countyscore
55.5
County Score
Property Tax 88.4Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 66.2

County Report Card

About Lincoln County, Tennessee

A top-tier national contender

Lincoln County boasts a composite score of 55.5, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high overall quality of life relative to the rest of the country.

Leading the pack in Tennessee

Lincoln County significantly outperforms the Tennessee state average of 51.3. It stands out as one of the more desirable counties in the state due to its blend of low taxes and solid incomes.

Elite tax benefits and schools

With a tax score of 88.4 and an effective tax rate of 0.474%, the financial burden on residents is minimal. The county also features strong schools (59.8) and a healthy median income of $63,115.

Safety and health gaps

The county's lowest marks come in safety (33.6) and health (35.0). While not critically low, these areas suggest that public services and healthcare access could use more attention.

A great all-rounder for families

Lincoln County is an excellent match for families who want quality education without the high tax burden found in urban centers. It offers a stable middle-class lifestyle with great fiscal perks.

Score breakdown

Tax88.4Cost63.2Safety33.6Health35Schools59.8Income48.5Risk41.1Water86Weather66.2
🏛88.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠63.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼48.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡33.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓59.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡41.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨45.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱43.2
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

Moore County
Tennessee
65.9
Marshall County
Tennessee
49.5
Bedford County
Tennessee
40.8
Franklin County
Tennessee
47.6
Giles County
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50.7
Madison County
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61.9
Coffee County
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Limestone County
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42.9

Deep Dives

Lincoln County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Lincoln County

via TaxByCounty

Lincoln ranks among lowest-tax counties

Lincoln County's effective tax rate of 0.474% ranks in the lowest tier nationally, well below the U.S. median of 0.22%. Despite higher-than-average home values at $209,100, the county keeps tax bills modest at $991 annually.

Well below Tennessee average

Lincoln County boasts one of Tennessee's lowest effective tax rates at 0.474%—nearly 7% below the state average of 0.511%. This positions the county as a tax-friendly destination within the state.

Among the lowest in the region

Lincoln's 0.474% rate is one of the lowest among its peers, outpacing Marion County (0.444%) and significantly lower than Lauderdale County (0.662%). The county offers substantial tax relief for homeowners in Middle Tennessee.

Under $1,000 on $209K median home

Lincoln County homeowners with the median-value property of $209,100 pay $991 annually—just shy of the state average bill despite moderately valued homes. This favorable rate makes Lincoln attractive for budget-conscious homebuyers.

Appeal if your assessment seems high

Even in low-tax counties, overassessments happen and are worth challenging. Lincoln County residents should ensure their assessed value reflects true market conditions, not inflated county appraisals.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lincoln County

via CostByCounty

Lincoln County: Affluent and affordably housed

Lincoln County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.9% ranks among the nation's most affordable, well below both the national average and Tennessee's 17.6% state benchmark. With a median income of $63,115—closer to the national average than most rural Tennessee counties—residents enjoy genuine housing security.

Best-affordability county in Tennessee sample

Lincoln ranks at the top tier of Tennessee counties for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio that dramatically undercuts the state average of 17.6%. The county's higher median income of $63,115 combined with reasonable rents creates the strongest financial position in this eight-county comparison.

Wealthier than surrounding rural counties

Lincoln's $63,115 median income and $782 rent place it firmly above the Lauderdale-Lawrence-Lewis cluster to the north, offering more financial stability. The median home value of $209,100 reflects stronger property appreciation potential than the poorer neighbors.

Lowest housing burden among eight counties

Renters pay $782 monthly while homeowners spend $766—nearly equal costs that consume just 14.9% and 14.5% of income respectively. This leaves residents substantially more discretionary income than their peers in rural Tennessee, supporting a higher quality of life.

Affordable small-town living with stronger incomes

Lincoln County offers the rare combination of genuine small-town affordability and above-average household incomes, making it ideal for relocators seeking balance. If you want rural authenticity without financial stress, Lincoln outpaces its neighbors on every affordability metric.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lincoln County

via IncomeByCounty

Lincoln County closes the income gap

Lincoln County's median household income of $63,115 trails the national median of $74,755 by $11,640—a narrower gap than most rural Tennessee counties. The county's per capita income of $34,761 suggests a more educated, professional workforce than neighboring rural areas.

Above Tennessee's state income average

At $63,115, Lincoln County's median household income exceeds Tennessee's state average of $58,994 by $4,121, ranking it in the upper-middle tier statewide. This performance reflects a stronger local economy with manufacturing, education, and government employment.

Strong performer among peer counties

Lincoln County's $63,115 median significantly outpaces the lower-income western counties (Lauderdale, Lawrence, Lewis) and holds its own against Madison and Marion. Only Loudon County ($80,296) substantially exceeds Lincoln's earnings in this regional grouping.

Excellent affordability supports wealth building

Lincoln County's 14.9% rent-to-income ratio is among the region's best, freeing significant household resources for savings and investment. With a median home value of $209,100, homeownership remains realistic for dual-income households earning the county median.

