countyscore
36.9
County Score
Property Tax 70.5Cost of Living 47.6Weather & Climate 47

County Report Card

About Jackson County, Oklahoma

Jackson County Trails the National Median

Jackson County earns a CountyScore of 36.9, placing it significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a lower overall livability ranking compared to the majority of U.S. counties. Despite its lower composite, specific economic factors like tax burden remain competitive.

Falling Below the Oklahoma Average

With a score of 36.9, Jackson County sits below the Oklahoma state average of 43.0. It ranks in the bottom half of the state's 77 counties for overall quality of life. High tax scores provide a boost, but other local factors pull the total ranking downward.

Lower Taxes Anchor Local Savings

The county's strongest performance is in its Tax Score of 70.5, supported by an effective tax rate of just 0.633%. Housing remains relatively accessible with a median home value of $145,000. These low entry costs provide a clear financial advantage for residents.

School and Water Quality Need Attention

The School Score sits at 10.1, indicating significant room for improvement in educational outcomes. Additionally, the Water Score of 4.0 and Risk Score of 14.0 highlight challenges in infrastructure and environmental resilience. These areas represent the primary hurdles for long-term growth.

Best for Budget-Focused Residents

Jackson County is best suited for individuals or families who prioritize low taxes and affordable housing above all else. Those who do not rely on the local school system will find the most value here. It offers a low-cost lifestyle in the Oklahoma plains.

Score breakdown

Tax70.5Cost47.6Safety36.5Health24.7Schools10.1Income43.7Risk14Water4Weather47
🏛70.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠47.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼43.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡36.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤24.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓10.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡14
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨32.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱35.6
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

Wilbarger County
Texas
35.2
Hardeman County
Texas
57.2
Greer County
Oklahoma
53.5
Tillman County
Oklahoma
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Harmon County
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Kiowa County
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Foard County
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Childress 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: well below national average

Jackson County's effective tax rate of 0.633% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.88%, placing it in the lower half of American counties. The median property tax here is just $918 annually—less than a third of the national median of $2,690—because homes are smaller and less expensive than the national average.

Slightly lower taxes than typical Oklahoma county

Jackson County's 0.633% effective rate ranks just below Oklahoma's state average of 0.652%, making it one of the more affordable counties in the state for property taxation. The median tax bill of $918 is slightly lower than the state median of $959, reflecting Jackson's smaller home valuations.

Competitive rates among southwestern Oklahoma peers

Jackson County's 0.633% rate falls between Kiowa County (0.573%) and Harmon County to the west, making it a moderate-tax option in the panhandle region. Compared to Kay County (0.684%) and Le Flore County (0.653%) further east, Jackson offers taxpayers a slight advantage in effective rates.

Median annual tax on Jackson County home

The typical Jackson County homeowner with a $145,000 house pays about $918 per year in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $1,501 annually when including escrow costs, while those without mortgages pay $496.

Appeal your assessment if you think it's high

Many Jackson County homeowners are assessed above market value and don't realize they can appeal. If your property feels overvalued, contact the county assessor's office about a formal reassessment—thousands of Oklahomans successfully reduce their tax burden this way each year.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jackson County

via CostByCounty

Jackson County rents vs national affordability

Jackson County residents spend 16.9% of income on rent, slightly below the national average, making it one of Oklahoma's more affordable rental markets. The median household income of $61,497 lags the national median of $74,755, but the $865 monthly rent burden remains manageable compared to higher-cost metros nationwide.

Middle of the pack in Oklahoma

Jackson County's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks it better than the state average of 17.0%, placing it among the more affordable Oklahoma counties. With median rent at $865—$51 above the state average of $814—the county maintains reasonable housing costs relative to local wages.

Jackson's housing costs in regional context

Jackson County's $865 rent sits between Kingfisher County ($915) to the north and Jefferson County ($588) to the south, reflecting moderate regional variation. Owner costs of $850/month and a median home value of $145,000 position Jackson as a middle option among its Oklahoma neighbors.

How Jackson incomes meet housing needs

Renters in Jackson County pay $865/month while homeowners spend $850/month on mortgages, both drawing from a median household income of $61,497. Together, housing consumes roughly 29–33% of household budgets when both rents and mortgages are considered, leaving room for other expenses.

Considering a move to Jackson County?

Jackson County offers below-state-average rental affordability with median incomes near $62,000 and modest owner costs around $850/month. If you're relocating from a higher-cost state or county, this region rewards work-from-home professionals and retirees seeking lower housing burdens.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jackson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jackson County earns above the national median

With a median household income of $61,497, Jackson County households earn about 18% less than the U.S. median of $74,755. This ranking places Jackson County in the middle range nationally, suggesting economic stability relative to many rural counties across America.

