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Plymouth County, Massachusetts — County Report Card

MA

#7 in Massachusetts

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
48.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 97.5Health 92Schools 77.7

County Report Card

About Plymouth County, Massachusetts

Just Below the National Median

Plymouth County earns a 48.7 composite score, trailing slightly behind the national median of 50.0. While its economic metrics are strong, higher risks and taxes pull its overall ranking down.

Mirroring the Massachusetts Average

The county's score of 48.7 is nearly identical to the state average of 48.6. It represents a typical Massachusetts experience, balancing high earnings with higher regional costs.

Robust Earnings and Good Schools

The county maintains a high Income Score of 97.5 and a School Score of 77.7. Households enjoy a median income of $109,698, well above the national norm.

Heavy Tax Burdens and Risks

The Tax Score of 23.9 reflects a high 1.237% effective tax rate, while a Risk Score of 9.6 indicates vulnerability. Housing remains expensive for many, with a Cost Score of just 2.8.

A Solid Choice for Commuters

Plymouth is ideal for established professionals who work in the Boston area but prefer a more suburban or coastal setting. It suits families who value strong schools and can manage a higher tax environment.

Score breakdown

Tax23.9Cost2.8Safety50.7Health92Schools77.7Income97.5Risk9.6Water64.5Weather59.5
🏛23.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠2.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼97.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡50.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤92
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓77.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡9.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧64.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨43.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱54.7
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

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Norfolk County
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Deep Dives

Plymouth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Plymouth County

via TaxByCounty

Plymouth's highest rate nearly quintuple the national average

Plymouth County residents face the region's most burdensome property tax rate at 1.237%, more than four times the national median rate. At $6,345 annually on a median home value of $513,000, Plymouth homeowners pay significantly more than the national median of $2,690 despite modest home values.

Highest tax rate in Massachusetts

Plymouth County's effective tax rate of 1.237% is the second-highest in Massachusetts, well above the state average of 1.065%. The county's median property tax of $6,345 stands between Middlesex and Norfolk in absolute dollars, yet represents the highest rate-based burden statewide.

Region's steepest tax burden

Plymouth County's 1.237% rate significantly exceeds all neighboring counties except Worcester (1.333%), making it one of the most tax-aggressive counties in Massachusetts. This compares sharply with Nantucket's 0.215% and Suffolk's 0.666%, illustrating the dramatic variation across the region.

Your median annual property tax bill

Plymouth County homeowners with a median-valued property of $513,000 pay approximately $6,345 per year in property taxes. This breaks down to roughly $529 monthly—a substantial cost for a median-income household in the county.

Overassessments are particularly costly here

In Plymouth County's high-tax environment, assessment errors compound the financial burden on homeowners. Residents should carefully review their property valuations and strongly consider filing appeals, as even modest reductions can yield significant annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Plymouth County

via CostByCounty

Plymouth: Massachusetts's most affordable county

Plymouth County achieves a rent-to-income ratio of just 18.1%—below both the national average of 19.3% and Massachusetts's 19.3%—while maintaining a respectable median household income of $109,698. This southern suburban county offers the rare combination of low housing costs and solid earning potential.

Best rent-to-income ratio in Massachusetts

Plymouth ranks as Massachusetts's most affordable county by rent-to-income ratio at 18.1%, beating the state average by 1.2 percentage points. The county's median rent of $1,655 is substantially below the state average of $1,558—making it the only Massachusetts county with below-average rents and above-average incomes.

Half the price of northern suburbs

Plymouth's $1,655 median rent runs nearly $400 less than Middlesex ($2,126) and Norfolk ($2,072), while its $513,000 median home value is $174,000 cheaper than Norfolk's $649,400. Among greater Boston counties, Plymouth remains the value leader without sacrificing income levels.

Housing takes smallest income share

Plymouth renters spend $1,655 monthly—just 18.1% of the $109,698 median income—while homeowners pay $2,220 or 24.3%, the most favorable burden ratio in Massachusetts. This county's balanced market means both renters and buyers experience manageable housing costs.

Best value in the Boston metro area

Plymouth is ideal for middle-income earners ($100,000–$120,000) seeking southern suburban living with genuine affordability and Boston commute access. If you're relocating to Massachusetts and concerned about housing costs, Plymouth delivers better value than any comparable county while maintaining strong local incomes.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Plymouth County

via IncomeByCounty

Plymouth earns 47% above U.S. average

Plymouth County's median household income of $109,698 runs 47% above the national median of $74,755. The county's skilled manufacturing, healthcare, and professional services base supports steady middle-to-upper-class earnings.

Fourth-wealthiest county in Massachusetts

Plymouth ranks fourth in the state at $109,698, trailing the Middlesex-Norfolk duo and Nantucket but exceeding the state average of $96,546 by 14%. The county balances affordability with solid income levels.

Mid-tier earner among wealthy peers

Plymouth's $109,698 median trails Middlesex ($126,779), Norfolk ($126,497), and Nantucket ($119,750), but outpaces Suffolk ($92,859) and Worcester ($93,561). The county represents accessible prosperity south of Boston.

