countyscore
38.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 77.1Soil Quality 74.5Health 74

County Report Card

About Madison County, Illinois

Madison County Trails National Averages

The county's composite score of 38.1 falls well below the national median of 50.0. This places the area in the lower third of counties nationwide for overall livability metrics.

Falling Short of Illinois Benchmarks

Madison County's overall score lags significantly behind the Illinois state average of 52.8. Local conditions trail the performance of many other counties across the state.

Economic Vitality and Health Infrastructure

The county delivers strong income performance with a score of 77.1, reflecting a median household income of $74,800. Health access also ranks high at 74.0, providing residents with robust medical services.

Tax Burdens and Environmental Risk

A high effective tax rate of 1.925% results in a very low tax score of 3.9. Additionally, an environmental risk score of 6.6 suggests the area faces significant natural hazard challenges.

Ideal for Regional Professionals

This county best suits middle-income professionals who value strong health facilities and higher earnings. Families should prepare for a heavier tax load and limited housing affordability compared to rural neighbors.

Score breakdown

Tax3.9Cost27.4Safety30.6Health74Schools46.3Income77.1Risk6.6Water63.4Weather62.1
🏛3.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠27.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼77.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡30.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤74
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡6.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧63.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨74.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱67
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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26.2
St. Clair County
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41.3
Jersey County
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St. Louis County
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Bond County
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Macoupin County
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Deep Dives

Madison County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Madison County

via TaxByCounty

Madison County taxes run above national average

Madison County homeowners pay an effective tax rate of 1.925%, outpacing the national median of 1.728% and placing the county in the 58th percentile nationally. The median annual property tax here is $3,232—well above the national median of $2,690—despite a median home value of $167,900, which is significantly lower than the national median of $281,900.

Madison ranks above average in Illinois

At 1.925%, Madison County's effective tax rate exceeds Illinois's state average of 1.831%, ranking it in the upper half of the state's counties. The median property tax of $3,232 is also 16% higher than the state median of $2,782.

Comparable to peer Illinois counties

Madison County's tax rate of 1.925% sits between Marion County (1.707%) to the south and Marshall County (1.991%) to the north. Among regional peers, Madison's rate is moderate, suggesting competitive property tax pressures in the southwestern Illinois corridor.

Expect $3,232 annual property tax

On Madison County's median home value of $167,900 and effective rate of 1.925%, a typical homeowner pays $3,232 annually in property taxes. For mortgaged properties, total obligations rise to $3,604 when ancillary fees are included.

You may be overassessed

Many Madison County homeowners pay more than they should due to assessment errors or outdated valuations. Consider filing an appeal with the Madison County Assessor's office—a free process that could reduce your tax bill significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Madison County

via CostByCounty

Madison rents track national norms

Madison County residents spend 15.6% of household income on rent, just slightly above the national benchmark of roughly 15%. The median rent of $969/month is notably higher than Illinois's state average of $837, reflecting the county's position as a mid-tier housing market in the region.

Middle-ground affordability in Illinois

Among Illinois counties, Madison's rent-to-income ratio of 15.6% places it in the less affordable tier, above the state average of 14.7%. This suggests renters here face tighter budget constraints than their counterparts in many other Illinois communities.

Higher costs than surrounding counties

Madison's $969 median rent outpaces nearby Marion County ($771) and Marshall County ($767) by roughly $200/month. However, homeownership costs are competitive: Madison's median owner cost of $1,109 sits between Marion's $785 and Marshall's $858, reflecting mixed affordability across housing types.

Balanced burden across housing types

Madison's median household income of $74,800 means renters allocate $969/month (15.6%) while homeowners spend $1,109/month (17.8%) on housing. Together, these costs consume roughly one-third of household income, leaving moderate room for other expenses.

Consider Madison for balanced housing

If you're relocating within Illinois, Madison County offers middle-range affordability with rents and home values near state norms. Compare this to pricier McHenry County ($1,358 rent, $286,900 median home) or more affordable Marshall County before making your decision.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Madison County

via IncomeByCounty

Madison matches the nation's income benchmark

Madison County's median household income of $74,800 sits virtually at the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the middle of American earning power. This alignment suggests Madison households earn roughly what typical U.S. families make, though regional cost differences still matter.

Above Illinois average despite lower state ranking

At $74,800, Madison County earns $6,220 more than Illinois's state average of $68,580, ranking it in the upper tier of the state's 102 counties. This solid position reflects a diverse economy and stronger household earnings than most Illinois peers.

