countyscore
62.9
County Score
Cost of Living 94.8Schools 80.9Soil Quality 63.9

County Report Card

About Pulaski County, Illinois

Exceeding National Expectations

Pulaski County earns a composite score of 62.9, well above the national median of 50.0. This places the county in the upper echelon of livability nationwide.

Surpassing State Benchmarks

The county's 62.9 score easily clears the Illinois average of 52.8. It offers a uniquely high value proposition compared to other southern Illinois counties.

Affordability and Strong Schools

Housing is incredibly affordable with a cost score of 94.8 and a median home value of $81,000. Schools perform well with a score of 80.9, paired with a low 0.825% effective tax rate.

Economic and Health Constraints

An income score of 5.3 highlights a low median household income of $43,227. Health outcomes also lag behind with a score of 40.3.

The Verdict: Budget-Conscious Families

Pulaski County is a premier choice for families who need high-quality schools and the lowest possible housing costs. It is ideal for residents who can manage lower local income levels.

Score breakdown

Tax51Cost94.8Safety63.2Health40.3Schools80.9Income5.3Risk51Water41Weather63
🏛51
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠94.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼5.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡63.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤40.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓80.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡51
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧41
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨63.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.4
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

Ballard County
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56.1
Alexander County
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62.2
Johnson County
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67.7
Massac County
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McCracken County
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Union County
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Carlisle County
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Scott County
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Deep Dives

Pulaski County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pulaski County

via TaxByCounty

Pulaski County: Lowest rate in entire sample

Pulaski County's 0.825% effective tax rate is extraordinarily low, placing it in the bottom 1% of U.S. counties—less than 40% of the national median of 2.10%. The median property tax of $668 is 75% below the national median of $2,690, making Pulaski exceptionally affordable for property owners.

Pulaski: Illinois' most tax-friendly county

At 0.825%, Pulaski County's effective rate is 55% below the Illinois state average of 1.83%, making it the lowest-taxing county in this analysis. Its median property tax of $668 is 76% below the state average of $2,782, delivering unmatched property tax relief.

Pulaski far exceeds regional advantage

Pulaski County's 0.825% rate crushes all regional competitors: Pope County (1.02%), Pike County (1.56%), Perry County (1.66%), and others. No comparable county in the region comes remotely close to Pulaski's unbeatable tax burden.

What a Pulaski County homeowner pays

On the median home value of $81,000, Pulaski County's 0.825% effective rate means homeowners pay just $668 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, you might pay $1,080; without one, approximately $532—among the lowest in America.

Protect your exceptional tax advantage

Pulaski County's remarkable tax rate is a unique financial asset, but homeowners should still verify their assessments periodically to prevent overcharging. Even small assessment errors can erode the county's substantial savings advantage.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pulaski County

via CostByCounty

Pulaski County stretches tight budgets

Pulaski County has the highest rent-to-income ratio in this group at 17.4%, well above both the state average of 14.7% and national norms, creating real affordability stress. With the lowest median household income at just $43,227—42% below the national average—residents here struggle most with housing costs relative to earnings.

Illinois's most housing-burdened county

Pulaski County ranks among Illinois's least affordable counties, with 17.4% of income consumed by rent compared to the state average of 14.7%. This burden reflects both lower incomes and the limited supply of affordable units in this southern Illinois community.

Pulaski struggles among peers

Pulaski County's $625 rent falls in the middle range, but its 17.4% affordability burden exceeds all neighbors due to the county's significantly lower median income of $43,227. Even Pike County residents, who earn similarly, dedicate just 13.6% to rent—evidence that Pulaski faces unique affordability challenges.

Housing crisis for low-income families

Pulaski County renters pay $625 monthly while homeowners pay $494 for the $81,000 median home, but the median household income of $43,227 makes these costs severely burdensome. Housing consumes 17.4% of income—well above the recommended 12-15% threshold—leaving families little room for other expenses.

Pulaski requires careful planning

Pulaski County's affordability crisis demands that relocating families have stable, adequate income before considering a move here. Only households committed to this region should prioritize Pulaski; most seeking affordability will find better options in Pike or Pope counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pulaski County

via IncomeByCounty

Pulaski County faces significant income gap

Pulaski County's median household income of $43,227 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 42%, among the steepest gaps in this cohort. This reflects structural economic challenges and limited employment opportunities in rural southern Illinois.

Lowest earner in Illinois sample

Pulaski County ranks far below the Illinois state median of $68,580, earning roughly $25,353 less per household. Per capita income of $24,463 falls 32% short of the state average of $36,009—the widest gap among surveyed counties.