Lincoln households can accelerate wealth creation

With $63,115 median income and strong housing affordability, Lincoln County families have meaningful capacity to invest in retirement, education, and home equity. A household saving just $200–$300 monthly can accumulate over $100,000 in a traditional IRA or 401(k) within two decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lincoln County

via CrimeByCounty

Lincoln County Outperforms National Crime Averages

Lincoln County reports a total crime rate of 1,546.7 per 100,000, keeping it well below the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 97.6. This indicates that the region is significantly safer than the average U.S. county.

Above the Tennessee Safety Average

Lincoln County's safety score of 97.6 is slightly higher than the state average of 97.2. Its total crime rate of 1,546.7 per 100,000 is also better than the Tennessee statewide average of 1,785.6. Three reporting agencies work together to keep these numbers below state norms.

Strong Safety Standing Among Peers

Lincoln County's crime rate of 1,546.7 per 100,000 sits between the rates of neighboring Lawrence (1,282.1) and Lauderdale (2,673.7). It remains a safe choice in Middle Tennessee with a score that reflects consistent law enforcement activity. The presence of three active agencies ensures comprehensive coverage for the area.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crime

The violent crime rate in Lincoln is 387.4 per 100,000, which is slightly above the national average of 369.8. However, the property crime rate of 1,159.3 is nearly 42% lower than the national benchmark of 2,015.7. Overall safety remains high because the majority of crimes are non-violent.

Protecting Assets in Secure Areas

With property crime as the most common offense, homeowners should focus on visible security measures. Security cameras and motion sensors can effectively discourage the 1,159.3 property crimes reported per 100,000 people. Engaging with the three local reporting agencies can provide residents with the latest neighborhood safety tips.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lincoln County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy near national average locally

Lincoln County residents live an average of 72.2 years, remaining within 4.2 years of the U.S. life expectancy of 76.4 years. Only 19.3% of adults report poor or fair health—the lowest rate among the eight-county sample and well below the national average of about 18%. This positions Lincoln County as a relative health performer in the region.

Nearly matches Tennessee's state average

At 72.2 years, Lincoln County's life expectancy nearly aligns with Tennessee's state average of 72.4 years, falling just 0.2 years short. The 19.3% poor/fair health rate is the healthiest in this county cluster and reflects stronger overall population health. Lincoln County stands among Tennessee's better-performing counties on these key metrics.

Strong provider access supports better outcomes

Lincoln County provides 42 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, well above neighbors like Lauderdale and Lewis counties' 16 per 100K. Mental health provider availability at 39 per 100,000 is solid and supports mental healthcare access. This combination of adequate providers and better health outcomes suggests a functional healthcare system.

Low uninsured rate and good provider supply

Lincoln County's uninsured rate of 11.1% is the lowest among these eight counties and below Tennessee's state average of 11.9%. With 42 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, most residents can access routine care relatively easily. This combination of coverage and access helps explain the county's stronger health outcomes.

Maintain your health with consistent coverage

Even in Lincoln County's relatively healthy environment, maintaining health insurance ensures you can access preventive care year-round. If you're among the 11% of residents without coverage, Healthcare.gov offers affordable options in minutes. Consistent coverage supports the long-term health that Lincoln County is building.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lincoln County

via SchoolsByCounty

Lincoln County's Dual-District Landscape

Lincoln County supports 5,187 students through 11 public schools and two distinct districts. The system includes six elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools, along with two specialized campuses. This structure provides varied educational paths for students across the county.

Leading the State in Graduation Rates

Lincoln County excels with a 97.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the state average of 93.3% and the national average of 87.0%. The county invests $6,374 per pupil, which is higher than the Tennessee state average of $6,215. These factors contribute to a strong school score of 55.9, reflecting high academic quality.

Lincoln County and Fayetteville Districts

The area is served by the Lincoln County district, with 4,002 students, and the Fayetteville district, which serves 1,185 students. Charter schools do not operate here, as the focus remains on these two established local systems. This dual-district approach allows for specialized town and rural school management.

Diverse Town and Rural Locales

The county features seven schools in town settings and four in rural areas, offering families a choice of environments. Lincoln County High School is the largest at 1,201 students, while Flintville School offers a smaller PK-8 environment with 513 students. The average enrollment across all schools is a manageable 472 students.

Education Excellence for Home Buyers

With a 97% graduation rate, Lincoln County is a top destination for families prioritizing academic success. Proximity to the high-performing Lincoln County High or Ralph Askins School in Fayetteville can be a major draw for new residents. Consider local school zones carefully when evaluating your next property investment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lincoln County

via RiskByCounty

Lincoln County faces moderate risk

Lincoln County scores 58.91 on the composite risk index with a Relatively Low rating, but this exceeds Tennessee's average of 52.45 by 6.5 points. The county's risk is distributed across tornado, flood, and earthquake hazards.

Middle-of-pack risk in Tennessee

Lincoln County ranks near the median among Tennessee's counties for natural disaster risk. Its composite score places it slightly above average relative to state peers, driven by solid tornado and flood exposure.

