countyscore
66.4
County Score
Property Tax 97.5Safety 97.5Cost of Living 86.3

County Report Card

About Hale County, Alabama

Hale County outpaces the nation

Hale County's composite score of 66.4 sits well above the national median of 50.0, placing it in the top third of U.S. counties. This strong performance reflects a county where affordability and tax burden are significant competitive advantages for residents.

Alabama's second-strongest livability profile

Among Alabama's 67 counties, Hale ranks second overall with a score 13.5 points above the state average of 52.9. The county stands out as one of the state's most livable places when measured across tax, cost, and safety dimensions.

Tax efficiency and safety shine here

Hale County excels with a tax score of 97.5 (effective rate of just 0.322%) and ties for the state's best safety rating at 97.5, making it exceptionally secure and fiscally light for property owners. Housing affordability is another major asset, with a cost score of 86.3 and median home values at $126,300—nearly $100,000 below the national median.

Income and health gaps need attention

The county's income score of 3.7 reflects a median household income of $41,325—significantly below state and national benchmarks—which limits economic opportunity for working families. Health outcomes also lag considerably, with a score of 17.2 that suggests residents face barriers to quality healthcare and wellness resources.

Ideal for retirees and budget-conscious families

Hale County suits retirees or remote workers seeking low taxes, affordable housing, and strong safety in a quieter setting. Those prioritizing good schools and access to higher-wage employment should look elsewhere.

Score breakdown

Tax97.5Cost86.3Safety97.5Health17.2Schools39.4Income3.7Risk60.9Water86Weather45.3
🏛97.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠86.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤17.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡60.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨30.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱24.4
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

Greene County
Alabama
56.6
Perry County
Alabama
67.4
Sumter County
Alabama
59.1
Marengo County
Alabama
48.3
Bibb County
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Pickens County
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Dallas County
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Tuscaloosa County
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39.7

Deep Dives

Hale County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hale County

via TaxByCounty

Hale County taxes far below US norm

With an effective tax rate of 0.322%, Hale County homeowners pay a fraction of what the national median demands. The typical home here carries a $406 annual property tax bill, while the national median is $2,690—placing Hale County in the lowest tier nationally for property tax burden.

Below average for Alabama

Hale County's 0.322% effective rate sits slightly below Alabama's state average of 0.339%, saving residents money compared to most state neighbors. The median tax bill of $406 is considerably lower than Alabama's state median of $511 per homeowner.

Among Alabama's most affordable

Hale County ranks among the lowest-tax counties in its region, nearly matching Lamar County (0.217%) while outperforming Houston County (0.300%) and Jackson County (0.308%). Only Lamar County offers meaningfully lower rates in this part of the state.

What $126K home costs annually

The median Hale County home valued at $126,300 generates an estimated annual property tax of $406. With mortgage-related assessments included, that rises to $496 per year—still among Alabama's gentlest tax burdens.

You might be overassessed

Many Hale County homeowners pay taxes on inflated property valuations and never challenge their assessments. A free appraisal review could uncover overpayment and unlock a tax appeal that reduces your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hale County

via CostByCounty

Hale County rents strain modest incomes

Renters in Hale County spend 21% of their income on housing—double the standard threshold of 10% and higher than the national average. At $723 per month, median rent is close to the national mean, but Hale's median household income of $41,325 is 45% below the U.S. average of $74,755, squeezing household budgets significantly.

Housing affordability ranks below Alabama average

Hale County's 21.0% rent-to-income ratio places it above Alabama's 18.0% state average, putting it among the less affordable Alabama counties. The combination of lower incomes and moderate rents creates deeper affordability pressure than many statewide peers.

Similar challenges to nearby rural counties

Hale County shares affordability struggles with Jackson County (18.5% rent-to-income), also strapped by lower incomes despite reasonable rents. Both counties trail more affluent neighbors like Henry County (15.4%) where higher household incomes ease housing burden.

Where Hale County paychecks go

A typical Hale County renter earning $3,444 monthly dedicates $723 to gross rent, consuming 21% of income before taxes. Homeowners fare better, with an average monthly cost of $542, reflecting modest home values averaging $126,300.

Weighing a move to Hale County

If affordability tops your list, Hale offers the lowest median rents among these eight counties, but income levels matter—this county suits earners with stable $45,000+ jobs. Compare your actual salary against the 21% rent threshold to ensure housing remains manageable.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hale County

via IncomeByCounty

Hale County lags far behind national income

Hale County's median household income of $41,325 falls 45% below the U.S. median of $74,755. This significant gap reflects economic challenges that many rural Alabama counties face compared to national averages.

