countyscore
33
County Score
Property Tax 87.8Water Quality 63.8Weather & Climate 38.3

County Report Card

About Mobile County, Alabama

Mobile trails the national livability median

Mobile County's composite score of 33.0 falls significantly below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the bottom third nationally. This 34-point gap reflects substantial challenges across multiple dimensions of livability, from safety to health outcomes.

Below average among Alabama counties

Mobile ranks below Alabama's state average composite score of 52.9, making it one of the lower-performing counties in the state. The county's 33.0 score indicates it lags even typical Alabama communities on overall livability.

Tax burden stands out as a strength

Mobile's tax score of 87.8 is its brightest spot, with an effective tax rate of just 0.481% that provides real relief to households. The county also offers decent water infrastructure scoring at 63.8, supporting basic utility reliability.

Safety and risk pose serious concerns

Mobile struggles most with a safety score of just 7.0 and a risk score of 2.0—among the lowest in the state. The county also faces affordability pressures despite lower taxes, with a median home value of $176,600 paired with limited income growth (median household income of $58,119).

Best for tax-conscious, risk-aware residents

Mobile works best for households prioritizing low tax burden and already established stability, who can navigate documented safety and health challenges independently. Families with school-age children or those seeking robust public health systems should look elsewhere.

Score breakdown

Tax87.8Cost28.9Safety7Health23.9Schools28.3Income33.1Risk2Water63.8Weather38.3
🏛87.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠28.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤23.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓28.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧63.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤38.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱16.2
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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Deep Dives

Mobile County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Mobile County

via TaxByCounty

Mobile taxes far below national average

Mobile County's effective tax rate of 0.481% is less than one-fifth the national median effective rate of roughly 0.9%, placing the county in the lowest 15% nationally. Homeowners here pay $849 annually in property taxes on a median home valued at $176,600—far less than the national median tax bill of $2,690.

Highest taxes in Alabama

Mobile County's 0.481% effective rate ranks highest among Alabama's 67 counties, 42% above the state average of 0.339%. Despite this distinction, the county still remains remarkably affordable compared to national standards.

Morgan and Montgomery pay more

Mobile's $849 median tax bill exceeds neighboring Montgomery County ($598) and Morgan County ($674), though Mobile's homes also carry higher median values at $176,600. The region shows considerable variation, with Pike County to the south charging just $403 annually on much lower-valued properties.

Your annual Mobile County bill

On a median home valued at $176,600, Mobile County homeowners pay approximately $849 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, you may see an additional fee in escrow bringing the total closer to $936 annually.

Consider a property tax appeal

Studies show that 20-30% of homeowners are overassessed, yet few challenge their valuations. If you believe your home's assessed value is too high, filing an appeal with Mobile County's assessor's office is free and often successful.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Mobile County

via CostByCounty

Mobile's housing costs strain local budgets

Mobile County renters spend 21.1% of their income on rent, outpacing the national average of roughly 18%. With a median household income of $58,119—well below the national median of $74,755—housing affordability here is tighter than typical American markets.

Above-average costs for Alabama

Mobile's rent-to-income ratio of 21.1% exceeds Alabama's state average of 18.0%, placing it among the state's less affordable counties. At $1,021 monthly rent versus the state average of $799, Mobile renters pay roughly $222 more each month.

Costlier than rural Alabama peers

Mobile's $1,021 median rent significantly exceeds neighboring rural counties like Perry ($610) and Pickens ($600). Even compared to state capital Montgomery, Mobile renters pay slightly less ($1,061 in Montgomery), reflecting Mobile's status as the region's urban anchor.

Rent dominates Mobile household budgets

Renters dedicate 21.1% of income to monthly rent, while homeowners pay $991 monthly toward mortgages on properties valued at $176,600. Together, these figures reveal that housing—whether rented or owned—competes heavily with other necessities for Mobile households.

Consider Mobile's trade-offs carefully

Mobile offers urban amenities and employment diversity, but renters should budget carefully: you'll spend roughly $12,250 annually on rent alone. If affordability is your priority, lower-cost rural Alabama counties or neighborhoods outside the city center merit comparison.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Mobile County

via IncomeByCounty

Mobile earns 22% below the nation

Mobile County's median household income of $58,119 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by more than $16,600 annually. This gap places Mobile in the lower half of American counties, reflecting broader economic patterns across rural and post-industrial regions in the South.

Above average for Alabama

Mobile ranks above the Alabama state median of $54,196, putting the county in Alabama's upper-middle tier by household income. Mobile's per capita income of $32,032 also exceeds the state average of $29,701, suggesting stronger earning power countywide.

Mobile leads its regional peers

Mobile's $58,119 median income outpaces neighboring Pike County ($47,961) and Pickens County ($47,014), but trails Morgan County's $64,858—the strongest earner in this group. Montgomery County matches Mobile nearly exactly at $58,153, making them close economic peers.

Housing remains manageable here

Mobile's rent-to-income ratio of 21.1% sits at the threshold of affordability, meaning the typical household dedicates about one-fifth of income to rent. With a median home value of $176,600, homeownership is accessible but requires careful financial planning for working families.

