countyscore
45.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 82.4Safety 60.9Property Tax 60.3

County Report Card

About Madison County, Mississippi

Madison County remains a competitive choice

Madison County’s composite score of 45.8 sits slightly below the national median of 50.0. High income levels are balanced by a higher cost of living compared to national rural averages.

A top-tier economic performer in Mississippi

While its 45.8 score is just under the state average of 48.4, Madison leads the state in many individual metrics. It serves as a primary affluent suburb for the Jackson metropolitan area.

Elite income levels and public safety

Madison County dominates with an income score of 82.4 and a safety score of 60.9. The median household income of $78,794 is significantly higher than most neighboring counties.

High costs and natural risk factors

Affordability is the main challenge, with a cost score of 16.4 and a median home value of $286,300. The natural risk score of 17.9 also suggests vulnerability to regional weather patterns.

Tailored for high-earning families

Madison County is the premier choice for families seeking the state's highest income potential and safest neighborhoods. Residents trade housing affordability for a high-status lifestyle and strong community metrics.

Score breakdown

Tax60.3Cost16.4Safety60.9Health57.5Schools32Income82.4Risk17.9Water54.5Weather47.1
🏛60.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠16.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼82.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡60.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤57.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡17.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧54.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨45.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱34.9
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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Walton County
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Concordia Parish
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Scott County
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Miami County
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Lamb County
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Nearby counties

Rankin County
Mississippi
53.7
Hinds County
Mississippi
38.3
Yazoo County
Mississippi
45.4
Scott County
Mississippi
42.8
Leake County
Mississippi
49
Holmes County
Mississippi
57
Attala County
Mississippi
49.3
Sharkey County
Mississippi
57

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 mirrors national tax burden

Madison County's effective property tax rate of 0.723% is roughly one-third the national median of 2.1%, though its median property tax of $2,071 approaches the national median of $2,690. This reflects Madison's notably higher median home value of $286,300, the highest in this county group.

Madison taxes slightly below state average

Madison County's 0.723% effective rate sits marginally below Mississippi's 0.743% average, but its $2,071 median property tax far exceeds the state median of $931. This disparity highlights Madison's position as Mississippi's most affluent county in this comparison group.

Madison homes priciest, taxes highest

Madison County's median home value of $286,300 substantially outpaces all neighbors—the next-highest is Lee at $187,800. Consequently, Madison residents pay the region's highest median property tax of $2,071, though the effective rate remains competitive at 0.723%.

Madison median tax reaches $2,071 annually

On Madison County's median home valued at $286,300, property taxes total approximately $2,071 per year. With a mortgage, homeowners owe $2,184; without, $1,812.

High values make assessments worth verifying

In rapidly appreciating markets like Madison, assessment errors compound quickly and cost homeowners thousands. Filing an appeal with the county assessor is especially valuable when median home values are this high.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Madison County

via CostByCounty

Madison County punches above average

Madison County renters spend 16.7% of income on rent, matching national affordability standards and beating Mississippi's 19.6% state average by 3 percentage points. At $1,097 monthly, Madison rents are the region's highest, yet the county's $78,794 median income—also the strongest here—makes them manageable.

Top tier for Mississippi affordability

Madison County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Mississippi's best, and its $78,794 median household income far exceeds the state norm. This county combines above-average wages with proportionally reasonable housing costs—a rare combination in Mississippi.

Highest wages justify highest rents

Madison's $1,097 rent and $1,371 monthly owner costs are the region's steepest, but the $78,794 median income dwarfs all neighbors—nearly $11,000 more than Lee County's second-place $67,144. That wage premium makes Madison's housing costs proportionally affordable despite their high dollar amounts.

Premium housing, premium incomes balance

Renters allocate 16.7% of their $78,794 income to $1,097 rent—well within healthy affordability bounds—while homeowners paying $1,371 monthly represent 20.9% of income. Both renters and owners enjoy substantial discretionary income after housing, a luxury most Mississippi counties cannot offer.

Madison offers Mississippi's best balance

If you earn above $70,000 and want to relocate within Mississippi, Madison County delivers the state's strongest affordability ratio while supporting higher-wage opportunities. Your housing costs will be higher in absolute dollars, but you'll keep a larger share of your paycheck than nearly anywhere else in the state.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Madison County

via IncomeByCounty

Madison County exceeds national income average

Madison County's median household income of $78,794 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $4,039, placing it above the typical American household. The county significantly outpaces Mississippi's statewide average of $48,514, making it an economic outlier within the state.

Madison County ranks first in Mississippi

Madison County's median household income of $78,794 ranks among the highest in Mississippi, far exceeding the state average of $48,514. Per capita income of $47,771 also dramatically surpasses the state average of $27,136, reflecting concentrated wealth and strong earning capacity.

Madison County leads the entire region

Madison County's median household income of $78,794 substantially outpaces all neighboring counties, including Lee County ($67,144) by $11,650 and Lowndes County ($54,460) by $24,334. The county's per capita income of $47,771 is also the highest in its region by a significant margin.

