countyscore
48.4
County Score
Water Quality 86Lawn Care 75.9Disaster Risk 73

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Iowa

Approaching National Median Benchmarks

Jefferson County earns a 48.4 composite score, placing it just shy of the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a rural lifestyle that balances environmental safety with economic challenges.

Searching for Parity with Iowa Average

The county's score of 48.4 trails the Iowa state average of 55.6 significantly. Lower income scores and higher tax rates keep the county from climbing higher in the state rankings.

Superior Resource Safety and Resilience

The county shines in water quality with a score of 86.0 and climate resilience with a risk score of 73.0. These high marks indicate a safe physical environment for residents to build a home.

Economic and Tax Burden Hurdles

Economic metrics are difficult here, with an income score of 29.9 and a tax score of 13.3. The effective tax rate of 1.487% is high considering the median household income of $56,824.

A Natural Choice for Earth-Friendly Living

Jefferson County is best for remote workers or retirees who prioritize environmental purity and low natural risk. While local wages are lower, the exceptional water and resilient landscape provide peace of mind.

Score breakdown

Tax13.3Cost41.8Safety48.6Health67.1Schools66Income29.9Risk73Water86Weather46.4
🏛13.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠41.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼29.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡48.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤67.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓66
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡73
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤46.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.9
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Jefferson County?

Many homeowners in Jefferson County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Jefferson County with Shelby County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Shelby County
Kentucky
Median income: $82,671
48.4
Worcester County
Maryland
Median income: $81,455
48.4
Washington County
Mississippi
Median income: $40,117
48.4
Marengo County
Alabama
Median income: $44,205
48.3
Logan County
Arkansas
Median income: $54,237
48.5
Marion County
Arkansas
Median income: $46,953
48.3
Trinity County
California
Median income: $53,498
48.3
Kiowa County
Colorado
Median income: $56,389
48.5

Nearby counties

Keokuk County
Iowa
58.5
Wapello County
Iowa
33.1
Henry County
Iowa
52.5
Washington County
Iowa
51.6
Van Buren County
Iowa
60.6
Davis County
Iowa
56
Louisa County
Iowa
61.3
Mahaska County
Iowa
51.4

Deep Dives

Jefferson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jefferson County

via TaxByCounty

Jefferson County: high tax burden nationally

Jefferson County's effective tax rate of 1.487% exceeds the national median, placing homeowners in a higher-tax region despite owning homes worth 43% less than the national average. The median property tax of $2,397 still falls below the national median of $2,690, reflecting the lower home values here.

Third-highest taxes in Iowa

Jefferson County ranks in the top tier of Iowa's 99 counties with an effective rate of 1.487%, well above the state average of 1.344%. The median tax bill of $2,397 significantly exceeds Iowa's state median of $2,160 by $237 annually.

Heaviest tax burden in the region

Jefferson County carries the highest effective tax rate among its peers, surpassing Jackson (1.252%), Jones (1.298%), Jasper (1.424%), and Kossuth (1.064%) counties. This makes Jefferson notably less tax-friendly than surrounding regional competitors.

What $161,200 home costs annually

On Jefferson County's median home value of $161,200, homeowners pay approximately $2,397 in annual property taxes. Whether you hold a mortgage or own outright, the tax bill remains consistent around $2,400 due to the county's uniform assessment approach.

You might be overpaying on taxes

Many Iowa homeowners are assessed above fair market value and don't realize they can appeal their assessments. If you believe your home's valuation is too high, a formal appeal could reduce your tax burden significantly—it's free to file.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson faces a national affordability challenge

Jefferson County residents dedicate 18.6% of income to rent—nearly 40% higher than the acceptable 30% affordability threshold and significantly above the national average. With a median household income of $56,824, residents earn substantially less than the national average of $74,755, creating a genuine affordability strain.

Jefferson struggles compared to Iowa peers

At 18.6%, Jefferson's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Iowa's highest, far exceeding the state average of 14.1% by 4.5 percentage points. The $881 monthly rent is above Iowa's median, but the real problem is the combination of higher rents and lower household incomes unique to this county.

Jefferson's affordability lag is clear in the region

Jefferson's 18.6% ratio significantly outpaces nearby Jackson (13.4%), Jones (12.5%), and Jasper (14.1%), making it the region's least affordable county. The $881 rent isn't dramatically higher, but the lower local income base ($56,824) creates disproportionate pressure on household budgets.

Housing costs strain Jefferson's family budgets

Renters spend $881 monthly (18.6% of the $56,824 median income), leaving limited resources for food, transportation, and healthcare. Homeowners fare somewhat better at $915 monthly, but both groups face tighter housing-cost constraints than neighboring counties with similar home values.

