countyscore
47.3
County Score
Property Tax 99.2Water Quality 67.1Cost of Living 56.5

County Report Card

About Pike County, Alabama

Pike falls slightly short of national livability median

Pike County's composite score of 47.3 falls just below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the lower-middle range nationally. The county's performance reflects uneven strengths and notable vulnerabilities across livability dimensions.

Below Alabama's statewide average performance

Pike's 47.3 score trails Alabama's state average of 52.9, positioning it in the lower half of Alabama counties. The county faces headwinds that limit its overall livability despite some bright spots.

Tax burden and health outcomes shine

Pike boasts the state's lowest tax burden with a 99.2 tax score (0.271% effective rate), the best among these eight counties. The county also performs well on health (29.4 score) and maintains reasonable school services (47.5 score).

Safety and income present serious obstacles

Pike's safety score of just 17.5 represents a critical weakness, suggesting elevated crime concerns that overshadow tax advantages. Combined with a low income score (10.9) and median household income of $47,961, the county struggles to attract and retain opportunity-seeking households.

Suits safety-conscious retirees only cautiously

Pike works best for established retirees with fixed income who can tolerate safety challenges in exchange for minimal taxes and moderate housing costs. Families with children or those seeking safe neighborhoods and professional growth should prioritize counties like Morgan or Pickens.

Score breakdown

Tax99.2Cost56.5Safety17.5Health29.4Schools47.5Income10.9Risk56Water67.1Weather43.9
🏛99.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠56.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼10.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡17.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓47.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡56
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧67.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨5.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.3
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

Compare mortgage rates in Pike County

Whether buying or refinancing in Pike County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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 Pike County with Catoosa County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Catoosa County
Georgia
Median income: $72,425
47.3
Johnson County
Indiana
Median income: $87,227
47.3
Plymouth County
Iowa
Median income: $81,600
47.3
Boone County
Kentucky
Median income: $94,752
47.3
Tuscarawas County
Ohio
Median income: $64,494
47.3
Warren County
Ohio
Median income: $107,843
47.3
Fayette County
Texas
Median income: $76,541
47.3
Irion County
Texas
Median income: $58,125
47.3

Nearby counties

Bullock County
Alabama
52.6
Crenshaw County
Alabama
55.9
Coffee County
Alabama
44
Montgomery County
Alabama
48.6
Dale County
Alabama
45.9
Barbour County
Alabama
46
Macon County
Alabama
55.9
Butler County
Alabama
45

Deep Dives

Pike County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pike County

via TaxByCounty

Pike County's taxes remain nationally minimal

Pike County's effective tax rate of 0.271% ranks in the lowest 3% nationally, less than one-third the national median rate of 0.9%. The median property tax of $403 represents just 15% of the national median bill of $2,690.

Second-lowest taxes statewide

Pike County's 0.271% effective rate ranks second-lowest among Alabama's 67 counties, 20% below the state average of 0.339%. Only Randolph County at 0.224% offers a lower rate across the entire state.

Most favorable rate in the region

Pike County's 0.271% rate is the lowest among neighboring counties, despite a median home value of $149,000. The county's $403 median tax bill outpaces only Monroe ($362) and Pickens ($356) in the region.

Your annual Pike County bill

On a median home valued at $149,000, Pike County homeowners pay approximately $403 per year in property taxes. With mortgage escrow included, the total typically reaches around $478 annually.

Low rates mean high appeal value

Even in Pike County's favorable tax environment, assessment errors occur—roughly 20-30% of homes nationwide are overvalued. A free appeal with the county assessor can identify whether your property is assessed correctly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pike County

via CostByCounty

Pike County's affordability matches national strain

Pike County's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio aligns with strained national markets, though median income of $47,961 is nearly $27,000 below the national median. Housing costs consume an outsized portion of Pike households' modest incomes, limiting discretionary spending.

