countyscore
47.6
County Score
Property Tax 68.9Cost of Living 68.9Safety 50.7

County Report Card

About Levy County, Florida

Levy County meets the national baseline

Levy County's composite score of 47.6 sits just slightly below the national median of 50.0, indicating livability performance roughly equivalent to average American counties. This near-median position reflects a mixed profile with notable affordability strengths but economic constraints.

Slightly ahead of Florida's state average

With a composite score of 47.6, Levy County edges above Florida's state average of 45.1, positioning it in the middle-to-upper range of Florida's 67 counties. This modest advantage reflects selective strengths, particularly in housing affordability.

Exceptional affordability anchors Levy

Levy County delivers exceptional housing affordability with a median home value of just $171,400 and median rent of $826/month, earning a cost score of 68.9. An effective tax rate of 0.648% also ranks among Florida's lowest, creating significant overall cost advantages.

Low incomes and health concerns persist

Levy County's median household income of $53,805 (income score: 22.3) severely lags state averages, limiting economic opportunity and household purchasing power. Health score of 30.5 and school score of 29.5 further indicate gaps in healthcare access and educational quality.

Perfect for budget-first rural retirees

Levy County suits retirees and remote workers on fixed or flexible incomes who prioritize low housing costs and tax burdens above all else. Its affordability makes it an excellent choice for seniors seeking maximum purchasing power, though limited healthcare and job prospects require careful individual assessment.

Score breakdown

Tax68.9Cost68.9Safety50.7Health30.5Schools29.5Income22.3Risk33.9Water35.8Weather26.4
🏛68.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠68.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼22.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡50.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤30.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓29.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧35.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤26.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱14.9
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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Counties with similar scores

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Nearby counties

Dixie County
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51
Citrus County
Florida
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Gilchrist County
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Alachua County
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Marion County
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Hernando County
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Lafayette County
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Union County
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Deep Dives

Levy County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Levy County

via TaxByCounty

Levy County taxes well below national median

Levy County's effective tax rate of 0.648% sits just below the national median of 0.71%, while its median tax of $1,110 represents just 41% of the national median of $2,690. This low-tax profile reflects rural character and modest property values typical of Florida's Nature Coast.

Among Florida's cheapest counties to own property

Levy County's effective rate of 0.648% trails Florida's 0.731% average, ranking it among the state's lowest-tax jurisdictions. Its median tax of $1,110 is 41% below the state median of $1,885, offering exceptional tax affordability for property owners.

Nearly tied with Lafayette for lowest regional taxes

Levy's 0.648% rate virtually matches Lafayette County's 0.646%, making both the region's tax leaders. The median tax of $1,110 exceeds only Liberty ($1,031) and Madison ($928) among north-central counties, positioning Levy as highly affordable relative to suburban growth areas.

Modest annual tax bills in Levy County

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $171,400 pays roughly $1,110 annually in property taxes—just $93 per month. This low burden reflects the county's rural economy and conservative tax assessment practices.

Verify assessments even in low-tax counties

Tax affordability doesn't guarantee accurate assessments; many Levy County homeowners may still be overvalued on county rolls. A formal appeal can further reduce your already-low tax bill, particularly if your property hasn't appreciated as rapidly as county averages suggest.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Levy County

via CostByCounty

Levy County: rural affordability shines

Levy County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national average, giving renters genuine breathing room in their budgets. At $826 monthly rent against a median income of $53,805, Levy delivers some of Florida's most authentic affordability for working families.

Among Florida's most affordable

Levy County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks notably below Florida's average of 22.5%, placing it among the state's most budget-friendly housing markets. This rural county offers rare affordability in a state increasingly shaped by higher coastal and urban prices.

Levy leads the rural pack

Levy County's $826 median rent matches or slightly undercuts fellow rural counties Madison ($819) and Lafayette ($880), making it one of North Florida's most economical choices. While all three share similar affordability, Levy's lower household incomes ($53,805) mean renters stretch their budgets even further than Lafayette's residents.

Low costs across renting and owning

Levy County renters spend $826 monthly (18.4% of income), while homeowners pay $609 on mortgages for median homes valued at $171,400. Both groups enjoy substantial budget flexibility, with housing consuming roughly 18% for renters and just 13% for owners—well below state norms.

Levy County: maximum rural affordability

Levy County offers some of Florida's lowest housing costs with an 18.4% rent burden and median homes near $171,400, though incomes are also modest. If you're willing to embrace rural life and lower household earnings for maximum affordability, Levy delivers unmatched value with housing costs that won't dominate your finances.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Levy County

via IncomeByCounty

Levy County significantly below national average

Levy County's median household income of $53,805 runs about 28% below the U.S. median of $74,755, reflecting limited job opportunities in this rural county. The per capita income of $30,739 also trails the national average, indicating widespread lower earnings across the population.

