countyscore
41.7
County Score
Property Tax 93.9Cost of Living 89.2Weather & Climate 60

County Report Card

About McCurtain County, Oklahoma

McCurtain County trails the national median

McCurtain County holds a composite score of 41.7, which is below the national median of 50.0. The county balances elite affordability scores against very low health and safety rankings.

Competing near the Oklahoma state average

With a score of 41.7, McCurtain County is nearly on par with the Oklahoma state average of 43.0. It is a standout for financial value, even if it lags in social service metrics.

Elite affordability and tax benefits

McCurtain County is a fiscal haven with a Tax Score of 93.9 and a Cost Score of 89.2. Home values are among the lowest around with a median of $126,100 and a 0.401% tax rate.

Critical gaps in safety and health

The county faces extreme challenges with a Safety Score of 6.4 and a Health Score of 6.4. Low water scores (2.3) and income levels (14.8) further complicate the local landscape.

Ideal for retirees or remote workers on a budget

McCurtain County is the ultimate destination for those prioritizing rock-bottom living costs and low taxes. It is best suited for residents who can provide their own security and health solutions.

Score breakdown

Tax93.9Cost89.2Safety6.4Health6.4Schools25.2Income14.8Risk28Water2.3Weather60
🏛93.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠89.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼14.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡6.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤6.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓25.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡28
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧2.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨25.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱38.6
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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Counties with similar scores

White County
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Blue Earth County
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Lorain County
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Pickaway County
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Nearby counties

Red River County
Texas
49.7
Sevier County
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50.4
Little River County
Arkansas
52.3
Bowie County
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34.5
Choctaw County
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46.2
Howard County
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Polk County
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51.5
Pushmataha County
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51.6

Deep Dives

McCurtain County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in McCurtain County

via TaxByCounty

McCurtain County's tax-friendly advantage

At 0.401%, McCurtain County boasts one of the lowest effective tax rates in the nation, well below the national median of 0.87%. Residents pay just $505 annually in property taxes—a mere 19% of the national median—making McCurtain exceptionally affordable.

Oklahoma's most affordable county

McCurtain County's 0.401% effective rate ranks lowest among all Oklahoma counties, significantly below the state average of 0.652%. At $505 in median annual taxes, McCurtain homeowners pay less than half of Oklahoma's state median of $959.

Far and away the best deal

McCurtain County's 0.401% rate dramatically undercuts every neighbor—it's less than two-thirds of Marshall County's 0.590% and roughly half of Love County's 0.636%. For tax-conscious homeowners, McCurtain offers unmatched regional savings.

Remarkably low annual costs

On McCurtain County's median home value of $126,100, annual property taxes total only $505—roughly $42 per month. With mortgage and insurance, total annual property costs total approximately $725, among the lowest in the state.

Still worth checking your assessment

Even in low-tax McCurtain County, homeowners benefit from periodically verifying their assessed values against recent neighborhood sales. An appeals process exists; if your assessment seems inflated, pursuing an appeal costs little and could provide modest additional savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McCurtain County

via CostByCounty

McCurtain's lowest earners face affordability test

At 16.9%, McCurtain County's rent-to-income ratio approaches affordability stress, particularly for a county where median household income is just $50,175—the lowest in this analysis and $24,580 below the national median. Housing costs consume a significant share of modest earnings here.

Below-average income, average housing stress

McCurtain County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.9% sits just below Oklahoma's state average of 17.0%, but the median income of $50,175 ranks among the state's lowest. The county faces dual challenges: limited earnings paired with housing costs near state averages.

Affordable rent, limited income context

McCurtain County's rent of $705 is cheaper than most neighbors, but the median income of $50,175 means those savings matter more here than in wealthier counties. The median home value of $126,100 is among the lowest in the region.

Owners have modest advantage over renters

Renters spend 16.9% of income on rent ($705), while homeowners spend only 12.3% on mortgage ($516), a $189 monthly difference that's significant for households earning just $50,175. Ownership offers meaningful financial relief in this lower-income county.

McCurtain rewards homeowners most

If relocating to McCurtain County on a modest budget, homeownership is essential—monthly mortgage costs are roughly $189 cheaper than rent and equity accumulation provides long-term wealth building. Renters should explore higher-income opportunities or consider lower-cost neighboring areas.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McCurtain County

via IncomeByCounty

McCurtain faces steepest income gap

McCurtain County's median household income of $50,175 trails the U.S. median by $24,580, a 33% shortfall—the region's largest income gap. This reflects significant economic challenges in the county.

Oklahoma's lowest tier

McCurtain ranks among Oklahoma's lowest-income counties with household income $8,098 below the state average of $58,273. Per capita income of $25,818 is 16% below the state norm, indicating constrained earning capacity.

Lowest earner in the region

McCurtain's $50,175 median is the region's lowest, trailing Marshall ($56,495), Mayes ($57,279), and all other comparable counties. The gap to Logan ($82,735) and McClain ($84,778) exceeds $32,000 annually.

