countyscore
59
County Score
Property Tax 98.2Water Quality 86Cost of Living 82.2

County Report Card

About Lawrence County, Alabama

Lawrence County outperforms U.S. median

Lawrence County's composite score of 59.0 ranks above the national median of 50.0, placing it comfortably in the upper-middle tier of U.S. counties. Strong affordability and income levels drive this respectable national standing.

Among Alabama's better-performing counties

Lawrence County ranks in the upper tier of Alabama's 67 counties with a score 6.1 points above the state average of 52.9. The county delivers solid, above-average livability compared to most Alabama communities.

Affordability, taxes, and income align well

Lawrence County excels with a cost score of 82.3, offering median gross rent of $708 and home values of $150,700—among the most affordable in this peer group—plus a tax score of 98.2. Income at $60,040 is also competitive, supporting household financial stability.

Health and school outcomes need improvement

The county's health score of 20.5 indicates limited healthcare access or quality, while a school score of 45.1 suggests room for educational improvement. Safety ratings at 51.2 are middling compared to stronger performers in this group.

Solid choice for budget-minded working families

Lawrence County suits working families and young professionals seeking affordable housing, low taxes, and reasonable incomes without premium amenities. Those prioritizing top-tier schools or healthcare should explore nearby counties with stronger performance in those dimensions.

Score breakdown

Tax98.2Cost82.2Safety51.2Health20.5Schools45.1Income39.1Risk30.7Water86Weather65.9
🏛98.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠82.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼39.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡51.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤20.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓45.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡30.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.4
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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Explore this county

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Counties with similar scores

Kiowa County
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Dallas County
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Luna County
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Alleghany County
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Edgefield County
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Grand Isle County
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Greenbrier County
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Nearby counties

Limestone County
Alabama
42.9
Colbert County
Alabama
51.9
Lauderdale County
Alabama
53.8
Morgan County
Alabama
62.9
Winston County
Alabama
60.4
Franklin County
Alabama
55.5
Cullman County
Alabama
49.7
Giles County
Tennessee
50.7

Deep Dives

Lawrence County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lawrence County

via TaxByCounty

Lawrence County taxes far below national median

Lawrence County's 0.305% effective tax rate places it among the nation's lowest-tax jurisdictions, with a median property tax of just $459. This represents only 17% of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Below average in Alabama

Lawrence County's 0.305% rate sits slightly below Alabama's state average of 0.339%, providing residents a modest tax advantage. The median tax of $459 falls short of Alabama's state median of $511.

Competitive with regional peers

Lawrence County's 0.305% rate closely matches Houston County (0.300%) and Jackson County (0.308%), while undercutting Henry County (0.342%) and Lauderdale County (0.375%). Only Lamar County (0.217%) offers meaningfully lower rates in the region.

What $151K home costs yearly

A median Lawrence County home valued at $150,700 results in an estimated annual property tax of $459. Including mortgage-related assessments, the total reaches approximately $496 per year.

Don't overpay on your assessment

Lawrence County homeowners often overlook assessment errors that quietly inflate their annual tax bills by hundreds of dollars. A professional appraisal and formal appeal can confirm your property is valued fairly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lawrence County

via CostByCounty

Lawrence County offers strong rental affordability

Lawrence County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the lowest affordability stress levels, well below national averages and Alabama's state mean. Renters earning $60,040 pay just $708 monthly—demonstrating that reasonable wages plus modest rents create genuine housing security.

Well above-average affordability statewide

Lawrence County's 14.2% rent-to-income ratio significantly beats Alabama's 18.0% state average, placing it among the state's most affordable counties. This advantage combines solid incomes with below-average rental costs.

Second-lowest rents, strong income balance

Lawrence County renters pay $708 monthly—only Lamar County's $548 beats this—while earning $60,040, higher than most rural peers. This combination of low rents and relatively strong incomes creates the county's 14.2% ratio advantage.

Lawrence County housing expense reality

Households earning $60,040 annually ($5,003 monthly) dedicate just $708 to gross rent—14.2% of income, leaving substantial cushion. Homeowners pay $628 monthly on average, with median property values of $150,700 offering accessible entry to ownership.

Smart choice for value-conscious families

Lawrence County combines low rents, reasonable incomes, and solid homeownership opportunities—ideal for families earning $55,000–$65,000. If you want true affordability plus meaningful community and employment options, Lawrence delivers on both fronts.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lawrence County

via IncomeByCounty

Lawrence County nears the national midpoint

Lawrence County's median household income of $60,040 sits 20% below the U.S. median of $74,755, but represents solid earnings for rural Alabama. The $14,715 gap is manageable compared to peers.