Similar risk to Lawrence and Marion

Lincoln County's 58.91 score closely mirrors Lawrence (69.66) and Marion (58.24) counties to the north, making this a moderately consistent risk zone in south-central Tennessee. All three counties face meaningful tornado and flood threats.

Tornadoes and floods pose real threats

Tornadoes are your primary risk at 85.56, followed closely by flood exposure at 57.00—both above state averages. Earthquakes also register notable concern at 80.44, creating a three-tiered hazard landscape.

Combine flood and storm insurance

Flood insurance is important for Lincoln County given its 57.00 flood risk; obtain a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program. Ensure comprehensive windstorm and hail coverage rounds out your tornado protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lincoln County

via WeatherByCounty

Lincoln County's Warm Humid Subtropical Profile

Lincoln County averages a mild 60.0°F annually, significantly warmer than the national median of roughly 55°F. This classic humid subtropical climate delivers nearly 60 inches of annual precipitation to the Southern Middle Tennessee region.

Warmer and Wetter Than the State Average

The county's 60.0°F annual average sits nearly two degrees higher than the Tennessee state average of 58.1°F. It also receives 59.8 inches of rain annually, outpacing the statewide average of 55.9 inches.

A Toasty Neighbor in the Southern Tier

Compared to nearby Marshall and Maury counties at 59.0°F, Lincoln stays slightly warmer year-round. While its 51 extreme heat days align with the regional trend, its 1.1 inches of snow is among the lowest in the area.

Hot Summers and Soft Winters

July brings an average high of 78.2°F, but the area experiences 51 days where temperatures exceed 90°F. Winter remains temperate with a January average of 40.2°F and minimal snowfall totaling just over an inch per year.

Preparing for High Humidity and Rainfall

Residents should prioritize robust HVAC systems and dehumidifiers to handle the high annual precipitation and summer heat. With nearly 60 inches of rain, maintaining clear gutters and proper home drainage is essential for local homeowners.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Lincoln County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced pH on the Alabama Border

Lincoln County reports a pH of 5.59, which is more balanced than the 5.35 Tennessee state average. While still below the national median of 6.5, this level is more hospitable for a diverse range of crops and ornamental plants.

Dense Mix for Nutrient Retention

The soil contains 58.3% silt and 21.8% clay, creating a relatively heavy and nutrient-dense medium. With 19.9% sand, the ground offers just enough porosity to prevent total saturation during the wet Tennessee winters.

Competitive Water and Organic Levels

With an organic matter content of 2.02%, Lincoln meets the national average, though it remains behind the 2.44% state average. Its Available Water Capacity of 0.178 in/in is better than the state norm, ensuring good drought resistance.

Moisture Management for Silty Ground

Specific drainage classifications are unavailable for these soils, but the silt and clay levels suggest high water-holding potential. Proper tillage and organic amendments can help manage the heavy texture to ensure efficient water movement through the root zone.

A Versatile Environment in Zone 7b

Hardiness Zone 7b combined with Lincoln's solid water capacity makes it an excellent place for deep-rooted perennials and summer vegetables. Your soil is a strong foundation for a productive garden that can withstand the heat of a Tennessee summer.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Lincoln County

via LawnByCounty

Balancing Heat and Heavy Rain

Lincoln County scores 43.2 for lawn difficulty, reflecting a more challenging environment than the state average of 48.0. Residents in this Zone 7b area must navigate intense summer heat and frequent storms. While the score is below the national median, local expertise can overcome these regional hurdles.

Surpassing Ideal Rainfall Levels

The county receives a heavy 59.8 inches of rain annually, nearly 10 inches above the ideal lawn range. This moisture is paired with 51 extreme heat days, which is much higher than the Tennessee average of 36. This combination creates a humid environment where fungal diseases can thrive if lawns are not properly aerated.

Correcting Acidic Foundation

Soil pH in Lincoln County averages 5.59, which is slightly below the 6.0 minimum recommended for healthy turf. The soil contains 21.8% clay, which helps retain nutrients but can lead to compaction under heavy rain. Periodic soil testing and lime applications are necessary to keep the soil chemistry favorable for grass roots.

Brief but Impactful Droughts

Though the county only saw 12 weeks of drought in the past year, current conditions show 100% of the area is abnormally dry. This makes the high summer heat particularly dangerous for lawns without a backup irrigation plan. Using rain barrels can help capture the county's high rainfall to use during these dry stretches.

Warm-Season Grass Performance

Bermuda or Zoysia are excellent choices here because they thrive during the 51 days of extreme heat. Aim to seed your lawn after the last spring frost on April 7 to ensure the soil has warmed up sufficiently. Be mindful that the growing season ends with the first frost around October 28.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lincoln County's county score?
Lincoln County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 55.5 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 Lincoln County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Lincoln County ranks #25 among all counties in Tennessee 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 Lincoln County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Lincoln County is $991, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Lincoln County a tax score of 88.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lincoln County?
The median household income in Lincoln County, Tennessee is $63,115 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lincoln County earns an income score of 48.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lincoln County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Lincoln County scores 55.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #25 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Lincoln 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 Lincoln County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.