countyscore
38.1
County Score
Water Quality 70.8Property Tax 60.8Income & Jobs 48.9

County Report Card

About Hernando County, Florida

Hernando scores below the national median

Hernando County's composite score of 38.1 falls below the national median of 50.0, though it remains ahead of several peer Florida counties. The score reflects a mixed profile: strong water quality and income, but constrained by high housing costs and safety concerns.

Below Florida's state average livability

Hernando County's 38.1 score trails Florida's state average of 45.1 by nearly 7 points, placing it in the lower half of state rankings. This gap reflects particular weaknesses in housing affordability and safety relative to the state benchmark.

Water access and income stand out

Hernando County earns an exceptional water score of 70.8 and boasts the strongest income dimension on this list, with a median household income of $63,193 and an income score of 48.9. Residents also benefit from favorable tax rates at 0.720%, the second-lowest effective tax rate among these eight counties.

Housing costs and safety limit appeal

Housing affordability is a significant constraint, with a cost score of just 25.7, median home values of $240,700, and median rent at $1,209/month—among the highest in this cohort. Safety concerns (score: 38.0) and environmental risk exposure (score: 12.0) also create friction points for families considering relocation.

Ideal for affluent retirees near water

Hernando County suits well-to-do retirees or working professionals who value water access, prefer lower tax burdens, and can absorb higher housing costs. The combination of strong income levels and environmental quality makes it appealing to those seeking a nature-oriented lifestyle without the full cost of premium coastal areas.

Score breakdown

Tax60.8Cost25.7Safety38Health36.1Schools35.1Income48.9Risk12Water70.8Weather16.6
🏛60.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠25.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼48.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡38
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤36.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓35.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡12
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧70.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤16.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨34.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱18.5
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Hernando County

Whether buying or refinancing in Hernando County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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
Compare Hernando County with Floyd County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Floyd County
Georgia
Median income: $62,540
38.1
Madison County
Illinois
Median income: $74,800
38.1
New Madrid County
Missouri
Median income: $49,237
38.1
Lenoir County
North Carolina
Median income: $44,795
38.1
Woodward County
Oklahoma
Median income: $65,060
38.1
Kings County
California
Median income: $68,750
38.2
Yolo County
California
Median income: $88,818
38
Logan County
Colorado
Median income: $55,074
38

Nearby counties

Pasco County
Florida
42.4
Sumter County
Florida
53.5
Citrus County
Florida
43.3
Hillsborough County
Florida
35.8
Marion County
Florida
35.4
Lake County
Florida
46
Pinellas County
Florida
36.3
Levy County
Florida
47.6

Deep Dives

Hernando County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hernando County

via TaxByCounty

Hernando's rate beats U.S. median comfortably

Hernando County's 0.720% effective tax rate sits about 22% below the national median of 0.92%, placing it in the lower half of taxed counties nationwide. At $1,732 median annual property tax, residents pay 35% less than the national median of $2,690.

Just below Florida's statewide average

Hernando's 0.720% rate trails Florida's 0.731% average by a slim margin, ranking it near the middle of the state's 67 counties. The county's $1,732 median tax falls short of Florida's $1,885 average.

Competitive with Southwest Florida peers

Hernando's 0.720% rate sits nearly equal to Highlands County (0.728%) and outperforms larger Hillsborough County (0.836%). It runs higher than rural Holmes (0.520%) and Jackson (0.549%), reflecting its more developed coastal character.

Typical annual tax on $240K home

A Hernando County homeowner with a $240,700 median-valued home pays approximately $1,732 per year in property taxes. With mortgage-related assessments factored in, that rises to roughly $1,919.

Appeal your assessment if unsure

One in six to seven homeowners holds an inflated property assessment, often due to outdated valuations or data errors. Hernando County residents can request a free reassessment through the Property Appraiser's office if they suspect overvaluation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hernando County

via CostByCounty

Hernando rents exceed national norms

Hernando County residents allocate 23% of their income to rent—higher than Florida's 22.5% average and pushing toward the national concern threshold of 30%. With a median household income of $63,193 and median rent of $1,209, housing costs here claim a larger share than similarly-sized nearby counties.

