.

Standard homeowners insurance typically adequate

Gallatin County's low overall risk profile means standard homeowners insurance with tornado/wind coverage provides solid protection for most residents. Consider earthquake insurance only if you want maximum protection; Gallatin's 84.51 earthquake score is manageable compared to counties like Franklin or Fulton.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Gallatin County

via WeatherByCounty

A High-Precipitation River Region

While temperature data is limited for this area, Gallatin County is defined by its high annual precipitation of 47.1 inches. This exceeds the national average for rainfall significantly.

One of the Wettest Counties

Gallatin's 47.1 inches of annual precipitation is far above the Illinois state average of 41.7 inches. It represents the damp, lush climate of the state's southeastern border.

Southeastern Illinois Moisture Profile

The county shares a similar rainfall pattern with neighboring Hamilton County, both receiving over 47 inches of rain. This makes it part of the wettest region in the state.

Heavy Rains and Moderate Winters

Specific seasonal temperatures are not recorded, but the high annual rainfall suggests frequent storm activity. The region typically follows the southern Illinois pattern of mild winters and humid summers.

Prioritize Water Management

Residents should focus on flood mitigation and high-capacity gutter systems given the 47.1 inches of annual rain. Humidity control is also essential for maintaining homes in this moist environment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Gallatin County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Alfisols of the South

Gallatin's Alfisols have a silt loam texture and a pH of 6.22, leaning more acidic than the 6.5 national median. This pH level is also slightly lower than the Illinois state average of 6.39.

Silt Loam with Gritty Sand

The soil mix includes 60.1% silt and 21.5% clay, alongside a notable 18.4% sand content. This blend offers a good balance between nutrient holding and physical workability in the field.

Meeting National Fertility Standards

Organic matter measures 1.92%, nearly meeting the national 2.0% average but trailing the state's 2.94%. The available water capacity of 0.201 in/in is just under the Illinois average of 0.204.

Efficient Water Movement in Group B

These well-drained soils belong to hydrologic group B, ensuring that excess water moves away from plant roots efficiently. This characteristic makes the county particularly suitable for farming and sturdy home foundations.

Warm Growing Climate in Zone 7a

Gallatin County sits in Zone 7a, providing a warm climate for a variety of specialty crops. The well-drained silt loam is ideal for starting a productive home orchard or a diverse vegetable garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Gallatin County

via LawnByCounty

Gallatin County Leads the Pack

Gallatin County enjoys a high lawn difficulty score of 74.2, making it significantly easier to maintain a yard here than the Illinois average of 69.8. Located in Hardiness Zone 7a, the county offers a long growing season and friendly conditions. It ranks well above the national median for lawn care ease.

Highest Precipitation in the Region

Lawns in Gallatin benefit from 47.1 inches of rain annually, the highest among its neighbors and well within the 30-50 inch ideal range. While specific temperature data is missing, this abundant rainfall provides a massive advantage for keeping grass lush. You may find you rarely need to run the sprinklers outside of the peak summer months.

Well-Drained Silt Loam Soils

Gallatin features well-drained silt loam soil with a 6.22 pH level, which is excellent for turfgrass vitality. The mix of 21.5% clay and 18.4% sand ensures that roots stay hydrated without being drowned. This natural drainage is a key reason for the county's high lawn-ease score.

Superior Resilience to Dry Weather

Gallatin is currently free of severe drought, though 100% of the county is considered abnormally dry. With only 10 weeks of drought over the past year, this area is much more resilient than its neighbors. The high annual rainfall and good soil drainage create a buffer that helps your lawn survive dry spells better than most.

Thriving in the Southern Heat

In Hardiness Zone 7a, tall fescues and warm-season grasses like Zoysia are highly successful. The silt loam texture is particularly inviting for new sod or seed, especially when planted in the early spring or late summer. Gallatin is an ideal place to start your dream lawn project.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gallatin County's county score?
Gallatin County, Illinois has a composite county score of 67.6 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 Gallatin County rank among counties in Illinois?
Gallatin County ranks #6 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 Gallatin County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Gallatin County is $1,276, with an effective tax rate of 1.51%. This earns Gallatin County a tax score of 12.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Gallatin County?
The median household income in Gallatin County, Illinois is $54,626 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Gallatin County earns an income score of 24.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Gallatin County, Illinois a good place to live?
Gallatin County scores 67.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Gallatin 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 Gallatin 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.