countyscore
53.8
County Score
Property Tax 95.3Water Quality 70.4Weather & Climate 66.3

County Report Card

About Lauderdale County, Alabama

Lauderdale County slightly exceeds national average

Lauderdale County's composite score of 53.9 sits just above the national median of 50.0, placing it in the solid middle band of U.S. counties. The county's strength in schools and health outcomes partially offset lower safety ratings.

Solid performer in middle of Alabama rankings

Lauderdale County ranks near the middle of Alabama's 67 counties at a score just 1.0 point above the state average of 52.9. It represents a balanced Alabama community without pronounced advantages or major deficits.

Schools and health services lead the way

Lauderdale County stands out with Alabama's highest school score of 61.5 and a health score of 46.0—the strongest health outcomes in this peer group—making it attractive to families prioritizing education and healthcare. Tax efficiency is also solid at 95.3.

Safety and housing affordability need work

The county's safety score of just 19.6 is concerning and represents a significant barrier to overall livability, while a cost score of 65.1 with median home values of $185,800 places housing out of reach for many buyers. Income levels at $59,082 lag slightly below peer counties.

Best for education-focused families who can afford it

Lauderdale County suits families prioritizing schools and healthcare access who can manage higher housing costs and invest in personal safety measures. Those seeking affordability or relocating for employment should investigate local job markets and neighborhoods carefully.

Score breakdown

Tax95.3Cost65.1Safety19.6Health46Schools61.5Income36.1Risk14.5Water70.4Weather66.3
🏛95.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠65.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼36.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡14.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧70.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨29.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30.5
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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Nearby counties

Colbert County
Alabama
51.9
Wayne County
Tennessee
61.4
Lawrence County
Alabama
59
Lawrence County
Tennessee
53.8
Tishomingo County
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Franklin County
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Limestone County
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Hardin County
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Deep Dives

Lauderdale County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lauderdale County

via TaxByCounty

Lauderdale County taxes remain well below US median

Lauderdale County's 0.375% effective tax rate delivers savings compared to most of America, with a median property tax of $697. This is roughly 26% of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Above average for Alabama

Lauderdale County's 0.375% rate exceeds Alabama's state average of 0.339%, placing it among the higher-tax counties statewide. The median tax of $697 is 36% above Alabama's state median of $511.

Second-highest in the region

Lauderdale County's 0.375% rate ranks second-highest among regional peers, trailing only Jefferson County (0.596%) but exceeding Henry County (0.342%), Jackson County (0.308%), Lawrence County (0.305%), Houston County (0.300%), and Lamar County (0.217%).

What $186K home costs yearly

A median Lauderdale County home valued at $185,800 generates an estimated annual property tax of $697. Adding mortgage-related assessments brings the total to approximately $736 per year.

Assessment appeals can pay off here

At Lauderdale County's higher-than-average rate, even modest assessment reductions deliver meaningful savings—every 1% reduction saves roughly $7 annually. Filing an appeal is straightforward and often recovers overassessments quickly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lauderdale County

via CostByCounty

Lauderdale County balances affordability well

At 16.2%, Lauderdale County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national stress threshold and Alabama's state average. Renters earning $59,082 spend $799 monthly—exactly Alabama's state median rent—leaving reasonable budget space for other expenses.

Above-average affordability for Alabama

Lauderdale County's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio beats Alabama's 18.0% state average, positioning it as a relatively affordable option statewide. This advantage stems from incomes slightly above state norms combined with rental costs that meet, not exceed, Alabama benchmarks.

Strong value compared to regional peers

Lauderdale County's 16.2% ratio outperforms Houston County (18.9%), Jackson County (18.5%), and significantly beats Jefferson County (21.0%). At $799 rent on a $59,082 income, Lauderdale delivers solid middle-ground affordability.

Lauderdale County household budget snapshot

Renters earning $59,082 annually ($4,924 monthly) allocate $799 to gross rent, consuming just 16.2% of income. Homeowners pay $713 monthly on average for properties worth $185,800—a higher home value tier reflecting Lauderdale's economic stability.

Balanced living in North Alabama

Lauderdale County suits families earning $55,000–$65,000 who want solid affordability plus slightly higher property values and regional stability. The combination of reasonable rents and accessible homeownership costs makes this an excellent middle-ground choice.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lauderdale County

via IncomeByCounty

Lauderdale County approaches national income levels

Lauderdale County's median household income of $59,082 sits 21% below the U.S. median of $74,755, but ranks among Alabama's stronger-earning regions. The $15,673 gap is smaller than most rural Alabama counties.

