countyscore
53.9
County Score
Property Tax 80.8Safety 74.9Cost of Living 70.7

County Report Card

About Jackson County, Florida

Jackson leads this county cohort nationally

Jackson County's composite score of 53.8 exceeds the national median of 50.0, ranking it in the upper third of U.S. counties. This performance reflects the county's exceptional safety record and lowest-cost housing environment among these eight Florida counties.

Well above Florida's state average

Jackson County's 53.8 score surpasses Florida's 45.1 state average by 8.7 points, placing it among the state's most livable counties. This advantage makes Jackson one of Florida's better bets for affordable, safe living.

Safety, taxes, and affordability converge

Jackson County delivers the second-lowest effective tax rate at 0.549% (tax score: 80.8) and the lowest median rent at $846/month, with median home values of $113,900. Safety is exceptional with a score of 74.9, creating a genuinely secure, budget-friendly environment.

Income severely limits economic prospects

The income score of 9.9 and median household income of $47,327 are the lowest in this cohort, signaling limited earning potential and career advancement. Health outcomes also lag at 23.8, suggesting potential gaps in medical services or chronic health burden.

Ideal for security-focused, cost-conscious retirees

Jackson County is exceptionally well-suited to retirees and fixed-income households seeking maximum safety, minimal taxes, and rock-bottom living costs. Younger working families may struggle with limited income-earning opportunities in the local economy.

Score breakdown

Tax80.8Cost70.7Safety74.9Health23.8Schools36.1Income9.9Risk24.3Water46.6Weather25.4
🏛80.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠70.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼9.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡74.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤23.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡24.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧46.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤25.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨22
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱23.2
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

Seminole County
Georgia
45.5
Houston County
Alabama
53.7
Calhoun County
Florida
62.2
Washington County
Florida
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Decatur County
Georgia
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Holmes County
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Gadsden County
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Miller County
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Deep Dives

Jackson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jackson County

via TaxByCounty

Jackson County taxes rank among nation's lowest

Jackson County's 0.549% effective tax rate runs 40% below the national median of 0.92%, landing it among the most affordable property-tax counties in America. The median annual property tax of $625 represents just 23% of the national median of $2,690.

Second-lowest rate across Florida's counties

Jackson County's 0.549% rate trails only Holmes County (0.520%) in Florida, running 25% below the state average of 0.731%. Its $625 median property tax is the second-smallest in our eight-county sample.

Only Holmes beats Jackson on affordability

Jackson's 0.549% rate runs slightly higher than Holmes (0.520%) but remains dramatically lower than all others in this regional sample, from Hendry (0.801%) to Hillsborough (0.836%).

Annual tax on typical $113.9K home

A Jackson County homeowner with the median-valued property of $113,900 pays only about $625 per year in property taxes. With mortgage-related assessments, the annual bill reaches approximately $824.

Low taxes don't mean skip your appeal

Jackson County's exceptionally low tax rate makes every dollar count; even a small overassessment represents a larger percentage of your annual bill. Request a free valuation review to ensure your property's assessed value reflects its true market worth.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jackson County

via CostByCounty

Jackson County delivers rural savings

Jackson County residents spend 21.4% of income on rent, beating Florida's 22.5% average despite the county's lowest median household income of $47,327. The median rent of $846 combines with lower earnings to create genuine affordability, though household finances remain tight.

Affordable panhandle alternative

Jackson County ranks among Florida's most affordable markets with a 21.4% rent-to-income ratio and median rent of $846—31% below the state median of $1,233. For renters, the county offers rare combination of low costs and manageable rent-to-income ratios.

Competitive pricing in rural Florida

Jackson's $846 rent rivals Holmes County ($823) and beats most other rural peers, positioning it as a genuine budget option. The median home value of $113,900 sits between Holmes ($101,400) and Highlands ($177,900), offering affordable ownership without sacrificing home quality.

Ownership significantly cheaper than renting

Renters pay $846 monthly (21.4% of income) while homeowners spend just $558—a $288 monthly advantage for buyers. With median household income of only $47,327, the $288 monthly savings from ownership makes a substantial difference for household budgeting and financial security.

Jackson County targets budget-conscious seekers

If you're relocating to Florida with limited means, Jackson delivers: $846 rents and homes under $114K with $558 monthly payments. The county's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio rivals the state's best, and buying a home costs roughly $300 less monthly than renting—a meaningful advantage for working families.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jackson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jackson trails far behind US average

Jackson County's median household income of $47,327 falls $27,428 below the national median of $74,755, ranking it among America's lowest-income counties. The 37% gap reflects decades of rural economic challenges in North Florida.

Jackson among Florida's poorest

At $47,327, Jackson County's median household income runs nearly $18,200 below Florida's state average of $65,468. The county ranks in the very bottom tier of Florida's income distribution.

Jackson parallels Holmes County poverty

Jackson County's $47,327 nearly matches Holmes County's $48,236, both struggling with rural agricultural decline. Together they represent Florida's most economically distressed Panhandle region.