Housing costs easily manageable

Madison County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% sits well below national affordability thresholds, with housing expenses consuming a small fraction of household earnings. The median home value of $286,300 reflects a prosperous housing market where high-income households can comfortably afford ownership.

Madison County: prime wealth-building opportunity

Madison County's above-national income and favorable housing-cost ratios create exceptional capacity for long-term wealth building through retirement accounts, investment portfolios, and real estate equity. High-earning households should maximize tax-advantaged savings strategies and diversified investments to compound advantages over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Madison County

via CrimeByCounty

Madison County's National Safety Standout

Madison County earns an impressive 98.6 safety score, reflecting a very secure environment. The total crime rate of 901.5 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Madison County State Safety Ranking

Madison holds its own against state benchmarks, exceeding the average safety score of 98.4. Its total crime rate of 901.5 is also lower than the Mississippi average of 978.4.

Regional Safety in Madison and Beyond

Compared to the much higher rates found in Lee County (2,750.1), Madison offers a significantly more tranquil setting. Six local agencies contribute to this robust reporting and safety oversight.

Local Violent vs. Property Crime

The violent crime rate of 168.4 per 100K is less than half the national average. Property crime at 733.1 represents the majority of local offenses, mostly consisting of petty theft.

Practical Security for Madison Homes

Even in safe areas, property crimes remain the most frequent threat. Ensuring that garage doors are closed and valuables are out of sight helps keep these numbers low.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Madison County

via HealthByCounty

Madison County leads the state

At 75.5 years, Madison County residents live nearly a year longer than the U.S. average of 76.5 years—actually exceeding the national benchmark. With only 16.4% reporting poor or fair health, the county sits well below the national average of 18%, signaling the strongest population health in the region.

Healthiest county in Mississippi

Madison County's 75.5-year life expectancy vastly outpaces Mississippi's 70.9-year average by 4.6 years, and its 16.4% poor/fair health rate ranks lowest among all surveyed counties. This county stands as a state health leader.

Superior healthcare infrastructure

Madison County boasts 129 primary care providers per 100K residents—only Lee County rivals this density—and mental health capacity of 260 per 100K. This robust provider network translates directly to better access and more preventive care opportunities.

Highest insurance coverage rate

Madison County's 9.7% uninsured rate is the lowest in the state and well below Mississippi's 13.9% average, with 9 in 10 residents covered. Strong insurance coverage combined with ample providers creates the region's most resilient healthcare ecosystem.

Keep your coverage strong

Madison County's health success stems partly from high insurance enrollment—keep your coverage current and review your plan annually. If you're uninsured, act now: visit Healthcare.gov to join the 90% of Madison County residents with coverage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Madison County

via SchoolsByCounty

An Overview of Madison County's Education System

Madison County boasts 33 public schools, making it one of the largest educational hubs in the state. Two districts manage a massive enrollment of 16,328 students across 15 elementary, six middle, and seven high schools. The county also maintains five specialized campuses to meet diverse student needs.

High Performance and Significant Investment

Madison County leads with a school score of 51.4, which is significantly higher than the state average of 49.8. Students achieve an impressive 89.3% graduation rate, well above the state and national averages. This success is supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $6,179, outspending the state average of $5,954.

Major Districts Serving Madison Residents

The Madison County School District is a regional powerhouse with 23 schools and 13,162 students. The Canton Public School District also serves the county, providing education to 3,166 students through 10 schools. There are currently no charter schools in the county, as the two traditional districts manage all public enrollment.

Suburban Reach and Large Campus Life

While 19 schools are situated in rural locales, the county features nine suburban campuses that serve the growing population centers. High enrollment is common here, as seen at Germantown High and Madison Central High, both of which host over 1,200 students. The average school size is 563 students, reflecting the county's rapid development.

Living Near Top-Tier Madison Schools

High-performing districts make Madison County a premier destination for families looking to buy a home in Mississippi. Neighborhoods near Germantown and Madison Central are particularly sought after for their academic reputations and modern facilities. Exploring the local real estate market means choosing between established suburban enclaves and growing rural communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Madison County

via RiskByCounty

Madison County ranks among highest-risk areas

Madison County's composite risk score of 82.12 places it in the relatively moderate category, reflecting significant exposure to multiple major hazards. This score positions the county well above national averages and indicates serious disaster preparedness concerns.

One of Mississippi's most dangerous counties

At 82.12, Madison County's score substantially exceeds Mississippi's state average of 50.94, making it one of the state's highest-risk areas. The county's vulnerability spans multiple hazard types, with tornadoes and earthquakes driving much of the composite score.

Highest risk in the metro area

Madison County's 82.12 score exceeds all neighboring counties, including Lee County (81.27), Lincoln County (48.44), and Marion County (59.96). Madison's standout vulnerability is its extraordinary tornado risk of 95.77—the highest in its region and among the worst in the state.

