countyscore
50.3
County Score
Property Tax 93.6Water Quality 86Disaster Risk 65.4

County Report Card

About Macon County, Tennessee

Meeting the national median head-on

Macon County scores 50.3, landing almost exactly on the national median of 50.0. This indicates a balanced quality of life that mirrors the typical American experience.

Slightly below the Tennessee average

While competitive nationally, Macon's 50.3 score is just under the Tennessee state average of 51.3. The county's fiscal discipline is its strongest attribute in comparison to its peers.

Superior tax and risk profile

Macon excels with a tax score of 93.6 and a risk score of 65.4. Homeowners enjoy a very low effective tax rate of 0.406%, which helps stretch the median household income of $56,269.

Educational and health investments needed

The county struggles with a school score of 23.6 and a health score of 18.3. These metrics point to a need for improved educational outcomes and better access to medical facilities.

A stable, low-tax rural retreat

Macon County is ideal for those seeking a quiet, tax-friendly lifestyle where homeownership is accessible. It is best suited for residents who are less dependent on the local public school system.

Score breakdown

Tax93.6Cost58.8Safety48.6Health18.3Schools23.6Income28.2Risk65.4Water86Weather62.1
🏛93.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠58.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼28.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡48.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤18.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓23.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡65.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨42.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.9
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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Deep Dives

Macon County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Macon County

via TaxByCounty

Macon's low rate on moderate homes

Macon County's effective tax rate of 0.406% ranks among the nation's lowest, well below the U.S. median of 0.22%. Homeowners here enjoy affordable taxes on median-value properties worth $211,200—nearly $70,000 above Loudon's lower rate.

Among Tennessee's lowest-tax counties

Macon County's 0.406% effective rate sits in the bottom quartile statewide, roughly 20% below Tennessee's average of 0.511%. The county attracts tax-conscious homeowners across Middle Tennessee.

Lowest among nearby counties

Macon's 0.406% rate is the lowest among its immediate peers, undercutting Marion County (0.444%), Lewis County (0.504%), and all neighbors. The county offers exceptional tax relief in its region.

Median home costs $858 yearly

Macon County homeowners with a median-value property of $211,200 pay just $858 in annual property tax—well below the state average of $1,016. This favorable rate applies to homes worth above the national average, enhancing the value proposition.

Challenge overvalued assessments here too

Macon County residents should verify their assessed values against recent local sales comps and appeal if assessments appear inflated. Even low-tax counties benefit from periodic assessment review.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Macon County

via CostByCounty

Macon balances modest income with fair housing costs

Macon County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% sits just below Tennessee's 17.6% state average and slightly better than the national norm for rural counties. With a median household income of $56,269 and rent of $805 monthly, residents maintain decent affordability despite earnings well below the national average of $74,755.

Near-average affordability in Tennessee context

Macon ranks slightly above the state average for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% that undercuts the 17.6% benchmark. The county's median rent of $805 runs just $55 below the state average, reflecting its position as a solid middle-tier option.

Mid-range pricing in diverse county cluster

Macon's $805 rent falls between the cheaper rural north ($735) and the wealthier Loudon County ($995), positioning it as the economic bridge in this sample. The median home value of $211,200 ties Lincoln County, suggesting comparable property strength and investment potential.

Rents and mortgages track closely together

Renters pay $805 monthly while homeowners spend $789—nearly equivalent costs that consume 17.2% and 16.8% of the $56,269 median income. This balanced approach suggests stable property values and predictable housing markets for both renters and owners.

Solid middle ground for cautious relocators

Macon County offers reliable affordability between rural bargains and prosperous markets, making it a sensible choice for those seeking stability without extremes. The similar rent and ownership costs indicate a mature housing market with minimal surprises.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Macon County

via IncomeByCounty

Macon County trails national income median

Macon County's median household income of $56,269 falls $18,486 below the national median of $74,755, ranking it in the bottom 35% of U.S. counties. The county's per capita income of $27,065 suggests limited wage-paying employment and educational opportunities.

Below Tennessee's state average income

At $56,269, Macon County's median household income sits $2,725 below Tennessee's state average of $58,994, placing it slightly below the middle statewide. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier among Tennessee's 95 counties, indicating moderate economic constraints.

Mid-range income among peer counties

Macon County's $56,269 median falls between the low-income western counties and higher-earning Lincoln and Loudon, positioning it solidly in the regional middle. The county outpaces Lauderdale, Lawrence, and Lewis but lags Madison, Marion, and significantly trails Loudon.

Housing costs remain balanced for residents

Macon County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing expenses within recommended affordability guidelines, though slightly above the healthiest levels. The median home value of $211,200 requires careful budgeting for households earning the county median, limiting wealth building through home equity.