Rent strains household finances

At 16.9%, McCurtain's rent-to-income ratio pushes toward affordability limits, leaving little financial cushion for renters. Median home value of $126,100 represents 2.5 years of income—achievable but challenging given income constraints.

Prioritize income and skills

McCurtain residents should focus intensely on career development and income growth as the foundation for wealth building. Investigate job training programs, trade certifications, and local employer opportunities while maintaining modest savings discipline and avoiding high-interest debt.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McCurtain County

via CrimeByCounty

McCurtain County Crime Rate Overview

McCurtain County reports a safety score of 94.9. Its total crime rate of 3199.7 per 100k is higher than the national average of 2385.5.

Addressing Higher Local Crime Rates

The county’s safety score falls just below the Oklahoma state average of 95.8. Eight local agencies work to address a crime rate that exceeds the state average of 2647.7.

McCurtain vs Surrounding Counties

McCurtain reports more crime than neighbor Mayes County, which sits at 2736.2 per 100k. It remains more active than Marshall County's 2233.1 rate.

Property Crime Drives Local Incidents

Property crime is the primary issue at 2899.7 per 100k, while violent crime stays relatively low at 300.0. The violent crime rate actually performs better than the national average.

Vigilance and Security in McCurtain

Residents can push back against property crime by securing their homes and vehicles. Modern alarm systems and community vigilance help maintain safety in more active counties.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in McCurtain County

via HealthByCounty

McCurtain County faces severe health crisis

At 68.2 years, McCurtain County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 73.5 years by a devastating 5.3 years—a gap that ranks among the worst in America. With 27.7% reporting poor or fair health versus the national 19%, residents face epidemic-level chronic disease and premature mortality.

Oklahoma's most health-challenged county

McCurtain County's 68.2-year life expectancy plunges 4.5 years below Oklahoma's 72.7-year state average, making it the state's lowest performer by a wide margin. The 16.4% uninsured rate compounds an already dire situation, leaving many residents unable to access care for treatable conditions.

Dramatically worse than all regional peers

McCurtain County's 68.2-year life expectancy falls 4+ years below every regional neighbor—Logan (77.9), Lincoln (74.2), Major (74.1)—creating a regional health crisis unique to this county. Despite strong primary care access at 45 per 100,000 and abundant mental health providers (385 per 100,000), outcomes remain catastrophically poor.

Providers exist, but health is collapsing

McCurtain County has 45 primary care providers per 100,000—adequate supply—yet 27.7% experience poor/fair health and life expectancy collapses at 68.2 years. Poverty, substance abuse, and social fragmentation likely overwhelm even good provider availability, while 16.4% uninsured further blocks access to care.

Insurance is just the first step

If you're uninsured in McCurtain County, getting covered at healthcare.gov is urgent—but coverage alone won't reverse the county's health crisis. Seek preventive care immediately, connect with local primary providers, and advocate for community health programs that address the deeper poverty and social challenges driving premature mortality.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in McCurtain County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive School Network Across McCurtain

McCurtain County features 29 public schools, the highest number in this region, serving 6,525 students across 13 districts. This broad infrastructure includes 15 elementary, 6 middle, and 8 high schools.

Steady Academic Scores and State Parity

The county maintains an 84.6% graduation rate and a school score of 49.8, both nearly identical to Oklahoma's state averages. Per-pupil spending of $6,583 aligns with state trends, providing a stable foundation for student success.

Broken Bow and Idabel Lead the Way

Broken Bow is the largest district with 1,583 students, while Idabel follows with 1,227 students. Traditional education is the exclusive model here, as 0% of the 29 schools are charter-based.

Small Schools Spanning a Rural Expanse

Most schools are rural (21) with an average size of 225 students, ensuring personal attention. Broken Bow HS is the largest campus with 609 students, while many other students attend smaller primary schools like Lukfata.

Find Your Home Near Historic Districts

Families can choose from a wide variety of small, community-focused districts throughout McCurtain County. Whether you prefer the resources of Broken Bow or the small-town feel of Valliant, school quality is a cornerstone of this community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McCurtain County

via RiskByCounty

McCurtain County faces above-average risk

McCurtain County's composite risk score of 72.04 earns a "Relatively Low" rating but exceeds the national average. The county's multi-hazard profile is driven by elevated flood, wildfire, and tornado risks.

Higher than Oklahoma's average risk

At 72.04, McCurtain County's composite risk significantly exceeds Oklahoma's state average of 55.47. The county stands out for its notably higher hurricane risk (55.99) and earthquake risk (64.73) compared to most other Oklahoma counties.

Among the riskier counties

McCurtain County (72.04) approaches the risk levels of Lincoln County (71.31) and Mayes County (77.58), making it one of the region's more hazard-exposed areas. All three face substantially more risk than Major County (34.19) or Love County (21.12).

Flood, wildfire, and tornado converge

Flood risk scores 75.89, wildfire 77.61, and tornado 76.69, creating a formidable triple threat to McCurtain County. Earthquake (64.73) and hurricane (55.99) risks are also notably elevated compared to other Oklahoma counties.

