countyscore
61.9
County Score
Property Tax 98Safety 87.3Cost of Living 78.3

County Report Card

About Jackson County, Alabama

Jackson County beats national livability mark

Jackson County's composite score of 61.9 ranks well above the national median of 50.0, placing it in the upper third of U.S. counties by livability. Strong performance in safety and affordability drives this solid national standing.

Alabama's third-best overall county profile

Jackson County ranks third among Alabama's 67 counties with a score 9.0 points above the state average of 52.9. The county stands among Alabama's most livable communities for those balancing safety, taxes, and housing costs.

Safety and affordability are the main draws

Jackson County shines with an outstanding safety score of 87.3 and a cost score of 78.3, delivering both security and affordable housing at a median home value of $145,800 and rent of $762 per month. The county also maintains excellent tax efficiency with an effective rate of 0.308%.

Income and health outcomes fall short

The county's income score of 13.3 reflects a median household income of $49,454, well below state and national averages, limiting economic mobility and job quality. Health outcomes also lag significantly at 18.4, indicating healthcare access or quality challenges.

Ideal for safety-seeking families on modest means

Jackson County suits families and retirees prioritizing personal safety and affordable living over career advancement and healthcare amenities. Those working remotely or living on fixed incomes will find solid value, but others should verify local job availability first.

204060801009878.387.318.445.113.32135.765.7Tax98Cost78.3Safety87.3Health18.4Schools45.1Income13.3Risk21Water35.7Weather65.761.9/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Jackson County DNA

Doverall

How Jackson County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Jackson County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (98/100) but notably weak in Income (13.3/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
98+46
Cost
78.3+30.299999999999997
Safety
87.3+32.3
Health
18.4-31.6
Schools
45.1-8.899999999999999
Income
13.3-37.7
Risk
21-26
Water
35.7-22.299999999999997
Weather
65.7+9.700000000000003
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Compare mortgage rates in Jackson County

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$145,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$762/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$145,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$30,480/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $49,454/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

34.1

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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Counties with similar scores

Geneva County
Alabama
Median income: $50,951
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Madison County
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Median income: $83,528
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Faribault County
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Median income: $64,391
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Linn County
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Ralls County
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Bon Homme County
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Median income: $61,275
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Gregory County
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Median income: $52,432
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Lincoln County
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Median income: $48,593
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Nearby counties

DeKalb County
Alabama
62
Madison County
Alabama
61.9
Dade County
Georgia
63.5
Marshall County
Alabama
54.8
Franklin County
Tennessee
47.6
Marion County
Tennessee
50.5
Walker County
Georgia
55
Chattooga County
Georgia
46.3

Deep Dives

Jackson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jackson County

via TaxByCounty

Jackson County taxes rank bottom 5% nationally

Jackson County's 0.308% effective tax rate places it among America's lowest-tax jurisdictions, with a median bill of just $449. This is less than 17% of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Below average in Alabama

Jackson County's 0.308% effective rate sits below Alabama's 0.339% state average, giving residents a meaningful advantage. The median tax of $449 falls well short of the state median of $511.

Competitive regional tax landscape

Jackson County's 0.308% rate matches Houston County and undercuts Henry County (0.342%), Lawrence County (0.305%), and Lauderdale County (0.375%). Only Lamar County (0.217%) and Houston County offer lower effective rates in the region.

What $146K home costs yearly

A median Jackson County home valued at $145,800 results in an estimated annual property tax of $449. Including mortgage assessments, the total climbs to approximately $528 per year.

Verify your assessment accuracy

Jackson County homeowners often face overassessed valuations that don't reflect actual market conditions. A professional appraisal and formal appeal can confirm whether you're paying fairly or overpaying on your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jackson County

via CostByCounty

Jackson County maintains steady affordability

Jackson County's 18.5% rent-to-income ratio sits just above Alabama's average, signaling moderate housing burden relative to national stress levels. At $49,454 median income—34% below the U.S. average—residents rely on relatively modest rents ($762/month) to keep housing manageable.

Slightly above-average affordability for Alabama

Jackson County's 18.5% rent-to-income ratio hovers just above Alabama's 18.0% state mean, placing it in Alabama's middle tier. This suggests typical affordability conditions compared to state peers, neither notably stressed nor exceptionally relaxed.

Lowest rents in the comparison group

At $762 monthly, Jackson County offers the third-lowest median rent in this eight-county sample, trailing only Lamar ($548) and Hale ($723). Despite lower incomes than Henry or Lawrence Counties, Jackson's affordable rental market provides real value.

Jackson County household spending reality

Renters earning Jackson's $49,454 median income (approximately $4,121 monthly) allocate $762 to gross rent, leaving roughly $3,359 for other essentials. Homeowners pay $595 monthly on average, with median values of $145,800 providing accessible entry points.

