countyscore
40.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 84.4Soil Quality 68.4Lawn Care 62.9

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Missouri

Steady Growth but Below National Median

Jefferson County posts a composite score of 40.4, placing it behind the national median score of 50.0. While it performs well in specific areas, it sits in the lower half of the national ranking for overall livability.

Trailing the Missouri Average

With a 40.4 composite score, the county sits roughly ten points below the Missouri state average of 50.3. It struggles to compete with higher-ranked peer counties on composite metrics.

A Hub for High-Income Households

The county shines with an income score of 84.4, driven by a median household income of $80,522. Residents also benefit from moderate health outcomes, indicated by a score of 52.5.

High Environmental Risk and Affordability Concerns

Environmental vulnerability is a weakness, as shown by a low risk score of 9.5. Additionally, the cost score of 25.6 suggests that housing is less affordable compared to many Missouri neighbors.

Ideal for Established Professionals

This county is a great fit for high-earning professionals who value a stable income base and solid health services. Families should weigh these gains against the higher median home value of $218,800.

2040608010049.925.63252.538.284.49.550.557.3Tax49.9Cost25.6Safety32Health52.5Schools38.2Income84.4Risk9.5Water50.5Weather57.340.4/100
This county
National avg
1 above average4 below average

Jefferson County DNA

Foverall

How Jefferson County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Jefferson County falls below the national average in most categories. The biggest gap is in Disaster Risk (9.5/100), though Income (84.4/100) remains a relative bright spot.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
49.9
Cost
25.6-22.4
Safety
32-23
Health
52.5
Schools
38.2-15.799999999999997
Income
84.4+33.400000000000006
Risk
9.5-37.5
Water
50.5
Weather
57.3
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$218,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$972/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$218,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$38,880/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $80,522/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

14.0

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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Nearby counties

Monroe County
Illinois
58.5
Washington County
Missouri
51.4
St. Louis County
Missouri
36.6
Ste. Genevieve County
Missouri
54
St. Louis city
Missouri
26.2
St. Clair County
Illinois
41.3
St. Francois County
Missouri
37.2
Franklin County
Missouri
42.5

Deep Dives

Jefferson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jefferson County

via TaxByCounty

Jefferson County has higher taxes than most

At 0.839%, Jefferson County's effective tax rate ranks in the upper tier nationally, exceeding Missouri's average of 0.733% and pushing well above the national median of 0.935%. The median annual property tax here is $1,835 on a median home valued at $218,800—still well below the national median property tax of $2,690.

Jefferson ranks among Missouri's highest-tax counties

Jefferson County's 0.839% effective rate places it in the upper quartile of Missouri's 115 counties, making it one of the pricier places to own property in the state. The median tax of $1,835 is 53% higher than Missouri's median of $1,199, reflecting both higher home values and higher tax rates.

Jefferson taxes significantly higher than peers

Jefferson County's 0.839% rate substantially exceeds most regional neighbors: Lafayette County (0.766%), Jasper County (0.739%), and Lawrence County (0.606%). Among the eight-county region, only Knox County at 0.802% comes close, though Jefferson's higher home values mean higher absolute tax bills.

A $218,800 home costs about $1,835 yearly

The median Jefferson County homeowner pays approximately $1,835 annually in property taxes on a typical home. With mortgage escrow, that rises to $1,953; without a mortgage, the bill drops to $1,586.

Appeal your assessment if it feels too high

Many property owners in high-tax counties like Jefferson are overassessed relative to actual market value. If your tax burden seems disproportionate to your home's worth, a formal appeal to the county assessor could result in meaningful tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson County beats national affordability

With a rent-to-income ratio of 14.5%, Jefferson County renters spend less on housing than the national average of 18.3%, signaling strong affordability relative to income. Median household income of $80,522 also outpaces the nation by $5,767, providing a financial cushion many counties lack.

One of Missouri's most affordable counties

Jefferson County ranks among Missouri's most balanced housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio below the state average of 15.6%. Its $972 median rent aligns with state patterns, but higher incomes make the burden lighter than in most peer counties.

Premium housing, premium income advantage

Jefferson County's median rent of $972 is higher than neighboring Laclede ($796) and Lawrence ($785), but its $80,522 median income is substantially stronger. This income advantage explains why Jefferson residents report better affordability despite paying more in absolute rent dollars.

Housing costs are manageable here

Renters spend $972 monthly while homeowners average $1,168—both reasonable shares of a $80,522 median household income. Housing accounts for roughly 14–17% of pre-tax income, positioning Jefferson as one of the more comfortable counties in the region.

Jefferson offers suburban balance

If you value proximity to Saint Louis metro employment with stronger affordability than the urban core, Jefferson County delivers solid housing value for higher incomes. Your purchasing power here supports both rental and ownership without stretching your budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson outearns the nation

Jefferson County's median household income of $80,522 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $5,767 annually. This positions Jefferson above the U.S. average, placing households in the upper-middle income tier nationally.