Madison leads regional income competition

Madison County outearns neighboring Marshall County ($69,818) and Marion County ($60,839) by $5,000–$14,000 per household. Its per capita income of $40,869 also exceeds the state average of $36,009, signaling stronger individual earning power across the region.

Rent remains affordable on Madison incomes

Madison's rent-to-income ratio of 15.6% means renters spend roughly $975 monthly on housing—well below the 30% affordability threshold. With median home values at $167,900, homeownership is also achievable for median-income families without excessive financial strain.

Build on Madison's stable earning foundation

Madison households earning $74,800 have room to invest beyond housing costs; redirecting just 5% of income into retirement or college savings accounts adds $3,740 annually. Starting an emergency fund and exploring employer retirement plans can accelerate wealth growth in this stable earning environment.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Madison County

via CrimeByCounty

Madison County stays below national crime rates

Madison County reports a total crime rate of 1,648.1 per 100,000 residents, remaining well under the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 97.4, reflecting its status as a busy but relatively secure metro-east region.

Ranking below the Illinois state average

Madison County's safety score of 97.4 is lower than the Illinois average of 98.7. Its crime rate of 1,648.1 is nearly double the state average of 835.0, due in part to its high population and proximity to St. Louis.

Comparing crime in the Metro East

While Madison County has higher crime rates than rural Macoupin, it often serves as a safer alternative to the high-density areas of neighboring St. Clair County. Twenty-eight reporting agencies work together to manage the complex safety needs of this populous area.

Property crime remains the primary concern

Property crime occurs at a rate of 1,389.0 per 100,000 residents, while the violent crime rate is 259.1. Both figures are lower than the national averages, though they represent a higher volume of incidents than seen in rural Illinois.

Smart security for Madison residents

Residents in this busy county should focus on deterring property theft with visible security cameras and alarm systems. Always lock vehicle doors and keep valuables out of sight to prevent common opportunistic crimes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Madison County

via HealthByCounty

Madison's life expectancy lags nationwide

At 75.4 years, Madison County residents live nearly 3 years less than the U.S. average of 78.3 years. The county's 15.4% poor or fair health rate sits below the national average of 18%, suggesting middling overall health outcomes relative to the country.

Slightly below Illinois average

Madison County's 75.4-year life expectancy trails the state average of 76.0 years, placing it in the middle tier of Illinois counties. However, its uninsured rate of 5.5% beats the state average of 6.3%, indicating stronger insurance coverage.

Competitive healthcare provider access

Madison County has 48 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—above neighbors like Mason County (39) and Marion County (35). Its mental health workforce of 266 providers per 100,000 is solid, though significantly lower than nearby Marion County's 404.

Better insured than state average

Only 5.5% of Madison County residents lack health insurance, outperforming Illinois's 6.3% rate. With 48 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, access to routine care is reasonably available, though rural areas may face longer wait times.

Already well-covered, but verify yours

Madison County has strong insurance penetration, but 5.5% of residents remain uninsured—roughly 6,000 people. Check your coverage today at Healthcare.gov or contact the Madison County health department to ensure you're protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Madison County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Broad Network Supporting Over 35,000 Students

Madison County maintains a robust infrastructure of 80 public schools across 13 districts, serving 35,863 students. This network includes 46 elementary, 14 middle, and 15 high schools, alongside several specialized education centers.

Competitive Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

The county's 86.6% graduation rate nearly matches the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil spending of $7,939 is lower than the $9,250 state average, the county maintains a solid composite school score of 53.8.

Edwardsville and Alton Lead the County Districts

Edwardsville CUSD 7 is the largest district, educating 7,274 students across 15 schools, followed by Granite City CUSD 9 and Alton CUSD 11. There are currently zero charter schools operating within the county's public system.

Suburban Living with Large High School Campuses

The county is primarily suburban, with 65 schools in suburban locales and 11 in rural settings. While the average school size is 512, Edwardsville High School serves as a major hub with 2,354 students.

Plant Roots Near Top-Performing Suburban Schools

Families researching the area will find a wide range of homes near established districts like Edwardsville and Alton. Proximity to these well-regarded campuses remains a key factor for homebuyers throughout Madison County.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Madison County

via RiskByCounty

Madison ranks above national average

Madison County's composite risk score of 93.42 places it in the Relatively Moderate category, well above the state average of 54.46. This elevated risk profile means residents face greater exposure to multiple natural hazards compared to typical Illinois counties.

Among Illinois's most at-risk counties

Madison County ranks as one of the highest-risk counties in Illinois, driven by exceptionally high tornado and earthquake scores of 97.61 and 97.07 respectively. Its flood risk of 92.27 further compounds vulnerability across the county.