Best housing affordability in the region

Plymouth boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio (18.1%) among these six counties, and median home values of $513,000 are 25% below the regional average. Homeownership is genuinely achievable for middle-class families here.

Capitalize on affordability advantage

Plymouth residents earning $109,698 median face lower housing cost burdens than wealthier counties, freeing more dollars for savings and investments. Use this financial breathing room to build retirement accounts and education funds early.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Plymouth County

via CrimeByCounty

Plymouth County Exceeds National Safety Expectations

Plymouth County boasts a high safety score of 98.3, reflecting a secure environment for its families. Its total crime rate of 1,107.9 per 100K is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Stronger Performance Than State Average

The county outperforms the state average safety score of 97.7 and the average crime rate of 1,458.6. It represents one of the most stable and secure regions in Massachusetts.

A Secure Regional Alternative

Plymouth’s crime rate of 1,107.9 per 100K is lower than Middlesex (1,197.5) and much lower than Suffolk (2,384.3). It provides a safer suburban profile compared to its northern neighbors.

Understanding the Local Crime Profile

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 299.5 per 100K, which is below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also notably low at 808.4 compared to the 2,015.7 national benchmark.

Staying Proactive in Plymouth

Keeping Plymouth safe starts with individual home security measures and community awareness. A safety score of 98.3 shows that collective safety efforts are working well across the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Plymouth County

via HealthByCounty

Plymouth lags on national comparison

Plymouth County's life expectancy of 78.8 years falls slightly below the U.S. average of 78.9 years, the only Massachusetts county in this data at the national baseline. At 13.8% reporting poor or fair health versus the national rate of 15.3%, the county shows resilience despite lower longevity.

Health challenges within Massachusetts

Plymouth County's 78.8-year life expectancy trails the state average of 79.7 years by nearly a full year, the lowest among these six counties. The 13.8% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state average, indicating Plymouth faces steeper health challenges than much of Massachusetts.

Struggling alongside Worcester County

Plymouth County ties Worcester County at 78.8 years life expectancy, the lowest in this comparison group, significantly behind Middlesex (81.5 years) and Nantucket (82.8 years). Both counties share similar uninsured rates around 2.4%–3.2%, suggesting barriers beyond just insurance coverage.

Limited access to primary care

Plymouth has only 63 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, the second-lowest in this group and a significant access constraint. With 648 mental health providers per 100,000 and a 2.4% uninsured rate, mental health services are relatively robust, but primary care gaps likely delay early diagnosis and prevention.

Healthcare access starts with coverage

Uninsured rates are low in Plymouth, but coverage alone isn't enough—building local primary care capacity requires proactive health-seeking and regular preventive visits. Visit healthcare.gov to find nearby primary care providers and schedule checkups that support better long-term outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Plymouth County

via SchoolsByCounty

Diverse Districts Across the South Shore

Plymouth County manages 138 public schools across 34 different school districts, serving a total of 77,146 students. The landscape is dominated by 70 elementary schools, complemented by 28 middle schools and 33 high schools. A small selection of charter and alternative schools provides additional choice for roughly 3% of the student population.

High Graduation Rates and Practical Budgeting

The county achieves an impressive 91.7% graduation rate, outperforming the state average of 88.1% and the national average of 87%. Schools operate with a per-pupil expenditure of $11,345, which is notably lower than the state's $13,582 average. Despite the leaner budget, the county maintains a solid 63.8 composite school score.

Brockton and Plymouth Drive Student Success

Brockton is the county's largest district by a wide margin, educating 14,906 students across 24 schools. The Plymouth district follows with 13 schools and 7,119 students, while Bridgewater-Raynham serves nearly 5,500 students. These major districts form the backbone of the county's educational system, supported by four charter schools.

Suburban Settings with Large High Schools

Most students attend school in suburban locales, though 19 rural campuses offer a more quiet, community-focused feel. The county is home to Brockton High, a massive institution with 3,679 students, which significantly exceeds the county's average school size of 559. Smaller towns like Marshfield and Hingham also host major high schools with enrollments over 1,100.

Join a Community with Proven Academic Results

For families looking for strong graduation rates on the South Shore, Plymouth County offers excellent value and performance. Whether you prefer the scale of Brockton or the suburban charm of Marshfield, there is a district here to fit your needs. Start your home search today to take advantage of these high-achieving public school options.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Plymouth County

via RiskByCounty

Plymouth faces moderately elevated disaster risk

Plymouth County scores 90.36 on composite risk, placing it in the relatively moderate category—above the national average. This score reflects balanced exposure across multiple hazard types, with particularly acute flood vulnerability.

Mid-tier risk among Massachusetts counties

Plymouth ranks in the middle of Massachusetts risk distribution, with a composite score of 90.36 compared to the state average of 78.84. The county's 15% elevation above the state baseline reflects consistent exposure across most natural hazard categories.

Similar risk profile to Norfolk and Suffolk

Plymouth's 90.36 score falls between Norfolk (92.02) and Nantucket (38.68), placing it in Massachusetts's moderate-risk cluster. Flood risk (94.40) ties closely with other southeastern Massachusetts counties, while wildfire risk (53.78) remains moderate.

