37.7
County Score
Cost of Living 75.8Property Tax 68.1Weather & Climate 57.5

County Report Card

About Le Flore County, Oklahoma

Le Flore County Trails Nationally

Le Flore County's CountyScore of 37.7 is well below the national median of 50.0. This reflects significant disparities in health and educational outcomes compared to the rest of the country. However, the county maintains a solid grip on housing affordability.

Below the Oklahoma State Average

The county's score of 37.7 sits below the Oklahoma average of 43.0. This ranking indicates that Le Flore faces more challenges than the typical Oklahoma county. Low scores in public services like health and schools contribute to its lower state-wide standing.

Housing Affordability Remains a High Point

Le Flore County's best features are its Cost Score of 75.8 and Tax Score of 68.1. Median gross rent is an affordable $773, and the property tax rate is a modest 0.653%. These factors make it an attractive location for those prioritizing low monthly overhead.

Healthcare and Schooling Obstacles

The Health Score of 9.4 and School Score of 13.3 highlight the biggest challenges facing local residents. Additionally, a low Risk Score of 17.3 suggests vulnerability to natural hazards in the region. Improving these community pillars is essential for raising the county's overall profile.

Best for Low-Cost Rural Living

Le Flore County is a fit for individuals who want to live in the scenic eastern part of the state without high housing costs. It is best for those who are healthy and do not have school-aged children. It provides a simple, low-tax lifestyle for those willing to accept fewer local services.

Score breakdown

Tax68.1Cost75.8Safety28.5Health9.4Schools13.3Income14.5Risk17.3Water3.2Weather57.5
🏛68.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠75.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼14.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡28.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
9.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓13.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
17.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧3.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤57.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨31.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱47.5
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

Le Flore County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Le Flore County

via TaxByCounty

Le Flore County taxes below national average rate

Le Flore County's effective tax rate of 0.653% sits below the national median of 0.88%, ranking the county in the lower half nationally for tax burden. The median property tax of $794 annually is just 30% of the national median of $2,690, thanks to Le Flore's modest home valuations.

Le Flore County slightly above Oklahoma average

Le Flore County's 0.653% effective rate edges just slightly above Oklahoma's state average of 0.652%, making it virtually typical for the state. The median tax bill of $794 is lower than the state median of $959 due to smaller home values than the statewide average.

Middle-range taxes among southeastern Oklahoma counties

Le Flore County's 0.653% rate sits between Jackson County (0.633%) to the west and Kay County (0.684%) to the north, placing it in the moderate range for southeastern Oklahoma. Compared to Latimer County (0.515%) and Johnston County (0.555%), Le Flore residents face slightly higher effective rates.

Median annual tax on Le Flore County home

The typical Le Flore County homeowner with a $121,600 house pays about $794 per year in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages typically pay $1,055 annually including escrow, while those without mortgages pay $596.

Appeal your assessment if you think it's high

Many Le Flore 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.

Cost of Living in Le Flore County

via CostByCounty

Le Flore County above national affordability

Le Flore County's 18.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's state average of 17.0% and sits above the national affordability threshold. With a median household income of $50,027 below the national median of $74,755, residents paying $773/month in rent face moderately tight housing-income ratios.

Le Flore slightly above state average stress

Le Flore County's 18.5% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Oklahoma's state average by 1.5 percentage points, placing it in the less-affordable half of the state's counties. Median rent of $773/month paired with $50,027 income creates a housing burden above the state norm.

Le Flore's moderate rental costs, strained income

Le Flore County's $773 median rent falls between Johnston ($732) and Jackson ($865), but its median income of $50,027 is among the lowest, pushing the affordability ratio higher than those peers. Owner costs of $611/month and a $121,600 median home value place Le Flore between affordable and constrained options.

Le Flore residents stretched by housing costs

Le Flore County renters earning $50,027 annually dedicate 18.5% of income to $773/month rent, above the comfortable threshold for household budgeting. Homeowners paying $611/month consume 14.7% of earnings on mortgages, leaving limited room for other essentials and savings.

Le Flore County for stable earners

Le Flore County works best for workers with reliable $50,000+ salaries or those relocating from higher-cost Oklahoma or regional markets. If your income is below $45,000 or you seek maximum affordability, Jefferson or Jackson County offer significantly better housing-to-income ratios.

Income & Jobs in Le Flore County

via IncomeByCounty

Le Flore County trails the national income median

Le Flore County's median household income of $50,027 is 33% below the U.S. median of $74,755, placing it among rural counties with significant income challenges. The gap reflects economic pressures common to southeastern Oklahoma communities.

Le Flore County falls below Oklahoma's average

Le Flore County's median household income of $50,027 trails the Oklahoma state average of $58,273 by $8,246, positioning it in the lower-income tier statewide. The per capita income of $24,847 lags the state average of $30,609 by nearly 19%.

