countyscore
59.8
County Score
Safety 94Cost of Living 77.1Schools 72.1

County Report Card

About Perry County, Illinois

Beating the National Median

Perry County earns a composite score of 59.8, comfortably outperforming the national median of 50.0. This score places the county in the top tier of American communities for overall livability.

A Southern Illinois Leader

The county's 59.8 score sits well above the Illinois state average of 52.8. It offers a more balanced lifestyle profile than many of its immediate regional neighbors.

Elite Safety and Low Costs

The county shines with a safety score of 94.0 and a cost score of 77.1. Median home values stay affordable at $105,200, while gross rent averages just $714 monthly.

Managing High Tax Burdens

A tax score of 8.1 reflects a high effective tax rate of 1.658%. Environmental concerns also emerge with a risk score of 27.9 and a water quality score of 29.7.

The Verdict: Families and Budget-Watchers

Perry County is an excellent fit for families prioritizing safety and low-cost housing. Residents benefit from strong schools and an affordable lifestyle despite the higher local tax rates.

Score breakdown

Tax8.1Cost77.1Safety94Health52.8Schools72.1Income36.7Risk27.9Water29.7Weather58.4
🏛8.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠77.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼36.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡94
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓72.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡27.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧29.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨67.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱63.6
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

Perry County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Perry County

via TaxByCounty

Perry County taxes: Below national average

At 1.66%, Perry County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 2.10%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax here is $1,744 annually—35% less than the national median of $2,690—reflecting both lower home values and a relatively modest tax rate.

Perry ranks mid-range among Illinois counties

Perry County's 1.66% effective rate falls slightly below Illinois' state average of 1.83%, positioning it in the moderate tier statewide. Its median property tax of $1,744 is 37% lower than the state average of $2,782, reflecting the county's lower median home values.

Neighbors show varied tax burdens

Perry County's 1.66% rate sits between Pike County (1.56%, the lowest in the region) and Piatt County (1.76%, among the highest). Among immediate peers, Perry's tax burden is moderate—lower than Putnam County (1.59%) but higher than Pope County's notably low 1.02%.

What a Perry County homeowner pays

On the median home value of $105,200, the effective tax rate of 1.66% translates to approximately $1,744 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, you might pay $1,897; without one, about $1,611—modest compared to national norms.

Check if your assessment is fair

Many Illinois homeowners are overassessed relative to market values, meaning they pay taxes on homes worth more than their actual sale price. If your home's assessed value seems too high, filing a property tax appeal could reduce your annual bill substantially.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Perry County

via CostByCounty

Perry County rents rival the national norm

Perry County renters spend 14.4% of their income on housing, slightly below the state average of 14.7% but tracking close to national affordability patterns. With a median household income of $59,286—about 21% below the national median of $74,755—residents here earn less but pay proportionally similar housing costs.

Middle of the pack in Illinois

Perry County's 14.4% rent-to-income ratio places it in the middle tier of Illinois counties for housing affordability. The county's median rent of $714 falls $123 below the state average, offering modest relief for renters in a state where housing costs vary widely.

Cheaper than Pike, pricier than Pope

Perry County's $714 median rent sits between nearby Pike County ($659) and Richland County ($754), making it a reasonable option in southern Illinois. Perry homeowners face $692 monthly costs, similar to Pike County's $765 but less than Piatt County's $1,098.

Renters and owners share the load

Perry County renters pay $714 monthly while homeowners pay $692, making ownership slightly cheaper for those who can afford the down payment on the $105,200 median home. Together, housing consumes roughly 14% of household income—the sweet spot for affordability where people can still cover other essentials.

Consider Perry if you value balance

Perry County offers stable housing costs below state averages without requiring the higher incomes of northern Illinois. If you're relocating to southern Illinois, compare Perry's $714 rents to neighboring counties to find your best fit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Perry County

via IncomeByCounty

Perry County earns below the national median

Perry County's median household income of $59,286 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by about 21%, putting the county in the lower-income tier nationally. This gap reflects broader economic challenges in rural southern Illinois compared to wealthier metro areas.

Below average for Illinois

Perry County ranks below the Illinois state median of $68,580, earning about $9,294 less per household. The county's per capita income of $29,720 also lags the state average of $36,009 by roughly 18%.

Perry competes with rural peers

Perry County's $59,286 median places it squarely in the middle of the region—ahead of Pike ($58,029) and Pulaski ($43,227) but behind Putnam ($77,526) and Piatt ($87,516). Among eight surveyed counties, Perry ranks fifth overall in household income.

Housing affordability remains stable

With a 14.4% rent-to-income ratio, Perry County stays just under the recommended 15% threshold, suggesting renters spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing. The median home value of $105,200 remains accessible relative to local incomes.

