countyscore
59.2
County Score
Safety 97.5Water Quality 86Lawn Care 69.2

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Indiana

Jefferson County Scores High Nationally

With a composite score of 59.2, Jefferson County is nearly 10 points higher than the national median of 50.0. This makes it a standout location for general livability on a national scale.

Beating the Indiana State Average

Jefferson County’s 59.2 score places it above the Indiana average of 55.9. It offers a more attractive profile than many of its immediate neighbors in southern Indiana.

Elite Safety and Low Tax Burden

The county achieves a near-perfect safety score of 97.5. This is paired with a low 0.659% effective tax rate and a strong water quality score of 86.0.

Addressing Income and School Needs

The income score of 38.9 and school score of 30.3 identify the main areas for improvement. Median household income currently sits just below $60,000, trailing more industrial counties.

Security and Clean Living Defined

Jefferson County is ideal for those who value public safety and environmental quality above all else. It is a top choice for people looking for a secure, low-tax environment in a scenic part of the state.

Score breakdown

Tax67.7Cost46.5Safety97.5Health47.5Schools30.3Income38.9Risk51.7Water86Weather65.9
🏛67.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠46.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼38.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤47.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓30.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡51.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱69.2
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Trimble County
Kentucky
63.7
Scott County
Indiana
57.3
Carroll County
Kentucky
59.7
Jennings County
Indiana
52.1
Oldham County
Kentucky
57.2
Clark County
Indiana
40.2
Switzerland County
Indiana
67.8
Henry County
Kentucky
51.7

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 taxes slightly above national median

Jefferson County's 0.659% effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.571% by roughly 90 basis points, ranking in the upper 40th percentile. At $1,191 annually on a median home of $180,600, homeowners face moderate-to-high tax burdens regionally.

Near Indiana's average tax rate

Jefferson County's 0.659% effective rate nearly matches Indiana's state average of 0.671%, placing it solidly in the middle of the pack statewide. The median tax of $1,191 aligns closely with Indiana's median of $1,199.

Mid-range taxes regionally

Jefferson County's 0.659% rate falls between Jackson County's advantageous 0.472% and Henry County's elevated 0.749%. Its $1,191 median tax exceeds Jackson and Jasper counties but trails higher-rate northern neighbors.

What you'll pay in Jefferson County

On the median home value of $180,600, Jefferson County homeowners pay approximately $1,191 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that climbs to $1,226 due to escrow requirements.

Assessment appeals remain worthwhile

Even at average tax rates, many Jefferson County homeowners carry assessments above current market values. File an appeal with your county assessor if your home's appraised value exceeds recent comparable sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson County's Housing Affordability Strain

Jefferson County residents experience a 17.3% rent-to-income ratio, among the state's tightest, paired with a median household income of $59,987 that falls nearly $15,000 short of the national median. Monthly rents of $865 consume a troubling share of household budgets here.

Jefferson's Standing in Indiana

At 17.3%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio ranks among Indiana's least affordable, exceeding the state average of 15.6% by 1.7 percentage points. The county's below-average income of $59,987 compounds the affordability challenge, making housing a significant budget strain.

Jefferson vs. Surrounding Counties

Jefferson County's 17.3% rent burden makes it one of the region's least affordable, surpassed only by Howard County at 17.6% and Jay County at 17.0%. While rents at $865 run moderate, the combination of modest housing costs and weak incomes creates persistent affordability pressure.

Jefferson County Housing Economics

Jefferson County residents earning the median $59,987 annually spend about $865 monthly on rent—a significant 17.3% of gross income. Homeowners face nearly identical $866 monthly costs on properties valued around $180,600, making ownership no easier than renting financially.

Relocating to Jefferson County?

Jefferson County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio and modest incomes signal tight household budgets for most residents, making it a challenging move unless you're relocating with above-average income or employment already secured. If you're considering Jefferson for lower housing costs, recognize that the real affordability gains vanish without stable, competitive employment.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson County below national benchmark

Jefferson County's median household income of $59,987 falls roughly $14,800 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, a 20% gap. This income shortfall places Jefferson among communities facing economic headwinds compared to national averages.

Below average across Indiana

Jefferson County's $59,987 trails Indiana's median of $68,681 by $8,694, ranking it in the lower portion of state counties. Per capita income of $32,420 also falls below the state average of $34,773, signaling limited per-person earning capacity.