Top earner in Oklahoma's income rankings

Jackson County's median household income of $61,497 significantly exceeds Oklahoma's state average of $58,273, marking it among the higher-earning counties in the state. The county's per capita income of $32,371 also surpasses the state average of $30,609 by nearly 6%.

Jackson County outearns most nearby counties

Jackson County households earn $10,746 more annually than Jefferson County ($48,750) and $10,586 more than Johnston County ($50,911). Only Kingfisher County, with $70,617, edges out Jackson in the region, underscoring Jackson's solid economic position among southern Oklahoma counties.

Rent remains affordable for Jackson households

Jackson County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% falls below the standard affordability threshold of 30%, indicating housing costs are manageable relative to median income. The county's median home value of $145,000 is accessible to families earning the median income, supporting long-term wealth building through homeownership.

Build generational wealth in Jackson County

Jackson County's favorable income-to-housing ratio creates opportunity for households to invest beyond housing costs. Consider directing savings toward retirement accounts, education funds, or diversified investments to maximize the wealth-building potential of your stable local economy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jackson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jackson County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

Jackson County reports a total crime rate of 1,473.2 per 100K, significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This impressive performance earns the county a safety score of 97.7 out of 100.

Ranking High for Oklahoma Safety

The county's crime rate of 1,473.2 per 100K sits well below the Oklahoma state average of 2,647.7. Its safety score of 97.7 exceeds the state average of 95.8, indicating a more secure environment than many peer counties.

Jackson County Maintains a Local Safety Edge

Local data from 7 reporting agencies shows the county holds a strong safety position compared to regional trends. Its total crime rate remains nearly 1,200 points lower than the typical Oklahoma average.

Property Crimes Dominate Local Incident Reports

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 238.1 per 100K, which is lower than the national mark of 369.8. Property crimes make up the bulk of local activity at 1,235.1 per 100K.

Guard Your Jackson County Home Today

While crime rates are low, the property crime rate of 1,235.1 suggests that home security remains a practical investment. Residents should consider smart locks and lighting to maintain the county's high safety standing.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jackson County

via HealthByCounty

Jackson County's life expectancy edges above national average

At 73.0 years, Jackson County residents live longer than the U.S. average of 71.4 years, a meaningful health advantage. Only 22.0% report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 27.2%, suggesting a healthier population overall.

County ranks above average in Oklahoma

Jackson County's 73.0-year life expectancy exceeds Oklahoma's state average of 72.7 years, placing it in the healthier half of the state's 77 counties. The 22.0% poor/fair health rate also outperforms the state pattern.

Stronger health profile than adjacent counties

Jackson County residents enjoy longer lifespans and better self-reported health than neighboring Jefferson (71.5 years) and Kiowa (70.1 years) counties. The county also boasts 73 primary care providers per 100,000—more than double the regional average.

Insurance access supports daily health care

With a 14.1% uninsured rate—just below Oklahoma's 15.3% state average—most Jackson County residents have health coverage for routine care and emergencies. The county offers solid mental health provider access with 251 per 100,000, supporting behavioral health needs.

Check your coverage options today

If you're among the 14.1% uninsured in Jackson County, marketplace plans and Medicaid expansion may lower your costs significantly. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to explore coverage that fits your budget and health needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jackson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Comprehensive Five-District Educational Network

Jackson County supports 4,511 students across a network of 16 public schools and five distinct districts. The infrastructure includes eight elementary, three middle, and five high schools to serve the region's youth.

Jackson County Performance and Spending Benchmarks

The county's 80.0% graduation rate trails both the state average of 84.3% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. With a per-pupil expenditure of $5,775, investment remains below the Oklahoma state average of $6,520.

Altus Leads the County District Landscape

Altus is the county's primary educational provider, managing seven schools and 3,527 students. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county's borders, keeping the focus on traditional public districts.

Blending Town Centers with Rural Classrooms

Education here happens in a mix of nine rural and seven town-based settings, with an average school size of 282 students. ALTUS HS stands as the largest institution with 921 students, while smaller rural facilities provide more intimate environments.

Investing in Your Family's Educational Future

Families prioritizing school proximity will find diverse housing options near the established Altus campus or smaller rural districts. Consider how school quality and district resources align with your home-buying journey in Jackson County.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jackson County

via RiskByCounty

Jackson County faces moderate disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 86.04, Jackson County ranks as relatively moderate—significantly higher than the nation's average and well above Oklahoma's state average of 55.47. This elevated risk reflects exposure to multiple natural hazard types that residents should understand and prepare for.

Among Oklahoma's riskiest counties

Jackson County ranks among the higher-risk counties statewide, with its 86.04 composite score placing it well above the state average. The county's exposure to tornadoes and wildfires drives much of this elevated standing within Oklahoma.

Higher risk than neighboring counties

Jackson County's risk score of 86.04 substantially exceeds nearby Kiowa County (35.78) and Harmon County to the south. This makes Jackson County one of the more hazard-exposed areas in its region, warranting greater preparedness.