Significantly riskier than neighboring counties

Madison's composite score of 93.42 far exceeds nearby Marion County (77.13) and Massac County (61.61), making it a notable outlier in southwestern Illinois. This difference is primarily driven by Madison's extreme tornado and earthquake susceptibility.

Tornadoes and earthquakes pose urgent threats

Madison County residents face a tornado risk score of 97.61—among the highest in the state—and an earthquake risk of 97.07, both demanding serious preparedness. Flooding also presents substantial danger with a risk score of 92.27, particularly near the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.

Comprehensive coverage is essential here

Standard homeowners policies typically exclude tornado and earthquake damage, making separate coverage critical for Madison County residents. Given the county's high composite risk score, consider adding umbrella liability insurance and ensuring your property can withstand severe weather.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Madison County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Regional Climate Center

Madison County features a 55.7°F annual average temperature, placing it among the warmer counties in the Midwest. Its 44.1 inches of rainfall are well above the national median for inland counties.

Exceeding State Temperature Norms

At 55.7°F, Madison County is significantly warmer than the Illinois statewide average of 52.8°F. Its July average of 78.3°F makes it one of the hottest regions in the state.

Low Snowfall Compared to Peers

Madison averages only 10.5 inches of snow, which is much lower than the 20+ inches seen in central Illinois. It shares a high precipitation profile with southern neighbor Marion, both exceeding 44 inches of rain.

Intense Summer Heat Peaks

July is very hot here, averaging 78.3°F with 29 days of extreme heat above 90°F. Conversely, winter is the mildest of this group, with a December-February average of 33.4°F.

Investment in Summer Comfort

With nearly 30 days of extreme heat, powerful air conditioning is a primary requirement for residents. Minimal snow gear is needed, but high-quality rain protection is vital for the 44.1 inches of annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Madison County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced pH for Southern Illinois Growth

Madison County soil features an average pH of 6.45, nearly identical to the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic classifications are currently unrecorded, this near-neutral acidity supports a wide range of nutrient availability for local crops.

A Silt-Heavy Foundation

The soil profile is dominated by 64.8% silt and 23.1% clay, which provides excellent structure for holding nutrients. With only 12.1% sand, this mix is highly workable but can be prone to surface crusting after heavy rains.

Solid Water Capacity and Organic Richness

Organic matter stands at 2.24%, which beats the national average of 2.0% even if it trails the Illinois state average of 2.94%. The available water capacity of 0.206 in/in is slightly higher than the state average, ensuring reliable moisture during the summer heat.

Observing Local Runoff and Absorption

While specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not currently documented in federal databases, the high silt content suggests moderate natural drainage. Gardeners should monitor for standing water to decide if raised beds are necessary for their specific site.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 7a

The county sits in Zone 7a, offering a longer growing season than most of Illinois. This climate and a 74.5 soil score make it a prime spot for planting anything from late-season tomatoes to hardy fruit trees.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Madison County

via LawnByCounty

Manageable Lawn Care in Madison County

Madison County earns a 67.0 lawn difficulty score, making it easier to manage than the national average of 50.0 but slightly tougher than the Illinois state average of 69.8. Homeowners in Hardiness Zone 7a benefit from a relatively favorable climate for diverse turfgrasses.

Plentiful Rain with Significant Summer Heat

The county receives 44.1 inches of annual precipitation, which sits comfortably within the ideal 30-50 inch range for healthy lawns. Although official growing season length data is limited, 29 extreme heat days each year require careful summer watering and monitoring.

Balanced Soil pH Supports Nutrient Uptake

Local soil features a balanced 6.45 pH, falling perfectly within the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for nutrient uptake. With a clay content of 23.1%, these soils hold moisture well but may require aeration to prevent compaction over time.

Resisting Current Dry Spells

Madison County faced 27 weeks of drought over the past year, with 100% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. Residents should implement deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root systems during these dry periods.

Spring Planting After the Final Frost

The growing season begins after the final frost on April 4th, providing ample time for establishing tall fescue or Kentucky bluegrass. Plan to seed or sod in early spring or late fall for the best results in Zone 7a before the November 5th frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Madison County's county score?
Madison County, Illinois has a composite county score of 38.1 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 Madison County rank among counties in Illinois?
Madison County ranks #93 among all counties in Illinois 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 Madison County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Madison County is $3,232, with an effective tax rate of 1.93%. This earns Madison County a tax score of 3.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Madison County?
The median household income in Madison County, Illinois is $74,800 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Madison County earns an income score of 77.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Madison County, Illinois a good place to live?
Madison County scores 38.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #93 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Madison 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 Madison 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.