countyscore
54.4
County Score
Safety 83.1Water Quality 69.5Property Tax 60.5

County Report Card

About Greene County, Missouri

Solid National Standing

Greene County achieves a composite score of 54.4, outpacing the national median of 50.0. As home to Springfield, it provides a high-functioning urban-rural hybrid environment.

Exceeding State Averages

The county's 54.4 score is higher than the Missouri average of 50.3. It serves as a regional leader in services and community safety compared to other metropolitan areas.

Safe Urban Centers

The county maintains an impressive safety score of 83.1, which is unusual for a populated metro area. Its water score of 69.5 also demonstrates reliable public infrastructure.

Environmental Risk and Cost

Greene County faces a very low risk score of 9.9, suggesting high vulnerability to natural disasters or local hazards. Additionally, its cost score of 33.3 reflects rising housing prices, with rents averaging $940.

Great for Active Urbanites

This county is a prime choice for residents who want city amenities and high safety standards without the extreme costs of major coastal hubs. It suits those who prioritize civic services over absolute price floors.

Score breakdown

Tax60.5Cost33.3Safety83.1Health53.5Schools54.5Income31.6Risk9.9Water69.5Weather58.5
🏛60.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠33.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼31.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡83.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤53.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡9.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧69.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨58.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.8
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

Christian County
Missouri
38.5
Webster County
Missouri
50
Lawrence County
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45.6
Polk County
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Dade County
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Stone County
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Deep Dives

Greene County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Greene County

via TaxByCounty

Greene County taxes slightly below national median

At 0.722%, Greene County's effective property tax rate sits slightly below the national median of 0.87%, placing it around the 45th percentile—roughly average nationally. The median annual property tax of $1,469 is still less than 55% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting Greene's more moderate home values.

Greene sits near Missouri's state average

Greene County's 0.722% effective rate is just 2% below Missouri's state average of 0.733%, making it a near-perfect representation of statewide tax burden. The median property tax of $1,469 is 22% above the state median of $1,199, indicating that while Greene's rate is average, its home values—and thus tax bills—run higher.

Middle-range taxes among regional peers

Greene County's 0.722% rate is nearly identical to Gasconade County's 0.733%, both sitting comfortably between lower-tax counties like Dent (0.563%) and higher-tax neighbors like Gentry (1.031%) and Grundy (1.022%). Greene represents the regional tax-rate norm.

Your annual tax bill in Greene County

On a median home valued at $203,500—higher than most regional peers—Greene County homeowners owe approximately $1,469 per year in property taxes. With mortgage interest deductions, the cost rises to $1,488 annually; without them, it drops to $1,437—a moderate bill for a county with higher home values.

Appeal your assessment to trim the bill

Greene County homeowners, especially those in higher-value homes, should verify that their property assessments reflect current market conditions. Overassessments are common; challenging an inflated assessment could cut your annual tax bill by several hundred dollars—contact your county assessor to learn the appeal process.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Greene County

via CostByCounty

Greene's Rent Burden Outpaces National Norms

Greene County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% significantly exceeds the national baseline, making it one of the nation's most challenging rental markets for working families. With a median household income of $57,488 and rents of $940/month, Greene renters spend a notably larger share of earnings on housing than typical Americans.

Greene Ranks Among Missouri's Least Affordable

At 19.6%, Greene County's rent-to-income ratio dramatically exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%, marking it as one of the state's toughest rental markets. The median rent of $940 runs $172 above the state average despite a median household income below state norms.

Greene's Rents Far Outpace Regional Peers

Greene's median rent of $940 is the region's highest by a wide margin—$269 more than Dent ($615), $253 more than Gentry ($620), and even $66 more than Franklin ($874). This affordability crunch reflects Greene's larger urban center (Springfield) driving up housing demand and costs.

Housing Consumes Outsized Share of Income

Greene renters allocate a concerning 19.6% of their $57,488 annual income to $940 monthly rent, while homeowners spend 20.9% ($1,001/month) on ownership costs. Both figures approach or exceed the 30% affordability threshold, leaving households limited financial flexibility for emergencies and savings.

Greene: Premium Urban Living Comes at a Cost

Greene County suits relocating professionals with above-median incomes seeking urban amenities and job opportunities in Springfield, but genuine affordability challenges exist for average earners. If your salary significantly exceeds the $57,488 median or you prioritize urban lifestyle over affordability, Greene may justify the premium rents.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Greene County

via IncomeByCounty

Greene below national income mark

Greene County's median household income of $57,488 falls 23% below the national median of $74,755, typical for mid-sized Missouri counties. However, per capita income of $35,189 suggests concentrated earning power among employed residents.

Slightly under state average statewide

At $57,488, Greene County ranks just below Missouri's state average of $59,503, though per capita income of $35,189 exceeds the state's $31,011 by about 13%. This mix suggests higher earners concentrated in specific sectors, likely education and healthcare.

