countyscore
45.3
County Score
Safety 88.3Weather & Climate 65.4Property Tax 58.1

County Report Card

About Marshall County, Mississippi

Marshall County trails the national median

Marshall County earns a composite score of 45.3, trailing the national median of 50.0. The county offers high safety but struggles with access to health and high-wage jobs.

Just below the state livability average

The county's score of 45.3 is slightly lower than the Mississippi state average of 48.4. It offers a quieter alternative to nearby urban centers, trading amenities for security.

Outstanding safety and low tax rates

A safety score of 88.3 is the county's standout feature, complemented by a tax score of 58.1. The effective tax rate of 0.747% keeps costs manageable for the local population.

Health and education need investment

The county faces significant challenges with a health score of 11.8 and a school score of 20.0. These factors, alongside an income score of 18.2, suggest a need for improved community services.

Ideal for security-focused commuters

Marshall County is a great fit for people working in nearby metros who want a very safe, low-tax home base. It is perfect for those who prioritize peace and quiet over local amenities.

2040608010058.141.988.311.82018.228.856.865.4Tax58.1Cost41.9Safety88.3Health11.8Schools20Income18.2Risk28.8Water56.8Weather65.445.3/100
This county
National avg
1 above average4 below average

Marshall County DNA

Foverall

How Marshall County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Marshall County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (88.3/100) but notably weak in Health (11.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
58.1
Cost
41.9
Safety
88.3+33.3
Health
11.8-38.2
Schools
20-34
Income
18.2-32.8
Risk
28.8-18.2
Water
56.8
Weather
65.4+9.400000000000006
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$172,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$926/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$172,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,040/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $51,875/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

14.7

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Benton County
Mississippi
57.3
Lafayette County
Mississippi
43.6
Tate County
Mississippi
37.7
DeSoto County
Mississippi
36.7
Fayette County
Tennessee
55.6
Union County
Mississippi
45.1
Tippah County
Mississippi
56.7
Panola County
Mississippi
43.3

Deep Dives

Marshall County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Marshall County

via TaxByCounty

Marshall's taxes rank well below national

Marshall County's effective property tax rate of 0.747% is roughly one-third the national median of 2.1%, placing residents in a low-tax environment. At $1,286 annually, the median property tax remains substantially below the national median of $2,690.

Marshall slightly exceeds state average rate

Marshall County's 0.747% effective rate is marginally above Mississippi's 0.743% average, though the difference is negligible. The median property tax of $1,286 notably exceeds the state median of $931, reflecting stronger median home values of $172,200.

Marshall rate near regional middle

Marshall County's 0.747% effective rate positions it near the region's center, slightly above Marion (0.744%) and Monroe (0.746%), and above Lee (0.722%) and Lowndes (0.640%). The county represents a moderate tax environment within this eight-county group.

Median homeowner pays $1,286 yearly

On the median Marshall County home valued at $172,200, property taxes total approximately $1,286 per year. With a mortgage, homeowners owe $1,525; without, $929.

Assessment appeals worth your time

Marshall County homeowners frequently discover their properties are overvalued and eligible for tax refunds. Filing an appeal with the county assessor is free and can identify hundreds in annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Marshall County

via CostByCounty

Marshall County stretches housing budgets

Marshall County renters spend 21.4% of income on rent, significantly above the national 16% benchmark and well above Mississippi's 19.6% state average. At $926 monthly on a $51,875 median income, housing claims nearly one-quarter of earnings here.

Among Mississippi's pricier markets

Marshall County's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the least affordable in Mississippi, beat only by Leflore and Marion in this eight-county region. The county's modest wages paired with above-average rents create affordability strain for local residents.

Pricey rents on moderate incomes

Marshall's $926 rent is second-highest in the region after Madison, yet the $51,875 median income is only moderate—well below Lee ($67,144) and Madison ($78,794). This mismatch pushes housing burdens to uncomfortable levels relative to neighboring counties.

Homeownership offers slight relief

Renters spend 21.4% of their $51,875 income on $926 rent, but homeowners find modest relief at $858 monthly (19.8% of income) on properties worth $172,200. Both groups commit substantial portions of income to housing, leaving less for savings and emergencies.

Consider Marshall only with caution

Marshall County's 21.4% housing burden is workable only if you earn above $55,000 and can absorb higher rent. If you're relocating from a high-cost area, Marshall may offer savings, but it's not the most affordable choice in this region—Lincoln, Marion, or Leflore might stretch your dollar further.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Marshall County

via IncomeByCounty

Marshall County trails national income standards

Marshall County's median household income of $51,875 falls $22,880 short of the national median of $74,755, indicating below-average earning capacity relative to the broader U.S. The county does exceed Mississippi's statewide average of $48,514 by $3,361, positioning it slightly above state norms.

