countyscore
54.6
County Score
Property Tax 94.4Water Quality 86Cost of Living 84

County Report Card

About McNairy County, Tennessee

McNairy County Exceeds National Standards

McNairy County earns a composite score of 54.6, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This ranking places it in the upper percentiles of counties nationwide for its overall balance of affordability and quality.

Outperforming the Tennessee State Average

With its 54.6 score, McNairy County sits comfortably above the Tennessee state average of 51.3. It stands out as a high-value rural option within the state's borders.

A Haven of Low Costs and Taxes

The county excels with a tax score of 94.4 and a cost score of 84.0, driven by an incredibly low $706 median rent. Residents also benefit from high-quality schools, which earn a respectable score of 62.3.

Economic and Health Limitations

Income levels remain low with a score of 16.1, reflecting a median household income of $50,714. Health outcomes also lag behind other metrics, with a dimension score of 17.4.

Perfect for Families Seeking Affordability

McNairy County is a top pick for families looking to maximize their purchasing power while benefiting from a solid school system. It is less suited for those requiring high-paying local jobs or specialized medical infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax94.4Cost84Safety22Health17.4Schools62.3Income16.1Risk49.5Water86Weather62.5
🏛94.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠84
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼16.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡22
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤17.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨29.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30
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

Chester County
Tennessee
61.2
Hardin County
Tennessee
46.3
Alcorn County
Mississippi
43.8
Hardeman County
Tennessee
40.7
Henderson County
Tennessee
53.1
Madison County
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33.9
Tippah County
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Tishomingo County
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55.3

Deep Dives

McNairy County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in McNairy County

via TaxByCounty

McNairy County taxes rank among America's lowest

McNairy County's 0.390% effective tax rate places it in the bottom 10% nationally, less than half the U.S. median of 0.96%. The $589 median property tax is only 22% of the national median of $2,690.

Well below Tennessee state average

McNairy County's 0.390% rate is 24% lower than Tennessee's 0.511% average, ranking it near the bottom statewide. The $589 median tax falls 42% below the state median of $1,016.

Second-lowest taxes in the region

McNairy County's 0.390% rate ranks second-lowest regionally, just above McMinn County's 0.371% but below Meigs County (0.392%). Its $589 median tax is the lowest dollar amount among all neighboring counties.

Median home costs just $589 yearly

On a typical McNairy County home worth $151,100, you'll pay approximately $589 in annual property taxes. That's roughly $49 per month—among the most affordable in America.

Appeal your assessment if overvalued

Even in counties with minimal tax burdens, overassessment happens and appeals are free to file. McNairy County homeowners should verify their assessments aren't inflating their already-low bills unnecessarily.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McNairy County

via CostByCounty

McNairy stretches budgets but keeps costs low

McNairy County renters spend 16.7% of income on housing—competitive with national norms and close to the state average of 17.6%. However, the median household income of $50,714 lags the national average by $24,041, making even affordable rents a larger budget burden.

McNairy holds middle ground in state rankings

McNairy County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio sits just below Tennessee's state average of 17.6%, placing it slightly above the middle of the pack. The $706 median rent is 18% below the state median, supporting this favorable position.

Cheapest rents in its region, lowest incomes too

McNairy's $706 median rent is the lowest among regional peers, undercutting even McMinn County's $792 and Marshall's $924. This affordability reflects limited urban development, though it correlates with lower job market diversity and incomes across the county.

Lowest costs in the region but income challenges remain

Renters pay just $706 and owners $600 monthly—the cheapest housing in this county cluster—from a median household income of $50,714. Housing costs consume roughly 25% of household income, manageable percentages that mask underlying income vulnerability.

McNairy rewards retirees and remote workers seeking value

McNairy's rock-bottom housing costs make it ideal for fixed-income households or remote workers relocating from high-cost metros. If you're price-sensitive and don't depend on local wages, McNairy's rental and ownership markets offer unmatched regional value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McNairy County

via IncomeByCounty

McNairy County faces significant income gap

McNairy County's median household income of $50,714 trails the national median of $74,755 by $24,041—a 32% shortfall that ranks it among America's lower-income counties. Per capita income of $26,747 falls well below the state average of $31,458, indicating economic stress across the community.

Lowest-earning county in Tennessee sample

McNairy County earns $8,280 less than the Tennessee state average of $58,994, making it one of the state's lowest-income communities. This 14% gap signals limited employment opportunities and lower skill-wage alignment in the local economy.

Struggling compared to surrounding counties

McNairy County's $50,714 median income is $9,960 below McMinn County ($59,674) and $19,451 below Marshall County ($70,829). The gap to the region's leader, Maury County ($74,162), reaches $23,448—making McNairy the region's most economically challenged community.