Among Florida's lowest income counties

Levy County's $53,805 median household income ranks well below Florida's state average of $65,468 by roughly $11,600. The county consistently ranks in the bottom tier of Florida counties for household earnings.

Rural economy limits income growth

Levy County's $53,805 median income falls below nearby Lafayette ($60,692) and Liberty ($53,824), reflecting limited employment diversification. The county's forestry, agriculture, and fishing heritage provides fewer high-wage opportunities than larger regional centers.

Rent affordable but home prices rising

Levy County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% is the healthiest on this measure, with housing consuming less than one-fifth of earnings. However, the median home value of $171,400 still represents a significant purchase hurdle for median-income households.

Start small, think long-term

Even modest incomes in Levy County can grow through consistent, automated savings and low-cost index fund investing. Leveraging employer matches in retirement plans and building emergency savings establishes financial resilience despite income constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Levy County

via CrimeByCounty

Levy County maintains strong safety benchmarks

Levy County holds a safety score of 98.2, keeping it well above national safety thresholds. Its total crime rate of 1,109.4 per 100,000 residents is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

How Levy compares to Florida averages

Levy’s safety score of 98.2 is just 0.2 points shy of the Florida state average of 98.4. Its crime rate of 1,109.4 is slightly above the state average of 1,027.9, but it remains a secure rural option.

Levy compared to neighboring Lake County

Levy County sees a crime rate roughly double that of Lake County, though both remain well under national averages. Ten reporting agencies provide consistent data for the county's safety profile.

A closer look at Levy's crime breakdown

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 245.0 per 100,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime stays moderate at 864.4, well below the U.S. average of 2,015.7.

Essential security tips for Levy residents

Homeowners should focus on securing outbuildings and perimeter fencing to deter property crime. Simple additions like motion-sensor lights significantly improve home safety on larger lots.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Levy County

via HealthByCounty

Levy County faces health headwinds

At 74.4 years, Levy County residents live nearly 4.5 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. The county's 20% poor/fair health rate exceeds the national average of 17%, suggesting chronic disease and preventive care gaps.

Below-average health outcomes statewide

Levy County's 74.4-year life expectancy trails Florida's state average of 75.8 years, placing it among the lower-performing counties. With a 17% uninsured rate, the county exceeds Florida's 14.4% average, leaving more residents vulnerable to delayed or deferred care.

Provider shortages limit care options

Levy County's 11 primary care providers per 100,000 residents match Lafayette County's critically low density and far trail Lake County's 59 providers. Mental health access is also limited at 54 providers per 100,000, leaving residents with fewer options for specialized behavioral care.

Limited access drives health challenges

Levy County struggles with both insurance access and provider availability: 17% of residents are uninsured, and only 11 primary care providers per 100,000 make appointments hard to secure. This combination creates barriers to preventive care and early disease management, contributing to the county's below-average health outcomes.

Secure healthcare coverage now

Nearly 1 in 6 Levy County residents lack insurance, a critical gap given limited local provider capacity. Explore marketplace plans and Medicaid eligibility immediately—having coverage can ensure you're connected to available providers and don't delay seeking necessary care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Levy County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Educational Foundation

Levy County operates 15 public schools serving a student body of 5,662. The system is built around 7 elementary schools and 4 high schools, providing essential coverage for the rural community.

Outperforming National Graduation Averages

Students in Levy County graduate at a 91.0% rate, beating the national average of 87%. This occurs despite a per-pupil expenditure of only $4,882, which is one of the lower spending rates in the state.

Centralized County Management

The Levy School District manages all 15 schools, including two charter schools that make up 13.3% of the county's options. Williston Middle High is the largest single campus, enrolling 1,119 students.

Deeply Rural Academic Setting

With 14 of 15 schools in rural locales, the county offers a consistent small-town learning environment. Schools maintain an average size of 472 students, ensuring most students aren't lost in the crowd.

Rural Living with Graduation Success

Families seeking a quiet lifestyle without sacrificing school quality will find Levy County's 91% graduation rate appealing. Search for homes near Chiefland or Williston to join these successful rural districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Levy County

via RiskByCounty

Levy County's risk moderately exceeds national average

Levy County's composite risk score of 66.09 with a 'Relatively Low' rating sits below many counties nationwide. However, the score reflects elevated coastal and climate hazards, particularly hurricane and wildfire risks that require active preparation.

Middle-tier risk among Florida counties

Levy County's score of 66.09 falls below Florida's state average of 75.74, placing it among the safer Florida counties. This positioning reflects somewhat lower exposure compared to southwestern and central Florida peers, though hazard risks remain significant.