Upper-middle tier earner statewide

Lauderdale County ranks solidly above Alabama's state average of $54,196, earning $4,886 more per household. Roughly 40% of Alabama counties earn less than Lauderdale's residents.

Competitive with surrounding counties

Lauderdale's $59,082 sits between Henry ($60,135) and Houston ($57,531), positioning it as an economic peer in its region. Per-capita income of $33,595 reflects a balanced workforce structure.

Housing costs remain reasonable

Lauderdale County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% is among the region's most affordable, consuming less than one-sixth of median earnings. A median home value of $185,800 is accessible for working families with modest down payments.

Stable earnings create investment opportunity

Lauderdale County households earning $59,000+ can consistently contribute to retirement and investment accounts while maintaining housing stability. Consider a Roth conversion ladder or taxable brokerage account to build multi-decade wealth streams.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lauderdale County

via CrimeByCounty

Lauderdale Stays Below National Crime Rates

Lauderdale County holds a safety score of 96.7, indicating moderate levels of activity. While its total crime rate of 2,096.9 per 100,000 is lower than the national average of 2,385.5, it remains a busy area for local law enforcement. Seven agencies work to manage the county's public safety.

Slightly Below the Alabama Average

The county's safety score of 96.7 is just under the state average of 97.3. Its total crime rate of 2,096.9 is higher than the Alabama average of 1,731.0, reflecting more frequent incidents than in neighboring counties. Residents experience more crime than the typical Alabamian.

More Active Than Rural Neighbors

Lauderdale County's crime rate is roughly double that of Lawrence County (1,099.1) and three times that of Lamar County (633.8). Compared to the extreme low of Jackson County, Lauderdale is a much more active region. Safety measures are more critical here than in quieter adjacent areas.

Property Crime is the Primary Issue

Property crime drives the statistics here at a rate of 1,715.3 per 100,000 residents. Violent crime sits at 381.6, which is slightly higher than the national average of 369.8. This means theft and burglary are the most common concerns for the local community.

Smart Ways to Protect Your Property

Given the higher property crime rates, investing in a home security system is a wise move for Lauderdale residents. Simple deterents like doorbell cameras and sturdy deadbolts help prevent theft and burglary. Stay aware of local trends to keep your family and property safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lauderdale County

via HealthByCounty

Lauderdale County leads regional health outcomes

Lauderdale County residents live to an average of 74.9 years, just 1.2 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Only 18.8% report poor or fair health, the second-best rate in this group.

Alabama's top-performing county

At 74.9 years, Lauderdale County's life expectancy exceeds Alabama's state average of 72.1 years by nearly 3 years. The county ranks at the top of Alabama for overall health outcomes.

Strong primary and mental health networks

Lauderdale County has 54 primary care providers and 196 mental health providers per 100,000 residents. This robust infrastructure rivals Houston County's capacity and far exceeds rural counties like Hale at 20 primary care providers per 100K.

Second-lowest uninsured rate statewide

About 10.6% of Lauderdale County residents lack health insurance, the second-lowest rate in this group and 0.5 percentage points below the state average. High insurance coverage supports consistent access to preventive and routine care.

Protect your health leadership role

Lauderdale County's health success depends on sustained, affordable coverage. Check your plan at healthcare.gov and ensure your family stays protected year-round.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lauderdale County

via SchoolsByCounty

A High-Performing Education System

Lauderdale County supports 24 public schools serving 12,569 students across two districts. The infrastructure consists of 11 elementary, 2 middle, and 9 high schools, plus two specialized campuses.

Leading the State in Achievement

The county's 95.4% graduation rate far outpaces the 90.7% state and 87.0% national averages. This is supported by an investment of $6,795 per pupil, which is well above the Alabama state average.

County and Florence City Districts

Lauderdale County is the larger district with 8,080 students, while Florence City serves 4,489. All 24 schools are traditional public institutions, as there are no charter schools currently in operation.

A Mix of Rural and City Schools

Education is spread across 14 rural, 9 city, and 1 suburban school with an average enrollment of 571. Florence High is the largest with 1,034 students, while Brooks Elementary serves 903.

Top-Tier Schools for Your Next Home

Superior academic scores and high per-pupil investment make Lauderdale County a premier choice for home buyers. Search for listings in Florence or the surrounding county to join these high-achieving districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lauderdale County

via RiskByCounty

Lauderdale County faces elevated national risk

Lauderdale County scores 85.50 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Moderate rating and exceeding the national average significantly. Northern Alabama residents experience natural disaster threats well above the typical U.S. county.

Among Alabama's highest-risk counties

Lauderdale County's 85.50 composite score sits 23.96 points above Alabama's state average of 61.54, placing it among the state's most hazard-exposed regions. Only Jefferson County (97.61) and Houston County (87.79) face comparable statewide risk levels.