Among the lowest earners statewide

Hale County ranks in the bottom tier of Alabama's 67 counties, with a median income $12,871 below the state average of $54,196. Only a handful of Alabama counties earn less than Hale's households.

Struggling compared to nearby counties

Neighboring counties like Lamar ($47,447) and Jackson ($49,454) earn $6,000–$8,000 more per household. Even Hale's closest peers outpace its income levels, underscoring local economic headwinds.

Rent remains manageable despite low wages

Hale County's rent-to-income ratio of 21% sits at the affordability ceiling, meaning renters dedicate one-fifth of earnings to housing. While homeownership at a median value of $126,300 is attainable, wage stagnation limits wealth-building capacity.

Build financial stability from the ground up

Even modest income streams benefit from disciplined saving and low-cost investing—a $50-per-month automatic transfer into a diversified fund compounds significantly over decades. Consider leveraging down-payment assistance programs to transition from renting to homeownership, turning housing costs into equity.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hale County

via CrimeByCounty

Hale County Reports Exceptional Safety Metrics

Hale County maintains a perfect safety score of 100.0, which is significantly higher than the national average. With three reporting agencies tracking data, the county records 0.0 crimes per 100,000 residents compared to the national rate of 2,385.5. This represents an extremely quiet public safety profile.

A Leader in Alabama Safety Rankings

The county's safety score far exceeds the Alabama state average of 97.3. By reporting zero crime incidents for the tracking period, Hale County positions itself as one of the most secure regions in the state. Local law enforcement maintains a high level of reporting consistency across three different agencies.

Regional Lows Compared to Neighbors

Compared to nearby Lawrence County's rate of 1,099.1, Hale County's reported crime is virtually non-existent. While larger neighbors like Jefferson County face much higher activity, Hale remains a rural sanctuary of safety. Its residents enjoy a peace of mind that is rare in the broader region.

Understanding the Complete Safety Picture

Both violent and property crime rates sit at 0.0 per 100,000 residents, suggesting an incredibly low-risk environment for all residents. In practical terms, this data reflects a community where criminal activity is rarely documented by local authorities. These numbers provide a strong foundation for community growth and investment.

Maintain Your Secure Community Environment

Even in high-safety areas, remaining aware of your surroundings helps preserve the status quo. Continue practicing standard security measures like outdoor lighting and locking entries to keep Hale County safe. Community vigilance is the best partner for local law enforcement.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hale County

via HealthByCounty

Hale County's health lags behind the nation

Hale County residents have a life expectancy of 70.0 years, nearly 6 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years. One in four residents report poor or fair health, a rate that reflects significant health challenges in the community.

Among Alabama's lowest life expectancy counties

At 70.0 years, Hale County's life expectancy trails Alabama's state average of 72.1 years. The county ranks near the bottom statewide for overall health outcomes, signaling urgent health disparities.

Fewer doctors than surrounding areas

Hale County has just 20 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—roughly a quarter of Houston County's 82 per 100K. With 47 mental health providers per 100K, the county also lags neighboring Henry County's 73 per 100K.

Healthcare access remains a daily struggle

About 11.4% of Hale County residents lack health insurance, just slightly above the state average of 11.1%. Sparse provider availability means many residents travel significant distances for primary care and mental health services.

Explore coverage options today

Even small changes in health access can improve outcomes. Visit healthcare.gov to compare insurance plans, or contact Alabama's Medicaid program to see if you qualify for coverage that works for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hale County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small, Centralized School Landscape

Hale County operates 7 public schools under a single district, serving 2,318 students. The infrastructure includes 2 elementary, 2 middle, and 3 high schools that form the heart of the local community.

High Graduation Rates Lead Performance

The county boasts a 92.0% graduation rate, significantly outperforming the 87.0% national average. While per-pupil spending of $5,883 is below the state average of $6,270, the county maintains a 52.2 composite school score.

One District Serves All Students

The Hale County district manages all 2,318 students across the county's 7 campuses. There are currently no charter schools in the area, keeping education focused within the traditional public system.

A Rural and Town Education Mix

Schools are split between 4 rural and 3 town settings with an average enrollment of 386 students. Moundville Elementary is the largest campus with 590 students, while Hale County Middle is the smallest at 269.

Put Down Roots Near High-Performing Schools

With graduation rates that exceed state benchmarks, Hale County is an excellent place to raise a family. Explore local homes to secure a place in this small but successful school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hale County

via RiskByCounty

Hale County's risk stays well below national average

Hale County scores 39.09 on the composite risk scale, earning a Very Low rating and sitting significantly below the national average. This means residents face fewer natural disaster threats than most Americans, though risk varies considerably by hazard type.