Well above Alabama's state average

Lawrence County earns $5,844 more than Alabama's state average of $54,196, ranking in the upper third of the state's 67 counties. Strong workforce participation supports above-average household incomes.

Economic peer to regional leaders

Lawrence County's $60,040 closely matches Henry ($60,135) and competes with Houston ($57,531), placing it among the region's economic anchors. Per-capita income of $31,189 reflects a productive workforce.

Affordable housing fuels financial flexibility

At 14.2%, Lawrence County's rent-to-income ratio is the best in its cohort, freeing substantial income for savings and investment. A median home value of $150,700 remains within reach for most working families.

Turn affordability into long-term wealth

Lawrence County residents with stable $60,000 household incomes can afford to max out retirement accounts while building taxable investment portfolios. The county's affordable housing market creates an ideal foundation for homeownership and real estate wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lawrence County

via CrimeByCounty

Lawrence County Maintains Strong Safety Score

Lawrence County earns a solid safety score of 98.3, outperforming the national benchmark. Its total crime rate of 1,099.1 per 100,000 is less than half of the national average of 2,385.5. This makes it a generally safe place for residents and visitors alike.

Beating the State Safety Average

The county's safety score of 98.3 is higher than the state average of 97.3. With a total crime rate of 1,099.1, it is significantly safer than the average Alabama county, which sits at 1,731.0. Eight reporting agencies provide a detailed and reliable look at local safety.

Comparing Lawrence to Regional Neighbors

Lawrence County is twice as safe as Lauderdale County, which reports a crime rate of 2,096.9. However, it is four times more active than the exceptionally quiet Jackson County at 275.6. The county represents a safe middle ground for Northern Alabama.

Breaking Down the Local Risk Factors

Violent crime is low at 160.0 per 100,000, while property crime is the bigger contributor at 939.1. This indicates that while physical safety is high, residents should still watch out for their belongings. Most crime in the area is focused on non-violent theft or property damage.

Practical Tips for Lawrence Residents

Focus on protecting your assets by ensuring all vehicles and outbuildings are locked at night. Installing simple motion-activated lights can effectively deter property crimes around your home. Keeping your property well-maintained also signals that your home is not an easy target.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lawrence County

via HealthByCounty

Lawrence County trails national life expectancy

Lawrence County residents have a life expectancy of 71.1 years, about 5 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years. One in four residents report poor or fair health, signaling persistent health challenges.

Below Alabama's health average

At 71.1 years, Lawrence County's life expectancy falls short of Alabama's state average of 72.1 years by 1.0 year. The county ranks in the lower half of Alabama counties for overall health outcomes.

Sparse primary care, stronger mental health resources

Lawrence County has just 18 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the lowest in this group, including Hale County's 20. The county does have 122 mental health providers per 100K, better than Hale's 47 but below Houston's 192.

Uninsured rate above state average

About 12.2% of Lawrence County residents lack health insurance, 1.1 percentage points above the state average of 11.1%. Limited primary care access combined with higher uninsurance creates barriers to preventive care.

Find coverage and close the gap

Lawrence County's health outcomes depend on expanding insurance access. Visit healthcare.gov today or contact Alabama's Medicaid program to explore options that fit your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lawrence County

via SchoolsByCounty

Centralized Learning in Lawrence County

Lawrence County operates 14 public schools serving 4,698 students through a single district. The landscape includes 6 elementary, 2 middle, and 6 high schools located primarily in rural settings.

Solid Academic Foundation

A graduation rate of 93.0% places Lawrence County above both the state (90.7%) and national (87.0%) benchmarks. The county spends $6,006 per pupil, contributing to a competitive school score of 53.0.

Unified District Excellence

The Lawrence County district manages all 4,698 students across its 14 schools. The county does not have any charter schools, ensuring a unified traditional public school experience for all families.

Rural Schooling with Personal Scale

Most schools are rural (11) or in towns (3), with an average enrollment of 392 students. Moulton Elementary is the largest school with 644 students, while Lawrence County High follows with 613.

Discover Value Near Great Schools

With high graduation rates and a focused district, Lawrence County is ideal for families looking to buy a home. Explore local real estate to find a place in this high-performing school community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lawrence County

via RiskByCounty

Lawrence County moderately above national average

Lawrence County scores 69.31 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating while still exceeding the national average. North-central Alabama residents face above-average natural disaster exposure compared to the typical American county.

Above-average risk for Alabama

Lawrence County's 69.31 composite score sits 7.77 points above Alabama's state average of 61.54, placing it in the state's elevated-risk tier. It represents mid-to-upper range vulnerability among Alabama's 67 counties.