Relocating to Jefferson requires higher income

Jefferson County offers lower home values ($161,200) and reasonable ownership costs, making it viable for remote workers or retirees with outside income. If your job and income are mobile, consider more affordable Jackson or Jones counties—or ensure your income aligns with Jefferson's local wage levels before moving.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson lags U.S. income average

Jefferson County's median household income of $56,824 trails the national median of $74,755 by $17,931, or 24%. This gap signals economic challenges that require targeted local attention to wage growth and job quality.

Among Iowa's lower-income counties

At $56,824, Jefferson ranks well below Iowa's statewide median of $69,830—a shortfall of $12,906. The county faces greater income pressure than most Iowa communities, placing it in the lower third of the state's 99 counties.

Significantly trails surrounding counties

Jefferson's $56,824 income falls dramatically behind Jackson ($71,605), Jones ($73,071), and Jasper ($70,128), representing a 15–28% income gap versus neighbors. Only Keokuk ($60,856) and Lee ($59,803) come close, indicating a broader economic challenge in the region.

Housing costs strain budgets

Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.6% indicates housing consumes nearly one-fifth of median income—the highest burden among its peers and approaching the affordability danger zone. Combined with a $161,200 median home value, homeownership requires careful financial planning.

Prioritize income stability first

Jefferson County households should focus first on skill development and career advancement to raise earnings above the county median. Once income stabilizes, even modest monthly savings into employer retirement plans or low-cost index funds builds wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jefferson County maintains a High Safety Profile

Jefferson County reports a safety score of 98.2, reflecting a very secure environment. The total crime rate of 1153.0 per 100K is far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Jefferson County Scores Near State Average

The county's safety score of 98.2 is almost identical to the Iowa state average of 98.3. Its total crime rate of 1153.0 is only slightly higher than the state average of 1095.3.

Comparing Jefferson to Neighboring Iowa Counties

Jefferson County's crime rate of 1153.0 is much lower than nearby Lee County's 1979.6. However, it sees more reported crime than Keokuk County, which sits at 788.0 per 100K.

Property Crimes Account for Most Incidents

Property crime occurs at a rate of 950.3 per 100K, while violent crime is much lower at 202.7. This means most law enforcement activity focuses on theft and non-violent offenses.

Secure Your Property to Maintain High Safety

With property crime as the main factor, basic home security can make a big difference. Lighting up entryways and securing outbuildings helps keep Jefferson County safe for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jefferson County

via HealthByCounty

Jefferson County faces steeper health challenges

At 77.1 years, Jefferson County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 76.4 years by only a small margin, but lags Iowa's state average. The county's 17.0% poor or fair health rate approaches the national average of 18%, signaling resident health concerns that warrant attention.

Below average for Iowa's standard

Jefferson County's 77.1-year life expectancy falls 0.6 years below Iowa's 77.7-year state average, placing it in the lower half of Iowa counties. Its 17.0% poor or fair health rate is one of the highest in the state, reflecting significant self-reported health challenges.

Struggles compared to nearby counties

Jefferson County's 17.0% poor or fair health rate exceeds Jackson County's 16.3% and Jasper County's 13.8%, making it a relative health outlier. However, Jefferson County compensates with 77 primary care providers per 100K—more than double Jackson County's ratio—and 220 mental health providers per 100K.

Uninsured rate demands attention

At 7.8%, Jefferson County's uninsured rate is notably higher than Iowa's 5.7% average and higher than all neighboring counties, creating barriers to preventive care. The county does offer strong provider density with 77 primary care and 220 mental health professionals per 100K, suggesting infrastructure exists if residents can access it.

Help is available—take it

If you're among Jefferson County's uninsured residents, enrollment assistance is available. Contact your local health department or visit healthcare.gov to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or community health programs that fit your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Learning in Jefferson County

Two districts manage the county’s six public schools, providing an intimate educational environment for 2,156 students. The infrastructure consists of three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools.

Efficient Spending and High Success

The county earns a school score of 56.6, slightly above the state average. Its 92.9% graduation rate beats the national average, supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $7,722.

Fairfield Community Schools Take the Lead

The Fairfield Community School District serves 1,514 students across four schools, making it the county's primary educator. The Pekin Community School District provides additional coverage with two schools serving 642 students.

Comfortable Town and Rural Settings

Four schools are located in town centers, while two provide a rural learning experience for local families. Fairfield High School is the county's largest campus with 476 students, contributing to an overall average size of 359.

Invest in a Home Near Fairfield Schools

Jefferson County offers a balanced educational landscape with strong graduation figures and community-centric schools. Start your home search here to take advantage of these established public districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jefferson County

via RiskByCounty

Jefferson County ranks among nation's safest

Jefferson County's composite risk score of 27.07 sits well below the national average of 39.68, earning a very low risk rating. The county experiences substantially lower natural disaster exposure than most American communities.