Among Alabama's safest counties

Hale County ranks as one of Alabama's lowest-risk regions with a composite score 22 points below the state average of 61.54. Only a handful of Alabama counties offer comparable natural disaster protection.

Safest in its region

Hale County's 39.09 composite risk significantly outperforms neighboring Lamar County (31.39) and nearby Henry County (42.05). Among regional peers, Hale offers above-average safety from natural hazards.

Hurricane and tornado threats lead

Hurricane risk scores 68.67 and tornado risk hits 68.23 in Hale County, making these the primary hazards to monitor. Conversely, wildfire risk remains minimal at 25.57, so evacuation planning should focus on storm preparedness rather than fire mitigation.

Secure wind and water coverage now

Homeowners in Hale County should prioritize comprehensive homeowners insurance with adequate wind and hail protection, since hurricanes and tornadoes pose the greatest threat. Adding flood insurance is wise even in low-risk areas, as storms can trigger localized flooding.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hale County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistently Warm and Moist

Hale County's 64.1°F annual average is nearly 10 degrees warmer than the national median. It receives 56.0 inches of precipitation, making it a very wet environment by national standards.

Warmer Than Most of Alabama

At 64.1°F, Hale County is warmer than the state average of 63.2°F. Interestingly, it is slightly drier than the Alabama average of 57.4 inches, though only by a small margin.

Typical West-Central Conditions

Hale's temperature is nearly the same as Greene County (63.8°F). It is significantly warmer than Fayette County to its north, which averages just 62.1°F.

Two Full Months of Heat

The county averages 75 days per year with temperatures at or above 90°F. Winter is mild with a December-February average of 48.2°F and only 0.1 inches of annual snowfall.

Manage the Summer Swelter

With 75 extreme heat days, a reliable HVAC system and shaded outdoor spaces are vital. While rain is slightly lower than the state average, 56 inches is still enough to require regular gutter maintenance.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hale County

via SoilByCounty

Hale's Acidic Silt Loam Identity

Hale County's earth consists primarily of silt loam from the Ultisols taxonomic order. With a pH of 5.47, these soils are significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, though they remain less acidic than the Alabama state average of 5.21.

A Silty, Balanced Mineral Mix

The soil profile contains 41.3% sand, 34.0% silt, and 21.0% clay. This specific blend offers moderate workability but requires careful management to prevent compaction due to the significant silt and clay fractions.

High Fertility Potential for Alabama

Organic matter stands at 1.89%, which exceeds the state average of 1.74% and nears the national 2.0% benchmark. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.139 in/in, this soil provides a strong foundation for nutrient-rich plant growth.

Managed Drainage for Heavy Clay

The county is dominated by poorly drained soils categorized under hydrologic group C/D. This indicates high runoff potential and slow water infiltration, necessitating raised beds or drainage systems for most farming and building projects.

Abundant Growth in Zone 8b

Warm winters in USDA hardiness zone 8b allow for a long growing season of heat-loving crops. With its high soil score of 30.7, Hale County is an ideal place to start a productive vegetable garden or orchard.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hale County

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming Hale County's Steep Lawn Challenges

Hale County earns a lawn difficulty score of 24.4, making it significantly tougher to maintain than the national median of 50.0. Located in Hardiness Zone 8b, homeowners struggle against conditions more demanding than the Alabama state average of 29.5.

High Heat and Heavy Rainfall Define the Season

The county faces 75 extreme heat days annually, which is 11 days more than the state average. While 56 inches of annual precipitation provides ample water, the 5,715 growing degree days demand a rigorous mowing schedule.

Managing Acidic Silt Loam and Poor Drainage

The local soil is poorly drained with a pH of 5.47, falling well below the ideal range of 6.0 to 7.0. This silt loam composition, featuring 21% clay, requires lime applications to neutralize acidity and improve nutrient uptake.

Navigating Long Periods of Moisture Stress

Lawns survived 31 weeks of drought over the past year, and currently, 100% of the county is abnormally dry. Deep, infrequent watering is essential to help grass roots reach beyond the dry surface layer.

Wait for the March Frost to Pass

Warm-season grasses like Centipede or St. Augustine thrive here once the last spring frost passes around March 18. Start your seeding or sodding in late spring to ensure establishment before the July heat peaks at 80.8°F.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hale County's county score?
Hale County, Alabama has a composite county score of 66.4 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 Hale County rank among counties in Alabama?
Hale County ranks #3 among all counties in Alabama 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 Hale County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Hale County is $406, with an effective tax rate of 0.32%. This earns Hale County a tax score of 97.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hale County?
The median household income in Hale County, Alabama is $41,325 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hale County earns an income score of 3.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hale County, Alabama a good place to live?
Hale County scores 66.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Hale 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 Hale 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.