High-risk anchor in north Alabama

Lauderdale County (85.50) exceeds neighboring Jackson County (79.04) and Lawrence County (69.31), establishing it as the region's riskiest county. Its northern position contributes to elevated earthquake risk compared to southern Alabama counties.

Tornadoes and earthquakes dominate

Tornado risk scores 91.98 and earthquake risk reaches 92.49, making these Lauderdale County's defining hazards—both exceptionally elevated. Flood risk (84.22) follows as a significant secondary threat, while wildfire risk remains manageable at 23.79.

Earthquake and tornado coverage essential

Homeowners must prioritize comprehensive coverage including wind, hail, flood, and seriously consider earthquake insurance given the 92.49 risk score. Structural reinforcement such as foundation bolting and storm-resistant roofing provides additional protection against this county's dual earthquake-tornado threat.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lauderdale County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate weather on the Tennessee

At 61.0°F, Lauderdale County is cooler than the Alabama average and sits closer to national temperature norms. This Tennessee Valley county experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasonal shifts.

Cooler than the Alabama norm

The county is among Alabama's cooler regions, staying two degrees below the state average of 63.2°F. It receives 58.5 inches of rain, slightly more than the state average.

Fewer extreme heat days nearby

It shares a similar temperature profile with Lawrence County but experiences fewer extreme heat days than counties further south. The 43 days of 90°F weather are among the lowest in the state.

Milder summers in the north

July temperatures average 79.4°F, while winters are chilly with a 43.1°F average. While snowfall data is limited, the January average of 40.8°F indicates frequent overnight freezes.

A longer heating season

Residents benefit from milder summers but should prepare for a longer heating season than southern Alabamians. Sturdy rain jackets are necessary to navigate the 58.5 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lauderdale County

via SoilByCounty

Silty Soils of the Tennessee Valley

Lauderdale County's soil pH of 5.20 sits almost perfectly at the Alabama state average of 5.21. However, this is still considerably more acidic than the national median of 6.5, suggesting a need for pH monitoring.

Rich Silt and Moderate Clay

This county features a silty profile with 53.5% silt and 22.4% clay. This combination provides a fine-textured soil that holds nutrients well but can become slick and hard to work when wet.

Excellent Water Retention Capacity

With an available water capacity of 0.168 in/in, this soil is far superior to the state average of 0.138 in/in. The organic matter content of 1.63% provides a solid base for sustaining plant life through varying weather.

Potential for Heavy Moisture

High silt and clay levels often lead to slower drainage, despite a lack of specific class data. Farmers and homeowners should be aware that the 22.4% clay content may hold water longer than the sandier soils of the south.

Abundant Harvests in Zone 7b

The 7b hardiness zone is perfect for cool-season vegetables and hearty fruit trees. A soil score of 29.5 makes Lauderdale a top-tier location in Alabama for establishing a high-yield garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lauderdale County

via LawnByCounty

Middle-of-the-Road Maintenance in North Alabama

Lauderdale County scores 30.5 for lawn difficulty, placing it just above the state average of 29.5. While more manageable than South Alabama, it remains more challenging than the national median of 50.0.

Lower Heat Stress Aids Turf Growth

The county experiences only 43 extreme heat days, which is much lower than the state average of 64. This cooler climate, combined with 58.5 inches of rain, reduces the risk of grass wilting during the peak of summer.

Balancing Clay Content and Soil Acidity

The soil contains 22.4% clay, which helps with moisture retention but can lead to compaction. With a pH of 5.20, your lawn will require lime to reach the 6.0–7.0 range needed for optimal nutrient availability.

Staying Alert During Extended Dry Periods

Lawns faced 27 weeks of drought over the past year, and 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry. Consistent monitoring is necessary to ensure your turf survives these prolonged periods without rain.

Planting for Success in Zone 7b

Wait until after the last frost on March 29 to begin your spring lawn projects. Fescue and Zoysia are excellent choices for this climate, providing a lush green carpet that can handle the 79.4°F July average.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lauderdale County's county score?
Lauderdale County, Alabama has a composite county score of 53.8 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 Lauderdale County rank among counties in Alabama?
Lauderdale County ranks #33 among all counties in Alabama 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 Lauderdale County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Lauderdale County is $697, with an effective tax rate of 0.38%. This earns Lauderdale County a tax score of 95.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lauderdale County?
The median household income in Lauderdale County, Alabama is $59,082 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lauderdale County earns an income score of 36.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lauderdale County, Alabama a good place to live?
Lauderdale County scores 53.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #33 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Lauderdale 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 Lauderdale 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.