Mid-range affordability across Florida

Hernando's rent-to-income ratio of 23% places it slightly above Florida's state average, signaling moderate affordability strain compared to peers. The county's median rent of $1,209 sits just below the state median of $1,233, making it representative of statewide housing cost trends.

Pricier than inland, cheaper than Tampa area

Hernando's $1,209 monthly rent sits between rural Hendry County ($958) and dense Hillsborough County ($1,543), reflecting its transitional position north of Tampa. Home values similarly position Hernando at $240,700—more expensive than rural alternatives but substantially cheaper than the Hillsborough median of $333,300.

Renters bear the heavier load

Renters in Hernando dedicate $1,209 monthly (23% of income) compared to homeowners paying $943 for mortgages and costs. The median household income of $63,193 leaves renters with tighter margins than homeowners, suggesting ownership provides better long-term value in this market.

Hernando balances growth and affordability

Relocating to Hernando offers escape from Tampa's $1,543 rents while staying in an active housing market with growing amenities. Homebuyers find median values near $241K and monthly costs around $943—reasonable for the region and for those seeking suburban Florida living.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hernando County

via IncomeByCounty

Hernando nearly matches national average

Hernando County's median household income of $63,193 sits just $11,562 below the national median of $74,755, putting it closer to the middle of the national earnings distribution. The county performs better than most rural and mid-size American counties.

Hernando ranks close to state median

At $63,193, Hernando's median household income runs about $2,275 below Florida's state average of $65,468, placing it just slightly below the middle of Florida counties. The county sits near the statewide norm for household earnings.

Hernando moderately outpaces rural counties

Hernando County's $63,193 exceeds nearby Hendry ($53,044) and Highlands ($55,581) but falls short of wealthier Indian River County ($71,049). The county benefits from both retiree migration and small-business activity.

Housing costs edge toward concern

Hernando's rent-to-income ratio of 23.0% indicates housing takes up nearly a quarter of median household income, approaching the affordability threshold. With a median home value of $240,700, first-time buyers should budget carefully.

Strategic investing bridges income gaps

Hernando households at $63,000 income can use tax-advantaged accounts and diversified investments to accelerate wealth building. Starting early with retirement and investment planning helps households reach long-term financial security despite regional income variations.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hernando County

via CrimeByCounty

Hernando County's Safety Profile

Hernando County reports a total crime rate of 1421.5 per 100K, beating the national average of 2,385.5 by a wide margin. This data earns the county a high safety score of 97.8. It remains an attractive option for those prioritizing a safer-than-average living environment.

Hernando vs the Florida Average

The county's safety score of 97.8 falls slightly behind the Florida state average of 98.4. Its total crime rate of 1421.5 is higher than the state's average of 1027.9 per 100K residents. 8 different reporting agencies contribute to these 2022 statistics.

Regional Comparisons on the Coast

Hernando County sees higher crime rates than nearby Indian River, which reports 1129.3 per 100K. However, it maintains a slightly better safety profile than Hillsborough County's 1480.9 rate. The county serves as a relatively secure transition zone between rural and urban Florida.

Property and Violent Crime Analysis

Violent crime in Hernando stands at 262.9 per 100K, much lower than the national 369.8 average. Property crime is the more common concern at 1158.6, though it still sits well below the national level of 2,015.7. Most reported incidents involve non-violent property disputes or thefts.

Securing Your Hernando Home

With property crime making up the majority of reports, residents should prioritize home surveillance and alarm systems. Simple habits like locking doors and windows can deter opportunistic property crimes. Community watch programs further enhance the safety of local neighborhoods.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hernando County

via HealthByCounty

Hernando County health metrics near national norms

Hernando County's 74.4-year life expectancy sits about 5 years below the U.S. average of 79.3 years, though only 19.1% of residents report poor or fair health—below the national average of 18%. The county shows mixed performance against national benchmarks.

