countyscore
48.6
County Score
Property Tax 95.4Safety 86.7Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Montgomery County, Alabama

Montgomery slightly underperforms national livability standards

Montgomery County scores 48.5, falling modestly below the national median of 50.0 and placing it in the lower-middle tier nationally. The county's profile shows pockets of strength in safety but weakness in cost and education.

Slightly below Alabama's average performance

Montgomery's 48.5 score trails Alabama's state average of 52.9, positioning it in the lower half of Alabama counties. As Alabama's capital and largest urban center, the county underperforms relative to its economic and institutional importance.

Safety and water quality provide solid foundations

Montgomery stands out with a safety score of 86.7 and water score of 86.0, delivering strong personal security and reliable infrastructure. Its tax score of 95.4 (effective rate 0.373%) keeps household burden relatively low.

Schools and affordability lag considerably

Montgomery's school score of 14.2 is among the lowest statewide, alongside a cost score of just 27.6 with median rent at $1,061/month. These gaps suggest families with children may face limited education options and significant housing cost pressures.

Suits security-focused professionals without school needs

Montgomery appeals to young professionals or empty-nesters drawn by strong safety, low taxes, and an urban job market, but it's challenging for families prioritizing public schools. Those seeking affordable family housing should explore rural or smaller Alabama counties.

Score breakdown

Tax95.4Cost27.6Safety86.7Health25.2Schools14.2Income33.3Risk8.2Water86Weather30.1
🏛95.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠27.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡86.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓14.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤30.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱28.1
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

Elmore County
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Lowndes County
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Bullock County
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Macon County
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Autauga County
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Pike County
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Deep Dives

Montgomery County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Montgomery County

via TaxByCounty

Montgomery taxes remain nationally low

Montgomery County's effective tax rate of 0.373% sits well below the national median of roughly 0.9%, placing it in the lowest 20% nationwide. The median tax bill of $598 represents just 22% of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Middle-of-the-pack in Alabama

Montgomery County's 0.373% effective rate places it roughly at Alabama's state average of 0.339%, with a median tax of $598 exceeding the state median of $511. The county ranks 28th among Alabama's 67 counties in tax burden.

Higher than Monroe, lower than Mobile

Montgomery County's $598 bill falls between Monroe County ($362) to the south and Mobile County ($849) to the southwest. On a median home value of $160,100, the tax rate aligns with the broader region's modest burden.

Your annual Montgomery County bill

On a median home valued at $160,100, Montgomery County homeowners pay approximately $598 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, escrow payments typically bring the total to around $671 annually.

Assessment appeal could save you money

Nearly one-quarter of property owners nationwide discover their assessments are inflated during appeals. Montgomery County residents can file a free appeal with the county assessor to verify their home's assessed value is accurate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Montgomery County

via CostByCounty

Montgomery's rents strain state capital families

Montgomery County renters dedicate 21.9% of income to housing—the highest ratio in this survey and above national norms—while earning $58,153, nearly $17,000 less than the national median. The state capital's housing burden rivals major metropolitan areas despite modest incomes.

Montgomery leads state in affordability strain

Montgomery's 21.9% rent-to-income ratio is the worst among Alabama counties, with median rent of $1,061 exceeding the state average by $262 monthly. This combination makes Montgomery the state's most housing-burdened county for renters.

Most expensive rent in survey region

Montgomery's $1,061 median rent tops nearby Mobile ($1,021) and dwarfs rural counties like Perry ($610) and Pickens ($600). This premium reflects Montgomery's status as Alabama's capital and largest inland city, concentrating demand and pricing out lower-income residents.

Housing dominates Montgomery household priorities

Monthly rent of $1,061 consumes 21.9% of Montgomery households' $58,153 annual income, totaling over $12,730 yearly just for rental housing. Homeowners pay $991 monthly on properties valued at $160,100, indicating ownership remains difficult for average earners.

Montgomery rewards high earners, challenges others

Montgomery offers state government jobs, military presence (Fort Rucker nearby), and cultural amenities, but rent requires substantial income to avoid financial strain. Relocators earning below $70,000 annually should explore surrounding rural counties or negotiate remote-work flexibility before moving.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Montgomery County

via IncomeByCounty

Montgomery earns 22% less nationally

Montgomery County's median household income of $58,153 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by approximately $16,600 annually. This gap mirrors broader regional challenges across the South, though Montgomery's per capita income of $33,404 suggests stronger earnings potential than some peers.

Slightly above Alabama's average

Montgomery's median household income exceeds Alabama's state median of $54,196 by about $4,000, positioning it in Alabama's upper-middle band. The county's per capita income of $33,404 also surpasses the state average of $29,701, reflecting a more robust earning base.

Montgomery matches Mobile's income

Montgomery's $58,153 income essentially ties Mobile County at $58,119, making them economic equivalents in the region. Both counties exceed Pickens ($47,014) and Pike ($47,961) but fall short of Morgan County's $64,858, the area's income leader.

