countyscore
57.8
County Score
Property Tax 88.6Cost of Living 84.2Disaster Risk 76.6

County Report Card

About Hickory County, Missouri

Outperforming the National Median

Hickory County earns an impressive composite score of 57.8, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the top 25% of counties nationwide for overall livability. Its success is driven by a unique combination of safety and extreme affordability.

A Missouri Standout for Value

The county significantly outperforms the Missouri state average of 50.3. It stands as one of the state's most affordable locales, particularly for those concerned about property taxes. It offers a higher quality of life than many of its more expensive neighboring counties.

Nation-Leading Tax and Cost Scores

With a Tax Score of 88.6 and a Cost Score of 84.2, Hickory County is a financial haven. The effective tax rate is a remarkably low 0.472%, and the median home value is just $123,200. Furthermore, a Risk Score of 76.6 indicates a very low threat from natural disasters.

The Income Opportunity Gap

The primary drawback is an Income Score of 1.0, reflecting a very low median household income of $35,084. Health infrastructure is also a concern, with a score of 22.6 indicating limited local medical access. Water quality scores are similarly low at 17.5.

A Paradise for Fixed-Income Retirees

This county is perfectly tailored for retirees who bring their own income and want to minimize their tax burden. With some of the lowest property taxes in the state and high safety scores, it offers a secure and inexpensive lifestyle. It is less suited for active job seekers due to the limited local economic base.

Score breakdown

Tax88.6Cost84.2Safety68.7Health22.6Schools34.1Income1Risk76.6Water17.5Weather60
🏛88.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠84.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡68.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓34.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧17.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨48.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱54.2
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

Polk County
Missouri
44.3
St. Clair County
Missouri
59.1
Dallas County
Missouri
59
Benton County
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Cedar County
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Camden County
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Henry County
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Greene County
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Deep Dives

Hickory County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hickory County

via TaxByCounty

Hickory owns Missouri's lowest rates

At 0.472%, Hickory County's effective tax rate ranks among the lowest in the nation, sitting well below the national median of 0.94% and landing in roughly the top 5th percentile. Median home values of $123,200 mean residents pay just $581 annually—78% less than the national median tax of $2,690.

Lowest taxing county in Missouri

Hickory County's 0.472% effective rate substantially undercuts Missouri's state average of 0.733%, making it the most tax-friendly county in the state. The median annual tax of $581 represents the lowest burden among Missouri's 114 counties.

Tax haven among regional peers

Hickory's 0.472% rate is dramatically lower than neighboring Howell County (0.554%), Holt County (0.773%), and Harrison County (0.824%). This county stands out as a rare tax haven in central Missouri, offering substantially lower rates than any peer.

Hickory's remarkable affordability

On a median home value of $123,200, Hickory County's ultra-low 0.472% rate produces an annual tax bill of just $581—roughly $48 per month. Even with mortgage-related assessments, the bill rises only to about $759 yearly.

Even Hickory assessments can be wrong

Despite county-wide low rates, individual property assessments in Hickory can still be inflated relative to comparable homes. If your assessment seems disproportionately high, Missouri law protects your right to appeal and request reassessment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hickory County

via CostByCounty

Hickory's affordability crisis exposed

Hickory County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.9% dramatically exceeds national affordability thresholds, signaling serious housing strain for renters. With median household income just $35,084—less than half the national average of $74,755—housing costs consume nearly a quarter of earnings here.

Missouri's most strained county

At 23.9%, Hickory County's rent burden towers above Missouri's 15.6% state average, placing it among the state's least affordable regions. This gap reflects both lower incomes and housing demand that strains local workers' budgets.

Significantly harder hit than neighbors

Hickory's 23.9% rent ratio far exceeds nearby Harrison (15.0%), Henry (15.7%), and Howell (17.4%), marking it as a distinct affordability outlier. Despite modest rents of $699, low median income creates a severe mismatch between housing costs and earnings.

Income too low for housing costs

Renters pay $699 monthly on a median household income of just $35,084, consuming 23.9% of earnings—nearly double the manageable threshold. Even owners face strain at $606 monthly (20.7% of income), leaving limited resources for other essentials.

Relocate only if jobs follow

Hickory County's severe affordability crisis means relocating here requires securing above-median income to survive housing costs comfortably. Consider this county only if your job prospects significantly exceed local median earnings—otherwise, neighboring counties offer substantially better financial breathing room.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hickory County

via IncomeByCounty

Hickory faces steepest income deficit

Hickory County's median household income of $35,084 trails the national median by 53.1%—the largest gap among these eight counties. This income challenge reflects structural economic headwinds in rural Appalachian Missouri.