Moderate-risk position in north-central region

Lawrence County (69.31) sits between lower-risk Lamar County (31.39) and higher-risk Lauderdale County (85.50), while exceeding Jackson County's (79.04) risk in certain hazards. Its north-central position creates a transitional risk profile.

Tornadoes and earthquakes lead threats

Tornado risk reaches 90.30 and earthquake risk hits 83.40, establishing these as Lawrence County's primary natural disaster concerns. Flood risk (63.71) poses moderate secondary threat, while wildfire risk remains minimal at 33.14.

Comprehensive coverage with earthquake option

Lawrence County residents should secure homeowners insurance with strong wind, hail, and flood protection, given tornado and flood exposure. Adding earthquake insurance warrants serious consideration at 83.40 risk—discuss structural reinforcement options and emergency preparedness plans with your insurer.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lawrence County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler averages in North Alabama

Lawrence County averages 60.5°F, positioning it as one of the cooler spots in the humid subtropical South. This average is roughly three degrees cooler than the Alabama state median.

Lower temperatures, higher precipitation

Ranking below the state average of 63.2°F, Lawrence is part of Alabama’s cooler northern tier. It is also wetter than average, receiving 58.3 inches of annual precipitation.

A regional leader in snowfall

It records 2.1 inches of snow annually, which is significantly more than Lee or Henry counties to the south. Its temperature and rainfall closely track with neighboring Jackson County.

Brisk winters and soft summers

Summers are relatively mild with 48 days of extreme heat compared to the 90 days seen in the south. Winters are sharp, averaging 42.8°F with the highest snowfall in this group.

Winterize for snow and ice

Winterize your home early to handle the 2.1 inches of snow and frequent sub-freezing January nights. Summer cooling needs are moderate, but humidity remains a constant factor for residents.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lawrence County

via SoilByCounty

Alabama's Premier Soil Quality

Lawrence County boasts a pH of 5.45, which is notably less acidic than the state average of 5.21. While it remains more acidic than the national 6.5 median, it offers some of the most balanced soil in the region.

High Silt and Balanced Texture

The soil contains 39.7% silt, 37.9% sand, and 21.5% clay. This nearly equal distribution of particle sizes creates a versatile texture that supports a wide range of agricultural activities.

Superior Moisture and Solid Matter

The available water capacity is a robust 0.162 in/in, well above the state average of 0.138. Organic matter at 1.66% is respectable, nearing the state average and providing a healthy environment for roots.

Stable Foundations and Good Flow

Data for specific drainage classes is limited, but the balanced composition suggests moderate permeability. This soil is likely to provide a stable base for building while maintaining enough moisture for crops.

Top Potential in Zone 8a

With the highest soil score in this group at 33.8, Lawrence County is a gardener's dream in zone 8a. From cotton to tomatoes, the earth here is ready to produce a bounty with just a little care.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lawrence County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions for Lawns in Lawrence County

Lawrence County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 41.4, one of the best in the state compared to the Alabama average of 29.5. While not as easy as the national median of 50.0, it offers a relatively friendly environment for homeowners.

Consistent Rain and Manageable Heat

The county experiences 48 extreme heat days, keeping it cooler than the state average of 64. With 58.3 inches of annual rain, lawns here receive plenty of moisture, though growth may be fast with 4,861 growing degree days.

Amending Acidic Soil for Better Health

The soil pH of 5.45 is acidic, meaning most lawns will benefit from lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal. The balance of 21.5% clay and 37.9% sand provides a decent foundation, but limited drainage data suggests monitoring for runoff.

Low Drought Impact Enhances Resilience

The county only saw 13 weeks of drought last year, though current conditions are abnormally dry across 100% of the area. Using rain barrels or smart controllers can help maintain this resilience during dry spells.

Start Your Spring Lawn in Early April

The last frost typically occurs on April 2, so plan to seed or sod shortly after. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are well-suited for Zone 8a and the moderate 78.9°F July average.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lawrence County's county score?
Lawrence County, Alabama has a composite county score of 59 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 Lawrence County rank among counties in Alabama?
Lawrence County ranks #14 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 Lawrence County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Lawrence County is $459, with an effective tax rate of 0.30%. This earns Lawrence County a tax score of 98.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lawrence County?
The median household income in Lawrence County, Alabama is $60,040 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lawrence County earns an income score of 39.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lawrence County, Alabama a good place to live?
Lawrence County scores 59/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #14 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Lawrence 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 Lawrence 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.