Weakest in its immediate region

Jefferson County ($59,987) ranks second-lowest in this group, surpassing only Jay County ($54,114) and trailing Henry County ($60,144). Jennings County ($68,476) to the west substantially outperforms Jefferson by nearly $8,500.

Housing costs press heavily

Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% sits at the upper threshold of affordability, with renters allocating a substantial share to housing costs. Paradoxically, the median home value of $180,600 ranks high in this group, creating tension between housing costs and lower household incomes.

Start small, build momentum

Jefferson County households earning $59,987 should use employer retirement plan matching as a foundation, treating it as free money toward long-term security. Increasing automatic savings by even 1% annually compounds significantly—$25 monthly invested at 7% grows to $50,000+ over 30 years.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Minimal Reported Crime in Jefferson

Jefferson County reports a 0.0 crime rate per 100K for 2022, likely indicating a reporting delay or gap in data. This results in a technical safety score of 100.0 compared to the national average of 2,385.5.

Below the State Average Reporting

Two agencies provide data for Jefferson County, but no incidents appear in this specific dataset. This differs from the Indiana state average crime rate of 693.8, which shows more typical activity levels.

Context from Surrounding Areas

While Jefferson's data is limited, neighboring Jennings County reports a rate of 945.3 per 100K. This suggests that while Jefferson's reports are quiet, the general region still experiences typical crime levels.

Risks Not Fully Tracked

With no violent or property crimes officially recorded in this set, local risk cannot be statistically analyzed. Residents should refer to local police logs for the most current and granular safety information.

Standard Safety Practices Still Apply

A lack of data doesn't mean a lack of risk, so continue practicing standard safety protocols. Locking windows and doors is the simplest way to prevent opportunistic crimes in any neighborhood.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jefferson County

via HealthByCounty

Jefferson County's life expectancy trails nation

At 73.7 years, Jefferson County residents live approximately 5.2 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. With 20.3% reporting poor or fair health, the county exhibits chronic disease burdens that limit both lifespan and quality of life.

Below state average on all health fronts

Jefferson County's 73.7-year life expectancy falls 1.4 years short of Indiana's 75.1-year state average, while the 20.3% poor/fair health rate and 7.4% uninsured rate both approach state averages. The county ranks in the lower tier for health outcomes among these eight counties.

Moderate care access across sectors

Jefferson County's 60 primary care providers per 100K exceed Henry County and Jasper County but trail Jackson County's 67 per 100K. Mental health services at 127 per 100K are robust, providing solid psychiatric resources for residents navigating behavioral health challenges.

Decent provider access, mediocre health outcomes

With 60 primary care physicians per 100K and 127 mental health providers per 100K, Jefferson County has reasonable provider availability, yet 20.3% of residents report poor or fair health. The 7.4% uninsured rate suggests coverage is not the primary barrier—care quality, preventive culture, or socioeconomic factors may be driving worse outcomes.

Ensure coverage for all Jefferson County residents

Jefferson County's 7.4% uninsured rate means roughly 1 in 13 residents lack health insurance and struggle to afford care. Visit healthcare.gov, explore Medicaid expansion, or work with your employer benefits to secure affordable coverage and get preventive care on track.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Schooling Options in Jefferson County

Jefferson County features 10 public schools distributed among 3 districts, educating a total of 4,165 students. The county’s network includes 6 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, and 2 high schools.

Graduation Rates Exceed National Benchmark

Graduation rates currently stand at 90.5%, outperforming the national benchmark of 87%. The county invests $5,533 per pupil, which is slightly higher than the Indiana state average of $5,507.

Madison Consolidated and Charter Options

Madison Consolidated Schools is the primary district, serving 2,705 students across 6 schools. The county also offers educational diversity with one charter school, Canaan Community Academy, which represents 10% of total schools.

Rural Roots with Intimate School Sizes

Six schools are situated in rural areas while 4 are in town settings, providing a mix of environmental choices. Madison Consolidated High School is the largest campus with 847 students, but the average school size is a modest 417.

Find Diverse Educational Paths in Madison

With graduation rates that beat the national average and the inclusion of charter options, Jefferson County provides diverse educational pathways. Explore home listings in Madison to stay close to the county's largest schools and districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jefferson County

via RiskByCounty

Jefferson County moderately above average

Jefferson County scores 48.28 on the composite risk scale, slightly exceeding Indiana's 45.52 state average while remaining in the relatively low category nationally. This profile reflects concentrated tornado risk offset by lower wildfire and hurricane exposure.