Housing costs claim more here

Montgomery's rent-to-income ratio of 21.9% is the highest in this peer group, meaning the typical household dedicates nearly one-quarter of income to housing. With median home values at $160,100, families should budget carefully to avoid overextending on mortgages.

Invest after stabilizing housing

Montgomery households earning $58,000+ have opportunity to invest beyond housing, but should first ensure mortgage or rent is sustainable at under 28% of income. Once housing is locked down, directing even 5-10% of income to retirement accounts and diversified investments builds generational wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Montgomery County

via CrimeByCounty

Impressive Safety Figures for the Capital Region

Montgomery County reports a total crime rate of only 299.8 per 100K, far lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These reporting figures result in an elite safety score of 99.5.

Ranking High Among Alabama Counties

The county safety score of 99.5 is significantly higher than the Alabama average of 97.3. Its total crime rate of 299.8 stands well below the state average of 1731.0.

A Standout Performer in Central Alabama

Montgomery County reports much lower crime rates than neighboring Pike County, which sits at 2203.2 per 100K. This suggests a highly secure environment compared to other central Alabama corridors.

Low Violent and Property Crime Rates

The violent crime rate is 66.2 per 100K, while property crime is 233.6. These figures represent some of the lowest reported crime concentrations among the state's major population centers.

Maintaining a Secure Montgomery Home

High safety scores are a community effort that starts with individual home awareness. We recommend keeping property well-lit and forming neighborhood watch groups to maintain these low statistics.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Montgomery County

via HealthByCounty

Montgomery's life expectancy edges ahead

Montgomery County residents live to 72.7 years, outpacing the U.S. average of 71.5 years by more than a year—a meaningful advantage reflective of Alabama's state capital. Nearly one in four (24.8%) report poor or fair health, slightly below the national prevalence, indicating better-than-average population health management. With 97 primary care providers per 100,000, Montgomery significantly exceeds the national median, and its 228 mental health providers per 100,000 rank among the nation's strongest concentrations.

Montgomery leads Alabama healthcare infrastructure

At 72.7 years, Montgomery County's life expectancy tops Alabama's 72.1 state average, placing it among the healthiest in the state. The county's 24.8% poor/fair health rate edges below the state median, reflecting stronger disease prevention and management. Montgomery's exceptional provider density—97 primary care and 228 mental health providers per 100K—far exceeds most Alabama counties, powered by the state capital's medical institutions and public health infrastructure.

Montgomery dominates regional health rankings

Montgomery's 72.7-year life expectancy surpasses all surveyed neighbors, with only Mobile County (72.6) coming close. The county's 24.8% poor/fair health rate ranks second-best in the peer group, beaten only by Morgan County's 21.9%. Montgomery's 97 primary care providers per 100K and 228 mental health providers per 100K dwarf neighboring counties like Morgan (51 and 173, respectively), reflecting the concentration of healthcare in Alabama's capital.

Capital advantage: robust care for most

Montgomery's 97 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 228 mental health specialists create the strongest provider network among surveyed counties, enabling routine and specialist care access. The 11.3% uninsured rate leaves roughly 30,000 residents without coverage, yet the county's scale and infrastructure mean free or low-cost clinics are more accessible than in rural peers. The 24.8% poor/fair health rate, while lower than state average, still signals significant preventable chronic disease affecting nearly 265,000 residents.

Montgomery: coverage unlocks premier access

For Montgomery's 30,000 uninsured residents, the county's concentration of healthcare providers makes coverage especially valuable—visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to enroll. As Alabama's capital, Montgomery hosts multiple federally qualified health centers and safety-net providers offering care regardless of insurance, yet coverage ensures choice and continuity. With 228 mental health providers per 100K, insured residents can access specialization rarely available elsewhere in the state.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Montgomery County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Capital’s Educational Infrastructure

Montgomery County operates a significant network of 60 public schools serving 30,532 students across 4 districts. The landscape is primarily elementary-focused with 34 schools at that level, supported by 12 middle and 11 high schools. This system provides extensive coverage across the state capital and its surrounding areas.

Navigating Academic Performance Challenges

The county's 81.8% graduation rate currently trails both the state average of 90.7% and the national average of 87%. Per-pupil expenditure stands at $6,043, which is slightly below the state average of $6,270. These factors contribute to an overall school score of 47.1, indicating room for growth in academic outcomes.

Major District and Charter Options

The Montgomery County district is the largest, managing 52 schools and 26,821 students. Charter schools play a visible role here, with 6 schools representing 10% of the county's total public education options. Pike Road City also serves as a significant local district with over 2,600 students across 4 schools.

City-Centric Campus Life

With 48 schools located in city settings, Montgomery County offers a distinctly urban educational experience. Schools average 526 students, but large campuses like Jefferson Davis High serve upwards of 1,500 students. This environment provides students with exposure to diverse peer groups and large-scale extracurricular programs.

Urban Living Near State Schools

Families moving to the Montgomery area can choose between established city districts and growing systems like Pike Road. The presence of charter schools like LEAD Academy provides additional choices for tailored learning environments. Prioritizing proximity to the county’s diverse schools is a key strategy for homebuyers in the state capital.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Montgomery County

via RiskByCounty

Montgomery faces above-average national risk

Montgomery County's 91.83 composite score ranks it as 'Relatively Moderate' nationally but still 30 points above Alabama's state average of 61.54. This places Montgomery among the nation's more hazard-prone counties.