Strategic saving builds long-term security

Macon County households earning $56,269 should prioritize building emergency reserves before aggressive investing, given moderate income levels. Even $100 monthly invested in a Roth IRA grows to over $70,000 in 20 years, creating meaningful retirement security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Macon County

via CrimeByCounty

Macon County Ranks Among the Safest

Macon County earns a top-tier safety score of 98.2, making it one of the most secure regions in the nation. Its total crime rate of 1,155.1 per 100,000 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This low frequency of incidents provides a very safe environment for the community.

Exceeding the Tennessee Safety Benchmark

With a safety score of 98.2, Macon County is well above the Tennessee average of 97.2. Its crime rate of 1,155.1 per 100,000 is also much lower than the state average of 1,785.6. Three active reporting agencies manage local safety with high efficiency.

Setting a Regional Safety Standard

Macon County's crime rate of 1,155.1 is the lowest among its regional peers like Loudon (1,225.1) and Lawrence (1,282.1). This data confirms Macon as a standout for low crime in Middle Tennessee. Local law enforcement maintains a high safety profile compared to all neighboring counties.

Significant Reduction in Property Crime

Macon's violent crime rate of 343.0 per 100,000 is just below the national average of 369.8. However, its property crime rate is remarkably low at 812.1, roughly 60% lower than the national average of 2,015.7. The overall data reflects a community where physical safety and asset protection are high.

Simple Steps for Home Security

While property crime is low at 812.1 per 100,000, keeping homes locked and well-lit is still a best practice. Modern security systems provide an extra layer of protection for residents in this quiet county. Staying in touch with the three local reporting agencies ensures you are aware of any shifts in local safety trends.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Macon County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy below national standard

Macon County residents live an average of 71.5 years, trailing the U.S. life expectancy of 76.4 years by 4.9 years. Nearly 23% of adults report poor or fair health, notably higher than the national average of about 18%. These gaps suggest challenges in chronic disease management and access to preventive services.

Slightly below Tennessee's state average

At 71.5 years, Macon County's life expectancy falls 0.9 years below Tennessee's 72.4-year state average. The county's 23.1% poor/fair health rate ranks it in the lower-middle range of Tennessee counties. Local healthcare infrastructure and insurance access warrant attention to support better outcomes.

Mental health access critically limited

Macon County has 20 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and critically low mental health provider availability at just 4 per 100,000—the lowest across all eight counties. This severe mental health deficit stands out sharply against Lawrence County's 95 per 100,000 or Madison County's 316 per 100,000. Residents struggling with behavioral health have virtually no local options and must travel significant distances.

High uninsured rate compounds access barriers

Macon County's uninsured rate of 14.3% is among the highest in this eight-county group and exceeds Tennessee's state average of 11.9%. With only 20 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and severely limited mental health capacity, uninsured residents face formidable barriers to care. The combination of low coverage and low provider supply creates a critical healthcare access crisis.

Coverage is your first step to better health

In Macon County, 14% of residents lack health insurance, leaving them vulnerable to both health crises and financial hardship. Visit Healthcare.gov to explore affordable coverage options and subsidies available to your household. Getting insured is essential when local provider access is already strained.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Macon County

via SchoolsByCounty

Macon County's Public Education Profile

Macon County provides public education to 4,231 students through a network of eight schools. The system is comprised of five elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. All these facilities are managed by the single Macon County school district.

Graduation Rates and Investment Trends

The county's graduation rate is 88.0%, slightly beating the national average of 87.0% but trailing the state average. With per-pupil spending at $5,692, the county operates more leanly than the Tennessee average of $6,215. This budget focus results in a school score of 49.7, just below the state median.

Centralized District Leadership

The Macon County school district manages all 4,231 students and eight schools in the area. There are no charter schools, keeping the county's educational resources concentrated within the traditional public system. This structure ensures that all students across the county's towns and rural areas follow a unified curriculum.

A Rural Academic Environment

Macon County's schools are predominantly rural, with five of the eight schools located in countryside settings. Macon County High School is the largest with 967 students, while Lafayette Elementary is one of the smaller specialized campuses with 422 students. The average enrollment across the county is 529 students per school.

Homes in a Close-Knit School System

Macon County is an ideal spot for those seeking a rural lifestyle with a dedicated single-district school system. Proximity to the central high school or junior high in Lafayette can be a significant factor for families buying homes. Ensure you research individual school zones as you explore the rolling hills of this region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Macon County

via RiskByCounty

Macon County enjoys very low risk

Macon County scores 34.57 on the composite risk index with a Very Low rating, placing it well below Tennessee's average of 52.45. The county benefits from minimal flood, wildfire, and hurricane exposure relative to most of the state.

Among Tennessee's safest counties

Macon County ranks in the lower-risk tier statewide for natural disasters. Its very low rating reflects consistent protection across most hazard categories, making it one of the state's more secure counties.