Iowa's lowest-risk county overall

Jefferson County scores 27.07, significantly below Iowa's state average of 39.68, making it the safest county in the state. The county's very low rating reflects minimal exposure across most major hazard categories.

Safer than most surrounding counties

Jefferson County's score of 27.07 is notably lower than neighboring Jackson County (36.07) and substantially below Lee County (62.95). The county stands out as a relative haven from natural disaster risk in southeastern Iowa.

Wildfire and tornado risks merit awareness

Despite overall low risk, Jefferson County residents face wildfire risk at 54.68 and tornado risk at 54.13, the two most significant hazards. These moderate scores warrant standard precautions despite the county's favorable overall risk profile.

Standard coverage sufficient for this county

Jefferson County's low composite risk means standard homeowners insurance provides solid baseline protection for most residents. Ensure your policy covers wind and tornado damage, and maintain defensible space around your property to minimize wildfire exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

Jefferson's Warm Humid Continental Climate

Jefferson County averages 49.7°F annually, sitting below the national median but among the warmer spots in Iowa. It features a lush environment supported by 38.4 inches of rain.

Warmer and Wetter than Average

The county stays nearly two degrees warmer than the Iowa state average of 48.0°F. It also receives about two extra inches of precipitation compared to the 36.1-inch state norm.

High Heat Relative to Neighbors

Jefferson sees 24 extreme heat days per year, significantly more than the 16 days recorded in nearby Keokuk County. It remains warmer and wetter than central Iowa counties like Jasper.

Milder Winters and Toasty Summers

Winters are relatively mild for the region, averaging 25.4°F with 21.7 inches of snow. However, summers are intense, featuring 24 days where the mercury hits 90°F or higher.

Focus on Cooling and Drainage

The high number of extreme heat days makes efficient air conditioning a top priority. Homeowners should also maintain clear gutters to handle the heavy 38.4 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

Jefferson's Acidic Soil Profile

Jefferson County has an average pH of 6.18, making it significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While local classification data is limited, this acidity level often requires lime applications to optimize crop yields.

High Silt for High Retention

With a high silt content of 56.8% and 25.2% clay, these soils are heavy and retain nutrients exceptionally well. The low sand content of 18.0% means the soil is less prone to rapid leaching but can be slower to dry out.

Meeting the State Standard

The available water capacity of 0.195 in/in perfectly matches the Iowa state average. Though organic matter stands at 2.55%, the soil provides a reliable foundation for the region's diverse agricultural needs.

Moisture Management for Growers

Standardized drainage class data is unavailable for this specific area, but the high clay and silt percentages point to high water retention. Growers should monitor soil moisture closely to ensure proper aeration for root systems.

Garden Success in Zone 5b

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, Jefferson County is ideal for a variety of fruit trees and hearty vegetables. Plant some apple trees or start a berry patch to take advantage of this moisture-retentive soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

Jefferson County: A Reliable Growing Environment

Jefferson County holds a lawn difficulty score of 75.9, which is very close to the Iowa average of 77.2. It remains far easier to manage a lawn here than in the average American county. The Zone 5b hardiness rating allows for a versatile selection of cool-season turf varieties.

Managing High Heat and Higher Rainfall

Homeowners must manage 24 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly more than the state average of 16. Fortunately, 38.4 inches of annual precipitation helps offset the stress caused by the 3,143 growing degree days. Frequent mowing is necessary in the spring to keep up with rapid growth.

Slightly Acidic Soils and Clay Density

A soil pH of 6.18 provides a healthy environment for nutrient uptake, though it is on the lower end of the ideal range. The soil contains 25.2% clay and only 18.0% sand, meaning it holds water well but can be prone to compaction. Core aeration is a recommended annual task to improve root oxygen levels.

Moderate Drought Risk in Southeast Iowa

The county experienced 15 weeks of drought in the last year, and currently, 100% of the land is considered abnormally dry. While heat days are high, the lack of severe D2+ drought currently simplifies maintenance. Focus on consistent hydration during the hot July and August months to prevent summer dormancy.

Heat-Tolerant Grasses Perform Best

Given the 24 heat days, a Turf-Type Tall Fescue blend is ideal for its deep roots and heat resistance. Seeding should occur after the last frost on April 27 or before the first frost on October 12. These windows ensure the grass establishes before the temperature extremes of summer or winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Iowa has a composite county score of 48.4 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 Jefferson County rank among counties in Iowa?
Jefferson County ranks #75 among all counties in Iowa 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 Jefferson County, Iowa?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $2,397, with an effective tax rate of 1.49%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 13.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Iowa is $56,824 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 29.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Iowa a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 48.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #75 in Iowa. The best way to evaluate Jefferson 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 Jefferson 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.