countyscore
53.7
County Score
Cost of Living 75Property Tax 73.1Lawn Care 66.9

County Report Card

About Morgan County, Missouri

Competitive National Standings

Morgan County's 53.7 composite score places it above the national median of 50.0. This reflects a lifestyle that leverages low taxes and housing costs to attract new residents.

Surpassing the State Benchmark

With a score of 53.7, Morgan County beats the Missouri average of 50.3. Its tax and cost advantages make it a standout choice for those looking to relocate within the state.

Exceptional Tax and Cost Benefits

A tax score of 73.1 is supported by a low effective rate of 0.610%. Coupled with a cost score of 75.0, residents find their money goes much further here than in urban centers.

Environmental and Health Vulnerabilities

The county faces significant hurdles with a risk score of 24.5 and a health score of 22.5. Water quality is also a concern, as the score of 9.5 indicates infrastructure needs attention.

Perfect for Tax-Conscious Retirees

Morgan County is a top contender for retirees or investors seeking a low-tax haven with high affordability. Residents should be prepared for a more rugged rural infrastructure in exchange for those savings.

Score breakdown

Tax73.1Cost75Safety62.8Health22.5Schools53.2Income13.8Risk24.5Water9.5Weather62.3
🏛73.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠75
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼13.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡62.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡24.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧9.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱66.9
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Morgan County?

Many homeowners in Morgan County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Morgan County with Houston County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Houston County
Alabama
Median income: $57,531
53.7
Madison County
Idaho
Median income: $58,259
53.7
Greeley County
Kansas
Median income: $78,819
53.7
Rankin County
Mississippi
Median income: $77,454
53.7
Knox County
Ohio
Median income: $73,988
53.7
McMullen County
Texas
Median income: $45,833
53.7
Goshen County
Wyoming
Median income: $64,882
53.7
Lauderdale County
Alabama
Median income: $59,082
53.8

Nearby counties

Moniteau County
Missouri
59.1
Camden County
Missouri
48.5
Miller County
Missouri
54.3
Benton County
Missouri
50.4
Cole County
Missouri
54.9
Pettis County
Missouri
41.1
Cooper County
Missouri
56.7
Hickory County
Missouri
57.8

Deep Dives

Morgan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Morgan County

via TaxByCounty

Morgan County offers tax relief nationwide

Morgan County's effective tax rate of 0.610% ranks among the lowest in the nation, falling well below the national median of roughly 0.82%. Despite a median home value of $180,400—below the national median of $281,900—residents enjoy genuinely affordable property taxation.

One of Missouri's most tax-friendly

At 0.610%, Morgan County boasts one of Missouri's lowest effective tax rates, running 17% below the statewide average of 0.733%. The median tax bill of $1,101 sits below the state median of $1,199, reflecting both a low rate and moderately valued homes.

Second-lowest in the region

Morgan County's 0.610% rate ranks as the second-lowest in this rural Missouri area, trailing only to—well, actually, it ties with Miller County's 0.627% rate as the region's most tax-friendly. Both significantly undercut neighbors like Mercer, Mississippi, and Montgomery.

Median tax bill: roughly $1,101 yearly

Owners of a median-value home in Morgan County worth $180,400 pay approximately $1,101 annually in property taxes, or $1,202 with mortgage escrow. This translates to about $92 per month—among the best rates in Missouri.

Even tax deals deserve verification

While Morgan County offers notably low tax rates, homeowners should still verify their assessed values are accurate and fair. Confirming your assessment keeps your tax advantage secure for years to come.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Morgan County

via CostByCounty

Morgan's rent burden significantly stressed

Morgan County renters spend 16.7% of their income on rent, above the comfortable 12-15% national range. This elevated burden leaves households with less margin for unexpected expenses or financial goals.

Above Missouri state average

Morgan's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% exceeds Missouri's state average of 15.6%, placing it in the less affordable category of Missouri counties. The 1.1-percentage-point gap reflects tighter housing affordability than the statewide norm.

Higher rents on lower incomes

Morgan's median rent of $692/month sits in the midrange of surrounding counties, but the county's median income of $49,663 is among the region's lowest. This income-cost gap drives Morgan's affordability squeeze.

Morgan's compressed household budget

Morgan County residents earn $49,663 annually, paying $692/month in rent or $743/month for mortgages on homes valued at $180,400. Renters see roughly 17% of gross income consumed by housing, leaving tight budgets for other priorities.

Morgan requires income-conscious planning

If you're relocating to Morgan County, the 16.7% rent-to-income ratio means housing is less affordable than nearby options like Mercer (10.9%) or Moniteau (14.1%). Ensure your income aligns with the area's costs before moving.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Morgan County

via IncomeByCounty

Morgan County's income falls short nationally

Morgan County's median household income of $49,663 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by roughly $25,100, indicating substantial economic gap. Despite lower household income, Morgan's per capita income of $30,589 suggests above-state-average individual earnings.