Pike ranks among state's most burdened

Pike's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Alabama's worst alongside Mobile, Monroe, and Montgomery, with median rent of $855 exceeding the state average by $56 monthly. This places Pike among the state's least affordable counties for renters.

Moderate costs mask income challenges

Pike's $855 median rent falls between rural affordability champions (Pickens $600) and urban centers (Mobile $1,021), but Pike's median income of $47,961 is lower than more expensive neighbors. This income-to-cost mismatch creates affordability strain despite moderate nominal rents.

Housing burden limits Pike household flexibility

Pike renters dedicate 21.4% of their $47,961 annual income—approximately $10,264 yearly—to rent alone, consuming resources needed for other priorities. Homeowners pay $744 monthly toward properties valued at $149,000, making ownership challenging without substantial down payments or family assistance.

Pike offers potential for disciplined movers

Pike County's moderate rents and proximity to Troy University and Ozark create modest economic activity, but affordability requires careful budgeting and likely dual incomes. Relocators should verify employment and commit to conservative spending before moving to Pike.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pike County

via IncomeByCounty

Pike earns 36% below national level

Pike County's median household income of $47,961 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by $26,794 annually. This significant gap reflects economic challenges common across rural and post-industrial Alabama, though Pike performs better than several regional peers.

Below state median, but functional

Pike's median household income of $47,961 falls 12% short of Alabama's state median of $54,196, placing it in Alabama's lower-middle income band. Per capita income of $27,762 also trails the state average of $29,701, though the gap is modest.

Pike ranks middle in the region

Pike's $47,961 income beats Pickens ($47,014), Monroe ($40,225), and Perry ($34,368), but falls short of Randolph ($51,551), Montgomery ($58,153), and Mobile ($58,119). Pike occupies the lower-middle tier of this eight-county group.

Housing costs pinch tight budgets

Pike's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% means households dedicate over one-fifth of income to housing alone, leaving limited room for savings. Median home values of $149,000 are manageable but require financial discipline given the $47,961 median household income.

Balance housing and financial goals

Pike households should target housing costs at or below 28% of gross income to preserve 15-20% for other financial priorities. Once housing is stabilized, even modest contributions to retirement accounts and emergency savings—starting at $50-100 monthly—establish the habit and discipline of wealth-building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pike County

via CrimeByCounty

Pike County vs National Crime Averages

Pike County reports a total crime rate of 2203.2 per 100K, which is slightly below the national average of 2,385.5. This performance results in a safety score of 96.5.

Pike County Safety in an Alabama Context

The county's safety score of 96.5 is just below the Alabama state average of 97.3. Additionally, its total crime rate of 2203.2 is higher than the state-wide average of 1731.0.

Local Comparison Highlights Higher Rates

Pike County sees more reported crime than nearby Montgomery County, which has a much lower rate of 299.8. Residents here experience a more active environment than their northern neighbors.

Property Crime Drives Pike Statistics

Property crime is the primary driver here, with a rate of 1866.8 per 100K. The violent crime rate of 336.4 is actually lower than the national violent crime average of 369.8.

Securing Your Property in Pike County

Given that property crime is the most frequent issue, home security systems are a wise investment. Simple steps like locking doors and removing valuables from cars significantly reduce risk.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pike County

via HealthByCounty

Pike boasts strong health for rural Alabama

Pike County residents live to 71.6 years, just above the U.S. average of 71.5 years—a remarkable achievement for a rural county of 33,000. Only 21.7% report poor or fair health, well below the national 24% average, indicating superior disease management and prevention. With 42 primary care providers per 100,000, Pike has below-average provider density, yet the county's strong health outcomes suggest effective care delivery or favorable demographics.

Pike ranks among Alabama's healthiest counties

Pike County's 71.6-year life expectancy edges above Alabama's 72.1 state average, placing it solidly mid-to-upper tier in state rankings despite its rural character. The 21.7% poor/fair health rate ranks among the state's lowest, beaten only by Morgan County (21.9%) and Randolph County (23.5%), reflecting exceptional population health. Pike's 10.6% uninsured rate runs below the state average, combining insurance access with strong health outcomes.

