countyscore
49.7
County Score
Cost of Living 86.2Property Tax 79.8Disaster Risk 74.6

County Report Card

About Johnston County, Oklahoma

Matching the National Baseline

Johnston County earns a 49.7 CountyScore, placing it virtually at the national median of 50.0. This indicates a quality of life that is representative of the typical American experience. It maintains a steady performance across several key economic indicators.

A Top Performer in Oklahoma

At 49.7, Johnston County comfortably exceeds the state average composite score of 43.0. It ranks as one of the more desirable counties in Oklahoma based on the composite index. High marks in financial dimensions like taxes and housing costs lead this strong showing.

Tax Benefits and Affordable Housing

Low taxes are a major draw, with a Tax Score of 79.8 and an effective rate of 0.555%. The Cost Score of 86.2 reflects a median home value of just $110,700, making ownership highly attainable. The county also enjoys a strong Risk Score of 74.6, indicating low environmental vulnerability.

Health and Water Infrastructure Gaps

Health access is the county's primary weakness, with a low score of 14.6. The Water Score of 7.2 and Income Score of 16.6 also highlight areas where public and private investment lag. These factors may limit the county's appeal for those requiring frequent medical care.

A Haven for Cost-Conscious Homeowners

Johnston County is an excellent choice for families looking for homeownership on a modest budget. The combination of low property taxes and low environmental risk offers long-term financial peace of mind. It is best suited for those who value financial stability over urban amenities.

Score breakdown

Tax79.8Cost86.2Safety49.5Health14.6Schools19.2Income16.6Risk74.6Water7.2Weather50.8
🏛79.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠86.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼16.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡49.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤14.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓19.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡74.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧7.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨39.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.3
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 Johnston County?

Many homeowners in Johnston 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 Johnston County with Cullman County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Cullman County
Alabama
Median income: $60,916
49.7
Modoc County
California
Median income: $56,648
49.7
Effingham County
Illinois
Median income: $75,380
49.7
Elk County
Kansas
Median income: $56,087
49.7
Osage County
Kansas
Median income: $70,216
49.7
Piscataquis County
Maine
Median income: $55,234
49.7
Red River County
Texas
Median income: $46,912
49.7
El Dorado County
California
Median income: $106,190
49.8

Nearby counties

Marshall County
Oklahoma
39.3
Murray County
Oklahoma
44.5
Coal County
Oklahoma
59.8
Pontotoc County
Oklahoma
42.9
Carter County
Oklahoma
31.3
Bryan County
Oklahoma
35
Grayson County
Texas
32.8
Atoka County
Oklahoma
47

Deep Dives

Johnston County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Johnston County

via TaxByCounty

Johnston County offers below-average national tax rates

Johnston County's effective tax rate of 0.555% ranks well below the national median of 0.88%, placing it in the lowest quarter of American counties. The median property tax of $614 annually is just 23% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting smaller home values throughout the region.

Johnston County has Oklahoma's lowest tax rates

Johnston County's 0.555% effective rate is the lowest among major Oklahoma counties, sitting notably below the state average of 0.652%. At $614 in median annual taxes versus the state median of $959, Johnston residents enjoy the most tax-friendly environment in Oklahoma.

Lowest taxes among south-central Oklahoma counties

Johnston County's 0.555% rate beats Latimer County (0.515%) and is substantially lower than Kiowa County (0.573%) and Le Flore County (0.653%). Throughout the south-central region, Johnston offers taxpayers the advantage of the lowest effective tax rates.

Median annual tax on Johnston County home

The typical Johnston County homeowner with a $110,700 house pays about $614 per year in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $856 annually including escrow, while those without mortgages pay $497.

Appeal your assessment if you think it's high

Many Johnston 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 Johnston County

via CostByCounty

Johnston County slightly above national norms

Johnston County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio edges above Oklahoma's state average of 17.0% and sits close to national affordability benchmarks. With a median household income of $50,911 below the national median of $74,755, residents pay $732/month in rent, a moderate burden for the region.

Johnston ranks just above state average

Johnston County's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio is marginally higher than Oklahoma's 17.0% state average, positioning it in the middle tier of county affordability. Median rent of $732/month is $82 above the state average, reflecting slightly tighter housing-income ratios than the state as a whole.

Johnston's costs between affordable and moderate

Johnston County's $732 rent falls between Jefferson County's rock-bottom $588 and Jackson County's $865, placing it as a middle option in the region. Owner costs of $517/month and a $110,700 median home value offer balanced options for both renters and buyers.

Johnston housing: rent vs. ownership trade-offs

Renters in Johnston County allocate 17.3% of their $50,911 income to $732/month rent, while homeowners spend $517/month—roughly 12.2% of income. Together, housing options consume 12–17% of household budgets, leaving families flexibility for savings and other needs.