Middle-to-upper risk tier statewide

Jefferson County ranks above the state median among Indiana's 92 counties for natural disaster risk, placing it in the upper-middle tier. Roughly 55% of Indiana counties present lower overall risk exposure than Jefferson.

Riskier than nearby southern counties

Jefferson County's 48.28 score exceeds neighboring Jennings County (31.90) and Clark County to the southeast, making it one of the higher-risk areas in southern Indiana. Jackson County (52.93) to the west presents marginally higher exposure.

Tornadoes the overwhelming threat

Tornado risk dominates at 82.06 in Jefferson County, among Indiana's highest and driving the county's above-average composite score. Earthquake risk (61.48) ranks moderately elevated, while flood (55.95), hurricane (20.40), and wildfire (9.41) risks remain secondary concerns.

Prioritize tornado protection coverage

Jefferson County residents must secure homeowners insurance with strong wind and hail coverage, as tornado risk (82.06) represents the dominant natural hazard. Earthquake insurance is a practical add-on given the 61.48 seismic score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Subtropical Influence in Jefferson

With an annual average of 56.0°F, Jefferson County is warmer than the national median. This region leans toward a humid subtropical influence, featuring milder winters than the northern U.S.

One of Indiana's Warmest Counties

Jefferson is significantly warmer than the 52.2°F Indiana state average. It ranks as one of the warmest counties in the entire state due to its southern location.

High Precipitation Along the Ohio River

It experiences a climate similar to Clark and Scott counties along the Ohio River corridor. The county is much wetter than its northern counterparts, receiving 48.6 inches of precipitation annually.

Hot Summers and Very Little Snow

Summers are intense with 25 days of extreme heat and a July average of 77.0°F. Conversely, winters are mild with only 12.1 inches of snow and a 35.5°F winter average.

Focus on Summer Cooling Systems

Residents need robust air conditioning systems to navigate the 25 days of extreme summer heat. Heavy winter gear is less critical here than in northern Indiana, given the light snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

The Rolling Alfisols of Jefferson County

Jefferson County's Alfisols show a pH of 5.98, which is more acidic than the state's 6.08 average. These forest-derived soils are typical of the rolling hills found in southern Indiana and the Ohio River Valley.

Silt-Dominant Loam Texture

Silt dominates at 65.9%, with very little sand at 14.4% and clay at 19.6%. This silt loam texture creates a smooth, floury soil that is fertile but can be prone to compaction if handled roughly.

Moderate Fertility and Solid Water Storage

Organic matter is relatively low at 2.07%, trailing the 4.90% state average. However, the water capacity is slightly above the state norm at 0.207 in/in, helping plants survive the hotter summers of southern Indiana.

Moderately Well Drained Upland Soils

These soils are moderately well drained and fall into hydrologic group C/D. This provides a better balance for building and farming compared to the more saturated soils found in the northern part of the state.

Mild Climates and Orchard Potential

Zone 6b offers a mild climate that pairs well with moisture-retaining silt for growing orchards and vineyards. Gardeners should focus on adding organic mulches to improve soil structure and boost nutrient levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

A Warm and Long Growing Season

Jefferson County scores a 69.2 for lawn difficulty, slightly more demanding than the Indiana average of 71.0. Its 6b hardiness zone and southern location create a distinct set of climate challenges compared to northern counties.

Handling High Heat and High Water

This county experiences 25 extreme heat days, 25% more than the state average, which can stress traditional grasses. However, the generous 48.6 inches of annual precipitation and 4,038 growing degree days support a very long and lush growing season.

Balanced Loam with Acidic Leanings

The soil pH of 5.98 is right on the edge of the ideal range, so testing is recommended to see if lime is needed. The silt loam texture is moderately well-drained, providing a stable foundation that doesn't stay too wet or too dry.

Excellent Moisture Availability

Jefferson County has only faced 5 weeks of drought in the past year, and currently has zero areas in severe drought. While 94.8% of the county is abnormally dry, the overall moisture levels remain much higher than the state average.

Extended Growth in Zone 6b

Tall Fescue is the best choice here due to its ability to handle the 25 heat days. You can begin seeding as early as April 11 and enjoy growth late into the year until the first frost on October 31.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Indiana has a composite county score of 59.2 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 Indiana?
Jefferson County ranks #43 among all counties in Indiana 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, Indiana?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $1,191, with an effective tax rate of 0.66%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 67.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Indiana is $59,987 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 38.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Indiana a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 59.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #43 in Indiana. 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.