Housing remains affordable refuge

Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% and median home value of $113,900 provide significant housing affordability. For a $47,000-income household, local housing costs represent the county's primary economic advantage.

Wealth building starts with basics

Jackson County households at $47,300 income can build financial security through employer retirement plans and emergency savings, regardless of modest means. Small, consistent wealth-building habits compound into meaningful long-term progress.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jackson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jackson County: One of the Nation's Safest

Jackson County boasts an elite safety score of 99.1, with a total crime rate of only 597.4 per 100K. This is a fraction of the national crime rate of 2,385.5. It is objectively one of the safest rural counties in the United States.

Leading the State in Safety

The county's total crime rate of 597.4 is significantly lower than the Florida state average of 1027.9. Its safety score of 99.1 also surpasses the state average of 98.4. Twelve different agencies report these impressive figures, ensuring high data reliability.

Jackson Outperforms Its Neighbors

Compared to nearby Holmes County, which has a crime rate of 1167.5, Jackson is twice as safe. It also holds a much lower rate than Hendry County's 1220.5. Jackson County sets the regional benchmark for public safety and low crime.

Deep Dive into Local Crime Stats

Violent crime is very low at 174.0 per 100K, which is less than half the national average. Property crime is also minimal at 423.4, compared to the national average of 2,015.7. Crime here is rare, and physical safety is a defining feature of the community.

Keeping Jackson County Secure

Even with low crime rates, basic precautions like locking vehicles and homes are always recommended. Consider joining a local neighborhood watch to help maintain these excellent safety numbers. Your vigilance helps keep Jackson County a leader in Florida safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jackson County

via HealthByCounty

Jackson County life expectancy significantly below average

At 71.9 years, Jackson County residents live 7.4 years less than the U.S. average of 79.3 years. With 23.9% reporting poor or fair health—well above the national average of 18%—the county faces substantial chronic disease and health inequality challenges.

Among Florida's lowest life expectancy counties

Jackson County's 71.9-year life expectancy trails Florida's 75.8-year average by 3.9 years, ranking near the bottom statewide. Although its 11.5% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 14.4%, coverage alone doesn't address the deeper health disparities evident in the data.

Provider shortage limits care options

With only 32 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Jackson County ranks among Florida's most provider-scarce counties. The 158 mental health providers per 100K suggests some behavioral health investment, but overall medical infrastructure remains inadequate for the population's health needs.

Limited primary care despite lower uninsured rate

Jackson County's relatively low 11.5% uninsured rate masks a deeper problem: only 32 primary care doctors per 100,000 residents means coverage often doesn't translate to accessible care. Residents may hold insurance but find no nearby providers, forcing delays in preventive care and treatment.

Insurance plus navigation is essential

Having coverage matters, but in Jackson County, you'll also need help finding and reaching available providers. Contact your local health department or call 1-800-985-2550 to locate federally qualified health centers and understand transportation assistance programs that connect you to care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jackson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Vast Network of Specialized Learning

Jackson County operates 19 public schools serving 6,076 students, with a unique emphasis on alternative and specialized education. The infrastructure includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and four high schools, alongside 11 'other' specialized centers. This distribution allows the county to provide tailored support to its relatively small student population.

Strong Graduation Performance in Jackson

Jackson County reports a 91.0% graduation rate, which sits comfortably above the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 89.8%. The county invests $6,005 per pupil, just under the Florida state average of $6,118. With a school score of 51.9, Jackson maintains academic standards that slightly exceed the Florida state average of 51.5.

Direct Oversight Without Charter Schools

The Jackson School District maintains complete control over the local educational landscape, as there are no charter schools currently operating. Marianna K-8 School is the district's largest campus by far, housing 1,768 students in a comprehensive primary and middle school setting. High school students primarily attend Marianna High or multi-grade schools like Malone and Graceville.

Rural Roots and Personal Classroom Settings

Jackson County schools are located exclusively in rural (10 schools) and town (9 schools) settings, reflecting the county's geographic character. The average school size is just 380 students, allowing for intimate learning environments where individual attention is common. From the central Marianna K-8 to the smaller Sneads Elementary, the feel is community-driven and local.

Find Your Home in a Town-Centered District

For those seeking a rural lifestyle paired with a strong, high-performing school system, Jackson County offers several attractive options. The town of Marianna serves as the primary educational hub, making it a popular choice for homebuyers looking to be near the county's largest schools. Explore available listings to find a property that balances peaceful living with quality education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jackson County

via RiskByCounty

Jackson County sits near national average

Jackson County's composite risk score of 75.70 places it in the Relatively Low category, just below the typical U.S. county profile. This score reflects a rural Panhandle community with moderate natural hazard exposure relative to national norms.

Below-average risk within Florida

At 75.70, Jackson County ranks nearly even with Florida's state average of 75.74, placing it in the middle of the state's risk distribution. The county faces typical Florida hazards without the compounded exposure of coastal or tornado-prone regions.