Build wealth through homeownership

Mobile households have room to invest beyond basic needs: with median income exceeding $58,000 and reasonable housing costs, families can prioritize savings and down payments. Starting with a financial plan that separates emergency funds, retirement contributions, and home equity builds the foundation for long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Mobile County

via CrimeByCounty

Comparing Mobile to National Safety Standards

Mobile County reports a total crime rate of 3105.3 per 100K residents, which sits significantly above the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the county maintains a respectable safety score of 95.1 out of 100.

A Regional Look at Alabama Safety

With a safety score of 95.1, Mobile County falls below the Alabama state average of 97.3. The county's total crime rate is also notably higher than the state-wide average of 1,731.0 per 100K.

How Mobile Measures Against Nearby Counties

Mobile's crime rate of 3105.3 per 100K is higher than neighbor Monroe County, which reports a rate of 1579.5. While urban hubs often face more challenges, Mobile remains more active than many of its rural neighbors.

Understanding Violent and Property Crime Risks

Property crimes make up the bulk of local incidents, occurring at a rate of 2397.8 per 100K. The violent crime rate stands at 707.5, which is nearly double the national violent crime average of 369.8.

Securing Your Property in Mobile

Since property crime accounts for most local reports, residents should prioritize home security measures. Simple upgrades like smart cameras and improved lighting provide significant peace of mind.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Mobile County

via HealthByCounty

Mobile's health advantage over nation

Mobile County residents live to 72.6 years, slightly above the U.S. average of 71.5 years—a meaningful edge in a county of 400,000. Yet one in four Mobile residents report poor or fair health, matching the national prevalence of preventable illness. The county's mental health provider density of 138 per 100,000 exceeds the national benchmark, suggesting better access to mental care.

Mobile leads Alabama on life expectancy

At 72.6 years, Mobile County ranks among Alabama's healthiest, outpacing the state average of 72.1 years. The county's uninsured rate of 11.8% sits slightly above Alabama's 11.1% state average, leaving roughly 47,000 county residents without coverage. Primary care density in Mobile (71 per 100K) significantly exceeds the state median, reflecting the presence of major medical institutions.

Mobile outpaces neighboring health regions

Mobile's 72.6-year life expectancy beats nearby Monroe County (70.8 years) by nearly two years, a substantial gap reflective of urban health infrastructure advantages. Mobile's poor/fair health rate of 24.7% ranks better than Monroe's 26.1%, though both counties share similar uninsured rates around 11-12%. The county's 71 primary care providers per 100K far exceed Monroe's 46 per 100K, highlighting a pronounced rural-urban disparity.

Healthcare access built on insurance gaps

Mobile's 11.8% uninsured rate means roughly 47,000 residents lack basic coverage, though the county's strong provider network (71 primary care doctors per 100K) creates opportunity for those with insurance. The 24.7% poor/fair health rate suggests chronic disease and limited preventive care reach significant portions of the population. Mental health providers (138 per 100K) offer better access than many regions, yet 47,000 uninsured residents face barriers to consistent treatment.

Mobile residents: check your coverage options

If you're among the 47,000 uninsured Mobile County residents, open enrollment and Medicaid expansion programs may offer affordable coverage—start at healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596. Even with insurance, high deductibles remain a barrier; explore federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) across the county that charge on a sliding fee scale. Mobile's robust provider network means coverage unlocks real access to the primary and mental health services your county offers.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Mobile County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large-Scale Educational Hub

Mobile County supports a massive educational infrastructure with 104 public schools serving over 60,000 students across 5 districts. The landscape includes 58 elementary schools, 20 middle schools, and 21 high schools to accommodate the county's diverse population. This network represents one of the largest school systems in the state of Alabama.

Solid Graduation Rates Amid Spending Gaps

The county achieves an 88.4% graduation rate, which exceeds the national average of 87% but falls slightly behind the state average of 90.7%. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $6,032—less than half the national average of $13,000—the county maintains a school score of 50.6. This performance remains competitive with the national median score of 50.0.

Dominated by the Mobile County District

The Mobile County school district is the primary provider, managing 92 schools and 51,979 students. Charter schools like Alabama Destinations Career Academy represent 1.9% of the total school count, offering alternative learning paths. Other notable districts include Saraland City and Chickasaw City, which serve approximately 6,000 students combined.

Urban and Suburban Learning Environments

The county offers a diverse mix of locales, with 48 schools in city settings and 29 in suburban neighborhoods. Schools are relatively large, averaging 601 students, with Baker High School reaching a massive enrollment of 2,491. Families can choose between bustling urban campuses and smaller rural outposts scattered throughout the county.

Plan Your Move Near Top Schools

For families looking to move to the Gulf Coast, Mobile County provides a wide range of educational options from large high schools to specialized charter programs. Researching specific school zones is a vital step in finding the perfect home in this active region. Explore properties near the county's highest-rated districts to secure your student's future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Mobile County

via RiskByCounty

Mobile ranks in nation's riskiest counties

Mobile County scores 98.03 out of 100 for composite disaster risk, placing it in the top tier of vulnerable U.S. counties. This score significantly exceeds Alabama's state average of 61.54, making Mobile a national hotspot for multiple hazard types.