Housing affordable despite low incomes

McNairy County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% keeps housing costs manageable and below the 30% affordability ceiling. A median home value of $151,100—the lowest in the region—ensures that homeownership remains within reach for households earning the county median.

Prioritize earning potential and asset building

McNairy County's significantly below-average incomes require intentional wealth-building strategies to close the financial gap. Consider skills-based training in high-demand fields, remote work opportunities from outside employers, and maximize your position in affordable housing to build equity.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McNairy County

via CrimeByCounty

McNairy County Maintains a Safe Profile

McNairy County reports a total crime rate of 2,004.2 per 100,000, which is comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5. This contributes to a respectable safety score of 96.8 for the region.

Competitive Safety within Tennessee

The county's safety score of 96.8 is just shy of the Tennessee state average of 97.2. Despite having only two reporting agencies, the data shows a consistent level of public safety for residents.

Consistent Performance Among West TN Counties

McNairy County offers a safer environment than several neighboring areas, keeping its total crime rate roughly 16% below the national baseline. It remains a stable choice for those prioritizing low crime in the region.

Lower Violent Crime Rates Protect Residents

The violent crime rate of 328.2 is lower than the national average of 369.8, indicating a relatively low risk of physical harm. Property crime accounts for 1,676.0 incidents per 100,000, which remains below the national property crime benchmark.

Basic Precautions Ensure Continued Safety

Maintaining property security through better lighting and alarm systems helps keep property crime figures low. Simple awareness of your surroundings is the best defense in this relatively quiet county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in McNairy County

via HealthByCounty

McNairy County Faces Serious Health Crisis

McNairy County residents live to just 70.3 years, 2.5 years shorter than the U.S. average of 72.8 years, marking some of the worst longevity in America. With 23.8% reporting poor or fair health—well above the national 21% average—and 13% uninsured, the county faces compounding health emergencies.

Lowest Life Expectancy in Tennessee

McNairy County ranks among Tennessee's worst performers with a 70.3-year life expectancy, 2.1 years below the state average of 72.4 years. At 13% uninsured, the county also exceeds Tennessee's 11.9% state average, leaving residents with both shorter lives and less insurance protection.

Worst Health Outcomes in Region

McNairy County's 70.3 years represents the lowest life expectancy among peers: Marshall (73.6), McMinn (71.3), and Monroe (70.8) all outperform McNairy. The 13% uninsured rate and 43 primary care providers per 100K suggest systemic gaps in both coverage and provider infrastructure.

Critical Uninsured Crisis Compounds Problems

McNairy County's 13% uninsured rate—the highest among comparison counties—means 1 in 8 residents lack health coverage, driving delayed care and worse outcomes. With 43 primary care providers per 100K and 138 mental health providers, supply exists, but lack of insurance prevents many from accessing it.

Urgent: Get Health Coverage Today

McNairy County's 13% uninsured rate demands immediate action—enrolling in Medicaid or a Marketplace plan could save your life. Contact your county health department or visit healthcare.gov to explore free or low-cost coverage options available now.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in McNairy County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Schools in a Rural Setting

McNairy County operates 10 public schools that serve a student population of 3,831. The system includes five elementary schools and two high schools, all managed under a single county-wide district.

Exceptional Graduation and High Investment

McNairy County boasts a standout 96.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the 87.0% national average and the 93.3% state average. The county invests $6,772 per pupil, which exceeds the state average and helps drive a strong school score of 56.2.

Unified District Excellence

The McNairy County district manages the education of all 3,831 students in the region with no charter school presence. This centralized approach allows for consistent funding and high graduation standards across all 10 local campuses.

Small Town Feel with Significant Results

Schools here are primarily rural or town-based, with an average enrollment of 426 students per campus. Adamsville Elementary is the largest school with 709 students, reflecting the county's focus on foundational primary education.

A Top Choice for Educational Quality

For buyers prioritizing academic outcomes, McNairy County's 96% graduation rate makes it a premier destination in West Tennessee. Homes near Selmer or Adamsville provide direct access to these highly efficient and well-funded local schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McNairy County

via RiskByCounty

McNairy County near state average risk

McNairy County's composite risk score of 50.54 closely mirrors Tennessee's state average of 52.45, placing it squarely in the relatively low-to-moderate hazard range. This balanced profile suggests moderate but not extreme disaster vulnerability.

Average risk profile for Tennessee

McNairy County's risk score positions it near the middle of Tennessee's county rankings, with many counties above and below its exposure level. Its hazard mix reflects the state's typical vulnerability pattern without extreme concentration in any single threat.