Second-riskiest county in Alabama

Montgomery County ranks second only to Mobile County within Alabama, scoring 91.83 versus the state average of 61.54. This elevation reflects a dangerous cocktail of tornado, flood, earthquake, and hurricane exposure.

Vastly riskier than surrounding counties

Montgomery's 91.83 score far exceeds nearby Morgan County (88.84) and dwarfs Pickens, Pike, Randolph, and Perry counties, all of which score below 50. Montgomery stands out as an island of high risk in its region.

Tornadoes and floods lead the danger

Tornado risk peaks at 96.60—among the highest in the nation—followed by flood risk (94.05) and earthquake risk (92.46). Combined, these three hazards create a severe and unpredictable threat landscape for the county.

Comprehensive insurance is critical here

Montgomery County residents should secure flood insurance and a robust homeowner policy with high coverage limits given the 94.05 flood and 96.60 tornado scores. Earthquake coverage, though less common, is prudent given the 92.46 earthquake risk score in this region.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Montgomery County

via WeatherByCounty

Well above the national average

Montgomery's annual average temperature of 67.2°F is significantly warmer than the national median. This humid subtropical climate is defined by high moisture and intense summer heat.

A central Alabama heat leader

At 67.2°F, Montgomery is notably warmer than the Alabama state average of 63.2°F. It ranks as one of the hotter counties in the state's central belt.

Hotter and drier than neighbors

The county experiences 93 extreme heat days per year, a higher count than many surrounding regions. Its 51.0 inches of annual precipitation is also drier than the state average of 57.4 inches.

Intense summers and mild winters

Summers are grueling with 93 days reaching 90°F or higher and a July average of 83.7°F. Winters stay mild with a December to February average of 51.2°F, making snow a rare concern.

Prepare for extreme summer heat

Residents need high-efficiency cooling systems to manage 93 days of extreme heat annually. Outdoor recreation is best planned for the mild winter months when temperatures average 51.2°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Montgomery County

via SoilByCounty

The Ultisols of Montgomery County

Montgomery County sits on Ultisols with a very fine sandy loam texture and an average pH of 5.33. This is slightly less acidic than the Alabama state average of 5.21, though it remains below the national median of 6.5.

A Richer Clay and Silt Mix

The soil contains 48.0% sand, 28.4% silt, and a significant 21.7% clay content. This balanced ratio provides a good mix of drainage and nutrient retention, making it more robust than more sandy coastal counties.

Healthy Water Retention Capacity

The available water capacity of 0.142 in/in beats the state average, helping plants survive the Alabama heat. However, the organic matter content of 1.57% trails both the state average of 1.74% and the national average of 2.0%.

Moderately Well-Drained Landscapes

Classified as moderately well-drained and part of hydrologic group C, this soil has somewhat slow infiltration rates. The 21.7% clay content helps hold moisture but can lead to surface runoff during the heavy rain common in the region.

Ideal for Southern Staple Crops

In hardiness zone 8b, you can reliably grow Southern favorites like collard greens and sweet potatoes. The soil’s ability to store water makes it a stable foundation for a thriving backyard vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Montgomery County

via LawnByCounty

Average Difficulty for the State

Montgomery County earns a lawn difficulty score of 28.1, placing it just slightly below the Alabama state average of 29.5. While more manageable than coastal areas, it remains significantly more taxing than the national median score of 50.0.

Intense Heat and Ideal Rain

Summers bring 93 extreme heat days, far exceeding the state average of 64 and stressing most grass varieties. Fortunately, the 51.0 inches of annual precipitation is nearly perfect, sitting right at the top of the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawn health.

Very Fine Sandy Loam

The soil is moderately well-drained but stays acidic with a pH of 5.33, needing amendments to hit the 6.0 target. With a clay content of 21.7%, the ground holds moisture better than sandier counties, providing a more stable foundation for root systems.

Managing Severe Summer Drought

While the county saw 24 weeks of drought last year, 79.9% of the area currently faces severe drought conditions. Target your water applications directly to the roots and maintain a higher mowing height to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Heat-Hardy Grass Options

Heat-tolerant grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are ideal for surviving the 93 days of triple-digit potential in Zone 8b. Plan your planting after the final spring frost on March 13 to ensure a strong start before the intense summer heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Montgomery County's county score?
Montgomery County, Alabama has a composite county score of 48.6 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 Montgomery County rank among counties in Alabama?
Montgomery County ranks #47 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 Montgomery County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Montgomery County is $598, with an effective tax rate of 0.37%. This earns Montgomery County a tax score of 95.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Montgomery County?
The median household income in Montgomery County, Alabama is $58,153 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Montgomery County earns an income score of 33.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Montgomery County, Alabama a good place to live?
Montgomery County scores 48.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Montgomery 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 Montgomery 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.