countyscore
33.6
County Score
Water Quality 67.3Property Tax 60.5Income & Jobs 59.4

County Report Card

About Lee County, Mississippi

Lee County trails the national median

Lee County earns a composite score of 33.6, which falls significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a combination of strong economic factors balanced against social and environmental vulnerabilities.

Below the Mississippi state average

The county's overall score of 33.6 lags behind the Mississippi state average of 48.4. Despite being a regional economic hub, it faces unique challenges compared to its statewide neighbors.

Strong water quality and low taxes

The county excels with a water quality score of 67.3 and a tax score of 60.5. Residents benefit from a low effective tax rate of 0.722% and a relatively high median household income of $67,144.

Safety and environmental risk hurdles

The county struggles with a safety score of 10.3 and a natural risk score of 18.7. Health metrics also lag at 25.5, indicating a need for improved community well-being and infrastructure resilience.

A hub for career-focused residents

Lee County suits professionals who prioritize higher local incomes and low tax burdens. It is an ideal fit for those who can navigate a higher-risk environment in exchange for economic opportunity.

Score breakdown

Tax60.5Cost36.9Safety10.3Health25.5Schools26.8Income59.4Risk18.7Water67.3Weather50.4
🏛60.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠36.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼59.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡10.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓26.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡18.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨38.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱33
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

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Prentiss County
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Pontotoc County
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Tippah County
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Monroe County
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Alcorn County
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Deep Dives

Lee County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lee County

via TaxByCounty

Lee County taxes far below national average

Lee County homeowners pay an effective tax rate of 0.722%, roughly one-quarter the national median of 2.1%. At $1,356 in median annual property tax, residents here pay about half what the typical American household pays, placing the county well below the national median of $2,690.

Lee ranks middle-of-pack statewide

Lee County's 0.722% effective rate sits slightly below Mississippi's average of 0.743%, indicating residents face slightly lower tax burdens than typical Mississippi homeowners. The county's median property tax of $1,356 exceeds the state median of $931, reflecting higher home values in the area.

Lee taxes competitive with regional peers

Lee County's rate of 0.722% is lower than nearby Lincoln County (0.717%) and closely tracks Lowndes County (0.640%) and Marion County (0.744%). While home values vary across the region, Lee's tax burden remains moderate compared to faster-growing Madison County (0.723%).

Median homeowner pays $1,356 yearly

On the median Lee County home valued at $187,800, homeowners owe approximately $1,356 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure climbs to $1,537; owners without mortgages pay around $966.

You may be overassessed—appeal today

Many Mississippi property owners pay taxes on inflated assessments and never challenge them. If you believe your Lee County home is overvalued, you can file an appeal with the county assessor's office—often recovering hundreds in annual tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lee County

via CostByCounty

Lee County rents eat less of paychecks

Lee County renters spend 16.6% of their income on rent, well below the national norm and nearly 3 percentage points better than Mississippi's state average of 19.6%. At $929 monthly, rent here is higher than the state median of $782, yet remains affordable relative to local incomes.

Middle-of-pack affordability statewide

Lee County ranks solidly among Mississippi's more affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average. The county's $67,144 median household income is the strongest in this eight-county region, providing stronger cushion against housing costs.

Higher rents, stronger incomes

Lee County's $929 rent is the highest among its peer counties, but locals also earn more—$67,144 versus Lincoln's $48,316 or Lowndes's $54,460. This income advantage makes Lee's steeper rents manageable compared to neighboring counties where wages lag behind housing costs.

Renters and owners balance fairly well

A Lee County renter spending $929 monthly sees that represent 16.6% of their $67,144 yearly income, leaving substantial room for other expenses. Homeowners paying $943 monthly in costs benefit from modest median home values of $187,800, making both pathways reasonably accessible.

Relocating to Lee County makes sense

If housing affordability matters, Lee County delivers: rents and mortgages are lower than national averages while local wages beat Mississippi's state median. Compare these numbers to your current housing burden—you might find meaningful savings here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lee County

via IncomeByCounty

Lee County earns above the national baseline

Lee County's median household income of $67,144 sits below the national median of $74,755, a gap of $7,611. Still, Lee County households earn meaningfully more than Mississippi's statewide average of $48,514, putting the county in a stronger position than most of its peers.

Top-tier income ranking statewide

Lee County ranks among Mississippi's highest-earning counties, with median household income significantly above the state average of $48,514. Per capita income of $33,713 also exceeds the state average of $27,136, reflecting a more affluent and economically stable population.

Lee County leads its regional peers

Lee County's $67,144 median household income outpaces neighboring Lowndes County ($54,460) and Monroe County ($51,231), establishing it as a regional economic hub. The county's per capita income of $33,713 also surpasses these neighbors, suggesting stronger wealth accumulation across households.

