countyscore
49.1
County Score
Cost of Living 80.4Property Tax 79.9Weather & Climate 57.8

County Report Card

About Howell County, Missouri

Just Under the National Median

Howell County's composite score of 49.1 sits just below the national median of 50.0. This puts it in the 48th percentile of counties nationwide, representing a fairly average American experience. Its profile is a mix of high affordability and low environmental risk.

Reflecting the Missouri Average

With a score of 49.1, Howell County closely follows the Missouri state average of 50.3. It represents the typical Ozarks lifestyle, balancing low costs against some infrastructure challenges. It performs well in education compared to many other rural Missouri counties.

Strong Value and Solid Schools

The county excels in financial metrics with a Cost Score of 80.4 and a Tax Score of 79.9, driven by an effective tax rate of only 0.554%. Uniquely for the region, it also maintains a respectable School Score of 57.5. Renters benefit from a median gross rent of just $722 per month.

Risk and Safety Vulnerabilities

The county struggles with a Risk Score of 22.2 and a Safety Score of 21.3, indicating higher vulnerability to hazards and crime. Health infrastructure is also a weak point with a score of 23.2. Furthermore, the median household income of $49,814 is significantly below the national average.

A Haven for Frugal Families

Howell County is best for families who need their dollar to stretch further without sacrificing school quality. The very low property taxes and home values make it one of the most affordable places to own a home in the state. Prospective residents should just be mindful of the lower safety and health scores.

Score breakdown

Tax79.9Cost80.4Safety21.3Health23.2Schools57.5Income14.1Risk22.2Water43.8Weather57.8
🏛79.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼14.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡21.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤23.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡22.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧43.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.5
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 →
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Nearby counties

Fulton County
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51.4
Oregon County
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Ozark County
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Douglas County
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Deep Dives

Howell County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Howell County

via TaxByCounty

Howell County offers low-tax appeal

Howell County's 0.554% effective rate sits substantially below the national median of 0.94%, placing it in roughly the 15th percentile nationally. At a median home value of $161,000, homeowners pay just $892 annually—a third of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Below average for Missouri

Howell County's 0.554% rate runs meaningfully below Missouri's state average of 0.733%, ranking it among the state's more tax-friendly counties. The median tax of $892 falls well below the state median of $1,199 despite relatively higher home values.

Low-tax leader of its peer group

Howell's 0.554% rate is exceeded only by Hickory County's exceptional 0.472%, and substantially undercuts Iron County (0.651%), Harrison County (0.824%), and Jackson County (1.148%). This positions Howell as one of the region's most affordable counties for property taxation.

Howell County's modest tax bill

On a median home valued at $161,000, Howell County's 0.554% rate yields an annual tax of approximately $892, or roughly $74 per month. The bill remains relatively stable even with mortgage-related assessments at about $909 yearly.

Appeal your assessment if needed

Despite Howell's favorable county-wide rates, individual properties can still be overassessed relative to fair market value. If your assessed value appears inflated compared to recent comparable sales, Missouri law supports your right to file an appeal.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Howell County

via CostByCounty

Howell's rents strain modest incomes

Howell County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% sits noticeably above Missouri's state average of 15.6%, signaling affordability challenges for renters. With median household income at $49,814 and monthly rents of $722, housing costs edge toward financial strain.

Above-average rent burden statewide

At 17.4%, Howell County ranks among Missouri's less affordable counties, exceeding the state median by 1.8 percentage points. This gap reflects lower incomes paired with housing demand that outpaces regional norms.

Pricier with lower incomes

Howell County's $722 rent falls between Henry ($740) and Harrison ($666), but combined with the lowest median income in its peer group ($49,814), creates relative affordability pressure. Its $161,000 median home value suggests investment appeal despite rental strain.

Rents outpace income growth

Renters pay $722 monthly on a median household income of just $49,814, consuming 17.4% of earnings—approaching concerning levels. Owners spend $634 monthly (15.3% of income), giving homebuyers a relative advantage over renters here.

Howell favors homebuyers over renters

Relocating renters should weigh Howell's above-average rent burden against its lower home values and investment potential—buying might offer better long-term economics. If you're moving with solid income or purchasing power, Howell's stronger home appreciation prospects may justify the higher cost of living.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Howell County

via IncomeByCounty

Howell trails national income mark

Howell County's median household income of $49,814 falls 33.4% below the U.S. median of $74,755. This gap reflects economic challenges common to rural Ozark communities.

Below state average by 16.3%

At $49,814, Howell County lags Missouri's state average of $59,503, placing it in the lower half of the state's income distribution. The county faces economic headwinds relative to state-level conditions.