Le Flore County earns modestly above lowest neighbors

Le Flore County households earn $2,277 more than Kiowa County ($42,063) and $9,021 more than Latimer County ($41,048), but less than most other regional counties. The county sits in the lower-middle range of its peer group.

Housing costs press significantly on household budgets

Le Flore County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% indicates housing expenses consume a substantial portion of household income, approaching affordability strain. The median home value of $121,600 stretches already-limited budgets, leaving reduced capacity for savings and other investments.

Build wealth incrementally through careful planning

Le Flore County residents should focus on budgeting discipline and accessing employer benefits to maximize limited income. Community development organizations and financial assistance programs offer tools to help residents establish emergency funds and gradual wealth-building strategies.

Safety in Le Flore County

via CrimeByCounty

Le Flore County Outperforms National Crime Averages

The county's total crime rate of 1,726.9 per 100K is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. Le Flore County earns a high safety score of 97.3 out of 100.

Safety Levels Exceed the Oklahoma Average

Le Flore County's total crime rate of 1,726.9 per 100K is significantly lower than the Oklahoma state average of 2,647.7. Its safety score of 97.3 is also higher than the state average of 95.8.

Broad Reporting Shows Regional Safety

With 13 reporting agencies, Le Flore County provides comprehensive data that shows it is safer than many of its peers. The county maintains a lower crime rate than the broader state average.

Violent Crime Remains Below National Marks

The violent crime rate is 272.0 per 100K, well under the national average of 369.8. Property crime is 1,454.9 per 100K, which is also lower than the national property crime rate of 2,015.7.

Protecting Your Le Flore County Home

Because property crime accounts for 1,454.9 incidents per 100K, residents should consider installing security cameras. Staying proactive helps keep local crime rates below state and national averages.

Health in Le Flore County

via HealthByCounty

Le Flore County grapples with health disparities

Life expectancy in Le Flore County is 71.0 years, below the U.S. average of 71.4 years, and 25.6% of residents report poor or fair health—above the national 27.2% figure. The combination signals significant health challenges across the community.

County ranks below Oklahoma averages

Le Flore County's 71.0-year life expectancy falls below Oklahoma's state average of 72.7 years by 1.7 years, placing it in the lower third of state health rankings. The 25.6% poor/fair health rate underscores ongoing disparities.

Health outcomes trail adjacent counties

Jackson County residents live 2.0 years longer than Le Flore County residents, and Kay County also outperforms Le Flore on life expectancy. Le Flore County's 19.1% uninsured rate—the highest in this dataset—places additional stress on a community with limited health resources.

High uninsured rate compounds care access challenges

Le Flore County's 19.1% uninsured rate—nearly one in five residents—is the worst in this region and significantly above Oklahoma's 15.3% state average. With only 29 primary care providers per 100,000, many uninsured residents face formidable barriers to preventive and routine care.

Coverage opens doors to essential care

If you're among Le Flore County's 19.1% uninsured, you likely qualify for Medicaid or marketplace subsidies that dramatically reduce costs. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit healthcare.gov today—coverage can mean the difference between managing your health and facing emergencies.

Schools in Le Flore County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large-Scale System with 17 Districts

Le Flore County features a massive infrastructure of 38 schools across 17 districts to support 9,230 students. This includes 18 elementary, seven middle, and 13 high schools.

Academic Performance Across the County

The county reports a 77.6% graduation rate, which is lower than the Oklahoma state average. Per-pupil expenditure of $6,209 stays relatively close to the state benchmark of $6,520.

Poteau and Panama Lead the Districts

Poteau is the largest district with 2,182 students, while Panama and Arkoma also serve significant numbers. There are zero charter schools in Le Flore County, with all 38 institutions operating as traditional public schools.

A Mix of Rural, Suburb, and Town Life

The county offers a rare locale mix including 25 rural, 10 town, and 3 suburban schools. POTEAU HS is the largest facility with 636 students, though the average school size remains small at 243 students.

Endless Residential Opportunities for Families

With 17 districts to choose from, families can find homes ranging from suburban developments to rural farmsteads. Use the county's diverse school map to guide your search for the perfect Le Flore County neighborhood.

Disaster Risk in Le Flore County

via RiskByCounty

Le Flore County faces moderate risk

With a composite risk score of 82.70, Le Flore County ranks as relatively moderate—significantly higher than the national average and 49% above Oklahoma's state average of 55.47. This elevated risk reflects substantial exposure across multiple natural hazard types.

Among Oklahoma's riskiest counties

Le Flore County ranks among Oklahoma's highest-risk counties statewide with a score of 82.70, well above the state average of 55.47. The county faces significant multi-hazard exposure that demands serious preparedness planning.

Riskiest in its region

Le Flore County's score of 82.70 substantially exceeds nearby Latimer County (34.64) and most surrounding areas, making it one of Oklahoma's most hazard-exposed counties regionally. The county faces notably greater natural disaster risk than its neighbors.

