countyscore
40.7
County Score
Cost of Living 70.8Water Quality 69Property Tax 46.7

County Report Card

About Jones County, Mississippi

Below the National Median

Jones County records a composite score of 40.7, trailing the national median of 50.0. This suggests the county faces more significant livability challenges than the average American county.

Trailing State Averages

The county's score of 40.7 falls below the Mississippi state average of 48.4. While it offers local amenities, it ranks lower than several neighboring counties in overall livability.

Solid Affordability and Moderate Income

Housing remains a highlight with a Cost Score of 70.8 and median gross rents at $810. The Income Score of 16.9 is supported by a median household income of $51,143, which is relatively competitive for the region.

Environmental Risks and Safety Concerns

A low Risk Score of 19.8 indicates high vulnerability to environmental hazards or natural disasters. Additionally, the Safety Score of 36.4 suggests that crime rates are higher than in many peer counties.

A Budget-Conscious Trade-off

Jones County suits individuals who prioritize affordable housing and decent local wages over environmental security. It is best for those comfortable with a higher-risk profile in exchange for lower daily expenses.

2040608010046.770.836.425.324.416.919.86937.7Tax46.7Cost70.8Safety36.4Health25.3Schools24.4Income16.9Risk19.8Water69Weather37.740.7/100
This county
National avg
2 above average6 below average

Jones County DNA

Foverall

How Jones County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Jones County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (70.8/100) but notably weak in Income (16.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
46.7
Cost
70.8+22.799999999999997
Safety
36.4-18.6
Health
25.3-24.7
Schools
24.4-29.6
Income
16.9-34.1
Risk
19.8-27.2
Water
69+11
Weather
37.7-18.299999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$126,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$810/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$126,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $51,143/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

16.5

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Counties with similar scores

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Median income: $49,691
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Black Hawk County
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St. Louis County
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Crawford County
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Bertie County
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Chatham County
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Median income: $88,534
40.7

Nearby counties

Jasper County
Mississippi
53.9
Covington County
Mississippi
47.2
Wayne County
Mississippi
41.9
Forrest County
Mississippi
30.3
Smith County
Mississippi
60.2
Lamar County
Mississippi
47.6
Jefferson Davis County
Mississippi
56.2
Clarke County
Mississippi
60.7

Deep Dives

Jones County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jones County

via TaxByCounty

Jones County taxes well below national norm

Jones County's effective tax rate of 0.880% is roughly one-third the national median of 2.6%, keeping tax bills modest for residents. The median annual property tax of $1,116 falls far short of the national median of $2,690.

Highest rate in this county sample

At 0.880%, Jones County has the highest effective tax rate among these eight surveyed Mississippi counties, exceeding the state average of 0.743% by 18%. The median property tax of $1,116 tops the state median of $931.

Steeper than surrounding counties

Jones County's 0.880% effective rate exceeds most regional peers, with only Lauderdale County at 0.982% taxing higher. The median home value of $126,800 is among the region's stronger, explaining the higher tax bill.

Median home: roughly $1,116 yearly

A homeowner with the county's median-valued property of $126,800 pays approximately $1,116 annually in property taxes. Those with mortgages pay $1,384, while owners without mortgages pay $884.

Review your property assessment

Many Mississippi homeowners overpay because their properties are assessed above market value. If your county appraisal seems high compared to recent sales prices, you may qualify for a tax appeal that could lower your bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jones County

via CostByCounty

Balanced affordability near national standards

Jones County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold and nearly matches the national norm. With a median household income of $51,143 and median rent of $810, renters here spend less of their paychecks on housing than the typical American household does.

Better than average for Mississippi

Jones County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio beats Mississippi's 19.6% state average, positioning it in the upper half of the state's most affordable counties. The median rent of $810 exceeds the state average by $28, but stronger local incomes make housing more manageable.

Pricier rents reflect stronger incomes

Jones County renters pay $810 monthly—higher than most rural Mississippi neighbors like Kemper ($470) and Leake ($757). The premium reflects Jones County's higher median income of $51,143, which supports more expensive housing without straining household budgets.

Income supports both renters and owners

The typical renter allocates $810 of a $4,262 monthly income to housing, leaving roughly 81% for other expenses. Homeowners with $608 monthly costs represent an even better deal at just 14.3% of income, making Jones County accessible to both renters and buyers.

Strong balance of affordability and opportunity

Jones County combines reasonable housing costs with above-average Mississippi incomes, making it attractive for families seeking stability. If you're comparing Mississippi relocation options, Jones County's balanced affordability and economic fundamentals stand out among rural peers.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jones County

via IncomeByCounty

Income sits 32% below US median

Jones County's median household income of $51,143 falls substantially short of the national median of $74,755, capturing roughly 68% of typical American earning power. This income gap reflects regional economic structures that limit wages compared to higher-earning metro and coastal counties.