Tornadoes and floods threaten residents

Madison County faces an extreme tornado risk of 95.77 and flood risk of 76.81, making it exceptionally vulnerable to severe weather events. Earthquakes also pose a significant long-term concern with a risk score of 74.49, indicating the county sits in an active seismic zone.

Strengthen storm resilience and get insurance

Madison County homeowners must prioritize comprehensive wind and hail coverage given the county's extraordinary tornado exposure, and should secure flood insurance immediately. Consider structural improvements like safe rooms or reinforced basements, and purchase separate earthquake coverage to address the county's complete hazard profile.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Madison County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Deep South warmth

Madison County’s 63.4°F average annual temperature is well above the national median. This climate type ensures long, warm growing seasons and very little winter weather.

Near the state baseline

Averaging 63.4°F, Madison County sits just below the Mississippi state average of 63.9°F. It represents the transition between the state’s warmer southern and cooler northern halves.

Similar to its eastern neighbor

Madison’s climate is nearly identical to Leake County, though it is slightly cooler than Leake’s 63.8°F. Madison is also slightly drier, recording 57.0 inches of rain versus Leake’s 60.1 inches.

Heavy heat and light snow

Summer brings 77 days of extreme heat above 90°F, peaking with a July average of 81.0°F. Winters are mild at 46.4°F, though the county sees a light average of 0.5 inches of snow.

Plan for sun and storms

Robust cooling systems are necessary for the 77 days of intense heat each year. Residents should also prepare for the 57.0 inches of annual rain by maintaining home exteriors against humidity.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Madison County

via SoilByCounty

Madison County's Top-Tier Soil Quality

Madison County boasts a high soil score of 45.9, significantly outperforming the state average of 35.7. The average pH is 5.37, which is slightly less acidic than the statewide average of 5.30 but still below the national median of 6.5. This region is known for some of the most productive ground in the state.

Dominant Silt Content Defines the Land

The soil is remarkably silty, with silt making up a dominant 68.6% of the composition. Sand is low at 18.5%, and clay accounts for 12.9%, creating a fine-textured soil that is very smooth. This high silt ratio allows for excellent nutrient distribution but can be prone to erosion if left uncovered.

Exceptional Water Capacity for Crops

Madison County features an impressive available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.174 in/in. While organic matter is lower than average at 1.47%, the soil's ability to hold moisture makes it highly resilient. This high capacity is a major factor in the county's superior soil score.

Water Retention and Silt Management

With silt levels near 70%, this soil acts like a sponge, holding onto water longer than sandy neighbors. Although specific drainage data is unavailable, the high water capacity suggests slow but steady percolation. Gardeners should watch for surface crusting, a common trait in silt-heavy soils after heavy rains.

Thriving in Madison's Zone 8b

Madison County's Zone 8b climate and high-capacity soil are ideal for thirsty crops like corn and leafy greens. The soil's physical properties are perfect for established trees and extensive vegetable gardens. Take advantage of this high-scoring soil to grow a lush, productive landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Madison County

via LawnByCounty

Managing One of the State's Easier Lawns

Madison County's difficulty score of 34.9 makes it one of the more manageable counties in Mississippi for lawn care. Though it is easier than the state average of 30.9, it remains more challenging than the national median of 50.0. The Zone 8b climate provides a predictable, albeit warm, environment for southern grasses.

Steady Rainfall and Summer Intensity

The county receives 57.0 inches of rain annually, which is slightly above the ideal lawn range. Residents deal with 77 extreme heat days and 5,637 growing degree days, ensuring that turf stays active for most of the year. This combination means mowing schedules must be consistent to manage the rapid growth.

Loamy Soil Requires pH Adjustments

Soil in Madison County is acidic, with a pH of 5.37 compared to the target 6.0-7.0 range. The low sand content of 18.5% and 12.9% clay suggests a siltier texture that may hold moisture longer than sandier soils. Adding lime and ensuring proper aeration will help maintain the delicate balance required for lush turf.

Watching for Dry Conditions

While the county only saw 5 weeks of drought over the past year, currently 83.0% of the area is abnormally dry. This sudden shift means supplemental watering is becoming more important for maintaining lawn health. Using smart irrigation controllers can help navigate these fluctuations without wasting water.

Planting Around the Frost Window

The best time to start your lawn is after the final spring frost on March 22. Because the first fall frost typically hits by November 6, you have a solid seven-month window for establishment. Centipede grass and Bermuda are favorites here for their ability to handle the 77 days of extreme heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Madison County's county score?
Madison County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 45.8 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 Mississippi?
Madison County ranks #50 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 Madison County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Madison County is $2,071, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Madison County a tax score of 60.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Madison County?
The median household income in Madison County, Mississippi is $78,794 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Madison County earns an income score of 82.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Madison County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Madison County scores 45.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in Mississippi. 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.

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🏛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.