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Jefferson County, Mississippi — County Report Card

MS

#32 in Mississippi

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
52.3
County Score
Cost of Living 99.2Disaster Risk 88.8Safety 62.7

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Mississippi

Solid Standing Against National Norms

Jefferson County’s score of 52.3 puts it slightly ahead of the national median of 50.0. This suggests it offers a better overall value than many counties across the U.S.

Exceeding the Mississippi Average Score

The county’s 52.3 score surpasses the Mississippi state average of 48.4. It provides a better balance of safety and cost than many of its neighbors.

Market-Leading Housing Affordability

Housing costs are remarkably low, earning an elite cost score of 99.2 with a median rent of just $444. Risk mitigation is also high, scoring 88.8 for natural hazard safety.

Economic and Health Difficulties

Low income levels are a major challenge, reflected in a score of 1.2 and a median income of $36,207. Health services also need improvement, with a dimension score of 11.9.

A Safe Haven for Low-Cost Living

This county is perfect for people who want to minimize housing expenses and environmental risk. It serves best for those who are not dependent on the local job market for high wages.

Score breakdown

Tax37.8Cost99.2Safety62.7Health11.9Schools41.9Income1.2Risk88.8Water53.6Weather32.2
🏛37.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠99.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼1.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡62.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤11.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡88.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧53.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤32.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨52.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.5
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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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's tax rate above national median

Jefferson County's effective tax rate of 1.002% slightly exceeds the national median of 1.1%, placing it near the nation's middle. The median property tax of $816 remains well below the national median of $2,690, reflecting lower home values.

Above Mississippi's average tax rate

Jefferson County's 1.002% rate runs about 35% higher than Mississippi's state average of 0.743%. This makes Jefferson one of the more aggressive taxers in the state on a per-dollar basis.

Higher rates than most nearby counties

Jefferson County's 1.002% rate exceeds Jasper County's 0.599% by over 40% and trails only Humphreys County's 1.104% in the region. This reflects Jefferson's higher reliance on property taxation for local services.

Median homeowner pays $816 annually

On Jefferson County's median home value of $81,400, homeowners pay approximately $816 per year in property taxes. This represents a meaningful burden given the county's modest median home values.

Jefferson assessment appeals can pay off

With above-average tax rates, ensuring your property is fairly assessed is especially important in Jefferson County. If your home's assessed value exceeds comparable recent sales, filing an appeal with the county could reduce your annual bill significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson offers surprising affordability

Jefferson County's 14.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the lowest in this county cluster and runs well below Mississippi's 19.6% state average. With median rent at just $444 monthly and household income at $36,207, Jefferson delivers exceptional housing affordability despite modest earning levels.

Jefferson beats most counties on value

At 14.7%, Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio is the second-best in this comparison—beaten only by Issaquena (10.4%)—and runs 25% below the Mississippi average of 19.6%. This southwest Mississippi county represents genuinely affordable rental housing within an economically challenged region.

Cheapest rents after Issaquena

Jefferson's $444 median rent trails only Issaquena ($253, 76% lower) and undercuts Humphreys ($643) by 31% and Holmes ($589) by 25%. Combined with moderate income of $36,207, Jefferson delivers housing costs that consume just 14.7% of earnings—among the most affordable scenarios in this cluster.

Housing costs run remarkably low

Renters spend just $444 monthly while homeowners pay $432, with median home value at $81,400 and median household income at $36,207 annually. At 14.7%, rent consumes roughly one-seventh of gross income—well below any affordability threshold and reflecting limited housing demand in a rural Delta county.

Budget-friendly with low economic opportunity

Jefferson County delivers extraordinarily affordable housing at $444 median rent and a 14.7% rent-to-income ratio, suiting those with tight budgets or limited incomes. However, the $36,207 median income signals limited local job prospects, making this county most viable for remote workers, retirees, or those with outside income sources.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson Significantly Below U.S. Income

Jefferson County's median household income of $36,207 lags the U.S. median of $74,755 by 52%, placing it among the nation's lowest-income counties. The $38,548 annual gap reflects severe economic constraints and limited wage opportunities.

Low-Income Within Mississippi

Jefferson County ranks among Mississippi's lowest with a median household income of $36,207, 25% below the state median of $48,514. This persistent income shortfall reflects historical economic decline and limited employment diversification in the rural county.