Safer than surrounding counties

Macon County's 34.57 score is substantially lower than neighboring Sumner (higher risk) and Robertson counties. The county forms a low-risk pocket in north-central Tennessee.

Tornadoes represent modest threat

Macon County's highest risk—tornadoes at 68.92—remains below state averages and poses only modest concern relative to other Tennessee counties. Flood, wildfire, and hurricane risks are all quite low.

Standard homeowners insurance suffices

Macon County's low-risk profile means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection for natural disasters. You can skip earthquake and flood insurance unless you have specific property-based vulnerabilities.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Macon County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Temperatures on the Highland Rim

Macon County records an average annual temperature of 58.4°F, trending warmer than the national median. This climate is defined by distinct seasonal shifts and a significant number of hot summer days.

Typical Temperatures for Middle Tennessee

The county's 58.4°F average temperature sits right in line with the Tennessee state average of 58.1°F. While local precipitation data is currently limited, the temperature profile matches the rest of the Upper Highland Rim region.

Cooler Winters Than Southern Neighbors

Macon's January average of 35.7°F is notably colder than Lincoln's 40.2°F, reflecting its more northern position. Despite the cooler winters, it still faces 48 days of extreme heat, nearly matching the intensity of counties further south.

Sharp Transitions Between Seasons

July temperatures average 78.6°F, fueling 48 days of extreme heat over 90°F annually. Winters are significantly chillier than the state average, with January temperatures dipping to a mean of 35.7°F.

Budgeting for Year-Round Energy Needs

The wide gap between winter lows and 48 days of summer heat requires a versatile heating and cooling plan. Residents should emphasize winterization and insulation to combat January's cold spells.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Macon County

via SoilByCounty

Superior pH in Macon's Ultisols

Macon County features a pH of 5.60, which is notably less acidic than the Tennessee average of 5.35. While it still falls short of the national 6.5 median, this acidity level provides a more versatile environment for most garden plants.

Silt Loam with Perfect Texture

The silt loam texture is created by a mix of 59.6% silt, 20.9% clay, and 19.4% sand. This composition offers the best of both worlds: excellent mineral retention from the silt and clay, with enough sand to allow roots to breathe.

Strong Organic Matter Content

Macon's organic matter level of 2.06% beats the national average, though it trails the 2.44% state benchmark. The Available Water Capacity of 0.167 in/in is slightly below the state average, so summer mulching is recommended to keep roots cool.

Moderate Infiltration and Steady Drainage

Classified as well-drained and belonging to Hydrologic Group B, these soils absorb rainfall at a steady, moderate pace. This keeps the soil moist enough for crops without the risk of long-term saturated conditions that cause disease.

Berries and Greens in Zone 7b

Macon’s Hardiness Zone 7b and silt loam soils are perfect for high-value crops like berries and leafy greens. With such a solid soil foundation, any home gardener can expect a bounty with just a little organic supplementation.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Macon County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Growing Success

Macon County stands out with a lawn difficulty score of 53.9, making it easier to maintain a yard here than in most of Tennessee. This score is also better than the national median of 50.0, suggesting a favorable environment for turf. Zone 7b gardeners here enjoy a relatively high success rate with minimal intervention.

Manageable Heat and Steady Mowing

While specific precipitation data is limited, the 48 extreme heat days suggest that summer stress is a primary factor for Macon lawns. The 4542 growing degree days mean your grass will grow steadily from early spring through fall. The lack of recent drought suggests that moisture levels are generally sufficient for healthy growth.

Well-Drained Silt Loam Advantage

The county features well-drained silt loam soil, which is an excellent medium for grass roots to thrive. Although the pH is 5.60—slightly lower than the ideal 6.0—it is much better than many other Tennessee counties. A light application of lime can easily bring this soil into the perfect range for a professional-quality lawn.

Lowest Drought Risk in the Region

Macon County experienced only 7 weeks of drought over the last year, and currently, 0% of the area is under drought conditions. This makes it a regional leader in water availability, significantly reducing the need for expensive irrigation. Despite this, keeping grass slightly taller during the 48 heat days helps protect the soil surface.

A Strong Start in Early April

Tall Fescue or Kentucky Bluegrass are excellent choices for the manageable Zone 7b conditions in Macon. Plan to seed after the last spring frost on April 3 to capitalize on the prime spring growing window. With the first frost not arriving until November 1, your grass has plenty of time to establish.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Macon County's county score?
Macon County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 50.3 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 Macon County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Macon County ranks #58 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 Macon County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Macon County is $858, with an effective tax rate of 0.41%. This earns Macon County a tax score of 93.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Macon County?
The median household income in Macon County, Tennessee is $56,269 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Macon County earns an income score of 28.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Macon County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Macon County scores 50.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #58 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Macon 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 Macon County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

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