Budget-conscious renters should compare Jackson

Jackson County delivers solid rental affordability ($762) for families earning $45,000–$55,000, though incomes here trend lower than neighboring counties. This is a smart choice for retirees and fixed-income households seeking genuine affordability without sacrificing too much.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jackson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jackson County falls well short of U.S. income

Jackson County's median household income of $49,454 trails the national median of $74,755 by 34%, reflecting persistent rural economic challenges. The $25,301 shortfall is one of the largest in its region.

Below-average earner in Alabama

Jackson County ranks in the lower half of Alabama counties, earning $4,742 less than the state average of $54,196. Only about one-third of Alabama counties earn less than Jackson residents.

Trails wealthier surrounding counties

Jackson County ($49,454) falls behind Henry County ($60,135) and Lawrence County ($60,040) by more than $10,000 per household. Proximity to better-performing neighbors suggests local economic mobility challenges.

Rent burden remains moderate but notable

Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% is manageable but slightly elevated, consuming roughly $760 monthly from median earnings. A median home value of $145,800 is attainable for first-time homebuyers with down-payment assistance.

Small steps lead to meaningful gains

Jackson County households can build wealth by automating even $25–$50 monthly transfers into low-cost index funds, leveraging decades of compounding. Explore local workforce development programs and skilled trade certifications to boost earning power over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jackson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jackson County Among the Nation's Safest

Jackson County achieves a nearly perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 275.6 per 100,000 is a fraction of the national average of 2,385.5. This data suggests an exceptionally secure lifestyle for local residents.

A Top-Tier Performer in Alabama

Jackson County's safety score of 99.6 puts it far ahead of the state average of 97.3. It maintains a crime rate that is approximately six times lower than the state average of 1,731.0. Nine different reporting agencies work together to maintain this high standard of order.

Setting the Standard for the Region

The county is significantly safer than Lawrence County, which reports a rate of 1,099.1 per 100,000 people. It also dwarfs the activity seen in Lauderdale County, where crime rates are nearly eight times higher. Jackson County is a clear standout for low crime in northern Alabama.

Violent Crime is Extremely Rare

Violent crime is nearly non-existent here, with a rate of only 34.2 per 100,000 residents. Property crime is also very low at 241.4, meaning the average person's risk of being a victim is minimal. The community operates with a high level of mutual trust and safety.

Secure Your Peace of Mind

While crime is low, maintaining good home habits prevents Jackson County from becoming a target. Simple acts like knowing your neighbors and securing your garage doors make a significant difference. Let's work together to keep these impressive numbers where they are.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Jackson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Vast Infrastructure in Jackson County

Jackson County maintains 23 public schools serving 7,616 students across two districts. This diverse system includes 10 elementary, 4 middle, 3 high schools, and 6 specialized campuses.

Surpassing National Graduation Benchmarks

A graduation rate of 93.3% puts Jackson County well ahead of the 87.0% national average. While spending is $5,918 per student, the composite school score of 52.9 exceeds the state average of 52.3.

County and City District Split

The Jackson County district serves 5,200 students, while Scottsboro City manages 2,416. There are no charter schools in the county, maintaining a focus on traditional public education across all 23 schools.

Rural Roots and Intimate Settings

With 16 rural and 7 town schools, the average school size is a manageable 363 students. Scottsboro High is the largest at 739 students, though many students attend K-12 'Other' schools like North Sand Mountain.

A Great Place for Students and Families

High graduation rates in a scenic rural setting make Jackson County a compelling place to buy a home. Start your search near Scottsboro or in the surrounding county to access these quality schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jackson County

via RiskByCounty

Jackson County moderately above national average

Jackson County scores 79.04 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating but still exceeding the national average. Northern Alabama residents face above-average natural disaster exposure compared to the typical American county.

Above-average risk for Alabama

Jackson County's 79.04 composite score sits 17.5 points above Alabama's state average of 61.54, placing it in the state's higher-risk tier. It ranks among Alabama's counties with the most significant natural disaster exposure.

High-risk pocket in north-central Alabama

Jackson County (79.04) experiences substantially higher risk than Lauderdale County (85.50) to the west and Lawrence County (69.31) to the southeast. Northern Alabama's mountainous terrain contributes to elevated earthquake risk across the region.

Earthquakes, tornadoes, and floods converge

Jackson County faces earthquake risk at 85.62, tornado risk at 92.37, and flood risk at 78.72—three serious hazards creating layered risk. Tornado and earthquake threats are particularly acute in this northern county.