Lowest income in Missouri sample

Hickory County ranks among Missouri's lowest-income counties, earning 41.0% less than the state average of $59,503. This gap signals acute economic distress requiring targeted investment and opportunity expansion.

Significantly behind all peer counties

Hickory County's $35,084 income lags every comparable county in this analysis, including Howell ($49,814) and Iron ($51,161). This isolation at the bottom of the income distribution indicates concentrated economic disadvantage.

Housing strain signals broader stress

Hickory County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.9% approaches the danger threshold of 30%, indicating housing affordability pressure. Combined with low median income, this signals households have limited financial cushion for emergencies or investment.

Prioritize stability and skill investment

With per capita income at just $21,208, Hickory County households should focus on income diversification and low-cost skill development. Accessing community college programs, grants, and employer training can unlock higher-wage pathways without debt burden.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hickory County

via CrimeByCounty

Hickory County is One of the Safest

With a safety score of 98.8, Hickory County is significantly safer than the average American community. The total crime rate of 733.5 per 100K is about 70% lower than the national average.

Exceptional Safety Within the State

Hickory County far outperforms the Missouri average safety score of 97.0. Data from the single reporting agency suggests a very quiet environment for residents.

A Quiet Rural Benchmark

At 733.5 crimes per 100K, Hickory is a regional leader in public safety. It maintains a crime rate that is less than half the Missouri state average of 1926.2.

Low Crime Across All Categories

Property crime is very low at 544.2 per 100K, while violent crime sits at 189.3. Both figures are roughly half of their respective national averages, though the single-agency data should be interpreted with caution.

Maintain Your Peace of Mind

High safety scores are best preserved through community vigilance and basic home security. Simple measures like locking doors and windows keep Hickory County's crime rates among the lowest in Missouri.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hickory County

via HealthByCounty

Hickory County faces health challenges

At 73.1 years, Hickory County residents live over 3 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Nearly a quarter—24.6%—report poor or fair health, the highest rate among these eight counties.

Below Missouri's average in life expectancy

Hickory County's 73.1-year life expectancy trails Missouri's state average of 74.3 years by 1.2 years, indicating persistent health disparities. The county's 13.2% uninsured rate also exceeds the state average of 12.5%.

Struggling compared to nearby counties

Hickory County's 73.1-year life expectancy lags Harrison County by 4 years and Holt County by 5.1 years. The shortage of primary care providers—only 12 per 100K—is among the lowest in the region.

Provider shortage limits healthcare access

Hickory County has just 12 primary care providers per 100K population, creating significant access barriers for routine care. Combined with a 13.2% uninsured rate, residents face dual challenges in securing timely, affordable healthcare.

Getting covered is your first step

With 13.2% uninsured, Hickory County residents benefit urgently from coverage. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to explore your options and connect with the care you need.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hickory County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Focused Rural Education Network

Hickory County operates 10 public schools within four school districts, providing a structured environment for 1,660 students. The landscape consists of four elementary schools, two middle schools, and four high schools.

Exceeding National Graduation Benchmarks

Hickory County earns a 90.7% graduation rate, which outperforms the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $5,918 is lower than the state average, the county maintains a competitive school score of 51.6.

Hickory Co. R-I and the Skyline System

Hickory Co. R-I is the largest district, serving 727 students through its three campuses. The county does not host any charter schools, relying entirely on its four established public districts to educate the community.

Small Schools in a Purely Rural Locale

Every school in Hickory County is classified as rural, creating a consistent educational atmosphere across the region. The average school size is 166 students, with Skyline Elementary serving as the largest campus with 306 children.

Investing in Your Child's Future Here

Hickory County offers a high graduation rate and a serene, rural setting for young families. Prospective homeowners can find great value in areas served by the Hickory Co. R-I and Weaubleau R-III districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hickory County

via RiskByCounty

Hickory County ranks among safest nationally

Hickory County's composite risk score of 23.47 places it in the Very Low category and well below the national average. Your county faces substantially fewer natural disaster threats than most American counties.

One of Missouri's lowest-risk areas

At 23.47, Hickory County scores less than 46% of Missouri's average risk of 50.56, ranking among the state's safest counties. This favorable positioning reflects below-average exposure across most major hazard types.

Among the region's safest options

Hickory County's risk profile is lower than Harrison County (29.33) and significantly safer than Henry County (52.77) in central Missouri. Your county remains well-protected compared to the broader regional risk landscape.