Johnston County balances cost and opportunity

Johnston County offers moderate rent at $732/month and manageable ownership costs, appealing to families earning around $51,000 annually. If you want better affordability than national averages without sacrificing Oklahoma's overall low cost of living, Johnston delivers a solid middle ground.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Johnston County

via IncomeByCounty

Johnston County earnings fall below U.S. average

Johnston County's median household income of $50,911 is 32% below the national median of $74,755, reflecting economic conditions typical of rural Oklahoma counties. The gap indicates fewer high-wage employment opportunities compared to national trends.

Johnston County ranks in lower third of Oklahoma

With a median household income of $50,911, Johnston County trails the Oklahoma state average of $58,273 by nearly $7,400. The county's per capita income of $25,352 falls significantly below the state average of $30,609, indicating lower individual earnings.

Johnston County slightly outearns its poorest neighbors

Johnston County households earn $10,586 more than Jefferson County ($48,750) but $9,706 less than Jackson County ($61,497). Only Kiowa and Latimer counties report lower median incomes, making Johnston a mid-range earner in the south-central Oklahoma region.

Housing costs consume significant household income

Johnston County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% indicates housing costs are manageable but notably higher than several neighboring counties. The median home value of $110,700 is affordable for median earners, though limited discretionary income constrains broader financial security.

Build financial resilience through small steps

Johnston County residents can prioritize emergency savings and low-cost retirement contributions despite modest median incomes. Even small regular investments and employer benefits accumulate over time, creating financial protection and long-term wealth growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Johnston County

via CrimeByCounty

Johnston County Excels in National Safety Comparisons

Johnston County reports a total crime rate of 1,133.6 per 100K, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. These low numbers earn the county an exceptional safety score of 98.2 out of 100.

Outperforming the Oklahoma Safety Average

The county's safety score of 98.2 is significantly higher than the Oklahoma average of 95.8. Its total crime rate of 1,133.6 per 100K is nearly 1,500 points lower than the state's average.

Johnston County Maintains Regional Safety Leadership

Reports from 2 local agencies show the county is much safer than the state-wide average. Residents enjoy a crime rate that is among the lowest in this part of Oklahoma.

Low Violent and Property Crime Rates

The violent crime rate is just 269.0 per 100K, well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also notably low at 864.6 per 100K, compared to the national rate of 2,015.7.

Simple Steps Protect Johnston County Homes

Even with a low property crime rate of 864.6 per 100K, maintaining awareness is key to home safety. Installing a doorbell camera can provide extra peace of mind in this secure county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Johnston County

via HealthByCounty

Johnston County's health outcomes lag nationally

At 71.3 years, Johnston County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 71.4 years by a slight margin. However, 26.1% of residents report poor or fair health—well above the national figure of 27.2%—indicating persistent health challenges.

Among Oklahoma's counties with lower health ranks

Johnston County's 71.3-year life expectancy falls below the state average of 72.7 years, placing it in the lower half of Oklahoma's county health rankings. The 26.1% poor/fair health rate is among the highest statewide.

Nearby counties show stronger health profiles

Jackson County's residents live roughly 1.7 years longer than Johnston County residents, and Kay County also outperforms Johnston on life expectancy. Johnston County does have exceptional mental health provider capacity (891 per 100,000), but primary care access remains limited at 29 per 100,000.

Strong mental health access contrasts with primary care gaps

Johnston County offers rare strength in mental health infrastructure with 891 providers per 100,000—the highest in this region—suggesting strong behavioral health support. Yet only 29 primary care providers per 100,000 limits access to routine medical care, and a 13.9% uninsured rate means many miss preventive services.

Take advantage of coverage programs available

Johnston County residents with low incomes may qualify for Medicaid, particularly given Oklahoma's eligibility criteria. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit your local clinic to apply—coverage bridges gaps to the primary care this county needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Johnston County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Seven-District Network for Johnston County

Johnston County maintains 13 public schools across seven districts to serve its 1,804 students. The system is comprised of seven elementary, one middle, and five high schools spread across the region.

Johnston County Investment and Academic Outcomes

Local schools spend $6,685 per pupil, slightly surpassing the Oklahoma state average of $6,520. While funding is competitive, the graduation rate of 78.7% lags behind the state average of 84.3%.

Tishomingo Commands the County Enrollment

Tishomingo is the largest district, educating 832 students across three specialized campuses. Smaller districts like Coleman and Milburn round out the county's educational landscape, which features no charter school alternatives.

Rural Schools with Small-Town Roots

All 13 schools in the county are situated in rural locales, fostering a highly personalized learning environment with an average of 139 students per school. TISHOMINGO ES serves as the largest campus with 355 students.

Secure Your Home in Johnston County

Families looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle will find Johnston County districts offer some of the most intimate learning environments in the state. Research local home listings near Tishomingo to stay close to the county's primary educational hub.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Johnston County

via RiskByCounty

Johnston County enjoys very low risk

Johnston County's composite risk score of 25.38 ranks as very low—significantly below the national average and well under Oklahoma's state average of 55.47. This low-risk profile reflects moderate exposure across multiple natural hazard categories.

