countyscore
54.7
County Score
Safety 94.7Property Tax 78.4Income & Jobs 59.9

County Report Card

About Gulf County, Florida

Gulf County Surpasses National Standards

Gulf's composite score of 54.7 exceeds the national median of 50.0 and outperforms Florida's state average of 45.1. The county represents above-average livability, particularly strong in specific dimension areas.

Strong Performer in Florida's County System

Gulf ranks solidly in the upper half of Florida's 67 counties, clearly above the state average and demonstrating better-than-typical livability. Its balanced score suggests strength across multiple quality-of-life measures.

Safety and Taxes Are Gulf's Twin Advantages

Gulf boasts an excellent safety score of 94.7 and strong tax efficiency at 78.4 (effective rate 0.566%), one of the state's lowest. Income levels are solid at 59.9 with median household income of $67,361, supporting a stable economic foundation.

Housing and School Quality Require Attention

Gulf's main weak points are housing affordability (cost 35.0) with median home values of $235,700 and rents at $1,161 monthly, plus modest school performance (33.5). Water quality (24.4) and health outcomes (36.7) also lag and may warrant external resources.

Perfect for Coastal Safety-Seeking Professionals

Gulf suits professionals and families earning stable middle-to-upper incomes who prioritize safety, low taxes, and coastal living—and can handle higher housing costs. Those seeking affordable homes or top-tier schools should look elsewhere, but established households will find Gulf a secure, tax-efficient haven.

2040608010078.43594.736.733.559.940.524.437.2Tax78.4Cost35Safety94.7Health36.7Schools33.5Income59.9Risk40.5Water24.4Weather37.254.7/100
This county
National avg
2 above average5 below average

Gulf County DNA

Foverall

How Gulf County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Gulf County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (94.7/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (24.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
78.4+26.400000000000006
Cost
35-13
Safety
94.7+39.7
Health
36.7-13.299999999999997
Schools
33.5-20.5
Income
59.9+8.899999999999999
Risk
40.5
Water
24.4-33.6
Weather
37.2-18.799999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$235,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,161/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$235,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$46,440/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $67,361/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

20.3

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

Franklin County
Florida
55
Bay County
Florida
36.9
Liberty County
Florida
53.4
Calhoun County
Florida
62.2
Wakulla County
Florida
55.5
Washington County
Florida
53.5
Gadsden County
Florida
51.7
Jackson County
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53.9

Deep Dives

Gulf County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Gulf County

via TaxByCounty

Gulf County taxes well below national norm

Gulf County's effective tax rate of 0.566% ranks among Florida's lowest and sits well below the national median. The median property tax of $1,334 is half the national median of $2,690, offering Gulf County homeowners exceptional affordability.

Among Florida's most affordable counties

Gulf ranks in Florida's bottom tier for property tax burden at just 0.566% effective rate, 22% below the state average of 0.731%. Its median property tax of $1,334 is 29% lower than the state median of $1,885.

Cheapest taxes in Big Bend and Panhandle

Gulf County's 0.566% rate ties with Franklin County's rate and beats Gilchrist, Hamilton, and Flagler counties significantly. For coastal property on the Gulf of Mexico, Gulf County offers remarkably low tax rates compared to similar waterfront communities statewide.

Median home: $1,334 per year in taxes

A homeowner with a $235,700 median-valued home in Gulf County pays approximately $1,334 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill is $1,440; without one, it drops to $1,187.

Verify your assessment against market sales

Gulf County's low overall tax burden shouldn't discourage homeowners from checking if their assessed value aligns with recent comparable sales. Filing a Value Adjustment Board appeal could provide additional savings if your home's assessment exceeds current market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Gulf County

via CostByCounty

Gulf County balances affordability

Gulf County residents spend 20.7% of income on rent, comfortably below the national affordability standard and just below Florida's 22.5% state average. With a median household income of $67,361 and rent at $1,161, Gulf offers a moderate housing burden in a coastal setting.