Below state average, lower ranked

Morgan County's median household income of $49,663 lags Missouri's state average of $59,503 by nearly $10,000. Among the eight surveyed counties, Morgan ranks in the lower half, reflecting limited household earning power.

Lower-tier earner in region

Morgan County's $49,663 income ranks fifth among eight counties, exceeding only Mississippi ($46,258), Monroe ($48,299), and New Madrid ($49,237). The $15,500 gap to Moniteau ($65,161) highlights economic disparities within the immediate region.

High home values challenge affordability

Morgan County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio approaches affordability strain, and the situation worsens when paired with the median home value of $180,400—the highest in the dataset. Households earn modestly while facing the steepest homeownership costs, creating real barriers.

Seek down-payment assistance programs

Morgan households aspiring to homeownership should explore state and federal first-time buyer programs, which can reduce down payments and closing costs. Consulting a HUD-certified housing counselor clarifies available grants and low-interest loan options.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Morgan County

via CrimeByCounty

Morgan County Exceeds National Standards

Morgan County is highly rated with a 98.6 safety score, reflecting a total crime rate of 859.8 per 100K. This rate is nearly three times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Secure Living in the Ozarks

Outperforming the state safety average of 97.0, Morgan County is one of Missouri's safer lakeside destinations. Its total crime rate is less than half the state average of 1,926.2 per 100K.

Favorable Regional Safety Comparisons

At 859.8 crimes per 100K, Morgan holds a similar safety profile to its neighbor, Montgomery County. It consistently reports fewer incidents than many high-traffic recreational areas in the Ozarks.

Property Crime Remains Notably Low

The county records 335.4 violent crimes and 524.4 property crimes per 100K. While violent crime sits just below the national average, property crime is nearly four times lower than the U.S. rate of 2,015.7.

Securing Property and Equipment

Effective home security starts with locking doors and securing valuable outdoor equipment. These simple steps help keep Morgan's property crime rate significantly below the national trend.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Morgan County

via HealthByCounty

Morgan faces severe health crisis

At 73.8 years, Morgan County residents live 0.6 years below the U.S. average of 74.4 years, with a troubling 21.9% poor or fair health rate—among America's highest. The county's 21.4% uninsured rate is more than double Missouri's state average, creating a perfect storm of unprotected, struggling residents.

Missouri's uninsured crisis zone

Morgan's 21.4% uninsured rate is nearly double Missouri's 12.5% state average, making it one of the state's most underinsured counties. With life expectancy at 73.8 years, trailing Missouri's 74.3-year average, Morgan represents a community facing compounded health disadvantages.

Uninsurance crisis among peers

Morgan's 21.4% uninsured rate far exceeds all neighboring counties—Moniteau at 17.7% is the closest peer—revealing a community coverage catastrophe. Despite 28 primary care providers per 100K, the uninsured population cannot access this supply, leaving a gap between supply and actual care.

Uninsurance drives health crisis

With 21.4% uninsured—nearly 1 in 5 residents—Morgan faces barriers that 28 primary care providers cannot overcome; the uninsured cannot afford visits or medicines. The 21.9% poor or fair health rate reflects a population in crisis, where uninsurance prevents preventive care and early treatment.

Coverage is urgent in Morgan

Morgan's 21.4% uninsured rate represents a public health emergency—every uninsured resident risks catastrophic medical debt and delayed care. Apply for Medicaid or marketplace coverage immediately at healthcare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE; Morgan residents cannot afford to stay uninsured.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Morgan County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Rural Schooling in Morgan

Morgan County organizes its public education through two districts operating a total of six schools. This system provides for 2,123 students, with campuses covering every level from primary through high school.

Top-Tier Graduation Performance

Morgan County achieves a remarkable 96.3% graduation rate, one of the highest in the region. This success comes despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $5,935, resulting in a strong 54.5 school score that beats the state average.

Morgan County R-II Leads Growth

The Morgan County R-II district is the largest in the county, serving 1,293 students across four schools. All students are served by traditional public districts, as the county does not host any charter schools.

Classic Rural Missouri School Life

Every school in the county is located in a rural setting, maintaining a traditional Missouri community feel. Morgan County Elementary is the largest campus with 541 students, while the average school size across the county is 354.

Quality Education Awaits in Morgan

If graduation success is your top priority, Morgan County offers some of the most impressive stats in the state. Secure a home in Versailles or the surrounding rural areas to access these high-performing public schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Morgan County

via RiskByCounty

Morgan faces elevated national risk

Morgan County's composite risk score of 75.48 places it in the "Relatively Low" category but well above the national median. This score reflects substantially higher exposure to natural disasters than most American counties.

Missouri's highest-risk county

Morgan's score of 75.48 exceeds all other Missouri counties and stands 49% above the state average of 50.56. Morgan faces the most significant natural disaster exposure in the entire state, demanding heightened preparedness.

Significantly riskier than nearby counties

Morgan's 75.48 dramatically exceeds neighbors like Miller (55.09), Moniteau (31.01), and most surrounding regions. Morgan stands out as an exceptional risk zone within its local context.