Floods pose your greatest natural hazard

Flood risk reaches 94.40 in Plymouth—among the state's highest—driven by coastal and riverine exposure. Hurricane risk (90.66) and earthquake risk (87.66) present secondary concerns, while tornado (48.22) and wildfire (53.78) risks remain more limited.

Flood insurance is your essential first step

Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners policies, making separate flood insurance non-negotiable for Plymouth residents. Adding earthquake coverage to your policy protects against another significant threat, with both available through reasonable premium rates in lower-risk flood zones.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Plymouth County

via WeatherByCounty

The Coast's Moderating Influence

Plymouth County averages 50.7°F annually, benefiting from its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. While its average is lower than the national median, it avoids the harshest continental extremes found further inland.

One of the State's Wettest Areas

Plymouth is significantly wetter than the state average, receiving 51.4 inches of precipitation annually compared to the state's 47.4 inches. It ranks as one of the warmer counties in Massachusetts at 50.7°F.

Less Snow Than Northern Neighbors

Despite having the same 50.7°F average as Norfolk, Plymouth receives significantly less snow at 38.8 inches. This is likely due to the coastal warming effect which often turns snow to rain during winter storms.

Humid Summers and Damp Winters

The county experiences 10 days of extreme heat per year, with July averages reaching 72.6°F. Winters are relatively mild for the state, averaging 31.7°F with less snow accumulation than neighboring counties.

Plan for Heavy Rain

Prioritize basement waterproofing and high-capacity gutters to handle the 51.4 inches of annual rain. Outdoor planning should account for 10 days of extreme heat and moderate, but occasional, heavy snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Plymouth County

via SoilByCounty

The Most Acidic Soils in the State

Plymouth County features an extremely acidic soil profile with a pH of just 1.96, the lowest recorded in the state. This unique chemistry is tied to its famous wetlands and peat-rich landscapes, earning the county a soil score of 43.5.

A High Organic Matrix

The soil contains 25.3% sand and 10.1% silt, with a very low 1.7% clay content. This light mineral structure is heavily influenced by the high volume of organic material that dominates the soil matrix.

Massive Organic Matter Peaks

Fertility here is driven by a massive 49.97% organic matter content, nearly double the state average of 29.25%. Despite this, available water capacity is 0.146 in/in, likely due to the porous nature of the organic fibers.

Wetland and Bog Hydrology

While drainage classes are not officially recorded, the high organic content and low pH are characteristic of bogs and lowlands. Proper water management is crucial, as the hydrology is deeply intertwined with the region's high water table.

Cranberry Capital of the World

Zone 6b temperatures and acidic, organic-rich soil make Plymouth ideal for specialized crops like cranberries. For home gardeners, acid-loving plants like blueberries and rhododendrons will provide the best results.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Plymouth County

via LawnByCounty

Average Difficulty in Historic Plymouth

Plymouth County earns a lawn difficulty score of 54.7, aligning closely with the Massachusetts state average of 56.8. It is slightly easier to maintain a lawn here than the national median of 50.0. This Zone 6b region offers a balanced environment for traditional New England grass varieties.

High Precipitation and Moderate Heat

Plymouth receives a generous 51.4 inches of rain annually, surpassing the state average and the ideal 50-inch threshold. With only 10 extreme heat days per year, your lawn is less likely to scorch compared to inland counties. This plentiful water supply provides a strong foundation for a lush, green landscape.

Battling Extremely Acidic Soil

The soil pH in Plymouth is a remarkably low 1.96, indicating extreme acidity that can prevent most grasses from absorbing nutrients. The soil is also quite low in clay at 1.7%, which can lead to poor structure and nutrient holding capacity. Heavy applications of lime and organic matter are critical to making this ground hospitable for turf.

Strong Drought Resilience This Year

Plymouth County has experienced only nine weeks of drought in the last year, showing high resilience compared to the rest of the state. While the entire county is currently flagged as abnormally dry, the impact is minimal compared to the severe conditions found elsewhere. Routine watering during the driest summer weeks should maintain your lawn's health.

Kickstart Your Plymouth Lawn

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are the best bets for the Plymouth climate. Plan your seeding after the last spring frost on April 23 to capitalize on the moist spring weather. Focus heavily on soil pH correction this season to ensure your new grass can actually grow.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Plymouth County's county score?
Plymouth County, Massachusetts has a composite county score of 48.7 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 Plymouth County rank among counties in Massachusetts?
Plymouth County ranks #7 among all counties in Massachusetts 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 Plymouth County, Massachusetts?
The median annual property tax in Plymouth County is $6,345, with an effective tax rate of 1.24%. This earns Plymouth County a tax score of 23.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Plymouth County?
The median household income in Plymouth County, Massachusetts is $109,698 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Plymouth County earns an income score of 97.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Plymouth County, Massachusetts a good place to live?
Plymouth County scores 48.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #7 in Massachusetts. The best way to evaluate Plymouth 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 Plymouth 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.