Slightly Above Delta's Poorest

Jefferson County's median income of $36,207 exceeds Holmes County ($29,434) and Issaquena County ($29,271), but trails Humphreys County ($32,976), Jasper County ($47,157), and Hinds County ($49,966). The modest advantage reflects limited but existing employment opportunities.

Affordable Housing, Tight Budgets

Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.7% is quite favorable, and median home values of $81,400 are deeply affordable. However, with median household income of just $36,207, most families live paycheck-to-paycheck despite low housing costs.

Prioritize Stability, Then Growth

Jefferson County residents earning $36,207 should first build a $1,000 emergency fund, then pursue employer matches in retirement plans or credit union savings programs. Seek free financial coaching; even $10 weekly grows meaningfully over decades through consistent, humble discipline.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jefferson County Beats National Crime Rates

Jefferson County reports a total crime rate of 860.2 per 100,000 residents, which is far lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a respectable safety score of 98.6 out of 100.

Meeting the Mississippi Safety Standard

Its crime rate sits just below the Mississippi state average of 978.4. The county's safety score of 98.6 is also slightly higher than the state average of 98.4.

Jefferson County Regional Safety View

Jefferson County's rate of 860.2 is higher than Jasper County's 790.4 but lower than Jackson County's 1,393.0. It occupies a balanced position among regional safety rankings.

Mixed Trends in Local Incidents

Property crime accounts for 652.1 incidents per 100,000, while violent crime is notable at 208.1. These figures indicate that residents should stay alert to both theft and personal safety concerns.

Protecting Your Jefferson County Home

Comprehensive home security including door sensors and motion detectors can help mitigate property crime risks. Maintaining good relationships with neighbors also strengthens the local safety net.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jefferson County

via HealthByCounty

Jefferson County life expectancy trails nation

At 71.8 years, Jefferson County residents live roughly 4.3 years shorter than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Nearly 1 in 3 (30.6%) report poor or fair health, a rate well above the national average and signaling persistent health challenges.

Jefferson slightly above state health average

At 71.8 years, Jefferson County's life expectancy edges just above Mississippi's 70.9-year average, placing it in the middle tier of state performance. The 14.7% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 13.9%, indicating coverage gaps.

Limited primary care, stronger mental health

Jefferson County has just 28 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—a constraint common in rural Mississippi—but mental health capacity at 130 per 100K is relatively robust. This imbalance may reflect regional referral patterns or targeted investment.

High uninsured rate strains daily care access

With 14.7% uninsured and modest primary care availability, Jefferson County residents face real barriers to preventive care and early treatment. The strong mental health network is a bright spot, offering behavioral health support where primary care is thin.

Coverage opens pathways to better outcomes

If you're among the 14.7% of uninsured Jefferson County residents, getting covered can reduce delays and out-of-pocket costs. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local community health center to explore Medicaid or marketplace plans today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Unified Rural Educational Community

Jefferson County operates 6 public schools for its 1,063 students, all managed by a single school district. The system provides a focused path from elementary through high school for every resident.

High Success Rates in the Jefferson District

A graduation rate of 92.0% places the county well above the national 87.0% benchmark. This success is supported by $6,122 in per-pupil spending and a solid composite school score of 52.7.

The Jefferson County School District

The Jefferson County School District is the sole provider of public education, serving all 1,063 students across 6 campuses. The county does not host any charter schools, maintaining a traditional public school focus.

Intimate Rural Classrooms

All schools are located in rural areas, with an average size of only 266 students per school. Jefferson County Elementary is the largest campus with 424 students, ensuring students receive personalized attention.

Invest in a Home Near Strong Schools

Jefferson County's high graduation rates make it a standout choice for homebuyers seeking a rural lifestyle. Consider looking for property near the county's central campuses for a community-driven education.

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 11.26 places it as very low nationally—78% below Mississippi's state average of 50.94. The county's rural character and interior location create genuinely minimal exposure to most natural disaster hazards.

Second-safest county in Mississippi

Jefferson County ranks as one of Mississippi's two safest communities for natural disasters, trailing only Issaquena County. Residents face substantially lower disaster risk than the typical Mississippian and far below high-risk coastal and urban counties.

Safest in southwest Mississippi region

Jefferson County's score of 11.26 makes it considerably safer than neighboring Adams and Wilkinson counties to the east. The county represents the southwest region's most protected community from natural hazard exposure.

Hurricane risk dominates minimal exposure

Even in Jefferson County's very-low-risk environment, hurricane exposure (65.08) emerges as the leading hazard concern, though still well below typical national levels. Tornado (36.04), flood (16.92), and wildfire (27.58) risks all remain minimal for county residents.