Mid-range within peer counties

Howell County's $49,814 income ranks fifth among these eight counties, ahead of Hickory ($35,084) and Iron ($51,161) but behind Harrison and Henry. This middle-ground position reflects mixed economic momentum.

Housing costs rise moderately

Howell County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% remains manageable, though notably higher than stronger-income counties. The median home value of $161,000 creates a heavier burden relative to local earning power.

Pursue income diversification

With per capita income of $26,493, Howell County households benefit from exploring second income streams or side ventures. Small, consistent savings in low-cost investment vehicles can grow substantially over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Howell County

via CrimeByCounty

Howell County Safety vs National Trends

Howell County has a safety score of 96.8, which is slightly below the state average. Its total crime rate of 2032.0 per 100K is lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Slightly Above Missouri's Average Crime Rate

The county's total crime rate of 2032.0 per 100K is higher than the Missouri average of 1926.2. Four reporting agencies track local safety trends for this region.

Higher Crime Than Many Rural Peers

Howell County faces more property crime challenges than some of its more rural Missouri neighbors. Residents experience a crime rate that is roughly 5% higher than the state average.

Property Crime is the Primary Concern

Property crime occurs at a rate of 1726.7 per 100K, which is the majority of local incidents. The violent crime rate remains lower than the national average at 305.3 per 100K.

Enhance Your Home's Security Profile

With property crime as the main issue, residents should focus on securing valuables and entry points. Installing alarm systems and motion lighting can significantly decrease the risk of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Howell County

via HealthByCounty

Howell County faces significant health gap

At 72.6 years, Howell County residents live 3.8 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. Nearly one in four—23.5%—report poor or fair health, a concerning rate indicating widespread wellness challenges.

Below state average in life expectancy

Howell County's 72.6-year life expectancy falls 1.7 years short of Missouri's state average of 74.3 years. The 13.0% uninsured rate also exceeds the state average of 12.5%, compounding healthcare access barriers.

Struggling despite provider availability

Howell County's 72.6-year life expectancy ranks among the lowest in the region—5.6 years below Holt County. Despite having 88 primary care providers per 100K and 260 mental health providers per 100K, underlying health disparities persist.

Provider abundance doesn't eliminate barriers

Howell County boasts strong provider networks: 88 primary care providers and 260 mental health providers per 100K. Yet with 13.0% uninsured and 23.5% reporting poor/fair health, systemic barriers to care remain significant.

Coverage is your foundation for care

Howell County's 13.0% uninsured rate shows many residents need support accessing healthcare. Visit healthcare.gov or call a local health navigator to secure coverage and begin improving your health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Howell County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large Rural Hub of Education

Howell County operates 15 public schools, serving a significant population of 5,961 students across seven districts. The system is elementary-heavy with nine primary schools, complemented by middle and high school facilities.

Outstanding Graduation Rates and School Scores

Howell County achieves a remarkable 97.0% graduation rate, far exceeding state and national benchmarks. Its composite school score of 55.5 also beats the Missouri average, reflecting strong academic results for its $6,195 per-pupil investment.

West Plains R-VII Sets the Standard

The West Plains R-VII district is the regional powerhouse, educating 2,698 students across five campuses. While the county has no charter schools, it does offer specialized education through one dedicated special education school.

Large Campuses in a Rural Landscape

Despite having 13 rural schools, the average school size is quite large at 426 students. West Plains Senior High is the county's largest campus, with 1,162 students creating a vibrant, high-school-centered community.

Join a Community of High Achievers

If you are looking for top-tier academic performance in a rural setting, Howell County is unmatched. West Plains offers the perfect blend of high-performing schools and a growing community for your next home.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Howell County

via RiskByCounty

Howell County faces above-average risk

Howell County's composite risk score of 77.77 significantly exceeds the national average, though it maintains a Relatively Low overall rating. This means your county encounters considerably more natural disaster exposure than a typical American county.

Among Missouri's higher-risk counties

At 77.77, Howell County scores 154% of Missouri's average of 50.56, ranking it in the state's upper-risk tier. Your county faces substantially more multi-hazard exposure than most Missouri communities.

Significantly riskier than Iron County

Howell County's 77.77 score exceeds Iron County (69.50) and all central Missouri neighbors by substantial margins. Your county represents one of the state's most hazard-exposed communities, particularly for earthquake and flood risks.

Earthquake and flood threats severe

Earthquake risk scores 91.06 and flood risk reaches 79.61—both critical concerns placing Howell County among Missouri's most seismically and hydrologically vulnerable areas. Tornado risk (76.62) and wildfire risk (75.45) compound the exposure, making this a multi-hazard hotspot.