Comprehensive coverage is critical

Homeowners need robust flood insurance, fire coverage, and wind protection—standard policies exclude flood damage, and comprehensive protection is essential here. Consider the southeastern location's hurricane exposure and ensure your policy limits reflect full replacement costs for all three primary hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in McCurtain County

via WeatherByCounty

Oklahoma's Wettest Corner

McCurtain County receives a massive 54.2 inches of annual precipitation, far exceeding the national median. The average annual temperature is a warm 60.8°F.

A Rain Leader in Oklahoma

McCurtain's 54.2 inches of rain is nearly 50% higher than the 37.2-inch state average. Its temperature is also slightly higher than the state average of 60.4°F.

Soaking Compared to Western Neighbors

McCurtain receives about 18 inches more rain annually than McClain County. Despite the rain, it sees only 2.5 inches of snow, much less than northern Oklahoma.

Humid Summers and Soft Winters

Summers average 78.6°F with 64 days of extreme heat, tempered by frequent rainfall. Winters are mild at 42.3°F with very little snowfall averaging 2.5 inches.

Prioritize Rain Gear and Drainage

The 54.2 inches of annual rain makes heavy-duty rain gear and robust home drainage systems essential. Heat is moderate but humid, so dehumidifiers can improve indoor comfort.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McCurtain County

via SoilByCounty

The Acidic Soils of the Southeast

McCurtain County's soil is notably acidic, with an average pH of 5.47, well below the state average of 6.06. This acidity is a hallmark of the southeastern Oklahoma landscape, where high rainfall leaches away alkaline minerals. It creates a specific niche that is perfect for timber and acid-loving flora.

A Gritty Clay Mix

The soil features 40.7% sand and 20.4% clay, balanced by 31.1% silt. This composition provides a firm structure that can hold nutrients well, though the acidity can sometimes limit their uptake. The sand content helps with initial water penetration, but the clay ensures it doesn't drain away too fast.

Average Water, Low Organic Matter

Organic matter levels sit at 1.39%, trailing the state average of 1.72%. However, the available water capacity of 0.144 in/in perfectly matches the Oklahoma state average. This means that despite lower organic levels, the soil remains a dependable source of moisture for forest and field.

Tight Soils and Runoff Concerns

Classified under Hydrologic Group D, the soil in McCurtain County is characterized by high runoff potential and slow internal drainage. In this high-rainfall region, this can lead to frequent saturated conditions in low-lying areas. Proper drainage planning is essential for any construction or intensive gardening project.

Timber and Berries in Zone 8a

The warm, humid climate of zone 8a combined with acidic soil makes McCurtain County the premier spot for Loblolly pines and blackberries. It is also an excellent environment for southern ornamentals like camellias. Plant an acid-loving garden today to embrace the unique character of the Oklahoma southeast.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McCurtain County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in McCurtain County

McCurtain County is the most challenging area in this group, with a lawn difficulty score of 38.6. This is significantly tougher than both the state average of 46.1 and the national average. Despite being in the warm Zone 8a, you must overcome acidic soil and high rainfall to maintain a healthy lawn.

Heavy Rains and High Humidity

With 54.2 inches of annual precipitation, McCurtain is the wettest county in this group, often exceeding the ideal lawn range. While 64 extreme heat days is lower than the state average, the high moisture levels can lead to fungal issues in your turf. Managing 4962 growing degree days in this humid environment requires careful monitoring for pests and diseases.

Managing Acidity and Water Saturation

The soil pH of 5.47 is quite acidic, which can significantly stunt grass growth if you don't apply lime regularly. The soil contains 20.4% clay and 40.7% sand, a mix that can become easily compacted and waterlogged in the county's high-rainfall climate. Improving your lawn's drainage will be your most important task to prevent root rot and moss growth.

Navigating Intense Seasonal Dry Spells

Despite the high annual rain, McCurtain is currently 68.8% covered by severe drought (D2+). The county spent 19 weeks in drought over the last year, showing that rainfall is often inconsistent and heavy when it does arrive. It is vital to have a flexible irrigation plan that can supplement your lawn during these intense dry periods.

Establishment in the Wet Southeast

Wait until after the April 9th frost to begin your lawn projects, ensuring the soil is ready for new growth. Centipedegrass or St. Augustine are excellent choices for McCurtain because they can tolerate the acidic soil conditions better than other varieties. Your growing season remains active until the first frost on November 2nd, providing ample time for establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McCurtain County's county score?
McCurtain County, Oklahoma has a composite county score of 41.7 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 McCurtain County rank among counties in Oklahoma?
McCurtain County ranks #40 among all counties in Oklahoma 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 McCurtain County, Oklahoma?
The median annual property tax in McCurtain County is $505, with an effective tax rate of 0.40%. This earns McCurtain County a tax score of 93.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McCurtain County?
The median household income in McCurtain County, Oklahoma is $50,175 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McCurtain County earns an income score of 14.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is McCurtain County, Oklahoma a good place to live?
McCurtain County scores 41.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #40 in Oklahoma. The best way to evaluate McCurtain 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 McCurtain 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.