Flood and tornado dominate hazards

Flood risk scores 82.73 and tornado risk 79.13—among Missouri's highest levels for both hazards. Wildfire risk at 72.26 and earthquake risk at 67.14 also rank significantly above state averages, creating a multi-hazard environment.

Comprehensive insurance coverage essential

Morgan residents absolutely require flood insurance and should evaluate windstorm or additional tornado coverage given extreme exposure. Investing in property hardening—elevated utilities, reinforced structures, and roof upgrades—provides critical protection in Missouri's highest-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Morgan County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and Damp Ozark Border

Morgan County averages 55.8°F annually, which is warmer than the national median for U.S. counties. It receives 44.9 inches of precipitation, making it one of the wetter regions in the state. This combination of heat and rain creates a lush, humid environment common to the Ozark region.

Warmer than the State Median

The county's average temperature of 55.8°F is nearly a full degree higher than the Missouri average of 54.9°F. Its precipitation level of 44.9 inches also exceeds the state average of 43.8 inches. Morgan is consistently warmer and wetter than the average Missouri county.

Dampest in the Local Region

Morgan County receives 44.9 inches of rain, more than neighbors like Miller or Moniteau. While its annual temperature of 55.8°F is slightly cooler than Miller, it experiences the same 30 days of extreme heat as Monroe and Moniteau. This makes it the regional leader in annual moisture.

Steamy Summers and Mild Winters

July is hot and humid with an average of 78.3°F and 30 days reaching 90°F or higher. Winter remains relatively mild with a January average of 31.3°F. Although official snowfall data is missing, the winter average of 34.1°F suggests rain is more common than snow.

Focus on Moisture Management

With 44.9 inches of annual rain, residents should focus on high-capacity gutters and yard drainage to prevent flooding. The 30 days of extreme heat require well-maintained cooling systems. Prepare for high humidity during the long summer months when the average hits 76.3°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Morgan County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Missouri Soil Acidity

Morgan County's soil has a pH of 6.07, nearly identical to the Missouri state average of 6.09. This level of acidity is typical for the region, though it is more acidic than the 6.5 national median.

One of Missouri's Siltiest Soils

The soil is remarkably silty at 66.9%, which is one of the highest concentrations in the state. This is balanced by 17.9% clay and a low 13.5% sand content, resulting in a smooth, fine-textured earth.

Above-Average Water Storage

The available water capacity of 0.197 in/in is higher than the state average, helping plants survive during hot summers. Organic matter clocks in at 2.30%, exceeding the 2.0% national average.

Saturated Ground and Subaqueous Soils

The dominant drainage class is subaqueous, indicating that parts of the landscape are naturally prone to holding water. This hydrology is better suited for moisture-tolerant plants than for projects requiring dry, stable soil.

Easy Digging in Zone 6b

Located in zone 6b, the county is an ideal spot for starting a garden full of native wildflowers or hardy vegetables. The high silt content makes digging easy, so grab your tools and get outside today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Morgan County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Potential for Local Lawns

Morgan County features a lawn difficulty score of 66.9, which is slightly better than the Missouri state average of 63.7. As part of Hardiness Zone 6b, the area supports a wide range of hardy turfgrasses. Residents can expect a generally favorable experience compared to the national median difficulty of 50.0.

Rain-Heavy Climate for Lush Growth

With 44.9 inches of annual precipitation, Morgan County is wetter than the state average of 43.7 inches. You will face 30 extreme heat days each year, requiring supplemental watering when the mercury rises. Your 4,143 growing degree days ensure a long and productive window for grass to establish and spread.

Nutrient-Rich Foundation with a Low pH

The soil pH in Morgan County is 6.07, which is just inside the ideal range but may benefit from occasional lime treatments. The soil contains 17.9% clay and 13.5% sand, a mix that creates a rich environment for root health. Although drainage is classified as subaqueous, the low sand content helps the soil hold on to nutrients effectively.

Strong Performance During Dry Years

Morgan County has only experienced 17 weeks of drought over the past year, one of the lower counts in the region. Currently, the entire county is abnormally dry, but no areas are suffering from severe drought conditions. This natural resilience makes it easier to maintain a green lawn without constant irrigation.

Timing Your Morgan County Lawn

The growing season begins in earnest after the April 8 frost and continues until the first freeze around October 29. Tall Fescue is an ideal choice here, as it can handle the county's specific blend of high rainfall and moderate heat. Start your seeding in the early fall to take advantage of the generous 44.9 inches of annual rain.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Morgan County's county score?
Morgan County, Missouri has a composite county score of 53.7 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 Morgan County rank among counties in Missouri?
Morgan County ranks #47 among all counties in Missouri 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 Morgan County, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Morgan County is $1,101, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Morgan County a tax score of 73.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Morgan County?
The median household income in Morgan County, Missouri is $49,663 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Morgan County earns an income score of 13.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Morgan County, Missouri a good place to live?
Morgan County scores 53.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Missouri. The best way to evaluate Morgan 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 Morgan 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.