Basic disaster preparedness suffices

Jefferson County's exceptional safety means residents can focus on straightforward preparedness: maintaining a family emergency kit and understanding hurricane season updates. Standard homeowners insurance provides appropriate protection for this very-low-risk community.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

Lush Landscapes and Heavy Rain

Jefferson County receives 61.3 inches of annual rain, which is much higher than the national average for precipitation. This water-rich climate supports the dense forests and greenery of Southwest Mississippi.

Consistent Precipitation Across the State

The county's 61.3 inches of rainfall sits just above the Mississippi state average of 59.6 inches. While specific temperature rankings are limited, it follows the state's humid subtropical pattern.

Similar Rainfall to Regional Neighbors

With 61.3 inches of rain, Jefferson shares a similar moisture profile with its southern neighbor, Jefferson Davis County. Both counties experience a climate defined by heavy annual precipitation and very little snow.

Rare Snow and Damp Winters

The county records just 0.4 inches of snow annually, making winter accumulation a very rare event. While specific seasonal temperature data is limited, residents typically experience long, humid summers.

Focusing on Waterproofing and Drainage

With 61.3 inches of rain per year, maintaining proper home drainage is the most important climate consideration. Winter gear can remain minimal since the county averages less than half an inch of snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

Milder Acidity in Jefferson County

Jefferson County features an average pH of 5.83, which is notably less acidic than the Mississippi state average of 5.30. While still below the national median of 6.5, this milder acidity makes it more hospitable for a wider variety of plants. It is one of the better-performing soil profiles in the region.

Silt-Rich Soils with Low Sand

The soil composition is 60.5% silt, 20.4% sand, and 19.1% clay. This high silt content provides a smooth, flour-like texture that is excellent for moisture retention. The balanced clay and sand percentages offer a good mix of drainage and nutrient stability.

Exceptional Water Capacity for Crops

Jefferson County boasts an available water capacity of 0.197 in/in, well above the state average of 0.174. Organic matter is slightly lower than the state average at 1.60%, but the soil's ability to hold water is a major agricultural asset. This high capacity helps crops survive through summer heat waves.

Hydraulic Stability in Silty Landscapes

Specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are unavailable for this county. However, the high silt and moderate clay levels suggest a soil that holds water well but may drain slowly. Site-specific testing is recommended before major construction to ensure proper drainage planning.

Ideal Conditions in Zone 8b

In hardiness zone 8b, Jefferson County’s milder pH and high water capacity are perfect for roses, fruit trees, and perennial vegetables. This soil is a strong performer that rewards the gardener with reliable growth. Start your planting journey today and enjoy the benefits of this fertile land.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

Moderate Challenges in Jefferson County

Jefferson County sits in a middle ground with a lawn difficulty score of 48.5. This is well above the state average of 30.9 and very close to the national median of 50.0. In Hardiness Zone 8b, you have the climate potential for a beautiful lawn, provided you manage the high local rainfall.

High Rainfall Demands Proper Drainage

The county receives 61.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is over 10 inches more than the ideal maximum for many turf varieties. While specific heat data is limited, the high annual rainfall suggests that humidity and fungal pressure are frequent concerns. Proper site grading and drainage will be essential to keep your grass from becoming waterlogged.

Balanced Soil for Better Growth

Jefferson County features a soil pH of 5.83, which is very close to the ideal range for lawn health. The soil is well-balanced with 19.1% clay and 20.4% sand, offering a good mix of water retention and drainage. You may still need a light application of lime, but your starting point is much better than most of Mississippi.

Coping with Severe Local Drought

Despite high annual rainfall, 100% of Jefferson County is currently facing severe drought (D2+). The county has logged 10 weeks of drought over the past year, highlighting the need for a reliable backup irrigation system. During these intense dry periods, avoid fertilizing to prevent further stressing your dormant grass.

Ready for Warm-Season Success

Bermuda and Zoysia grasses are excellent choices to take advantage of the relatively balanced soil pH here. Because local frost dates are unavailable, plan your seeding or sodding once the morning soil feels warm to the touch in early spring. With the right grass and a plan for drought, your lawn can be a standout in the region.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 52.3 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 Mississippi?
Jefferson County ranks #32 among all counties in Mississippi 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, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $816, with an effective tax rate of 1.00%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 37.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Mississippi is $36,207 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 1.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 52.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #32 in Mississippi. 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.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.