Slightly below state average on life expectancy

At 74.4 years, Hernando County trails Florida's 75.8-year average by 1.4 years. However, its 14.1% uninsured rate aligns nearly perfectly with the state average of 14.4%, suggesting more stable healthcare access than many Florida counties.

Strong primary care capacity

Hernando County boasts 56 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, matching or exceeding most nearby counties and well above state medians. With 102 mental health providers per 100K, the county offers robust behavioral health resources for residents.

Healthcare access supports preventive care

Hernando's 14.1% uninsured rate and 56 primary care providers per 100,000 residents create a relatively stable healthcare environment for routine checkups and preventive services. Most residents can access doctors without excessive travel, supporting early disease detection and ongoing health management.

Explore coverage for better health outcomes

Even with good baseline coverage, gaps remain—14% of Hernando residents still lack insurance. Visit Healthcare.gov or contact your local health department to review marketplace plans and see if you qualify for subsidies or Medicaid expansion benefits.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hernando County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Substantial Suburban Education Network

Hernando County operates 31 public schools, including 14 elementary, six middle, and seven high schools. A single district manages the education of 24,058 students across a mix of traditional and specialized academic facilities. This infrastructure supports a growing population with a heavy emphasis on K-8 and suburban campus models.

Hernando Exceeds State Graduation Standards

With a 92.0% graduation rate, Hernando significantly outpaces the national average of 87.0% and the Florida state average of 89.8%. The county spends $5,296 per pupil, maintaining a competitive school score of 50.9. These figures suggest that the county is effectively translating its investment into high-school completion success.

District-Led Growth with Charter Options

The Hernando School District oversees the vast majority of local education, though three charter schools now account for nearly 10% of the county's campuses. Frank W. Springstead High School is the largest traditional campus, serving 1,896 students. Other major hubs include Winding Waters K-8 and Explorer K-8, each housing over 1,600 students.

Suburban Focus with Large K-8 Campuses

The school experience here is predominantly suburban, with 22 schools located in residential neighborhoods and nine in rural areas. Large K-8 campuses like Challenger School of Science and Math define the local character, where the average school enrollment sits at 830 students. This mix offers families the continuity of long-term placement in single-campus settings from kindergarten through middle school.

Locating Homes in Hernando's Suburbs

Hernando County is an attractive destination for families seeking high graduation rates and modern suburban school environments. Many homebuyers target neighborhoods near the high-performing K-8 centers to secure long-term stability for their children’s education. Consider the variety of suburban and rural residential options when researching your next home move.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hernando County

via RiskByCounty

Hernando faces well-above-average risk

Hernando County's composite risk score of 87.98 ranks it firmly in the Relatively Moderate category, placing it in the riskier half of all U.S. counties. This score reflects a community exposed to multiple significant natural hazards across its 14-county footprint.

Upper third of Florida risk rankings

Hernando County's 87.98 score sits well above Florida's state average of 75.74, putting it among the state's higher-risk counties. This reflects the county's coastal position and vulnerability to the full spectrum of Florida's environmental threats.

Riskier than Pasco, comparable to Citrus

Hernando's 87.98 positions it as one of the more exposed counties in the Tampa Bay region, with notably higher risk than inland Pasco County. Its score aligns closely with other Gulf Coast counties facing similar hurricane and storm surge vulnerabilities.

Hurricanes and tornadoes rank as top threats

Hurricane risk (96.08) and tornado risk (91.83) dominate Hernando's hazard profile, both exceeding the 85th percentile. Flood risk (85.59) and wildfire risk (88.01) round out a multi-dimensional threat environment that demands comprehensive preparation.

Bundle wind, flood, and tornado coverage

With all major hazard risks between 85 and 96, you need comprehensive coverage: wind insurance for hurricanes, a separate flood policy (standard homeowner policies exclude it), and documentation for tornado damage. Consider wind-resistant upgrades like impact-resistant windows and reinforced roof attachments, especially critical given your 91.83 tornado risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hernando County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Central Coast Weather Patterns

Hernando County averages 71.8°F annually, which is much higher than the median temperature across the U.S. It receives 51.9 inches of rain, making it a humid and lush environment.