Tornadoes and wildfires dominate

Tornado risk peaks at 69.94—well above average—while wildfire risk reaches 65.94, making these the two primary natural hazards residents face. Flooding risk (25.10) and earthquake risk (41.92) are secondary concerns but still warrant basic preparedness.

Secure comprehensive hazard coverage now

Homeowners should prioritize tornado and wind damage coverage through standard homeowners policies, then layer wildfire and flood insurance where available. Given Jackson County's multi-hazard exposure, a conversation with an insurance agent about gaps in coverage could save thousands in recovery costs.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jackson County

via WeatherByCounty

Sun-drenched southwest Oklahoma

Jackson County is warm and dry, with a 61.9°F annual average and only 28.2 inches of rain. This puts it above the national temperature median and below the national precipitation average.

Warmer than the Oklahoma norm

Jackson is 1.5 degrees warmer than the Oklahoma state average of 60.4°F. It is also significantly drier, receiving about 9 inches less rain than the state average of 37.2 inches.

Extreme heat is the norm

Similar to neighbor Harmon County, Jackson is defined by heat, recording 100 days of temperatures at or above 90°F. It receives slightly more rain than Harmon but remains part of the dry southwest.

A century of heat days

Summers are intense, featuring a July average of 84.1°F and 100 extreme heat days. Winters are relatively mild and dry, with a 41.1°F average and just 3.4 inches of snow.

Landscaping for heat and drought

Extreme heat management is the priority here, as residents face 100 days of 90-degree weather annually. Drought-resistant landscaping is recommended to cope with the low 28.2-inch rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jackson County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Soils in Oklahoma's Cotton Belt

Jackson County features a variable soil texture with a neutral pH of 6.67. This is slightly higher than the national median of 6.5 and significantly more alkaline than the Oklahoma state average of 6.06. While taxonomic order data is limited, the soil's chemistry is well-balanced for the region.

A Gritty Mix for Better Aeration

The soil contains 43.9% sand and 18.3% clay, creating a relatively light profile that resists compaction. With silt making up 26.6% of the mix, the soil remains workable for heavy machinery. This high sand content promotes root breathability but may require more frequent watering.

Lower Organic Matter Requires Management

At 1.11%, the organic matter content is well below the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 1.72%. The available water capacity of 0.122 in/in is also lower than the state benchmark of 0.144. Growers often find that adding compost or cover crops is essential to boost productivity here.

Well-Drained Ground with Moderate Runoff

The soil is classified as well drained, which is ideal for preventing root rot in sensitive crops. However, it belongs to hydrologic group C, indicating a moderately high runoff potential when saturated. Farmers and builders should account for slow water infiltration during heavy Great Plains thunderstorms.

Warm-Season Success in Zone 7b

Jackson County sits in hardiness zone 7b, where cotton and heat-tolerant sorghum dominate the landscape. The neutral pH is perfect for a diverse home garden featuring tomatoes, peppers, and okra. Start your seeds early to take full advantage of the long, sun-drenched growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jackson County

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming Arid Conditions in Jackson County

Jackson County faces a difficult lawn maintenance landscape with a score of 35.6, well below the national median of 50.0. Homeowners in this 7b hardiness zone must navigate a climate significantly tougher than the state average of 46.1. Success requires careful species selection and proactive management.

High Heat and Limited Rainfall

The county endures 100 extreme heat days annually, far exceeding the state average of 76 days. With only 28.2 inches of annual precipitation, local lawns fall short of the 30-50 inches ideal for most turf. High thermal stress means frequent irrigation is necessary to keep grass alive during the summer peak.

Balanced Soil with Excellent Drainage

The soil pH sits at a near-perfect 6.67, aligning well with the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for nutrient uptake. This well-drained ground contains 43.9% sand and 18.3% clay, providing a stable foundation for root development. You likely won't need major pH adjustments, but consistent organic matter helps retain moisture.

Managing Severe Drought Cycles

With 77.8% of the county currently in severe drought and 34 weeks of drought over the last year, water conservation is critical. Deep, infrequent watering early in the morning reduces evaporation and encourages deeper root systems. Consider drought-tolerant cultivars to survive these persistent dry spells.

Start Growing After the April Frost

Wait until after the last spring frost on April 5 to begin seeding your lawn. Bermuda and Buffalo grass are excellent choices for this heat-heavy environment. Aim to establish your turf before the extreme 90-degree days arrive in early summer.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jackson County's county score?
Jackson County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 36.9 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 Oklahoma?
Jackson County ranks #59 among all counties in Oklahoma 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, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Jackson County is $918, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Jackson County a tax score of 70.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jackson County?
The median household income in Jackson County, Oklahoma is $61,497 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jackson County earns an income score of 43.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jackson County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Jackson County scores 36.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #59 in Oklahoma. 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.

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.