Above-average within Mississippi

Jones County's $51,143 median income exceeds Mississippi's state average of $48,514 by $2,629, positioning it in the upper-middle tier of the state's 82 counties. This relative strength reflects the county's more diverse economic base and employment opportunities.

Competitive with surrounding counties

Jones County's income of $51,143 outpaces Lauderdale County ($50,033) and edges Leake County ($48,418), while trailing stronger performers like Lafayette County ($64,334) and Lamar County ($69,106). The county occupies solid middle ground among its regional peer set.

Housing affordable, basic needs manageable

With a median home value of $126,800 and rent-to-income ratio of 19.0%, Jones County households enjoy relatively balanced housing costs. The 19.0% ratio signals healthy affordability, leaving room for savings and essential expenses beyond rent or mortgage.

Leverage stable income into long-term assets

Jones County households with above-state-average income can prioritize automated savings and retirement contributions—even modest amounts compound over decades. Consider local business opportunities, skill certifications, and networking to boost household income beyond the current median.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jones County

via CrimeByCounty

Safer Than the National Average

Jones County maintains a total crime rate of 1,475.8 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 97.7 out of 100. Five reporting agencies contribute to this data, providing a robust view of public safety.

Context Within Mississippi

The county's safety score of 97.7 falls slightly below the state average of 98.4. While it performs well nationally, it ranks in the middle tier of Mississippi counties. This suggests there is more active law enforcement engagement here than in some smaller neighbors.

Comparing Jones to Neighbors

Jones County reports a crime rate of 1,475.8, which is higher than Lamar County’s rate of 988.7. It also shows more activity than Kemper County, which sits at just 512.2. These differences often reflect higher population density and more urbanized commercial centers.

Property Crime Drives Local Stats

Property crime accounts for 1,307.5 per 100,000, while the violent crime rate is much lower at 168.3. This violent crime rate is slightly higher than the state average of 149.2. In practical terms, residents are far more likely to face theft than physical harm.

Protect Your Property Today

With property crime as the primary concern, residents should prioritize home security systems and cameras. Locking vehicles and securing sheds can prevent the most common opportunistic thefts. Community watch programs remain a highly effective tool for keeping neighborhoods secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Jones County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Network of Nineteen Public Schools

Jones County supports 11,236 students across two distinct school districts. The infrastructure includes 10 elementary schools, one middle school, and six high schools to serve the growing population.

Graduation Rates Outpace State and National Averages

The county boasts an 88.4% graduation rate, exceeding both the Mississippi average of 87.1% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Despite this success, per-pupil spending of $5,656 remains below the state average of $5,954.

Jones County School District Leads the Region

The Jones County School District is the largest provider, educating 8,524 students across 11 schools. The Laurel School District operates an additional eight schools serving 2,712 students, and there are currently no charter schools in the county.

Large Schools with a Balanced Locale Mix

The area features 10 town-based and nine rural schools, with an average enrollment of 749 students. West Jones High School is the largest campus with 1,516 students, offering a significant contrast to smaller local facilities.

Invest in a Community Focused on Graduation

Families looking for strong academic outcomes should explore homes near these high-performing districts. School quality is a primary driver of local property values in Jones County.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jones County

via RiskByCounty

Jones County faces above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 80.22 and a Relatively Low rating, Jones County ranks considerably higher than the national average on natural disaster exposure. The county's tornado risk (93.19) and hurricane risk (90.99) are both in the upper percentile nationally.

Among Mississippi's highest-risk counties

Jones County's 80.22 composite score ranks it well above Mississippi's average of 50.94, placing it in the state's higher-risk tier. Tornado and hurricane risks are especially pronounced compared to most other Mississippi counties.

Riskier than most neighboring areas

Jones County's elevated risk profile (80.22) significantly exceeds nearby Kemper County (14.92) and Lawrence County (25.00) but aligns more closely with Leake County (55.69). The county's tornado and hurricane exposure sets it apart in the region.

Tornadoes and hurricanes drive risk profile

Tornadoes represent the most acute threat, with a risk score of 93.19, followed closely by hurricane risk at 90.99—both well above state averages. Flood risk (71.50) and wildfire risk (73.89) also merit serious consideration in Jones County.

Invest in storm shelters and insurance

With tornado risk near the national top tier, consider reinforced safe rooms or community shelters for severe weather season. Pair comprehensive homeowners insurance with flood and wind riders to cover the full range of hazards your county faces.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Jones County

via WaterByCounty

Jones County Drinking Water Standards

Jones County earns a B grade for water quality, having recorded only 1 health violation in the past five years. Its violation rate of 1.4 per 100,000 residents is exceptionally low, far outperforming the Mississippi state average of 92.1. This performance places the county among the state leaders for reliable drinking water compliance.

Evaluating Local Watershed Conditions

Watersheds within Jones County are not currently covered in the federal Section 303(d) assessment reporting cycle. As a result, there is no official percentage of impaired water bodies listed at the federal level. This lack of data prevents a direct comparison to the state's broader impairment averages.

