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Pearl River County, Mississippi — County Report Card

MS

#61 in Mississippi

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
42.5
County Score
Property Tax 65.8Cost of Living 60.6Water Quality 58.7

County Report Card

About Pearl River County, Mississippi

Below the National Median

Pearl River County earns a 42.5 composite score, placing it below the national median of 50.0. High environmental risks impact the overall livability ranking here.

Below the Mississippi Average

The county’s score of 42.5 is lower than the Mississippi average of 48.4. While it has individual strengths, it ranks in the lower half of the state overall.

Low Taxes and Solid Incomes

The county boasts an excellent tax score of 65.8, with a low effective rate of 0.677%. It also features a higher median income of $56,535 compared to many of its state peers.

Environmental Risk and Health Concerns

A very low risk score of 13.9 suggests high vulnerability to natural disasters, which is a major factor for homeowners. Health and safety scores also remain below average, at 20.1 and 39.9 respectively.

Best for Tax-Conscious Commuters

Pearl River is ideal for those who work in nearby urban centers but want to benefit from Mississippi's low property taxes. Residents must be comfortable managing the region's higher environmental risks.

Score breakdown

Tax65.8Cost60.6Safety39.9Health20.1Schools31.1Income28.8Risk13.9Water58.7Weather36.6
🏛65.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠60.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼28.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡39.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤20.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡13.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧58.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨29.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱21.5
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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Deep Dives

Pearl River County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pearl River County

via TaxByCounty

Pearl River offers lowest regional rates

Pearl River County's effective tax rate of 0.677% is the lowest in its region and ranks well below the national median of roughly 0.95%. This county delivers genuine tax savings compared to most of the United States.

Second-lowest in Mississippi

At 0.677%, Pearl River's effective rate is the second-lowest statewide, trailing only Newton County (0.799%) and sitting 8.9% below Mississippi's 0.743% average. The county offers substantial tax relief for homeowners throughout the state.

Clear tax advantage regionally

Pearl River's 0.677% rate is the lowest among all regional neighbors—it undercuts Newton (0.799%), Panola (0.769%), Oktibbeha (0.768%), Montgomery (0.896%), Neshoba (0.886%), and Noxubee (1.011%) by meaningful margins.

Efficient tax on higher values

Pearl River's median home value of $174,500 is among the region's highest, yet the low effective rate yields a median annual tax of $1,181—about $98 monthly. Homeowners with mortgages typically see escrow payments around $1,457 per year.

Maintain your tax advantage

Pearl River's competitive tax environment is a significant asset, and homeowners should protect it by ensuring their assessments remain accurate. Regular review of your assessment against comparable properties helps you keep your tax bill fair.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pearl River County

via CostByCounty

Pearl River balances incomes and costs

Pearl River County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% sits comfortably below the national average, with the county's strongest median household income of $56,535 helping offset higher rents. At $887 monthly, the median rent is among the highest in this group, but local earning power keeps the burden manageable.

Strong income offsets above-average rents

Pearl River's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% slightly exceeds Mississippi's state average of 19.6%, but the county's median income of $56,535 is the strongest in this comparison. This higher earning power absorbs what would otherwise be a heavy rental burden.

Coastal proximity commands premium

Pearl River's $887 median rent is the second-highest in this eight-county group, but the county's median income of $56,535 is also the strongest, reflecting its proximity to employment hubs and coastal amenities. Neighboring Montgomery and Newton offer cheaper rents but earn less per household.

Pearl River's income powers affordability

Households here earn $56,535 annually and pay $887 in median rent—18.8% of income—staying within comfortable affordability ranges. Homeowners pay slightly less at $647 monthly, and the median home value of $174,500 reflects both residential quality and regional economic strength.

Pearl River rewards higher earners

If your household income is strong, Pearl River's $887 rent becomes manageable at 18.8% of the county's median of $56,535. The county offers better earning potential and quality housing than cheaper alternatives, making it ideal for those prioritizing economic opportunity over minimal rent.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pearl River County

via IncomeByCounty

Pearl River approaches national income

Pearl River County's median household income of $56,535 reaches 76% of the national median of $74,755, the strongest performance in this eight-county cohort. The county benefits from proximity to the Gulfport–Biloxi metro area and its more diverse economy.

Exceeds Mississippi average by 16%

At $56,535, Pearl River County earns 16% more than Mississippi's state median of $48,514, ranking it in the upper third of the state's 82 counties. The county's per capita income of $28,399 also surpasses the state average of $27,136.

Highest earner in the region

Pearl River County's $56,535 median leads all comparable counties here, outpacing Neshoba County ($53,087) by $3,400 and substantially exceeding Panola County ($43,990) and Noxubee County ($38,814). The advantage reflects the county's urban-influenced economy.