Well below Oklahoma's average risk

At 25.38, Johnston County ranks among the safer counties statewide, with a score less than half the state average of 55.47. The county benefits from a relatively favorable natural disaster risk position within Oklahoma.

Similar risk to neighboring counties

Johnston County's score of 25.38 is comparable to nearby Jefferson County (20.90) and substantially lower than Jackson County (86.04) to the north. The county sits in one of Oklahoma's lower-risk zones regionally.

Wildfire and tornado concerns

Wildfire risk stands at 82.16—the county's highest exposure—while tornado risk (59.13) and flood risk (19.05) are moderate. Despite wildfire's elevated score, the county's overall composite risk remains low compared to statewide patterns.

Basic homeowners coverage recommended

Standard homeowners insurance covering wind damage provides adequate protection for most Johnston County properties. Residents in high-wildfire-risk areas should verify their policy includes wildfire coverage or explore supplemental options.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Johnston County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Wet Subtropical Profile

Johnston County averages 62.2°F annually, staying well above the national median temperature. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with generous rainfall throughout the year.

Surpassing State Average Rainfall

With 42.4 inches of annual precipitation, Johnston County is wetter than the Oklahoma state average of 37.2 inches. Its 62.2°F average temperature also runs about two degrees warmer than the state mean.

Lush Landscapes Compared to the West

Johnston receives 10 inches more rain annually than Jefferson County, supporting a much greener landscape. However, it stays slightly cooler than Jefferson, averaging 77 extreme heat days compared to Jefferson's 100.

Mild Winters and Humid Summers

July averages a warm 82.2°F, contributing to 77 days of extreme heat each year. Winters remain gentle with a 43.4°F average and only 2.2 inches of annual snowfall.

Manage Rain and High Humidity

Homeowners should maintain clear gutters and drainage systems to handle the 42.4 inches of annual rain. Dehumidifiers are often necessary in summer to manage the moisture that accompanies the heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Johnston County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Alfisols of South-Central Oklahoma

Johnston County is defined by Alfisols, a taxonomic order known for being naturally productive but somewhat acidic. The average pH of 6.20 is slightly higher than the state average but remains below the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile generally supports healthy pasture and woodland growth.

The Balanced Grip of Clay Loam

With a dominant clay loam texture, the soil features 42.1% sand, 30.9% silt, and 22.5% clay. This high clay content compared to neighboring counties provides excellent nutrient retention and structural stability. It is a dense mix that holds onto fertilizers well but can be heavy to work when wet.

Reliable Moisture for Local Crops

The soil’s available water capacity of 0.144 in/in exactly matches the Oklahoma state average. Organic matter stands at 1.47%, which is lower than the 1.72% state average and the 2.0% national benchmark. Despite lower organic levels, the clay-heavy texture helps preserve the nutrients that are present.

Steady Moisture and Slow Infiltration

The land is moderately well drained, providing a safe balance for most agricultural uses. However, it belongs to hydrologic group D, meaning it has a high runoff potential during intense storm events. This requires careful management of surface water to prevent erosion on sloped fields.

Thriving in the Warm Zone 8a

The warm 8a hardiness zone allows for an expansive variety of crops, including berries, peaches, and southern peas. The clay loam provides a sturdy anchor for fruit trees and large perennials. Your garden will thrive here with regular organic additions to improve the soil's natural tilth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Johnston County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Conditions in Johnston

Johnston County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 51.3, making it easier to maintain than both the state average and the national median. This 8a hardiness zone provides a long, warm season that supports various turf types. You have a distinct advantage over neighboring counties in the western part of the state.

Generous Rainfall and Manageable Heat

The county receives 42.4 inches of rain annually, placing it perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range. You only face 77 extreme heat days per year, which is almost identical to the Oklahoma average. This balance of moisture and temperature reduces the stress on your irrigation budget.

Stable Clay Loam Foundations

Your soil is classified as moderately well-drained clay loam with a healthy pH of 6.20. While the 22.5% clay content helps retain moisture, it can also lead to compaction if foot traffic is heavy. Periodic aeration ensures that air and water reach the roots in this denser soil structure.

Resilient Landscapes in Johnston County

While the county experienced 22 weeks of drought in the past year, zero percent is currently in severe drought stages. The entire county is abnormally dry, but your higher annual rainfall provides a natural buffer. Focus on mulching clippings back into the lawn to retain nitrogen and soil moisture.

Spring Launch for Lush Lawns

With the last frost ending around March 31, your lawn is ready for action by early April. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine are best suited for the local climate. Time your fertilization to coincide with the rapid growth of the late spring season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Johnston County's county score?
Johnston County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 49.7 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 Johnston County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Johnston County ranks #18 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 Johnston County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Johnston County is $614, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Johnston County a tax score of 79.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Johnston County?
The median household income in Johnston County, Oklahoma is $50,911 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Johnston County earns an income score of 16.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Johnston County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Johnston County scores 49.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Johnston 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 Johnston 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.