Top earner in Missouri

Jefferson County leads Missouri with a median household income of $80,522, more than $21,000 above the state average of $59,503. This commanding advantage makes Jefferson the state's income leader among counties surveyed.

Jefferson dominates regional earnings

Jefferson's $80,522 median income significantly outpaces nearby Lafayette County ($79,091) and dwarfs rural neighbors like Johnson County ($67,123). This economic strength reflects Jefferson's role as a prosperous suburban and professional hub in the St. Louis metro area.

Housing costs are very manageable

Jefferson's rent-to-income ratio of 14.5% ranks well below the national standard of 18%, indicating strong housing affordability. With median home values at $218,800, residents enjoy both affordable rent and reasonable homeownership costs relative to their incomes.

Maximize wealth-building opportunities

Jefferson households have the income stability to maximize retirement contributions, diversify investments, and explore wealth-building strategies like home equity and portfolio growth. With above-average earnings and manageable housing costs, Jefferson residents are well-positioned to build substantial long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jefferson County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

Jefferson County earns a high safety score of 97.5, reflecting a total crime rate of 1601.4 per 100,000. This rate remains well below the national total crime average of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in Missouri Safety

With a safety score of 97.5, Jefferson County exceeds the Missouri state average of 97.0. Thirteen reporting agencies contribute to this data, ensuring a reliable picture of the county's public safety landscape.

Consistent Safety Across the Region

Jefferson County maintains a total crime rate of 1601.4, which is significantly lower than more urban areas in the St. Louis metro. It offers a more secure environment than many of its immediate regional neighbors.

Low Violent and Property Crime Rates

The violent crime rate of 284.6 and property crime rate of 1316.8 both fall below national averages. These numbers indicate that local residents experience fewer crimes against both persons and property.

Maintain Your Peace of Mind

Even with high safety scores, residents should remain vigilant and secure their entry points. Regular community awareness and home alarm systems help maintain the county's low crime trajectory.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive School Infrastructure in Jefferson County

Jefferson County supports 34,779 students through a massive network of 68 public schools. The infrastructure includes 31 elementary schools and 14 high schools distributed across 12 unique school districts. This extensive system makes it one of the largest educational landscapes in the St. Louis metropolitan fringe.

Competitive Academic Scores and Efficient Spending

The county boasts a 91.4% graduation rate, which beats both the national average of 87% and the Missouri state average. Schools operate with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,048, sitting close to the state average but well below the national mark of $13,000. A composite school score of 52.2 reflects academic performance that aligns closely with the state average of 52.8.

Fox C-6 and Northwest R-I Anchor the Region

Fox C-6 is the county's largest district, serving 10,707 students across 18 separate schools. Northwest R-I also maintains a significant presence with 5,969 students. While traditional districts dominate and no charter schools exist, the Grandview R-II district hosts the Missouri Virtual Academy, which serves 1,738 students statewide.

Suburban Focus with Large High School Campuses

With 39 schools located in suburban locales, the county has a distinct commuter-belt feel. Northwest High and Seckman Senior High are the largest schools, each enrolling over 1,790 students. The average school size is 527 students, offering a balance of high-capacity secondary schools and community-focused primary buildings.

Education as a Priority for Local Homebuyers

Homebuyers in Jefferson County often prioritize the highly-rated Fox and Northwest districts for their comprehensive secondary programs. As you explore the market, evaluate how the school score of 52.2 compares to neighboring counties to find the right fit for your family. Proximity to these larger suburban campuses remains a key factor in local property demand.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jefferson County

via RiskByCounty

Jefferson faces above-average U.S. risk

Jefferson County's composite risk score of 90.52 places it in the upper tier nationally, with a Relatively Moderate rating. This score reflects exposure to multiple significant hazards that exceed typical American county risk profiles.

Missouri's highest-risk county

Jefferson County leads Missouri with a composite score of 90.52, nearly 40 points above the state average of 50.56. The county faces the state's most concentrated natural disaster exposure.

Substantially riskier than peers

Jefferson's 90.52 score far exceeds neighboring Johnson County (54.93) and Lafayette County (52.51). The county's risk level is notably higher than most other areas in central Missouri.

Earthquakes, floods, and tornadoes converge

Jefferson experiences high earthquake risk (93.42), flood risk (91.38), and tornado risk (95.10)—among Missouri's highest levels across all three hazards. This triple threat makes it one of the state's most hazard-exposed counties.