Marshall County ranks above state average

Marshall County's median household income of $51,875 exceeds Mississippi's statewide average of $48,514, placing it in the upper-middle tier of Mississippi counties. Per capita income of $27,639 also edges above the state average of $27,136, suggesting moderately stable household economics.

Marshall County performs as solid regional peer

Marshall County's median household income of $51,875 sits between Marion County ($42,320) and Lowndes County ($54,460), positioning it as a regional middle-performer. The county's per capita income of $27,639 is comparable to neighboring Monroe County ($28,411).

Housing costs strain family budgets

Marshall County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% sits just below the affordability comfort threshold, meaning housing expenses consume more than one-fifth of household earnings. With median home values at $172,200 relative to modest income, many families face housing affordability pressure.

Pursue targeted income growth strategies

Marshall County households earning near state averages must balance housing obligations with modest savings capacity, making career advancement and skill development crucial. Pursuing higher-wage employment opportunities and building emergency reserves can help households achieve financial security and gradual wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Marshall County

via CrimeByCounty

National Safety Leader: Marshall County

Marshall County is one of the safest in the region, with a nearly perfect safety score of 99.6. Its total crime rate of 253.1 per 100K is a small fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Comparing Marshall to State Benchmarks

Marshall easily surpasses the state average safety score of 98.4. Its total crime rate is less than a third of the Mississippi average of 978.4, showcasing a very calm environment.

Marshall vs. Northern Neighbors

The county is significantly quieter than Lee County, which reports a much higher crime rate of 2,750.1. This makes Marshall a standout for safety in North Mississippi.

Crime Distribution in Marshall

Crime is exceptionally rare here, with violent incidents at just 76.5 per 100K and property crimes at 176.6. These figures represent some of the lowest risk levels for residents in the state.

Sustaining Marshall’s High Safety

In an area with such low crime, community awareness is your best asset. Maintaining visibility around your property and knowing your neighbors helps preserve this high level of safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Marshall County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Look at Marshall County's School System

Marshall County supports 3,802 students across 15 public schools and two districts. The system includes five elementary, three middle, and six high schools, providing varied options for all grade levels. One alternative school is also available to support non-traditional learning paths.

Meeting State Standards and Graduation Goals

Marshall County maintains a graduation rate of 87.2%, which is precisely in line with the state average of 87.1%. The overall school score of 48.6 is slightly below the state median of 49.8. Per-pupil spending is $5,403, which falls about $500 below the state average and significantly below the national average.

Exploring the Marshall County Districts

The Marshall County School District is the primary provider, educating 2,777 students in 10 different schools. The Holly Springs School District serves the remaining 1,025 students across five campuses. Traditional public schools make up 100% of the landscape here, as there are no charter schools in the county.

Rural Character and Diverse High Schools

With nine rural schools and six town-based campuses, the county offers a predominantly quiet, community-focused educational environment. Schools are relatively small, with an average of 317 students per campus. Byhalia Elementary is the largest school with 553 students, highlighting the concentration of younger families in that area.

Moving to Marshall County for School Access

Marshall County offers a variety of rural and town living options near local schools. Families often focus on the Byhalia area, where the county's largest elementary and high schools are located. Consider the school district boundaries carefully as you search for a home that fits your educational preferences.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Marshall County

via RiskByCounty

Marshall County carries elevated composite risk

Marshall County's composite risk score of 71.18 places it in the relatively low national category, yet reflects significant exposure to earthquakes and wildfires. The score indicates meaningful disaster preparedness needs concentrated in specific high-impact hazard types.

Above-average risk across Mississippi

Marshall County's score of 71.18 substantially exceeds Mississippi's state average of 50.94, placing it in the upper half of statewide risk rankings. This elevated standing reflects the county's particular susceptibility to strong earthquakes and above-average wildfire exposure.

Second-riskiest in the northern region

Marshall County's 71.18 score exceeds Monroe County (68.54) and Lincoln County (48.44), but falls just below Lee County (81.27) and Lowndes County (80.92). The county's major distinguishing feature is its high wildfire risk of 79.20, substantially above most regional neighbors.

Earthquakes and wildfires are serious threats

Marshall County experiences an earthquake risk of 92.97 and wildfire risk of 79.20, representing the two most significant hazards residents face. Tornado risk also reaches 88.99, making the county vulnerable to multiple types of sudden, high-impact events throughout the year.

Address earthquake and wildfire exposure

Marshall County homeowners must purchase separate earthquake insurance immediately, as standard policies exclude seismic damage entirely. Clear vegetation and maintain defensible space to reduce wildfire risk, and ensure comprehensive wind coverage in your homeowners policy for tornado protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Marshall County

via WaterByCounty

Marshall County earns a C for compliance

Two health violations have been recorded here in the last five years, creating a rate of 9.0 per 100,000 residents. This rate remains significantly lower than the Mississippi state average of 92.1.

Watershed health remains an unrated signal

Federal authorities have not yet assessed Marshall County's streams for the current Clean Water Act reporting cycle. No official impairment status is currently available for local water bodies.