Prepare for multiple disaster types

Comprehensive homeowners insurance must cover wind, hail, and flood damage, as tornadoes and flooding pose major threats. Earthquake insurance, though often overlooked, deserves serious consideration given the 85.62 risk score—discuss with your insurer about additional structural reinforcement options.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Jackson County

via WaterByCounty

Critical Violations Found in Jackson County

Jackson County receives an F grade due to 43 health violations over the last five years. The county violation rate of 44.0 per 100,000 people is more than triple the Alabama average of 14.1.

One-Quarter of Water Bodies Face Impairment

In the 2022 assessment cycle, 25.0% of the county's 44 water bodies were found to be impaired. The leading causes of these failures are E. coli, sedimentation, and mercury levels.

Aggressive Monitoring Effort Underway

There are 36 monitoring sites in the county which have generated 28,086 records in the last five years. This high volume of data tracks nutrients, metals, and physical changes in the local water supply.

Paint Rock River Running Below Average

The current discharge at the Paint Rock River near Woodville is 257 cfs, or 38% of its long-term mean. While this is lower than the historical average of 678 cfs, it is more stable than many other state rivers.

Action Recommended for Drinking Water Safety

Given the high number of health violations, residents should consider certified filtration and stay alert for utility notices. Awareness of mercury and sedimentation is also essential for those using local watersheds for recreation.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jackson County

via WeatherByCounty

Milder temperatures in the northern hills

Jackson County averages 59.5°F, making it significantly cooler than the state average and closer to the national median. This North Alabama region experiences a tempered version of the humid subtropical climate.

One of Alabama's coolest counties

Ranking as one of the state's cooler counties, its 59.5°F average sits nearly four degrees below the state norm. Elevation and latitude contribute to this milder profile compared to central Alabama.

More snow than southern peers

The county receives 58.3 inches of rain, which is slightly more than the state average. It stands out in the region for its 1.3 inches of annual snowfall, which is high for Alabama.

Manageable summers and crisp winters

Summers are manageable with a 76.8°F average and only 48 extreme heat days. Winters are colder than the state average, dropping to a 41.9°F seasonal mean.

Winterize for the highland cold

Prepare for more freezing nights than southern neighbors by insulating pipes and keeping a snow shovel handy. Efficient heating is just as important as cooling in this northern climate.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jackson County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Loam in Northern Alabama

Jackson County is characterized by Ultisols that form a productive loam texture. Its average pH of 5.26 is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.21 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median.

Perfectly Balanced Mineral Components

The soil features a balanced mix of 35.0% sand, 43.2% silt, and 21.8% clay. This loamy composition provides the ideal middle ground for easy workability and excellent nutrient retention.

Superior Water Storage Capacity

Jackson County boasts a high available water capacity of 0.159 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average of 0.138 in/in. Although organic matter is slightly low at 1.49%, the soil's ability to hold water makes it very resilient.

Well Drained and Stable

The dominant drainage class is 'well drained' with a hydrologic group rating of B. This means the soil absorbs water at a moderate rate and provides a stable, reliable surface for both agriculture and construction.

Gardening in a Cool 7b Climate

The county falls into hardiness zone 7b, supporting classic Appalachian crops like apples and hardy greens. Its soil score of 26.2 suggests a high potential for anyone looking to establish a thriving backyard plot.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jackson County

via LawnByCounty

A More Manageable Climate for Alabama Lawns

Jackson County offers a lawn difficulty score of 41.0, making it much easier to maintain than the state average of 29.5. While it still falls below the national median of 50.0, the conditions here are among the most favorable in Alabama.

Cooler Summers and Sustainable Growth Cycles

The county only sees 48 extreme heat days annually, significantly lower than the state average of 64. Combined with 58.3 inches of rain, the 4,600 growing degree days result in a more manageable mowing schedule.

Well-Drained Loam Provides a Solid Base

Lawns benefit from well-drained loam soil, a superior texture compared to the heavy clays found elsewhere. However, the pH of 5.26 is still acidic, requiring amendments to reach the 6.0 target for optimal grass health.

Resilient Landscapes with Lower Drought Stress

Jackson County experienced only 12 weeks of drought last year, though 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Maintaining a taller grass height can help shade the soil and preserve moisture during dry spells.

Transition Zone Planting Starts in April

In Hardiness Zone 7b, tall fescue or Zoysia are popular choices for a durable lawn. Wait until after the last frost on April 4 to ensure your new growth isn't stunted by a late spring chill.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jackson County's county score?
Jackson County, Alabama has a composite county score of 61.9 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 Jackson County rank among counties in Alabama?
Jackson County ranks #9 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 Jackson County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Jackson County is $449, with an effective tax rate of 0.31%. This earns Jackson County a tax score of 98/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jackson County?
The median household income in Jackson County, Alabama is $49,454 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jackson County earns an income score of 13.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jackson County, Alabama a good place to live?
Jackson County scores 61.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Jackson 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 Jackson County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.