Alabama's most disaster-prone county

Mobile County ranks as Alabama's highest-risk county across its portfolio of natural hazards. Its 98.03 composite score towers over the state average by 37 points, reflecting exposure to hurricanes, flooding, wildfires, tornadoes, and earthquakes.

Far riskier than surrounding counties

Mobile's 98.03 score dwarfs nearby Monroe County (48.66) and Pike County (43.99), both of which sit well below state average. This concentration of risk in Mobile reflects its coastal location and vulnerability to Gulf weather systems that don't affect inland neighbors.

Hurricanes top the threat list here

Hurricane risk dominates at 99.42—the highest in the state—followed by flood risk (95.90) and wildfire risk (93.48). Tornado risk also ranks elevated at 94.56, meaning Mobile residents face a punishing combination of water and wind hazards.

Insurance is essential in Mobile County

With composite risk nearly at 100, comprehensive disaster coverage is critical; standard homeowner policies exclude flood and earthquake damage. Mobile residents should prioritize flood insurance (especially given 95.90 flood risk), wind/hurricane riders, and review earthquake coverage immediately.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Mobile County

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical heat and heavy rain

Mobile County averages a warm 68.0°F annually, far exceeding the national median. It is exceptionally wet, receiving 64.4 inches of precipitation every year.

The warmest county in the state

Mobile is 4.8 degrees warmer than the Alabama average of 63.2°F. It also exceeds the state's average rainfall by 7 inches, making it both hot and humid.

Warmest and wettest among peers

Mobile is nearly 7 degrees warmer than Madison County in the north. Its 64.4 inches of rain makes it the wettest county in this selection, narrowly beating Marion.

Hot summers and tropical winters

July averages 82.3°F, while winter stays very warm at 53.3°F. Despite 54 extreme heat days, the coastal breeze provides some relief compared to inland Marengo.

Ready for rain and humidity

Residents must plan for over 64 inches of rain and a high-moisture environment. Salt-air protection for homes and heavy-duty cooling systems are standard for this coastal climate.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Mobile County

via SoilByCounty

Mobile's Highly Acidic Coastal Soils

Mobile County features a very acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.01, which is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This level also falls below the Alabama state average of 5.21, suggesting that most local gardeners will need lime to balance their plots.

A Sandy Foundation for the Coast

The soil is dominated by 61.2% sand, complemented by 23.5% silt and a low 9.4% clay content. While this sandy mix offers excellent workability and ease of digging, it may struggle to retain essential nutrients compared to heavier soils.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Mobile County boasts a high organic matter content of 4.56%, more than double the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.146 in/in also exceeds the state average, providing a surprisingly strong reservoir for plant hydration.

Fast Drainage for Rainy Days

Although specific taxonomic data is unavailable, the high 61.2% sand concentration typically ensures rapid drainage during coastal storms. This helps prevent root rot but requires growers to monitor for nutrient leaching in the porous soil.

A Paradise for Acid-Loving Plants

The USDA hardiness zone 9a is perfect for citrus, azaleas, and camellias that thrive in acidic, high-organic environments. With such rich organic matter already present, your garden is well-positioned for a productive growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Mobile County

via LawnByCounty

A Challenging Coastal Landscape

With a lawn difficulty score of 16.2, Mobile County is one of the toughest places in Alabama to maintain a lawn, sitting far below the state average of 29.5. This Zone 9a region requires significant effort to overcome local environmental stressors compared to the national median score of 50.0.

Heavy Rains and High Heat

The county receives a massive 64.4 inches of annual rain, which far exceeds the ideal range of 30-50 inches and can leach essential nutrients from the soil. Lawns must also withstand 54 extreme heat days and a high 6,829 growing degree days, which accelerates growth and necessitates a frequent mowing schedule.

Acidic and Sandy Soil Profile

Local soil is notably acidic with a pH of 5.01, significantly lower than the preferred 6.0-7.0 range for healthy turf. The high sand content of 61.2% means the ground drains quickly but struggles to retain the moisture and nutrients needed to sustain a lush green lawn.

Navigating Coastal Dry Spells

Despite high rainfall, Mobile endured 32 weeks of drought last year, and 100% of the county currently experiences abnormally dry conditions. Homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to build root resilience against these frequent dry intervals.

Prime Growth in Zone 9a

St. Augustine and Centipede grasses are top choices for this climate because they tolerate high humidity and sandy conditions well. Plan to start your lawn projects after the last spring frost on March 3 to take full advantage of the exceptionally long growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mobile County's county score?
Mobile County, Alabama has a composite county score of 33 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 Mobile County rank among counties in Alabama?
Mobile County ranks #67 among all counties in Alabama 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 Mobile County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Mobile County is $849, with an effective tax rate of 0.48%. This earns Mobile County a tax score of 87.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Mobile County?
The median household income in Mobile County, Alabama is $58,119 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Mobile County earns an income score of 33.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Mobile County, Alabama a good place to live?
Mobile County scores 33/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #67 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Mobile 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 Mobile County with other counties side by side.

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