Monitoring focus on organics and pesticides

A network of 11 monitoring sites has captured 1,173 measurements over the last five years. Data collection emphasizes organics and pesticides, providing insight into agricultural impacts.

No live USGS gauge data available

Marshall County does not currently host an active USGS streamgage for real-time flow monitoring. Compliance and monitoring data remain the primary indicators for local water intelligence.

Monitor for agricultural runoff signals

With monitoring efforts focused on pesticides, rural residents should be mindful of seasonal runoff into local water sources. The county's C grade suggests maintaining awareness of utility notices regarding health violations.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Marshall County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer than the national median

Marshall County maintains an annual average temperature of 60.0°F, placing it well above the national median for U.S. counties. This humid subtropical climate experiences a significant 56.5 inches of annual precipitation.

One of Mississippi's cooler regions

At 60.0°F, Marshall County sits nearly four degrees below the Mississippi state average of 63.9°F. Its northern position keeps it cooler than many of its central and southern neighbors.

Cooler than nearby Panola County

Marshall's annual average is lower than Panola County’s 62.5°F and Montgomery’s 60.3°F. It represents the cooler northern edge of the state's temperature gradient.

Significant heat and rare snow

The county faces 53 days of extreme heat above 90°F, primarily during the 78.7°F July peak. Winter brings a modest 2.1 inches of snowfall, which is relatively high for this region of Mississippi.

Prepare for humidity and rainfall

With 56.5 inches of rain, residents should prioritize effective home drainage systems. High-efficiency HVAC units are essential to manage the 53 days of extreme heat occurring each summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Marshall County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Silts of North Mississippi

Marshall County features a soil pH of 5.26, sitting just below the state average of 5.30 and well under the national median of 6.5. The county's soil score of 40.5 is notably high, placing it well above the state average of 35.7. This high score indicates a strong foundation for both agriculture and development.

Silky Texture with Low Sand

Silt is the primary component here at 62.4%, giving the soil a very smooth, fine texture. Sand is relatively low at 22.9%, while clay makes up 14.7% of the profile. This silty dominance provides a fertile, easy-to-work medium that holds nutrients better than sandy soils.

Exceptional Water Retention Abilities

Marshall County features an available water capacity of 0.201 in/in, significantly higher than the Mississippi average of 0.174 in/in. While organic matter is modest at 1.47%, the soil’s superior ability to store water provides a buffer against drought. This moisture reliability contributes to the county's strong overall soil score.

Slow Drainage and High Capacity

The high silt content means this soil holds water tightly and drains more slowly than sandy alternatives. Although specific hydrologic data is unavailable, the high water capacity indicates the soil stays moist for extended periods. Careful planning for drainage is recommended when building or gardening in low-lying areas.

Gardening in Marshall's Zone 8a

In USDA Zone 8a, the silty soil is perfect for deep-rooted perennials and moisture-loving summer crops. Squashes and melons will benefit from the high available water capacity during the peak of summer heat. With an above-average soil score, Marshall County is an excellent place to plant new roots.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Marshall County

via LawnByCounty

Managing North Mississippi Lawns

Marshall County scores a 31.9 on the lawn difficulty scale, placing it right near the state average of 30.9. Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, it offers a slightly cooler environment than the southern part of the state. However, it still requires more effort than the national median of 50.0.

Fewer Heat Extremes, High Rainfall

Marshall County experiences only 53 extreme heat days, which is much lower than the state average of 73. However, the 56.5 inches of annual rain still exceeds the ideal 30-50 inch range. The 4,776 growing degree days suggest a slightly slower growth rate compared to the hotter delta regions.

Balancing pH in Silty Soil

The local soil pH is 5.26, necessitating lime to reach the desired 6.0-7.0 for optimal grass health. With 14.7% clay and 22.9% sand, the soil likely has a high silt content that can become compacted. Aeration and organic amendments can help improve the soil structure for better root penetration.

Recovering from Prolonged Dryness

The county endured 28 weeks of drought over the past year, and 100% of the county is currently abnormally dry. This consistent lack of moisture can lead to dormant brown lawns if supplemental irrigation isn't used. Prioritizing water conservation techniques is essential given the recent history of extended dry spells.

Timing for the Northern Frost

The growing window is a bit shorter here, with the last spring frost on April 6 and the first fall frost on October 28. Bermuda grass is a resilient choice that handles the variable moisture and moderate heat well. Start your seeding projects in late April to ensure the ground is warm enough for germination.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Marshall County's county score?
Marshall County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 45.3 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 Marshall County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Marshall County ranks #52 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 Marshall County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Marshall County is $1,286, with an effective tax rate of 0.75%. This earns Marshall County a tax score of 58.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Marshall County?
The median household income in Marshall County, Mississippi is $51,875 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Marshall County earns an income score of 18.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Marshall County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Marshall County scores 45.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #52 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Marshall 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 Marshall County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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