Housing costs remain reasonable

Pearl River County's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing affordable despite the highest median home value ($174,500) in the cluster. The relative affordability reflects the county's higher incomes supporting its more expensive housing market.

Pearl River families can invest

Pearl River County's above-average incomes and manageable housing burden create genuine opportunities for wealth-building through retirement accounts, home equity, and diversified investments. Consider consulting a fee-only financial planner to maximize tax-advantaged strategies tailored to your household.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pearl River County

via CrimeByCounty

Pearl River Safety Compared to National Trends

Pearl River County earns a safety score of 97.8, reflecting a total crime rate of 1,366.4 per 100K. This rate remains well below the national average of 2,385.5, indicating a generally safe community.

Pearl River’s Safety Ranking in Mississippi

The county's safety score is slightly below the Mississippi state average of 98.4. However, its total crime rate is higher than the state's average of 978.4 per 100K residents.

Comparing Pearl River Crime to Similar Counties

Pearl River’s rate of 1,366.4 is higher than Panola’s 699.7 but remains lower than Oktibbeha’s 2,062.8. It occupies a middle ground in terms of safety among these analyzed counties.

Understanding Pearl River’s Property Crime Rates

Property crimes occur at a rate of 1,118.0 per 100K, while violent crimes are tracked at 248.4. Residents are roughly four times more likely to experience a property-related incident than a violent one.

Securing Your Pearl River County Home

Securing your home with visible cameras and motion lighting can deter property crimes, which make up the bulk of local reports. Awareness of surroundings in commercial areas also adds personal safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pearl River County

via HealthByCounty

Above-average health despite lingering gaps

Pearl River County's 70.7-year life expectancy falls 5.4 years short of the U.S. median of 76.1 years, yet the county shows relative strength: only 20.9% report fair or poor health, the best rate in this eight-county analysis and well below the national 18% baseline. This suggests effective chronic disease management where coverage and access exist.

Slightly below state, strongest health perception

Pearl River's 70.7-year life expectancy matches Mississippi's 70.9-year state average almost exactly, placing it in the middle tier. Its 15.2% uninsured rate edges above the state's 13.9%, yet the county's 20.9% fair/poor health rate is the lowest in this analysis—indicating those with coverage enjoy better health management.

Strong perceived health among regional peers

Pearl River's 70.7-year life expectancy compares favorably to Panola (70.5 years) and trails only Noxubee (71.3 years) and Oktibbeha (75.2 years) among this group. Its 20.9% fair/poor health rate stands out as the region's best, suggesting effective management of the 25 primary care providers and 62 mental health specialists per 100,000.

Modest providers, strong health perception

Pearl River operates with 25 primary care providers and 62 mental health specialists per 100,000—respectable but not abundant—yet achieves the region's best health perception. Its 15.2% uninsured rate may limit some residents' access, but those with coverage appear to engage effectively with available prevention and care services.

Insurance maximizes your health advantage

Pearl River's strength lies in residents who stay engaged with preventive care; if you're among the 15.2% uninsured, coverage through Mississippi's marketplace or Medicaid will connect you to the providers and support that keep this county's health outcomes strong. Visit healthcare.gov or call your health department today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pearl River County

via SchoolsByCounty

Twenty Schools Serve a Growing Student Base

Pearl River County boasts an expansive education system with 20 public schools and three districts. This network supports 8,624 students, making it one of the more robust educational landscapes in the region.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates Surpass Benchmarks

With a 90.6% graduation rate, the county significantly outperforms both the Mississippi (87.1%) and national (87.0%) averages. The composite school score of 50.9 is also well above the state average of 49.8.

Three Districts Manage Extensive Enrollment

The Picayune School District is the largest with 11 schools, while Pearl River County School District and Poplarville Separate School District manage the remaining student body. The county has zero charter schools, maintaining a tradition of strong local public districts.

A Diverse Mix of Town and Rural Campuses

The county offers 11 town and nine rural school locations, providing parents with varied environment choices. Pearl River Central Elementary is the largest school with 1,501 students, while Poplarville JR SR High is one of the more moderately sized facilities.

Invest in a County with Superior Schools

High graduation rates make Pearl River County a premier destination for families prioritizing education in their home search. Consider properties within the Pearl River County or Picayune districts to capitalize on these high-performing schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pearl River County

via RiskByCounty

Pearl River faces elevated U.S. disaster risk

Pearl River's 86.07 composite score and Relatively Moderate rating place it among the higher-risk American counties. Your county experiences substantial natural hazard exposure compared to typical U.S. communities.

Highest risk in all of Mississippi

At 86.07, Pearl River dramatically exceeds Mississippi's 50.94 state average, ranking as the most disaster-exposed county in the entire state. Your community faces the most significant natural hazard profile in Mississippi.