Comparable to nearby counties

Greene County's $57,488 median income closely matches Gentry County ($57,458) and both trail Gasconade County ($65,096) and Franklin County ($71,973). The Springfield metropolitan area likely drives Greene County's slightly stronger per capita income despite median income limitations.

Housing costs squeeze household budgets

Greene County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.6% ranks highest among regional counties, signaling real affordability pressure on lower-income households. Median home values of $203,500 exceed local incomes, requiring substantial down payments or extended mortgages.

Manage housing costs while investing

Greene County residents should prioritize refinancing or downsizing if housing consumes over 20% of income, freeing resources for retirement savings and investments. Building a diversified portfolio becomes essential when housing constraints limit traditional wealth-building paths.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Greene County

via CrimeByCounty

Greene County maintains excellent national safety ranks

Greene County reports a total crime rate of 401.5 per 100,000, far below the national average of 2,385.5. It earns a superior safety score of 99.4 out of 100. Thirteen reporting agencies provide robust and reliable data for this region.

A standout performer for Missouri safety

The county's safety score of 99.4 is much higher than the Missouri state average of 97.0. Despite having many reporting agencies, the county manages to keep crime rates consistently low. This makes it one of the safest high-reporting areas in the state.

Leading neighboring counties in safety performance

Greene County is safer than Franklin County (1,578.3) and Grundy County (1,204.7). Its crime rate of 401.5 is also lower than Gasconade County’s 662.1. Residents here enjoy a exceptionally low-crime environment compared to their regional peers.

Exceptional violent crime statistics for the area

Violent crime is very rare in Greene County, with a rate of only 61.2 per 100,000 residents. Property crime also stays low at 340.3, a fraction of the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. The high safety score is well-supported by these minimal incident numbers.

Preserve your community's high safety standard

Greene County residents can maintain this safe environment by participating in community watch programs. Using home security tech like smart sensors can further deter the few property crimes that do occur. Staying vigilant helps keep Greene County a leader in Missouri safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Greene County

via HealthByCounty

Greene leads Missouri on longevity

Greene County residents live an average of 75.0 years, just 1.1 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years—the second-highest life expectancy in the region. Only 16.0% report poor or fair health, the lowest rate among the eight counties.

Missouri's health performance leader

At 75.0 years, Greene County's life expectancy exceeds Missouri's state average of 74.3 years by 0.7 years. With an 11.1% uninsured rate, Greene also beats the state average of 12.5%, demonstrating strong health investment.

Clear regional health champion

Greene's 75.0-year life expectancy ranks alongside Franklin (74.9 years) as the region's best. The county's combination of 93 primary care providers and 484 mental health providers per 100K far exceeds all neighbors.

Outstanding healthcare access and coverage

Greene boasts 93 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in the eight-county region—and 484 mental health providers, reflecting a major medical hub. The 11.1% uninsured rate remains a gap, but infrastructure supports nearly all residents.

Complete Greene's health achievement

Even as Greene County leads the region on health outcomes, 1 in 9 residents remains uninsured; Healthcare.gov and Missouri Medicaid can close this final gap. With the county's exceptional provider network, coverage ensures everyone benefits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Greene County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Educational Hub in Greene

Greene County features a sprawling system of 97 public schools serving nearly 40,000 students. With 50 elementary schools, 18 middle schools, and 19 high schools, it is one of Missouri's most comprehensive education networks.

Top-Tier Performance in a Large System

Despite its size, the county maintains an elite 94.5% graduation rate, far surpassing state and national averages. Per-pupil expenditure is $6,467, which is higher than the Missouri average of $6,334.

Springfield R-XII Dominates the Region

Springfield R-XII is the flagship district, managing 57 schools and 22,937 students. The county focuses on traditional and alternative public education, with no charter schools currently operating among its 97 campuses.

Diverse Urban and Suburban Locales

The county offers a mix of 53 city schools, 19 suburban schools, and 22 rural schools, catering to all lifestyles. Kickapoo High is the largest school with 1,881 students, while the average school size is 436 students.

A City of Schools for Every Family

Greene County offers unparalleled educational variety, from large urban high schools to quiet rural elementary campuses. Whether you prefer the Springfield city center or the Republic suburbs, you will find high-performing schools for your children.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Greene County

via RiskByCounty

Greene County faces the state's highest risks

At 90.08, Greene County's composite risk score is among the nation's most elevated and places it in the "relatively moderate" category. Extreme exposures to floods (88.80), tornadoes (94.88), earthquakes (92.91), and wildfires (72.42) make this Missouri's riskiest county overall.

Missouri's highest-risk county

Greene County's 90.08 composite score is by far the highest in Missouri, nearly 40 points above the state average of 50.56. No other Missouri county faces such a comprehensive and severe multi-hazard profile.