Less risky than Maury, more than Marshall

McNairy County (50.54) ranks below high-risk neighbors like Maury County (79.29) and Monroe County (60.91), but slightly higher than Marshall County (45.42). Its risk profile places it comfortably in the middle ground of the region.

Earthquake and hurricane risks stand out

McNairy County faces its highest hazard exposure from earthquakes at 90.27 and hurricanes at 57.28, reflecting the county's seismic vulnerability and distance-based storm exposure. Tornado risk (60.27) and flood risk (33.30) complete a moderate but diverse threat landscape.

Prioritize earthquake and wind coverage

McNairy County residents should ensure earthquake insurance is part of their protection strategy, given the county's 90.27 seismic risk score. Wind and hurricane coverage, while less critical than in coastal areas, should be included in comprehensive homeowners policies.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in McNairy County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm Subtropical Climate in West Tennessee

McNairy County averages 60.4°F annually, making it significantly warmer than the national median of 55°F. This humid subtropical climate is characterized by mild winters and long, humid summers.

Warmer Than the Tennessee Average

The county's average temperature of 60.4°F sits well above the Tennessee state average of 58.1°F. This makes McNairy one of the warmer counties in the state, driven by its southern latitude and lower elevation.

Wetter and Warmer than Regional Neighbors

With 59.1 inches of annual rainfall, McNairy is considerably wetter than the state average of 55.9 inches. It maintains higher heat levels than northern neighbors like Obion County, which averages only 57.8°F.

Intense Summer Heat and Minimal Snow

Residents face 59 extreme heat days per year where temperatures top 90°F. Conversely, winter is mild with a January average of 39.3°F and only 1.0 inch of annual snowfall.

Prioritize High-Efficiency Cooling and Drainage

Homeowners should invest in robust HVAC systems to handle two months of extreme heat. Given the high annual precipitation of 59.1 inches, proper gutter maintenance and yard drainage are essential.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McNairy County

via SoilByCounty

McNairy's acidic and sandy soil profile

McNairy County averages a pH of 5.24, which is slightly more acidic than the state average of 5.35 and well below the national median of 6.5. This contributes to a lower soil score of 29.6, indicating some challenges for intensive agricultural use.

Higher sand content aids soil workability

The soil composition includes 33.6% sand, one of the higher levels in the region, paired with 46.4% silt and 19.9% clay. This sand-heavy mix allows for easier digging and faster warming in the spring, though it may lose moisture more quickly.

Moderate water capacity with low organic matter

Organic matter content is 1.53%, trailing both the state average of 2.44% and the national average of 2.0%. Fortunately, the available water capacity of 0.171 in/in perfectly matches the state average, providing a decent buffer against short droughts.

Natural drainage through McNairy sands

While specific drainage class data is limited, the high sand percentage generally points toward better-than-average drainage for West Tennessee. Farmers should be aware that these soils may require more frequent fertilization, as nutrients can wash through sandy layers more easily.

Gardening success in Hardiness Zone 7b

In Zone 7b, McNairy's sandier soils are excellent for root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots that prefer less resistance. Adding compost will help bridge the gap in organic matter and turn these sandy plots into highly productive gardens.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McNairy County

via LawnByCounty

McNairy County's Intense Lawn Care Environment

McNairy County's lawn difficulty score of 30.0 reflects a very challenging environment compared to the national average of 50.0. Homeowners in this Zone 7b area must work harder to combat heat and soil issues than those in neighboring counties.

Peak Heat and High Humidity

A staggering 59 extreme heat days each year puts local turf under constant stress during the summer months. The 4,964 growing degree days suggest a very active growing season that demands frequent mowing and consistent hydration.

Sandy Soil and Acidic pH Levels

With a high sand content of 33.6%, the soil here may drain quickly, but a low pH of 5.24 can stunt grass health. Adding organic matter and lime can help stabilize the soil and keep nutrients within reach of the grass roots.

Managing Water During Half-Year Droughts

The county experienced 25 weeks of drought in the past year, and 100% of the area currently experiences abnormally dry conditions. Efficient irrigation is key to keeping lawns healthy without wasting water during these frequent dry spells.

Planting for Success in McNairy

Bermudagrass is a robust choice that handles the local 59 extreme heat days better than most species. Aim to plant after the April 6 spring frost to ensure the roots are established before the October 30 fall frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McNairy County's county score?
McNairy County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 54.6 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 McNairy County rank among counties in Tennessee?
McNairy County ranks #29 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 McNairy County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in McNairy County is $589, with an effective tax rate of 0.39%. This earns McNairy County a tax score of 94.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McNairy County?
The median household income in McNairy County, Tennessee is $50,714 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McNairy County earns an income score of 16.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is McNairy County, Tennessee a good place to live?
McNairy County scores 54.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #29 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate McNairy 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 McNairy 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.