Gulf near Florida average affordability

At 20.7%, Gulf's rent-to-income ratio sits just 1.8 percentage points below Florida's 22.5% state average, positioning it as an affordable coastal alternative. The $1,161 median rent falls $72 below the state median, reflecting Gulf's quieter, less-developed character compared to Florida's major markets.

Gulf's competitive rental market

Gulf's $1,161 rent undercuts Flagler ($1,687) by $526 but exceeds Franklin ($1,044) by $117, placing it in the middle tier of comparable counties. The $67,361 median income paired with moderate rent creates a balanced profile attractive to coastal relocators seeking affordability.

Gulf's sustainable housing balance

Renters spend $1,161 monthly from a $67,361 median income, consuming 20.7% of earnings and preserving substantial funds for other obligations. Homeowners encounter median monthly costs of $815 (14.5% of income), with median home values of $235,700 offering reasonable access to coastal property ownership.

Gulf County: coastal at a discount

Gulf County delivers Gulf Coast lifestyle at affordable rates, avoiding the premium pricing of Flagler while offering similar natural appeal. If you value coastal living without overextending your housing budget, Gulf County's modest rent and reasonable incomes make it a practical relocation target.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Gulf County

via IncomeByCounty

Gulf County approaches national income average

Gulf County's median household income of $67,361 falls modestly below the national median of $74,755 by about $7,400. The county's per capita income of $38,258 exceeds the national average, suggesting more distributed earnings across household members despite lower overall household income.

Above-average earner in Florida

Gulf County's median household income of $67,361 exceeds Florida's state average of $65,468 by 2.9%, placing it solidly in the upper-middle tier of Florida counties. The per capita income of $38,258 also surpasses the state average of $35,698, reflecting relatively stable earning power throughout the county.

Gulf leads peer group of rural counties

Gulf County's $67,361 median household income outpaces most nearby rural counties, including Franklin ($62,734) and Gilchrist ($61,070). The county's coastal and tourism-related economy provides more employment diversity than typical inland rural Florida communities, supporting higher average incomes.

Balanced housing affordability profile

Gulf County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.7% sits comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, indicating manageable housing costs for most households. With a median home value of $235,700, the county offers reasonable housing values relative to its income level.

Invest in long-term financial security

Gulf County's above-average income creates opportunities for meaningful retirement savings and investment portfolio building. Take advantage of employer benefits, explore homeownership equity-building, and consider diversifying income through side ventures in the county's growing tourism sector.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Gulf County

via CrimeByCounty

Gulf County Reports Exceptional Safety

With a safety score of 100.0, Gulf County ranks as one of the safest spots in the nation. Its total crime rate of 6.7 per 100,000 is nearly invisible compared to the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the Way in Florida

Gulf County’s crime rate of 6.7 is vastly lower than the Florida state average of 1,027.9. This impressive performance places it well ahead of the state average safety score of 98.4.

A Regional Safety Standout

Eight local reporting agencies contribute to a crime profile that is significantly lower than neighboring counties. While others see hundreds of incidents, Gulf remains nearly crime-free.

Rare Property and Violent Crime

Violent crime is non-existent at 0.0 per 100,000, and property crime is negligible at 6.7. This means residents rarely experience the types of incidents common in larger Florida metro areas.

Proactive Home Security Habits

Even in a high-safety area, locking doors and installing motion lights helps maintain the status quo. These small steps ensure Gulf County stays at the top of the safety rankings.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Gulf County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Schooling by the Coast

Gulf County provides a focused educational system with 7 public schools serving 1,928 students. The network includes three elementary schools and four high schools, all managed by one central district. The system maintains a traditional public school structure with no charter schools currently operating.

Consistent Performance and Strong Funding

Gulf County matches the national graduation rate of 87.0% and maintains a school score of 51.6. The county invests $6,823 per student, surpassing the Florida state average of $6,118. This strong financial commitment supports a steady academic environment for the coastal community.