Comprehensive protection essential

Howell County residents must secure robust homeowner's insurance explicitly covering earthquake, flood, and windstorm damage—standard policies often exclude these. Work with a local agent to ensure full coverage and maintain emergency supplies, an evacuation plan, and secure household items against seismic activity.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Howell County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Southern Warmth in Howell County

With an annual average of 56.3°F, Howell County is significantly warmer than the national median temperature. This region balances Ozark beauty with a climate that leans toward the warmer, humid subtropical transition zone.

Warmer and Wetter Than State Averages

Howell County exceeds the Missouri state average temperature of 54.9°F by more than a degree. Its annual precipitation of 48.5 inches far outpaces the state average of 43.8 inches, making it one of the wetter regions in Missouri.

Southern Missouri’s Temperate Climate Profile

Compared to Jasper County further west, Howell stays slightly cooler but receives more rain. It records 41 days of extreme heat, which is fewer than Jasper's 52 days, but its 7.5 inches of snow is nearly identical to its neighbors.

Extended Summer Heat and Mild Winters

Residents endure 41 days of temperatures at or above 90°F, making for a long, hot summer. Winter remains relatively mild with a 36.3°F average, and snow is infrequent with only 7.5 inches annually.

Manage Moisture and Summer Heat

Due to the high 48.5-inch annual rainfall, proper gutter maintenance and basement waterproofing are vital for local homes. High-efficiency cooling is a must for the 41 days of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Howell County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Ozark Soils in Howell

Howell County's soil is quite acidic, with an average pH of 5.72 compared to the national median of 6.5. This is lower than the Missouri state average of 6.09 and often requires lime to neutralize for most garden crops. Specific taxonomic orders and textures for the dominant soil are not recorded in the current dataset.

Silt-Rich but Clay-Light Composition

The county's soil composition features a high silt content of 60.8% and a relatively low clay content of 13.2%. Sand makes up 22.6% of the mix, providing some structural variety. This high silt percentage can make the soil feel floury when dry and slippery when wet.

High Organic Matter, Low Water Capacity

The soil contains 4.13% organic matter, which is more than double the national average and nearing the Missouri state average of 4.74%. However, the Available Water Capacity is low at 0.165 in/in, trailing the state average of 0.183 in/in. While the soil is rich in carbon, it may struggle to keep plants watered during a drought.

Navigating Subaqueous Soil Conditions

The dominant drainage class is listed as subaqueous, which identifies soils that are frequently under water or saturated. This suggests that low-lying areas in Howell County may require special drainage infrastructure for farming or building. Without specific hydrologic group data, on-site surveys are essential for any development.

Vibrant Growing in Hardiness Zone 7a

As part of Zone 7a, Howell County enjoys a warmer climate and a longer growing season than most of Missouri. Blueberries and azaleas, which love acidic soil, are perfect candidates for this environment. Take advantage of the mild winters and start your acid-loving garden this spring.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Howell County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Conditions in Zone 7a

Howell County scores 50.5 for lawn difficulty, matching the national average but falling short of Missouri’s 63.7 mark. As a zone 7a region, it faces significantly more heat and drought pressure than counties to the north.

Wet Winters and Scorching Summers

Despite high annual precipitation of 48.5 inches, lawns must survive 41 days of extreme heat above 90°F. This combination of heavy rain and high heat can lead to humidity-related turf diseases if air circulation is poor.

Acidic Soil and Drainage Concerns

A soil pH of 5.72 indicates acidic conditions that often require lime applications to support healthy grass. The subaqueous drainage and low clay content (13.2%) suggest a soil structure that may need organic matter to improve nutrient retention.

Severe Drought Impact on Turf

While 48.5 inches of rain falls annually, 30 weeks of drought over the last year have stressed local lawns. With 68.1% of the area currently in severe drought, water conservation and dormant turf management are critical right now.

Heat-Tolerant Grasses for Howell

The April 16 last frost date signals the start of the season for transition-zone grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia. These heat-loving varieties are best suited to handle the 41 days of extreme heat and the 4057 growing degree days available here.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Howell County's county score?
Howell County, Missouri has a composite county score of 49.1 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 Howell County rank among counties in Missouri?
Howell County ranks #66 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 Howell County, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Howell County is $892, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Howell County a tax score of 79.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Howell County?
The median household income in Howell County, Missouri is $49,814 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Howell County earns an income score of 14.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Howell County, Missouri a good place to live?
Howell County scores 49.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #66 in Missouri. The best way to evaluate Howell 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 Howell 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.