Safer than surrounding coastal counties

Levy County's 66.09 score trails Lake County (91.92) and substantially trails coastal high-risk counties like Lee (99.05). However, it exceeds inland counties like Madison (47.42), reflecting its greater coastal vulnerability.

Hurricanes and wildfires shape annual risk

Levy County's hurricane risk of 91.61 and wildfire risk of 87.28 represent the county's two dominant hazard exposures. These overlapping seasonal threats mean residents should prepare for storm surge and wildfire impacts, particularly during late summer and fall months.

Hurricane and fire preparedness go hand-in-hand

Levy County homeowners should prioritize wind/hurricane insurance and evaluate wildfire-risk properties for defensible space—clearing brush and dead trees within 30 feet of structures. Understanding local flood zones and maintaining comprehensive homeowners coverage protects against the full spectrum of likely threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Levy County

via WeatherByCounty

Levy County Maintains Warm National Standing

With an annual average of 69.2°F, Levy County stays roughly 15 degrees warmer than the national median. This climate is typical for the Nature Coast, balancing tropical heat with temperate shifts.

Slightly Cooler Than the State Average

Levy County averages 69.2°F, placing it just below the Florida state average of 71.1°F. It ranks as one of the more moderate counties in the state's mid-section.

A Cooler Alternative to Inland Marion

Levy County's 69.2°F average is cooler than neighbor Marion County's 70.2°F. The coastal proximity helps moderate the extreme heat that builds up further inland.

Mild Seasons and Moderate Heat Days

Levy experiences 82 days of extreme heat above 90°F, which is fewer than many of its Florida neighbors. Summer averages stay at 80.3°F while winters remain mild at 57.1°F with zero snowfall.

Planning for Wet Summers and Mild Winters

The 57.1 inches of annual precipitation exceeds the state average of 54.8 inches, making rain gear essential. Residents enjoy more manageable summers with only 82 days of extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Levy County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Profile in Levy

Levy County's soil pH of 4.86 mirrors the Florida state average of 4.88. This acidic profile is typical for the region but stands in sharp contrast to the 6.5 pH median found nationally.

Easy-to-Work Sandy Mix

The soil contains 80.5% sand, 2.7% silt, and 4.5% clay. This high-sand mix ensures the ground is easy to work and well-aerated, though it lacks the structural stability of heavier soils.

Exceptional Organic Matter

The county boasts an impressive 10.00% organic matter, significantly higher than the state average of 8.03%. This is paired with an available water capacity of 0.119 in/in, which also exceeds state benchmarks for moisture retention.

Naturally Balanced Hydrology

While specific drainage classes are not provided, the combination of high sand and high organic matter suggests a soil that drains well while retaining moisture. This is an ideal balance for many types of local agriculture.

Great for Watermelons and Peanuts

In Zone 9a, Levy County is excellent for growing watermelons and peanuts, which are local favorites. The high organic matter means your garden starts with a wealth of nutrients, so get your seeds in the ground today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Levy County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Turf Care on the Gulf

Levy County scores a 14.9 on the lawn difficulty scale, making it one of the harder places in the country to grow grass. As a Zone 9a region, it faces significant environmental pressures compared to the national average score of 50.0.

Moderate Heat but High Humidity

While its 82 extreme heat days are lower than the Florida average of 92, the 57.1 inches of rain can be overwhelming. These 7,155 growing degree days provide plenty of energy for grass, but the wet conditions require excellent drainage.

Acidic Sand Limits Nutrient Intake

The soil is predominantly sandy (80.5%) with a low pH of 4.86, which often prevents grass from absorbing fertilizer effectively. Regular pH testing and amendments are necessary to counteract the naturally acidic conditions of the local earth.

Long-Term Drought Stress in Levy

Levy County has spent 36 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100% of the area is currently in Severe Drought. To protect your lawn, avoid heavy fertilizing during these periods, as it can cause further stress to thirsty grass.

Planting for the Zone 9a Climate

Bahiagrass is a rugged choice that handles the local soil and drought cycles better than most. With the final frost usually occurring by February 28, the spring window for starting new sod is wide and welcoming.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Levy County's county score?
Levy County, Florida has a composite county score of 47.6 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 Levy County rank among counties in Florida?
Levy County ranks #28 among all counties in Florida 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 Levy County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Levy County is $1,110, with an effective tax rate of 0.65%. This earns Levy County a tax score of 68.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Levy County?
The median household income in Levy County, Florida is $53,805 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Levy County earns an income score of 22.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Levy County, Florida a good place to live?
Levy County scores 47.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #28 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Levy 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 Levy 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.