Dramatically riskier than surrounding areas

Neighboring counties score substantially lower: Dent County at 52.54 and Douglas County at 23.70. Greene County's positioning in south-central Missouri at the intersection of multiple hazard zones creates this exceptional vulnerability.

Tornadoes, floods, earthquakes converge here

Tornado risk (94.88), flood risk (88.80), and earthquake risk (92.91) dominate Greene County's hazard profile, each ranking among Missouri's highest. Spring tornado season, frequent flash flooding, and proximity to the Ozark seismic zone create a year-round threat environment.

Comprehensive multi-hazard insurance required

Flood insurance, earthquake insurance, and robust wind/tornado coverage are all essential in Greene County, not optional add-ons. Invest in safe-room construction or reinforcement, keep supplies stocked for both flooding and earthquake scenarios, and review all three policies annually with your agent.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Greene County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer and Wetter than the Median

Greene County stays warmer than much of the country with an average annual temperature of 57.3°F. It receives 44.1 inches of precipitation, slightly exceeding the national median for rainfall.

A Warm Spot in the Ozarks

At 57.3°F, Greene County is significantly warmer than the Missouri state average of 54.9°F. It ranks as one of the warmer metropolitan areas in the state's southern half.

Leading the Region in Heat Days

Greene County experiences more extreme heat than many of its northern neighbors, logging 47 days over 90°F. Its 11.5 inches of annual snow is lower than the northern Missouri average.

Long Summers and Mild Winters

July averages a balmy 79.3°F, contributing to a high frequency of extreme heat days. Winters remain relatively mild compared to the rest of the state, with January temperatures averaging 34.0°F.

Focus on Heat Mitigation

With 47 days of extreme heat, residents should invest in heavy-duty air conditioning and sun protection. Gardeners can take advantage of the milder 36.6°F winter average for longer growing seasons.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Greene County

via SoilByCounty

Young Entisols of the Ozarks

Greene County is characterized by Entisols, which are geologically young soils with limited horizon development. The pH of 5.81 is more acidic than both the state average of 6.09 and the national median of 6.5.

Silty Clay Loam Textures

The soil is a silty clay loam made up of 59.6% silt and 17.6% clay. With sand at 18.3%, this texture can be prone to compaction but provides a firm foundation for both agriculture and urban development.

Standard Missouri Fertility Profile

Organic matter levels sit at 4.55%, very close to the state average of 4.74%. The available water capacity of 0.172 in/in is slightly lower than the Missouri norm, suggesting a need for mulching to preserve moisture.

Well Drained Land for Stability

This county benefits from being well drained, belonging to Hydrologic Group C. These soils allow water to move through the profile at a moderate rate, reducing the risk of flooded basements or waterlogged crop roots.

A Gardener’s Dream in Zone 6b

The well-drained nature of Greene County soil makes it highly versatile for Hardiness Zone 6b. From native wildflowers to backyard vegetable patches, this soil is ready for planting; just add a little lime to balance the pH.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Greene County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Turf Tasks in Greene County

Maintaining a lawn in Greene County is more difficult than in most of Missouri, with a score of 49.8. This is well below the state average of 63.7 and just hits the national median for difficulty. The 6b Hardiness Zone requires residents to be proactive against both drought and heat stress.

Hot Summers and High Growth Demand

Greene County deals with 47 extreme heat days annually, significantly higher than the state average of 37 days. This heat, combined with 4405 growing degree days, creates a fast-paced and stressful environment for traditional turf. Regular irrigation is non-negotiable during the peak summer months to prevent total dormancy.

Durable Silty Clay Loam Soils

The soil here is a well-drained silty clay loam with a 17.6% clay content. While the pH of 5.81 is slightly acidic, the well-drained nature of the soil helps prevent the root rot issues common in other counties. Periodic liming is recommended to bring the pH closer to the 6.5 sweet spot for grass health.

Facing Extended Drought Challenges

Greene County has endured 34 weeks of drought in the past year, and nearly half the county is currently in severe drought. These conditions require strict water management, such as utilizing drip irrigation for landscaping and deep watering for lawns. Avoiding fertilization during these dry periods will protect your grass from chemical stress.

Winning the Battle with Heat

Heat-tolerant fescue blends are the best bet for Greene County's demanding 47 days of high heat. Start your lawn projects after the April 11 frost, or take advantage of the long growing season that lasts until October 27. Fall is the critical window for repairs, as the cooler air allows roots to recover from summer damage.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Greene County's county score?
Greene County, Missouri has a composite county score of 54.4 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 Greene County rank among counties in Missouri?
Greene County ranks #41 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 Greene County, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Greene County is $1,469, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Greene County a tax score of 60.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Greene County?
The median household income in Greene County, Missouri is $57,488 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Greene County earns an income score of 31.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Greene County, Missouri a good place to live?
Greene County scores 54.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #41 in Missouri. The best way to evaluate Greene 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 Greene County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.