A Representative Florida Climate

Hernando’s 71.8°F average temperature closely mirrors the Florida state average of 71.1°F. It represents the transition point between the cooler north and the tropical south.

Milder Than the Inland Interior

Hernando is slightly cooler than neighboring Hardee County and experiences 17 fewer days of extreme heat. It is also drier than the state average, receiving 51.9 inches of rain.

One Hundred Days of Sun

Summer temperatures average 81.6°F, including exactly 100 days of extreme heat at or above 90°F. Winters are mild and pleasant, averaging 60.8°F with no recorded snowfall.

Sun Protection and HVAC Maintenance

Plan for 100 days of extreme heat by installing window tints or solar screens to reduce cooling costs. With 51.9 inches of rain, maintaining proper yard drainage is important for the summer storm season.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hernando County

via SoilByCounty

Moderately Acidic Coastal Soils

Hernando County soil has an average pH of 5.23, which is less acidic than the state average of 4.88. However, it still falls well below the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime for sensitive garden plants.

Coarse Texture and Rapid Drainage

The soil is 81.5% sand with balanced levels of silt (5.3%) and clay (5.4%). This creates a porous profile that is easy to till but offers minimal natural resistance to water movement.

Moderate Fertility and Water Storage

Organic matter measures 7.48%, sitting just below the Florida state average of 8.03%. The available water capacity of 0.100 in/in is slightly lower than the state average, meaning the soil dries out relatively quickly.

Well-Drained for Building and Farming

While specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the high sand content ensures that water rarely pools on the surface. This makes the land excellent for construction but requires careful moisture management for crops.

Abundant Sunshine in Zone 9b

Located in Hardiness Zone 9b, this county is ideal for growing peppers, tomatoes, and blueberries. With a bit of extra irrigation to compensate for the sandy texture, your garden will thrive.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hernando County

via LawnByCounty

Hernando's Uphill Battle for Green Grass

Hernando County earns a lawn difficulty score of 18.5, placing it slightly below the Florida state average of 19.2. This hardiness zone 9b region is significantly tougher than the national median of 50.0. Local growers face a unique mix of sandy soils and intense heat that requires specialized care.

High Heat and Heavy Rain Cycles

The county experiences 100 extreme heat days annually, which is higher than the state average of 92. While 51.9 inches of annual precipitation provides a good baseline for growth, the 8,033 growing degree days mean grass stays active for most of the year. Mowing schedules must remain frequent to keep up with the fast-growing tropical climate.

Sandy Soils Require Frequent Feeding

Soil here is dominated by sand at 81.5%, which causes water and nutrients to drain away rapidly. The pH level of 5.23 is quite acidic, sitting well below the 6.0–7.0 sweet spot for healthy turf. Lawns in Hernando typically need regular lime treatments and slow-release fertilizers to compensate for the poor soil structure.

Managing Water During Severe Dry Spells

Hernando has endured 40 weeks of drought over the last year, with 88.3% of the county currently in a severe drought stage. These conditions put immense stress on lawns, often triggering dormant periods or brown patches. To maintain resilience, focus on watering deeply once or twice a week rather than light daily sprinkling.

Best Turf for the Nature Coast

Bahia and Zoysia grasses are excellent choices for Hernando's 9b climate due to their relative drought tolerance. Because the last spring frost usually passes by February 5, homeowners can begin sodding or seeding early in the season. Establishing roots in early spring ensures the lawn is ready for the intense 100-day heat stretch.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hernando County's county score?
Hernando County, Florida has a composite county score of 38.1 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 Hernando County rank among counties in Florida?
Hernando County ranks #47 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 Hernando County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Hernando County is $1,732, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Hernando County a tax score of 60.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hernando County?
The median household income in Hernando County, Florida is $63,193 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hernando County earns an income score of 48.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hernando County, Florida a good place to live?
Hernando County scores 38.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Hernando 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 Hernando 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.