Housing costs remain manageable here

Lee County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.6% falls well below the national affordability threshold of 28%, meaning housing costs consume a modest portion of household earnings. With a median home value of $187,800 relative to median household income, homeownership remains accessible for many families.

Build on Lee County's economic strength

With median household income outpacing state averages and reasonable housing costs, Lee County residents have room to invest surplus income in retirement accounts, education, and wealth-building assets. Financial advisors recommend households earning above regional medians prioritize emergency savings and diversified investments to compound gains over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lee County

via CrimeByCounty

Lee County Safety vs. National Trends

Lee County reports a total crime rate of 2,750.1 per 100K, which sits slightly above the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the county maintains a high safety score of 95.7 out of 100.

Comparing Lee County to Mississippi Averages

The county faces higher crime metrics than many peers, trailing the Mississippi average safety score of 98.4. Its total crime rate is nearly triple the state average of 978.4 per 100K.

Regional Crime Rates in Northeast Mississippi

Compared to neighboring Monroe County’s rate of 1,147.2, Lee County sees a significantly higher volume of reported incidents. This regional disparity highlights a more active law enforcement environment in the Tupelo area.

Property Crime vs. Violent Crime

Property crimes dominate the local landscape at 2,487.3 per 100K, while violent crime remains relatively low at 262.8. Residents are far more likely to experience theft or burglary than physical harm.

Securing Your Lee County Home

The high property crime rate suggests that home vigilance is key for local residents. Simple steps like installing smart cameras and motion-activated lights can effectively deter opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lee County

via HealthByCounty

Lee County's health advantage

At 72.1 years, Lee County residents live 4.4 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.5 years, putting the county below the national benchmark. The 21.7% rate of residents reporting poor or fair health exceeds the national average of 18%, signaling persistent health challenges despite moderate life expectancy gains.

Above average within Mississippi

Lee County's 72.1-year life expectancy ranks above Mississippi's state average of 70.9 years, positioning it in the healthier half of the state. The county's 21.7% poor/fair health rate is slightly below the state median, suggesting relatively stable community health status.

Stronger primary care access

Lee County offers 118 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly triple the supply in neighboring Marshall County (15 per 100K) and substantially higher than Lincoln County (40 per 100K). Mental health capacity also stands strong at 858 providers per 100K, far exceeding regional peers.

Insurance and access reality

Lee County's 13.0% uninsured rate sits just below the state average of 13.9%, meaning roughly 1 in 8 residents lack health coverage. With 118 primary care providers per 100K, residents have better-than-average access to routine care, though some rural pockets may still face barriers.

Check your coverage options

If you're among the 13% of Lee County residents without insurance, explore marketplace plans at Healthcare.gov or contact your local health department about Medicaid eligibility. Taking stock of your current coverage now can prevent gaps in care and protect your financial health.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lee County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Region's Largest Educational Infrastructure

Lee County features 33 public schools serving a massive enrollment of 14,855 students. The county utilizes four districts to manage 16 elementary, seven middle, and seven high schools.

Solid Performance and Above-Average Spending

With an 87.9% graduation rate, Lee County exceeds both state and national averages. The county spends $6,044 per pupil, supporting a school score of 50.4.

A Multi-District Approach to Education

The Tupelo Public School District (7,132 students) and Lee County School District (6,303 students) are the primary providers. The Baldwyn School District also serves 756 students, and no charter schools are present.

Town and Rural Diversity with Large High Schools

The locale mix includes 19 town and 14 rural schools with an average size of 512 students. Tupelo High School is the largest in the set, serving 2,001 students.

Find a Home in a Top Educational Hub

Lee County offers more school choices and districts than most neighboring counties. Consider how these diverse educational options can enhance your home-buying decision.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lee County

via RiskByCounty

Lee County faces above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 81.27, Lee County ranks in the relatively moderate category—significantly higher than the national average. This score reflects serious exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly earthquakes and tornadoes, that demand preparedness attention.

Among Mississippi's highest-risk counties

Lee County's score of 81.27 far exceeds Mississippi's state average of 50.94, placing it in the upper tier of disaster risk across the state. This elevated standing reflects the county's particular vulnerability to seismic and severe convective hazards.

Notably riskier than nearby Tupelo region

Lee County's 81.27 score substantially exceeds neighboring Monroe County (68.54) and Marshall County (71.18), making it the riskiest in its immediate area. The primary driver of this difference is Lee's exceptionally high earthquake risk of 93.38, well above the region's typical exposure.