Unified Leadership in the Gulf District

The Gulf School District manages all 1,928 students across its seven campuses. Port St. Joe Elementary and Port St. Joe High School are the largest facilities, each serving over 500 students. This district-led approach ensures that resources are distributed across the county's rural school sites.

A Fully Rural Educational Landscape

All 7 schools in Gulf County are located in rural areas, fostering a close-knit, community-driven atmosphere. Schools are moderately sized, averaging 386 students, which balances social opportunities with personalized attention. The largest campus is Port St. Joe Elementary, while the PreK ESE program offers specialized care for just 15 students.

Discover Coastal Living Near Great Schools

Families looking for a rural, coastal lifestyle will find Gulf County's schools to be a perfect match. With per-pupil spending above the state average, the county shows a clear commitment to its students. Look for homes in Port St. Joe or Wewahitchka to be near the heart of the district's best facilities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Gulf County

via RiskByCounty

Gulf County faces moderate-low risk

Gulf County's composite risk score of 59.54 sits below the national average, earning a relatively low risk rating. The coastal location brings hurricane and flood exposure, but tornado and earthquake risks remain minimal.

Below-average risk for coastal Florida

Gulf County's score of 59.54 falls notably below Florida's state average of 75.74, making it one of the safer coastal counties in the state. The Panhandle location provides some geographic buffering from peak hurricane tracks.

Safer than Panhandle peer Franklin

Gulf County's 59.54 score slightly exceeds Franklin County (46.53) while remaining well below Gadsden County (72.39), positioning it in the middle of the regional risk spectrum. Its small population and rural character contribute to the favorable profile.

Hurricanes and flood are primary threats

Hurricane risk of 93.41 is Gulf County's dominant hazard, paired with flood risk of 61.60 reflecting coastal and low-lying exposure. Wildfire risk of 74.20 adds a secondary threat, particularly in forested inland areas.

Secure comprehensive coastal insurance

Gulf residents must prioritize windstorm/hurricane coverage given the 93.41 risk score—essential for coastal and near-coastal properties. Flood insurance is strongly recommended for any property in mapped flood zones or near tidal waters.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Gulf County

via WaterByCounty

Gulf County Faces High Drinking Water Violation Rates

With 21 health violations over five years, Gulf County receives an F grade for drinking water quality. Its violation rate of 93.1 per 100,000 residents is more than double the Florida average of 43.4. These statistics point to a critical need for infrastructure investment and improved safety protocols.

Bacteria and Mercury Impact One-Third of Local Waters

About 32.1% of assessed water bodies in Gulf County are currently listed as impaired. Fecal coliform and mercury in fish tissue are among the top causes for these environmental failures. While this rate is lower than the state average of 38.8%, bacterial contamination presents a direct concern for recreational users.

Biological Monitoring Tracks Health of Coastal Systems

Researchers utilize 78 monitoring sites to keep tabs on the county's water quality. Over the last five years, 13,005 measurements were recorded, with a strong focus on algae, phytoplankton, and biological health. This monitoring helps local officials understand the impact of nutrients on the county's coastal waters.

Apalachicola River Flow Drops Significantly Below Mean

The Apalachicola River gauge near Wewahitchka reports a current flow of 11,700 cubic feet per second. This discharge is only 53% of the historical average for this location. Low flow conditions can negatively impact the balance of freshwater and saltwater in the surrounding river delta.

Enhance Household Filtration to Mitigate Health Risks

Given the very high violation rate and presence of fecal coliform in the watershed, residents should consider advanced home water filtration. It is essential to stay updated on local water quality alerts and boil water advisories. Avoid swimming in impaired waters immediately after heavy rains when bacteria levels may spike.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Gulf County

via WeatherByCounty

Coastal Humidity and High Rainfall

Gulf County’s average temperature of 67.1°F is much higher than the national median, though it is quite wet. The county receives 63.1 inches of rain annually, nearly double the national average.