Safer than Gadsden, riskier than Holmes

Jackson County's 75.70 places it as a moderate-risk Panhandle community, safer than some western neighbors but riskier than inland Holmes County (49.43). Its inland position provides advantages over Gulf Coast counties while still maintaining exposure to regional storm systems.

Hurricanes lead, multiple hazards significant

Hurricane risk (94.33) clearly dominates Jackson County's profile as the primary natural hazard, while tornado risk (59.45) and flood risk (60.94) present moderate secondary threats. Earthquake risk (51.40) is unusually elevated for a Florida county, reflecting the Panhandle's seismic positioning.

Prioritize wind coverage and flood insurance

Jackson County's hurricane risk (94.33) requires comprehensive wind insurance and proper roof maintenance to withstand severe storms. A separate flood policy is advisable given your 60.94 flood risk score, ensuring you're protected if heavy rains overwhelm local drainage systems.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jackson County

via WeatherByCounty

A mild climate with southern warmth

Jackson County averages 68.3°F annually, staying roughly 15 degrees above the national median. It experiences a mix of humid subtropical heat and mild continental winters.

One of Florida's cooler northern counties

At 68.3°F, Jackson is 2.8 degrees cooler than the Florida state average. Its position on the Alabama border keeps it away from the peninsula's constant heat.

Slightly warmer than its western neighbors

Jackson is warmer than Holmes County (66.9°F) and Jefferson County (67.3°F). It receives 51.1 inches of annual rain, which is slightly below the state average.

Distinctive winters and hot, triple-digit summers

The county endures 100 days of extreme heat each year despite its northern location. Winter averages are a cool 53.7°F with no recorded snowfall.

Dual-purpose climate control is essential

HVAC systems must handle 51.8°F January nights and 100 days of extreme heat. Outdoor planning should account for 51.1 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jackson County

via SoilByCounty

Jackson's Balanced Panhandle pH

The average pH here is 5.19, which is slightly higher than the state average of 4.88 but still more acidic than the national 6.5 median. This makes the soil suitable for many southern crops that tolerate mild acidity.

A More Complex Soil Mix

Jackson County soil contains 76.6% sand, 11.2% silt, and 9.2% clay. This higher concentration of silt and clay compared to other Florida counties provides much better nutrient retention and soil structure.

Lower Organic Nutrient Base

Organic matter is relatively low at 2.49%, falling far short of the state average of 8.03%. The available water capacity is 0.095 in/in, which is slightly below the state's 0.108 in/in average.

Structured but Free-Draining

While drainage class data is missing, the increased silt and clay content helps slow water movement compared to pure sand. This provides a more stable environment for farming, though supplemental water is still necessary during dry periods.

Fruit and Nut Success in 9a

Hardiness Zone 9a is famous for pecans and peaches that enjoy the Panhandle climate. Add some compost to boost the low organic matter and your garden will flourish in no time.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jackson County

via LawnByCounty

Managing North Florida's Unique Lawn Needs

Jackson County offers a lawn difficulty score of 23.2, which is more favorable than the Florida average of 19.2. As a zone 9a region, it experiences more seasonal variation than southern Florida but still falls below the national median of 50.0. Success here depends on balancing slightly better soil with the Panhandle's heat cycles.

Moderate Growth with 100 Heat Days

Jackson County sees 100 extreme heat days, which is slightly above the state average. The county receives 51.1 inches of rain annually, which is slightly less than the Florida average of 54.7. With 6,933 growing degree days, you have a solid growing window but will need to supplement water during the hottest months.

High Sand and Moderate Clay Balance

With 76.6% sand and a higher-than-average 9.2% clay content, Jackson's soil holds moisture better than many other Florida counties. However, the pH is still acidic at 5.19, well below the ideal range of 6.0 to 7.0. Liming remains a critical step to ensure your grass can actually absorb the nutrients in the soil.

Persistent Severe Drought Across Jackson

The entire county is currently experiencing severe drought, having faced 28 weeks of drought over the past year. This persistent dryness makes efficient water use a priority for every homeowner. Implementing xeriscaping elements or drought-tolerant turf can help reduce the water burden during these intense dry stretches.

The Best Window for Panhandle Lawns

Centipede grass is a standout performer in Jackson County's zone 9a, as it handles the soil and heat well. Since the last spring frost typically occurs around March 1, plan to seed or sod in early to mid-spring. This timing allows the grass to mature before the 100-day stretch of 90-degree heat begins.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jackson County's county score?
Jackson County, Florida has a composite county score of 53.9 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 Florida?
Jackson County ranks #12 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 Jackson County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Jackson County is $625, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Jackson County a tax score of 80.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jackson County?
The median household income in Jackson County, Florida is $47,327 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jackson County earns an income score of 9.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jackson County, Florida a good place to live?
Jackson County scores 53.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Florida. 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.

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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.