Layer multiple insurance protections

Jefferson homeowners must secure flood insurance and verify tornado coverage immediately, given the county's extreme exposure to both hazards. Consider earthquake insurance as well; ask your agent about bundle discounts for comprehensive multi-hazard protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Jefferson County

via WaterByCounty

Jefferson County Receives a D Grade

Jefferson County recorded 28 health violations over the last five years, translating to a rate of 15.5 per 100,000 residents. While this rate is lower than the Missouri average of 81.5, the frequency of violations earns the county a D grade. Residents should pay close attention to annual consumer confidence reports from their local utilities.

Watershed Impairment Data Currently Unavailable

Federal §303(d) assessments have not yet been completed for the water bodies in Jefferson County. This lack of data means the county currently has no official impaired percentage reported for the current cycle. Acknowledging this gap is essential for future conservation planning.

Moderate Monitoring Presence Across 16 Sites

The county utilizes 16 monitoring sites that have recorded 4,825 measurements over the past five years. Technicians focus heavily on nutrients, physical properties, and metals. These readings provide a critical baseline for detecting changes in local water chemistry.

Big River Flow Running at 68%

The Big River at Byrnesville currently shows a discharge of 601 cfs, representing 68% of its long-term average flow. This gauge monitors a 917 square mile drainage area that is vital to the local ecosystem. Current flows are moderately lower than historical norms for this time of year.

Focus on Filtration and Testing

Because the county holds a D grade for drinking water compliance, residents may want to consider home filtration systems for an extra layer of safety. The Big River's below-average flow also suggests a need for vigilance regarding nutrient runoff. Monitoring local water alerts is a practical step for all households.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Temperatures in Jefferson County

Jefferson County maintains a 55.7°F annual average temperature, placing it slightly above the national median. It enjoys a temperate climate with a generous 44.1 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer Than the Missouri Average

At 55.7°F, Jefferson County is nearly a degree warmer than the Missouri state average of 54.9°F. Its precipitation levels are essentially on par with the state average of 43.8 inches.

A Warm Corridor South of St. Louis

Jefferson County is warmer than Jackson County by 1.5 degrees on average. It experiences 38 days of extreme heat, which is higher than the 33 days recorded in the Kansas City area.

Consistent Rainfall and Humid Summers

The county averages 38 days above 90°F, with July temperatures averaging a warm 77.8°F. Winter brings a modest 9.1 inches of snow and an average temperature of 34.4°F.

Plan for Humidity and Summer Spikes

Residents should prepare for humid summers by ensuring dehumidifiers and AC units are in top shape. The 9.1 inches of annual snow is light, but the 44.1 inches of rain suggests keeping rain gear handy year-round.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

Young Entisols in Jefferson County

Jefferson County is defined by Entisols, which are geologically young soils with an average pH of 6.05. This pH level is slightly lower than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a moderately acidic environment for plant life.

The Versatility of Silt Loam

The dominant texture is silt loam, consisting of 58.6% silt and 15.4% clay. This high silt content makes the soil easy to work and provides a balanced environment for root penetration.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter reaches a staggering 9.61%, more than double the Missouri average of 4.74%. Although the available water capacity is 0.172 in/in, the rich organic content provides an incredible reservoir of nutrients for crops.

Moderately Well Drained Foundations

The soil is moderately well drained and belongs to hydrologic group C. These characteristics imply that while water moves through the soil, drainage can be slow, making it important to manage runoff during heavy Missouri rains.

High-Yield Potential in Zone 7a

Jefferson County's Zone 7a status and high organic matter make it a paradise for organic gardening. The rich soil is perfect for intensive vegetable production or establishing fruit-bearing perennials.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growing Conditions in Jefferson

Jefferson County earns a 62.9 lawn score, placing it nearly in line with the Missouri average of 63.7. This 7a hardiness zone offers a much easier growing environment than the national median score of 50.0.

Ideal Rainfall for Healthy Turf

The county receives 44.1 inches of annual precipitation, which fits perfectly within the ideal range for most lawn types. Residents manage 38 days of extreme heat, mirroring the typical Missouri summer experience.

Silt Loam Provides a Strong Base

The soil is moderately well-drained with a silt loam texture that provides a healthy balance for root growth. A pH of 6.05 and a clay content of 15.4% mean the ground retains nutrients well without excessive compaction.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Spells

Although the county faced 23 weeks of drought last year, there is currently no severe drought reported. Maintaining consistent moisture is key as 100% of the county is presently classified as abnormally dry.

Plan for Zone 7a Success

Tall Fescue is a reliable choice for the local climate and well-drained soils. Aim to start your lawn projects between the April 9th spring frost and the October 26th fall freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Missouri has a composite county score of 40.4 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 Missouri?
Jefferson County ranks #101 among all counties in Missouri 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, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $1,835, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 49.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Missouri is $80,522 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 84.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Missouri a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 40.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #101 in Missouri. 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.
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.