Pike's health metrics outshine peer counties

Pike's 71.6-year life expectancy matches the upper tier of peers, exceeded only by Morgan County (72.8) and Randolph County (73.1) by narrow margins. The 21.7% poor/fair health rate ranks among the lowest regionally, beaten only by Morgan County (21.9%), signaling Pike residents enjoy exceptional health compared to neighbors. Pike's 42 primary care and 97 mental health providers per 100K represent reasonable rural access, more robust than Pickens or Perry counties.

Strong health despite limited provider network

Pike County's 71.6-year life expectancy and 21.7% poor/fair health rate are remarkable given just 42 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, suggesting effective use of limited resources. The 10.6% uninsured rate (roughly 3,500 residents) and accessible mental health services (97 per 100K) provide a foundation for population health. Pike's outcomes suggest strong community health infrastructure or favorable health demographics, though provider shortages remain a constraint on preventive care expansion.

Pike residents: protect your health advantage

For Pike's 3,500 uninsured residents, securing coverage at healthcare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596 is essential to sustaining the county's strong health outcomes. Pike's 97 mental health providers per 100K offer robust behavioral health access—insurance unlocks this resource. Maintaining Pike's exceptional health advantage depends on insured status and consistent preventive care; use your coverage to stay ahead of chronic disease and support the health profile your county has built.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pike County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Across the Pike County Heartland

Pike County features 12 public schools across 2 districts, serving a total of 3,918 students. The system is comprised of 4 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 7 high schools, providing varied options for the community. This infrastructure supports both the city of Troy and the surrounding rural areas.

High Graduation and Above-Average Spending

Pike County maintains a strong 92.0% graduation rate, outpacing the national benchmark of 87%. The county invests $6,600 per pupil, which is higher than the Alabama state average of $6,270. This level of funding supports a school score of 53.7, placing the county above the state median for academic performance.

County and City District Collaboration

The Pike County district is the larger of the two, managing 7 schools and 2,155 students. The Troy City district serves 1,763 students across 5 schools, including the county's largest institution, Troy Elementary, which enrolls 982 students. There are no charter schools, keeping the focus on these two established local systems.

Rural Roots with a Town Center

The county is predominantly rural with 10 of its 12 schools in country settings, while 2 schools serve the town of Troy. Average school size is 490 students, offering a balance between individual attention and social opportunity. High schools here are diverse in scale, ranging from Goshen High to the larger Charles Henderson High.

Settle Near Troy’s Growing Schools

With per-pupil spending that exceeds the state average, Pike County offers a well-resourced environment for new families. Whether you prefer the town life in Troy or the quiet of the rural county, there is a school and a home to match. Consider properties near the city center to access the county's largest elementary and high schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pike County

via RiskByCounty

Pike County sits safely below national risk

Pike County's composite risk score of 43.99 earns a 'Relatively Low' rating and falls 18 points below Alabama's state average of 61.54. This positions Pike among the nation's lower-risk counties for combined natural hazards.

Lower-risk county in Alabama's middle tier

Pike County ranks in Alabama's safer half, with a 43.99 composite score that trails the state average by 18 points. It avoids the extreme risk concentrations of Mobile, Montgomery, and Morgan counties.

Comparable risk to Pickens and Monroe

Pike County's 43.99 score mirrors Pickens County (44.69) and Monroe County (48.66), forming a cluster of moderate-risk counties in south-central Alabama. All three sit well below the state average and are dramatically safer than nearby Montgomery (91.83).

Hurricane and flood risks are notable

Hurricane risk (83.56) is Pike County's highest concern, likely reflecting its proximity to coastal weather systems, followed by flood risk (47.61). Tornado risk (57.73), earthquake risk (57.03), and wildfire risk (33.87) all remain below state average.