Tracking Water Quality Metrics

Environmental agencies maintain 4 monitoring sites across Jones County, recording 885 measurements in the last five years. The data collection emphasizes physical attributes, nutrients, and organic compounds. These records offer a steady baseline for understanding the environmental health of the county's aquatic systems.

Record Low Flows in Tallahala Creek

The USGS gauge at Tallahala Creek near Laurel currently records a discharge of 23 cubic feet per second. This flow represents just 7% of its long-term mean, indicating significantly drier-than-usual conditions. Such low volume can impact local water temperature and the concentration of nutrients in the stream.

Protecting Water During Low Flow

With Tallahala Creek flowing at just 7% of its typical volume, residents should be mindful of how low water levels affect local source water. While the B grade for drinking water suggests high utility performance, low streamflow can increase the concentration of natural contaminants. Monitoring these flow trends is essential for ensuring long-term watershed resilience.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jones County

via WeatherByCounty

Deep South Heat and Humidity

Jones County averages 65.5°F, placing it among the warmer regions in the United States. Its humid subtropical climate creates long, hot summers that define the local lifestyle.

Warmer Than the Mississippi Median

At 65.5°F, Jones is warmer than the state average of 63.9°F. It experiences more extreme heat than many other inland counties in Mississippi.

Typical Rainfall with Zero Snowfall

The county receives 60.4 inches of rain, which closely tracks the state average of 59.6 inches. Unlike northern neighbors, Jones records an average of 0.0 inches of snow annually.

Intense Summers and No Snow

The county faces 82 days of extreme heat above 90°F, while July averages a muggy 81.8°F. Winters are very mild at 49.5°F and are historically snow-free.

Maximizing AC Efficiency for Summer

Prepare for 82 days of extreme heat by upgrading insulation and servicing air conditioning units. Because snow is non-existent, residents can focus their seasonal planning entirely on rain and heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jones County

via SoilByCounty

Highly acidic soil conditions

With an average pH of 4.95, Jones County soils are quite acidic. This level sits well below the state average of 5.30 and the national median of 6.5, requiring careful management for most plants.

Coarse texture with high sand

The soil profile is 57.5% sand and only 10.1% clay, creating a coarse texture. This composition allows for excellent aeration but means nutrients can leach away more quickly than in heavier soils.

Lower water storage capacity

Organic matter averages 1.65%, trailing both the state average of 1.81% and the national 2.0% benchmark. An available water capacity of 0.150 in/in further confirms these soils have a limited reserve for plants during dry spells.

Rapid water movement

Though official drainage classifications are limited, the dominance of sand suggests a naturally well-draining environment. This makes the area suitable for building foundations, though agricultural use requires careful irrigation management.

Home for acid-loving perennials

In Hardiness Zone 8b, camellias and azaleas love this naturally acidic soil. Start your garden with acid-loving perennials or southern peas to take full advantage of the local conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jones County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Growing Conditions in Jones County

With a lawn difficulty score of 29.5, Jones County is more challenging for homeowners than the state average of 30.9. This Zone 8b region requires careful attention to overcome local climate and soil hurdles. Your lawn faces significant pressure compared to the national median of 50.0.

Managing 82 Days of Extreme Heat

Lawns here endure 82 days of temperatures above 90°F annually, stressing even the hardiest grasses. High annual precipitation of 60.4 inches provides plenty of water, but the 6,139 growing degree days mean your mowing schedule will be relentless. Be prepared for rapid summer growth followed by heat-induced dormancy if watering is inconsistent.

Correcting Low pH in Sandy Soil

The soil in Jones County is very acidic with a pH of 4.95, falling far below the ideal 6.0 benchmark. At 57.5% sand and only 10.1% clay, nutrients can wash away easily during heavy rains. Incorporating organic matter and regular lime treatments is essential to balance the soil for healthy turf.

Brief Drought Risks on the Horizon

Currently, 38.9% of the county is abnormally dry, though the area saw only one week of official drought in the past year. Because sandy soils drain so quickly, these dry spells can affect your lawn faster than in other regions. Focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root systems that can survive these dry periods.

Start Your Lawn After the March Frost

Bermuda and Zoysia are excellent choices for this climate due to their heat tolerance and durability. Plan your seeding or sodding shortly after the average last spring frost on March 12 to maximize the growing season. With the right grass type, you can conquer the local heat and acidity.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jones County's county score?
Jones County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 40.7 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 Jones County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Jones County ranks #66 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 Jones County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Jones County is $1,116, with an effective tax rate of 0.88%. This earns Jones County a tax score of 46.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jones County?
The median household income in Jones County, Mississippi is $51,143 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jones County earns an income score of 16.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jones County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Jones County scores 40.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #66 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Jones 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 Jones 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.