Building financial security starts now

Perry County households earning $59,286 can strengthen their financial future through consistent saving and investment in tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Even modest monthly contributions compound over time—a key step toward closing wealth gaps and ensuring long-term stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Perry County

via CrimeByCounty

Perry County is an Illinois safety leader

Perry County is one of the safest regions in the nation, with a total crime rate of just 38.1 per 100,000. This earns the county an elite safety score of 99.9 out of 100.

Setting the standard for Illinois safety

The county's crime rate of 38.1 is significantly lower than the Illinois average of 835.0. Residents here enjoy a level of security that far exceeds the state average safety score of 98.7.

Safer than regional counterparts

Perry County is even safer than Monroe County, which itself is a high performer with a rate of 80.2. It maintains a massive safety advantage over neighboring Montgomery County.

Zero reported violent crime

Reporting agencies documented zero violent crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022. The property crime rate is also incredibly low at 38.1, making it one of the most secure places for families.

Preserve your safe environment

While crime is rare, simple habits like locking doors and being a good neighbor help maintain this high standard. Continued support for local law enforcement ensures Perry County remains a safe haven.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Perry County

via HealthByCounty

Perry County trails U.S. life expectancy

At 75.4 years, Perry County residents live nearly 6 years less than the U.S. average of 81.1 years. Nearly 23% of adults report poor or fair health, compared to the national average of 18%, signaling more chronic illness and health challenges in this community.

Below Illinois average on life expectancy

Perry County's 75.4-year life expectancy ranks below Illinois's 76.0-year state average, placing it among the lower-performing counties. The 22.9% poor/fair health rate also exceeds the state median, indicating Perry County faces steeper health headwinds than most Illinois counties.

Worse health than surrounding counties

Perry County's 75.4-year life expectancy lags neighboring Piatt County (78.4 years) and Pope County (75.7 years). With a 22.9% poor/fair health rate, Perry residents report worse subjective health than nearly all comparable counties in the region.

Modest coverage gap, adequate primary care

Perry County's 6.2% uninsured rate nearly matches the state average of 6.3%, meaning most residents have coverage. The county offers 62 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, though mental health support lags at 249 per 100,000.

Check your health insurance today

With nearly 6 out of 100 Perry County residents uninsured, enrollment in marketplace plans or Medicaid can unlock preventive care and manage chronic illness. Visit healthcare.gov or contact your local health department to explore coverage options that fit your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Perry County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Network of Rural and Town Schools

Perry County manages an education infrastructure of 11 public schools across six different districts, serving a total of 2,572 students. The landscape includes four elementary schools, two middle schools, two high schools, and three specialized facilities. Most students attend school in town settings, supported by an average school size of 322 students.

High Graduation Rates Outpace State Averages

The county achieves an impressive 92.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the Illinois average of 88.8% and the national mark of 87.0%. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $8,921, which sits below the national average of $13,000, the composite school score of 58.7 remains slightly above the state benchmark of 58.1. These results suggest a high return on investment for local families.

Du Quoin CUSD 300 Leads Regional Enrollment

Du Quoin CUSD 300 is the primary provider in the area, operating three schools that serve 1,370 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, meaning traditional public districts manage 100% of the local student population. Pinckneyville SD 50 also plays a vital role, supporting nearly 480 students across two campuses.

Small-Town Feel with Focused Learning

Education here is centered in town environments, with nine schools located in towns and two in rural areas. Du Quoin Elementary is the largest facility with 548 students, while smaller specialized programs offer highly personalized attention. The average enrollment of 322 creates a close-knit atmosphere where students are well-known by faculty.

Strong Schools for Your Next Home

With graduation rates exceeding 90%, Perry County is an attractive destination for families prioritizing academic success. Homebuyers can find excellent value in a region that balances high performance with efficient per-pupil spending. Explore local listings near top-rated schools like Du Quoin Elementary to secure a bright future for your family.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Perry County

via RiskByCounty

Perry County's risk exceeds national average

Perry County scores 72.07 on the composite disaster risk scale, putting it well above the typical U.S. county and about 32% higher than Illinois's average of 54.46. This "Relatively Low" rating means Perry faces moderate natural disaster exposure compared to the nation's hotspots, but shouldn't be dismissed by residents planning for emergencies.

Perry ranks in Illinois's higher-risk group

Among Illinois's 102 counties, Perry County lands in the upper tier for disaster risk, driven primarily by seismic activity. While not the riskiest county in the state, Perry's 72.07 score places it ahead of roughly 70% of its peers, making it a meaningful consideration for property owners.