A Cooler Coastal Retreat

Gulf County is one of Florida's coolest locations, with a 67.1°F average that is four degrees lower than the state mean. The coastal proximity helps moderate the extreme heat seen further inland.

The Wettest in the Region

Gulf County receives 63.1 inches of rain, significantly more than neighboring Gadsden or the state average of 54.8. It also records fewer extreme heat days than any of its immediate neighbors.

Mild Summers and Wet Winters

Summers average 79.9°F with 68 days of extreme heat, which is relatively low for Florida. Winters are steady at 53.4°F, and the county records zero inches of snowfall annually.

Focus on Moisture and Flood Control

Given the massive 63.1 inches of annual rain, homeowners must prioritize flood insurance and drainage maintenance. Outdoor plans should always include a backup for frequent coastal thunderstorms.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Gulf County

via SoilByCounty

Moderate Acidity on the Gulf Coast

Gulf County soils have an average pH of 4.59, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 4.88. This level is significantly below the national median of 6.5, characteristic of the coastal Florida panhandle. Specific taxonomic orders are not categorized, but the chemical makeup is typical for the region.

Sandy Loam Characteristics without the Silt

The soil is 78.6% sand, 6.4% silt, and 5.7% clay, providing a relatively balanced mix for Florida. This composition allows for better structural stability than counties with 90% sand. It remains easy to till while offering slightly better moisture retention than pure sand.

Solid Organic Foundation for Growth

At 7.26%, the organic matter in Gulf County is just under the state average of 8.03% but far exceeds the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is 0.110 in/in, which is slightly better than the Florida average of 0.108. This suggests a soil that can support healthy plant life with minimal intervention.

Stable Hydrology for Local Projects

Though official drainage classes are missing from the record, the 78.6% sand content suggests moderately rapid drainage. The soil avoids the extreme porosity of other counties, potentially retaining water slightly longer. This balance is helpful for both agricultural irrigation and home foundation stability.

Cultivating Success in Zone 9b

In Hardiness Zone 9b, Gulf County is a haven for blueberries, citrus, and sweet potatoes. The soil’s 7.26% organic matter gives your plants the fuel they need to thrive. If you start a garden here, you will find the 0.110 in/in water capacity provides a forgiving environment for beginners.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Gulf County

via LawnByCounty

Wet and Salty Conditions Create Struggles

Gulf County scores a 16.1 for lawn difficulty, making it one of the more challenging areas in Florida to maintain a perfect green. In Zone 9b, the proximity to the coast adds salt spray and humidity to an already difficult growing environment.

Abundant Rain Leads to Saturated Soils

Gulf receives 63.1 inches of rain per year, which is well above the 50-inch ideal and can lead to waterlogged roots and fungus. However, 68 extreme heat days provide a slightly milder summer compared to the inland Florida average of 92.

Low pH Soils Require Significant Lime

The soil is 78.6% sand and has an acidic pH of 4.59, far below the 6.0-7.0 range that most turfgrasses prefer. Adding organic matter and lime is necessary to improve the soil's foundation and support healthy grass growth.

Severe Drought Persists Despite High Rainfall

Even with high annual rain, the county is currently 100% in severe drought after 27 weeks of dry conditions last year. High-drainage sandy soils mean that even short breaks in rain can quickly lead to parched and browning turf.

Plant for High Humidity Resilience

Wait until the March 1 frost risk passes to establish moisture-loving, salt-tolerant grasses like St. Augustine. The warm 9b climate supports growth through November, providing a substantial window for lawn establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gulf County's county score?
Gulf County, Florida has a composite county score of 54.7 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 Gulf County rank among counties in Florida?
Gulf County ranks #10 among all counties in Florida 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 Gulf County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Gulf County is $1,334, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns Gulf County a tax score of 78.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Gulf County?
The median household income in Gulf County, Florida is $67,361 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Gulf County earns an income score of 59.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Gulf County, Florida a good place to live?
Gulf County scores 54.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Gulf 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 Gulf County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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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.