Wildfire and tornado awareness needed

Wildfire risk is elevated at 69.37, making it Hickory County's primary concern despite overall low composite risk. Tornado risk (46.53) and earthquake risk (42.94) are moderate secondary concerns requiring basic preparedness.

Focus on wildfire preparedness

Hickory County homeowners should prioritize wildfire insurance and defensible space maintenance, especially in forested areas. A basic emergency plan and disaster kit appropriate to wildfire and tornado threats will provide essential protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hickory County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm and Humid Environment

Hickory County features a 56.6°F annual average temperature, placing it on the warmer side of the national scale. It is characterized by high humidity and 44.4 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer than the Missouri Baseline

Hickory County stays warmer than the state average of 54.9°F by nearly two degrees. Its location in the Ozarks contributes to these slightly elevated annual temperatures.

Typical Southern Missouri Weather

Like its southern neighbors, Hickory experiences significant summer heat with 39 days over 90°F. While snowfall data is limited, the 35.3°F winter average suggests relatively mild winters.

Intense Summer Heat Peaks

July is the hottest month, averaging 78.9°F and contributing to over a month's worth of 90-degree days. Winters are short and relatively mild, with average temperatures remaining above freezing.

Prioritize Cooling and Hydration

Residents should prepare for 39 days of extreme heat with efficient cooling systems and shaded outdoor spaces. The 44.4 inches of rain necessitates good property drainage and gutter maintenance.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hickory County

via SoilByCounty

Gravelly Entisols Define the Landscape

The dominant soil in Hickory County is a gravelly silty clay classified under the Entisols order. With a pH of 5.86, these soils are notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.09. This youthful soil order often requires careful management to build up productive layers.

Silt-Rich Mix with Rockier Textures

Hickory County soil is composed of 58.4% silt and 18.8% clay, though the gravelly texture significantly influences its workability. The 19.5% sand content provides some drainage, but the high silt percentage can lead to surface crusting. This mix is common in the Ozark region and presents unique challenges for traditional tilling.

Tough Conditions for Water and Nutrients

Organic matter is low at 2.11%, trailing far behind the Missouri average of 4.74%. The Available Water Capacity is 0.172 in/in, which is below the state average of 0.183 in/in, meaning these soils dry out faster. Growers will find that these soils need frequent watering and consistent organic inputs to remain productive.

Well Drained with Slow Infiltration

The soil is classified as well drained, yet it belongs to hydrologic group C, which indicates a slow rate of water transmission. This combination means while the soil doesn't stay soggy, it doesn't absorb heavy rains quickly, leading to potential runoff. Builders should note these characteristics when planning septic systems or foundations.

Hardy Planting in Zone 6b

Hickory County sits in Hardiness Zone 6b, providing a versatile climate for fruit trees and perennial herbs. While the soil score of 48.9 is below the state average, raised beds can easily bypass the gravelly texture. Start a backyard orchard today to take advantage of the well-drained slopes.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hickory County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating High-Heat Lawn Care

Hickory County presents a challenge with a lawn difficulty score of 54.2, trailing the Missouri average by nearly 10 points. Residents in zone 6b must contend with hotter-than-average summers to keep their grass green.

Ample Rain vs. Extreme Heat

The 44.4 inches of annual precipitation provides a solid foundation, but it is tested by 39 days of heat exceeding 90°F. This heat is higher than the state average of 37 days, necessitating careful irrigation timing during July peaks.

Handling Gravelly Silty Clay Soils

The well-drained, gravelly silty clay soil allows for good water movement but has a low pH of 5.86. You will likely need to apply lime to bring the acidity closer to the 6.0-7.0 sweet spot for Missouri turf.

Surviving 31 Weeks of Drought

Lawns in Hickory County faced 31 weeks of drought over the past year, requiring high resilience from local grass types. While currently only at D0 levels, the frequent dry spells suggest investing in drought-tolerant seed blends.

Spring Launch in Early April

With the last spring frost typically occurring on April 7, you can start your lawn earlier than many northern neighbors. The 4265 growing degree days provide a long window for establishing heat-resistant grasses like zoysia or tall fescue.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hickory County's county score?
Hickory County, Missouri has a composite county score of 57.8 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 Hickory County rank among counties in Missouri?
Hickory County ranks #29 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 Hickory County, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Hickory County is $581, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Hickory County a tax score of 88.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hickory County?
The median household income in Hickory County, Missouri is $35,084 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hickory County earns an income score of 1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hickory County, Missouri a good place to live?
Hickory County scores 57.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #29 in Missouri. The best way to evaluate Hickory 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 Hickory 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.