Perry's risks stand out in regional context

Perry County's 72.07 score significantly exceeds nearby Randolph County (78.63) and Richland County (46.66), making it one of the more hazard-exposed communities in southern Illinois. Unlike its western neighbors Pike and Pulaski counties, which score in the low-risk range, Perry faces heightened earthquake and tornado exposure that warrant specific preparedness steps.

Earthquake and tornado threats dominate

Perry County's earthquake risk scores 94.34—among the highest in Illinois—while tornado risk sits at a substantial 60.62, reflecting the county's position in both a seismically active region and Tornado Alley's fringe. Flooding poses moderate concern at 49.81, making these three hazards the primary focus for household and business emergency planning.

Secure earthquake and tornado coverage now

Standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquake or tornado damage; Perry County residents should review standalone earthquake policies and ensure wind/hail coverage is adequate. With 94% of countywide risk tied to seismic activity and 60% to tornadoes, these specialized policies are essential to protect your home's structure and contents.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Perry County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm and Wet Southern Profile

Perry County is warmer and wetter than most of the country, with a 56.0°F annual average and 47.2 inches of rain. This climate supports dense vegetation and long, humid summers.

Hotter and Wetter Than Illinois Norms

At 56.0°F, Perry is 3.2 degrees warmer than the Illinois state average. It also receives 5.5 inches more precipitation than the average Illinois county.

Much Rainier Than Central Neighbors

Perry receives 47.2 inches of rain, dwarfing the 38.1 inches seen in Peoria County. It also sees 15 more extreme heat days than its neighbors to the north.

Long Summers and Short Winters

July averages 77.4°F with 38 days of extreme heat annually. Winters are mild, averaging 35.0°F with just 10.3 inches of snow, allowing for more outdoor activity year-round.

Prioritize Humidity and Flood Control

With 47.2 inches of rain, sump pumps and dehumidifiers are essential for every home. High-capacity cooling is a must for the 38 days of heat exceeding 90°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Perry County

via SoilByCounty

A Silty Foundation in Southern Illinois

Perry County features Alfisols with an average pH of 6.30, sitting slightly more acidic than the state average of 6.39. While the national median is 6.5, this silt loam soil provides a solid base for regional agriculture.

High Silt Content Defines the Terrain

The soil is comprised of 69.8% silt, 21.2% clay, and a small 9.0% sand fraction. This composition creates a dense texture that retains nutrients effectively but can be prone to compaction if worked when wet.

Exceptional Water Storage Capacity

Organic matter levels reach 1.77%, trailing the state average of 2.94% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.210 in/in exceeds the state average, ensuring plants have access to moisture during dry spells.

Managing Poorly Drained Soils

The land is classified as poorly drained and belongs to hydrologic group C/D. These conditions mean the soil sheds water slowly, requiring careful management for successful farming and building projects.

A Long Season in Zone 7a

Located in hardiness zone 7a, Perry County offers a long growing season for heat-loving crops like melons and peppers. This climate, paired with high water storage, makes it an ideal spot to start a productive summer garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Perry County

via LawnByCounty

Moderately Easy Lawn Care in Perry County

With a lawn difficulty score of 63.6, Perry County is easier to maintain than the national average of 50.0, though it trails the Illinois state average of 69.8. Homeowners here manage turf in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a, which allows for a mix of cool-season and some heat-tolerant grass varieties.

High Heat and Ample Rainfall

Perry County receives a generous 47.2 inches of annual precipitation, well above the state average of 41.8 inches. However, 38 extreme heat days per year and 4,113 growing degree days mean your grass faces significant summer stress compared to northern counties.

Managing Poorly Drained Silt Loam

The local soil is a silt loam with a healthy pH of 6.30, but it is officially classified as poorly drained. With 21.2% clay and only 9.0% sand, you likely need to core aerate regularly to prevent compaction and standing water.

Battling Severe Local Drought Conditions

Currently, 53.7% of the county is experiencing severe drought conditions, and the area has spent 21 weeks in drought over the last year. To protect your investment, water deeply early in the morning to minimize evaporation while meeting the needs of 100% of the county currently listed as abnormally dry.

Start Your Perry County Lawn

Tall fescue and Zoysia thrive here, benefiting from the long season between the April 6 last frost and October 22 first frost. Plan to seed in early September to take advantage of the fall growing window before the first freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Perry County's county score?
Perry County, Illinois has a composite county score of 59.8 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 Perry County rank among counties in Illinois?
Perry County ranks #23 among all counties in Illinois 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 Perry County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Perry County is $1,744, with an effective tax rate of 1.66%. This earns Perry County a tax score of 8.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Perry County?
The median household income in Perry County, Illinois is $59,286 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Perry County earns an income score of 36.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Perry County, Illinois a good place to live?
Perry County scores 59.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #23 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Perry 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 Perry 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.