Significantly riskier than surrounding counties

Pearl River (86.07) far exceeds all neighbors including Panola (69.21), Oktibbeha (62.79), and every other nearby jurisdiction. Your county's risk substantially surpasses the regional baseline.

Hurricane dominates, wildfire and tornado amplify

Hurricane risk of 96.50 represents an extreme threat—the highest hurricane score among Mississippi counties—while wildfire (90.14) and tornado (82.79) add compounding dangers. Flood risk at 73.22 further elevates your county's exposure.

Comprehensive hazard coverage is non-negotiable

With hurricane risk of 96.50, robust homeowners insurance covering wind and water damage is absolutely critical; review your policy's hurricane deductibles and coverage limits. Flood insurance is essential given your 73.22 flood score; obtain it through NFIP or private markets before hurricane season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pearl River County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm Subtropical Southern Climate

Pearl River County maintains an average annual temperature of 66.2°F, significantly warmer than the national median of approximately 54°F. The region experiences a classic humid subtropical climate with long summers and short, mild winters.

Above Average Heat in South Mississippi

The county's annual average of 66.2°F sits well above the Mississippi state average of 63.9°F. This makes it one of the warmer locations in the state, driven by its proximity to the Gulf Coast.

High Rainfall Compared to Neighbors

With 65.8 inches of annual precipitation, Pearl River is much wetter than the state average of 59.6 inches. It receives more rain than northern neighbors like Rankin County, which sees only 57.4 inches annually.

Sweltering Summers and Barely Any Snow

Residents face 78 extreme heat days per year where temperatures hit or exceed 90°F. Winter remains mild with an average of 51.3°F and a negligible 0.1 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for Humidity and Heavy Rain

Efficient HVAC systems are essential here to manage 78 days of intense heat and high humidity. Homeowners should also maintain clear gutters and drainage systems to handle the significant 65.8 inches of yearly rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pearl River County

via SoilByCounty

Deep South Acidic Sand

Pearl River County soils are highly acidic, sporting a 4.89 pH that is significantly lower than the 5.30 state average. This puts it far below the 6.5 national median, indicating a need for soil amendments in most gardening scenarios.

Sandy and Easy to Dig

The soil is predominantly sand at 57.0%, with only 11.0% clay to bind it together. This sandy profile allows for very easy digging but means the soil does not naturally hold onto many nutrients without help.

High Organic Matter, Low Storage

This county boasts a high organic matter content of 2.70%, which is well above the state and national averages. Despite this, the available water capacity is low at 0.148 in/in, meaning water moves through the profile quickly.

Rapid Drainage in Coastal Plains

While specific hydrologic data is missing, the high sand content ensures rapid drainage across the county. This helps prevent standing water but requires gardeners to be diligent with irrigation and mulching.

Prime Territory for Blueberries

In zone 9a, the mild winters and acidic soils are perfect for blueberries, azaleas, and citrus trees. Take advantage of the high organic content and long growing season to start your fruit grove today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pearl River County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in Subtropical Pearl River

Pearl River County is one of the more difficult places to maintain a lawn, scoring just 21.5 on our index. Located in the warm Zone 9a, the county faces a combination of extreme acidity and intense rainfall. Homeowners must be proactive to prevent the environment from overwhelming their turf.

Abundant Rain and a Massive Growing Season

Receiving a massive 65.8 inches of rain annually, Pearl River is much wetter than the national average. This moisture, combined with 6,290 growing degree days and 78 heat days, creates a tropical environment where grass grows rapidly but is prone to fungal issues. Constant mowing is a fact of life here.

Extremely Acidic and Sandy Soil

The soil pH of 4.89 is one of the lowest in the state, creating a very hostile environment for most common lawn grasses. With a 57.0% sand content, nutrients wash away quickly during the county’s heavy rainstorms. Frequent, light fertilization and heavy liming are necessary to maintain any level of turf health.

100% of the County Under Dry Watch

Despite the high annual rainfall, 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry after 16 weeks of drought this past year. Sandy soils lose moisture rapidly, so even a short dry spell can lead to turf browning. Focus on deep-rooting strategies to help your lawn survive these unpredictable cycles.

Take Advantage of the Long 9a Season

In Zone 9a, St. Augustine and Bahia grass are top performers due to their heat tolerance and ability to handle sandy soil. With the last frost occurring as early as March 10th, you have a very long window for planting and establishment. Start your lawn projects in early spring to beat the summer deluge.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pearl River County's county score?
Pearl River County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 42.5 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 Pearl River County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Pearl River County ranks #61 among all counties in Mississippi 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 Pearl River County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Pearl River County is $1,181, with an effective tax rate of 0.68%. This earns Pearl River County a tax score of 65.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pearl River County?
The median household income in Pearl River County, Mississippi is $56,535 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pearl River County earns an income score of 28.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pearl River County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Pearl River County scores 42.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #61 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Pearl River 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 Pearl River 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.