Wildfire, tornadoes, and floods

Wildfire risk peaks at an exceptional 96.09—the state's highest—while tornado risk reaches 88.23 and flood risk climbs to 84.26. These three hazards create a complex, high-consequence risk environment requiring comprehensive preparation.

Layer coverage for maximum protection

Le Flore County residents should obtain homeowners insurance covering wind and tornado damage, supplemented by flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program and wildfire coverage where available. Consulting an insurance agent about stacking appropriate coverages is critical given the county's exceptional multi-hazard exposure.

Weather & Climate in Le Flore County

via WeatherByCounty

Lush and Warm Southeast Oklahoma

Le Flore County's 61.0°F average temperature and heavy rainfall make it much wetter and warmer than the national median. This region supports dense forests thanks to its subtropical moisture.

The Wettest Corner of Oklahoma

With 50.8 inches of annual rain, Le Flore is significantly wetter than the Oklahoma state average of 37.2 inches. Its temperature of 61.0°F stays slightly above the 60.4°F state average.

Record Rainfall in the Region

Le Flore is the wettest of its neighbors, receiving nearly 51 inches of precipitation annually. It sees almost no snow, averaging just 0.6 inches, which is far less than northern neighbors like Kay.

Green Summers and Rain-Soaked Winters

July averages 81.8°F with 71 days of extreme heat, though the frequent rain keeps the heat from drying the landscape. Winters are mild and wet, averaging 41.4°F with negligible snowfall.

Focus on Rain Protection Gear

Quality rain gear and waterproof home sealing are essential for this 50-inch rain zone. Heavy winter coats are rarely needed, but residents should prepare for frequent spring and autumn storms.

Soil Quality in Le Flore County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Dynamic Eastern Soils

Le Flore County has an average soil pH of 5.87, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.06 and below the national median of 6.5. This profile is common in eastern Oklahoma's timberlands and river valleys. Without specific taxonomic data, the pH remains the primary guide for local soil management.

Sand and Silt Dominance

The soil is a mix of 40.0% sand and 36.3% silt, with 18.8% clay. This texture is highly influenced by the county's significant water features and complex topography. The result is a soil that is relatively easy to till but can be prone to erosion if left without ground cover.

Meeting the State Standard for Moisture

The available water capacity in Le Flore County is 0.144 in/in, exactly matching the Oklahoma state average. Organic matter is 1.27%, trailing both the state average of 1.72% and the national 2.0% benchmark. This suggests that while the soil holds water well, it benefits greatly from supplemental nutrients.

High Runoff Potential in the Valley

The soil falls into hydrologic group D, which indicates very slow infiltration and a high potential for runoff. This is especially important for land along the Poteau and Arkansas Rivers, where surface water management is a constant priority. Builders should expect slow drainage during the wetter spring months.

Zone 7b: From Timber to Tomatoes

Le Flore County's zone 7b climate is excellent for a wide variety of gardening, from timber production to summer vegetables. The acidic soil is naturally suited for blackberries and strawberries, which thrive in this region. Whether you are farming the flats or gardening the hills, the long growing season is a huge plus.

Lawn Care in Le Flore County

via LawnByCounty

Lush Potential in Le Flore County

Le Flore County scores a 47.5 for lawn difficulty, placing it right near the state average of 46.1. In hardiness zone 7b, the county benefits from significant moisture that many other Oklahoma counties lack. This is an excellent area for those who prefer more naturally hydrated lawns.

Abundant Water and Mild Heat

An annual precipitation of 50.8 inches makes this one of the wettest counties in the state. With only 71 days of extreme heat, your lawn faces less thermal stress than the 76-day Oklahoma average. This climate supports a wider variety of grass types than the arid western regions.

Managing Acidic and Sandy Soil

The soil pH of 5.87 is slightly acidic, just under the ideal 6.0 threshold for most turf. With a 40% sand content, the soil allows for good drainage, but it may lose nutrients quickly during heavy rains. Adding a bit of lime can help nudge the pH into a more productive range for your grass.

Exceptional Natural Drought Resilience

Le Flore County had only 10 weeks of drought in the past year, the lowest in this eight-county group. No portion of the county is currently in severe drought, providing a very stable environment for lawn health. This abundance of water makes it easier to keep your yard green without high utility bills.

Mid-April is Prime Time

Wait until after the April 6 frost date to begin your spring lawn projects. Bermuda grass thrives here, but the high rainfall also makes Zoysia a very attractive and successful option. Your lawn has plenty of time to grow before the first fall frost on November 2.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Le Flore County's county score?
Le Flore County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 37.7 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 Le Flore County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
Le Flore County ranks #58 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 Le Flore County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in Le Flore County is $794, with an effective tax rate of 0.65%. This earns Le Flore County a tax score of 68.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Le Flore County?
The median household income in Le Flore County, Oklahoma is $50,027 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Le Flore County earns an income score of 14.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Le Flore County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
Le Flore County scores 37.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #58 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate Le Flore 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 Le Flore County with other counties side by side.