Earthquakes and tornadoes are your main threats

Lee County faces an earthquake risk score of 93.38 and tornado risk of 86.77—the two hazards most likely to affect the county. Earthquake activity, though infrequent, can cause significant structural damage, while tornadoes pose an annual threat during spring and early summer months.

Get earthquake and wind insurance now

Standard homeowners policies typically exclude earthquake damage, making separate earthquake coverage essential for Lee County residents. Adding comprehensive wind coverage and confirming flood insurance eligibility will provide the protection your county's hazard profile demands.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lee County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic humid subtropical climate

Lee County reports an average annual temperature of 63.0°F, which is notably warmer than the U.S. median. This climate is defined by long, hot summers and relatively short, mild winters.

Slightly cooler than the state

The county averages 63.0°F, making it nearly a full degree cooler than the Mississippi state average of 63.9°F. This reflects its more northern position within the state's borders.

Milder than southern neighbors

Lee County is cooler than Lowndes County to the south, which averages 65.4°F. Its 58.0 inches of annual precipitation is nearly identical to Lauderdale County's 58.7 inches.

Defined by summer heat

Summers bring 71 extreme heat days where temperatures exceed 90°F, primarily during the 81.8°F July peaks. Winters are among the coolest in the state, averaging 44.7°F with 0.6 inches of snow.

Balance cooling and rain prep

Residents should maintain HVAC systems for the 71 days of extreme heat each year. With 58 inches of rain, keeping gutters clear and ensuring proper yard drainage is essential for home maintenance.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lee County

via SoilByCounty

Lee County's Acidic Ground Profile

Lee County soils feature an average pH of 5.54, which is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This level is slightly less acidic than the Mississippi state average of 5.30. While local taxonomic records are limited, the soil health score of 38.6 sits comfortably above the statewide average of 35.7.

A Balanced Mix of Silt and Sand

The soil composition is evenly balanced between 42.3% silt and 39.5% sand, with a 18.2% clay component. This mix provides a stable texture that prevents the heavy compaction often found in clay-heavy regions. These ratios suggest a ground that is easy to work while maintaining enough structure to support varied root systems.

Modest Organic Content for Growing

At 1.77%, the organic matter content is just below the Mississippi average of 1.81% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity measures 0.166 in/in, slightly trailing the state average of 0.174 in/in. Gardeners should consider adding compost to boost these levels for maximum productivity.

Hydrology and Water Management

Official drainage classes are not recorded for this area, but the 39.5% sand content suggests naturally efficient water movement. The soil’s ability to hold water is respectable, though it may require more frequent irrigation during the dry summer months. Proper site grading remains essential for managing runoff in this landscape.

Gardening in Hardiness Zone 8a

Lee County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, offering a long growing season for heat-tolerant vegetables and perennials. Blueberries and camellias thrive in the county's naturally acidic soil profile. Start your garden today to take advantage of the region's above-average soil score.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lee County

via LawnByCounty

Overcoming the Humid Subtropical Challenge

Lee County earns a lawn difficulty score of 33.0, which is slightly easier than the Mississippi state average of 30.9 but well below the national median of 50.0. In Hardiness Zone 8a, residents must manage a landscape that favors heat-tolerant species over traditional cool-season grasses. Consistent maintenance is required to keep lawns healthy in this demanding southern environment.

High Rainfall and Rapid Growth Cycles

The county receives 58.0 inches of annual precipitation, which exceeds the ideal lawn range of 30-50 inches. With 5,575 growing degree days and 71 extreme heat days, the turf enters high-metabolism periods that require frequent mowing. While the specific growing season length data is limited, the warm temperatures ensure a long window for active yard work.

Correcting Acidity in Mixed Soil

The local soil pH of 5.54 is notably more acidic than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turf. With 18.2% clay and 39.5% sand, the soil provides a decent structure but likely needs lime applications to neutralize acidity. This balance ensures that grass can properly absorb nutrients during the peak growing months.

Managing Frequent Dry Spells

Lee County faced 20 weeks in drought over the last year, highlighting the need for resilient landscaping. Although the area currently shows 0% drought coverage, homeowners should utilize deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root systems. These practices help lawns survive the inevitable periods when the rain stops falling.

Timing Your Zone 8a Lawn

Bermuda and Zoysia are excellent choices for this climate and should be established after the last spring frost on March 21. Aim to complete major sodding or seeding projects well before the first fall frost arrives on November 10. Starting early allows the root system to harden before the winter dormancy period begins.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lee County's county score?
Lee County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 33.6 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 Lee County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Lee County ranks #78 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 Lee County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Lee County is $1,356, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Lee County a tax score of 60.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lee County?
The median household income in Lee County, Mississippi is $67,144 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lee County earns an income score of 59.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lee County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Lee County scores 33.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #78 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Lee 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 Lee 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.