Hurricane preparedness plus basic coverage

Pike County residents should maintain standard homeowner insurance and ensure wind/hurricane coverage is included, given the 83.56 hurricane score. Flood insurance is recommended but not urgent given the 47.61 flood risk; review your policy annually for adequate replacement value.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pike County

via WeatherByCounty

A warm southeastern climate

Pike County’s 64.9°F average temperature is significantly higher than the national median. This humid subtropical climate receives 54.3 inches of rain per year, making it a lush, wet region.

Warmer than the state average

Pike is warmer than the state average of 63.2°F, clocking in at 64.9°F. It ranks among the warmer counties in the Wiregrass region of Southeast Alabama.

Consistent heat, zero snow

Pike experiences 70 extreme heat days annually, fewer than Montgomery but typical for its latitude. Like most of its southern neighbors, it records 0.0 inches of snowfall.

Mild winters and sunny summers

Winters are very mild with a 49.6°F average, while summers feature a warm 79.4°F average. The county faces 70 days of extreme heat each year with no snow recorded.

Hydrate for extreme heat

Residents should prepare for 70 days of extreme heat by focusing on sun protection and efficient cooling. Since snow is 0.0 inches, winter gear can remain light and simple.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pike County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Soils in Pike

Pike County’s soil is quite acidic with an average pH of 5.10, which is below the Alabama state average of 5.21. Compared to the national median of 6.5, this level can significantly limit the availability of certain nutrients to plants.

A Very Sandy Growing Medium

The soil is overwhelmingly sandy at 65.3%, with only 11.9% clay and 16.3% silt. This high sand content means the soil is easy to dig, but it will drain very quickly and may struggle to keep plants hydrated.

Lower Fertility and Water Capacity

Organic matter is low at 1.00%, well below the state average of 1.74%. The available water capacity is also the lowest in the region at 0.099 in/in, suggesting that frequent irrigation and mulching are essential for success.

Rapid Drainage Challenges

A soil score of 5.9 highlights that this county faces significant agricultural hurdles. The 65.3% sand content points toward rapid drainage, meaning nutrients can wash away quickly if not managed carefully.

Focus on Sand-Tolerant Crops

In zone 8b, heat-loving plants that tolerate sandy soil—like watermelons and peanuts—will perform best. Adding heavy amounts of compost and organic mulch is the best way to improve your Pike County soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pike County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Conditions in Pike

Pike County presents a challenging lawn environment with a difficulty score of 25.3, falling below the Alabama average of 29.5. Homeowners in this Zone 8b area must work harder than the national average (50.0) to maintain a healthy green carpet.

Intense Regional Heat

The county faces 70 extreme heat days each year, which is higher than the state average of 64. Combined with 54.3 inches of annual rain, the climate creates a humid environment that can be tough on many standard grass varieties without careful management.

Sandy Soil Needs Help

With a very high sand content of 65.3%, the soil drains rapidly but struggles to hold onto water and fertilizer. The acidic pH of 5.10 means you will likely need to apply lime to bring the soil closer to the 6.0-7.0 ideal range for nutrient uptake.

Widespread Severe Drought

Drought conditions are currently severe across 100% of the county, following 24 weeks of drought in the past year. Water conservation is critical; consider reducing your mowing frequency during these dry periods to minimize grass stress and keep the soil shaded.

Drought-Tolerant Varieties

Choose drought-tolerant varieties like Bahia or Bermuda that can handle the sandy soil and the intense 5,902 growing degree days. The best time to start your lawn is shortly after the last spring frost on March 17.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pike County's county score?
Pike County, Alabama has a composite county score of 47.3 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 Pike County rank among counties in Alabama?
Pike County ranks #51 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 Pike County, Alabama?
The median annual property tax in Pike County is $403, with an effective tax rate of 0.27%. This earns Pike County a tax score of 99.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pike County?
The median household income in Pike County, Alabama is $47,961 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pike County earns an income score of 10.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pike County, Alabama a good place to live?
Pike County scores 47.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Alabama. The best way to evaluate Pike 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 Pike 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.