Significant challenge relative to peers

Pulaski County's $43,227 income stands lowest among all eight surveyed counties, roughly $15,000 below Pike County and nearly $44,000 below Piatt. This income gap signals acute economic hardship in the county.

Housing costs strain household budgets

Pulaski County's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds the recommended 15% threshold, signaling that renters spend a large share of earnings on housing. This burden limits savings capacity and financial flexibility for other needs.

Seeking pathways to economic opportunity

Pulaski County residents facing income constraints can prioritize financial literacy, emergency savings, and access to local workforce development resources. Building community networks and exploring remote work options may unlock pathways to broader economic participation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pulaski County

via CrimeByCounty

Pulaski County stays well below national crime trends

The county maintains a safety score of 98.7, matching the Illinois state average perfectly. Its total crime rate of 849.9 is significantly lower than the national benchmark of 2,385.5.

Closely tracking the Illinois average

Pulaski’s total crime rate of 849.9 per 100,000 is nearly identical to the state average of 835.0. While it is safe, it experiences slightly more activity than some of its more rural neighbors.

Higher activity than neighboring Pope County

Unlike nearby Pope County which reports zero crime, Pulaski has three active reporting agencies documenting local incidents. This provides a more comprehensive, though higher-numbered, view of regional safety.

Violent crime exceeds the state average

The violent crime rate of 231.8 is higher than the Illinois average of 160.1, though property crime remains relatively low at 618.1. These numbers mean that while total crime is low, local law enforcement focuses heavily on person-to-person incidents.

Focusing on personal and home safety

Because violent crime rates are higher than the state average, being aware of your surroundings is essential. Installing a smart doorbell or security cameras can provide peace of mind in this southern tip of the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pulaski County

via HealthByCounty

Pulaski County faces severe health crisis

Pulaski County's life expectancy of 71.6 years is the lowest in Illinois and trails the U.S. average of 81.1 years by nearly a decade. With 23.9% reporting poor or fair health—the highest rate in the region—Pulaski residents face a severe health burden driven by poverty and chronic disease.

Illinois's most challenged health outcomes

Pulaski County ranks at the bottom of Illinois counties with a 71.6-year life expectancy, 4.4 years below the state average of 76.0 years. Its 23.9% poor/fair health rate is the worst in the state, signaling an urgent health crisis requiring intervention.

Significantly worse health than all neighbors

Pulaski County's 71.6-year life expectancy is dramatically lower than any neighboring county—nearly 3 years below Richland County (73.7 years). The 23.9% poor/fair health rate far exceeds all comparable counties, marking Pulaski as the region's health emergency.

Inadequate coverage and provider shortage

Pulaski County's 5.9% uninsured rate is near the state average, yet primary care provider data is unavailable—a red flag for care access gaps. With only 81 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the county struggles to address both physical and behavioral health needs.

Enroll in coverage and seek support

Pulaski County residents face the state's worst health outcomes; securing health insurance through healthcare.gov or Medicaid is a critical first step. Contact local community health centers for affordable preventive care, screenings, and help managing chronic diseases that fuel high poor/fair health rates.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pulaski County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Excellence Across Five Schools

Pulaski County features five public schools across three districts, serving a total student body of 797. The system includes two elementary schools and three high schools, which often house middle-level grades. The small total enrollment ensures that students receive significant individual attention in a purely rural setting.

Top-Tier Performance and Higher Investment

Pulaski County shines with a 92.6% graduation rate, far exceeding both the state average of 88.8% and the national average of 87.0%. The county's per-pupil spending of $10,361 is notably higher than the state's $9,250 average. This investment pays off with a school score of 62.2, which is significantly higher than the Illinois average of 58.1.

Meridian and Century Lead the Way

Meridian CUSD 101 is the county's largest district, educating 460 students, followed by Century CUSD 100 with 337 students. The county does not host any charter schools, maintaining a focus on traditional district-led education. A specialized special education district also operates within the county to provide essential services without direct enrollment.

Small Rural Campuses with Big Results

Every school in Pulaski County is located in a rural setting, offering a peaceful and focused learning environment. With an average school size of just 199 students, the largest facility is Meridian Elementary with 236 children. This small-scale approach contributes to the county's high academic scores and strong community ties.

Secure a High-Quality Education

Pulaski County is a standout choice for families seeking top-performing rural schools that outpace state averages. High graduation rates and strong investment per student make this an excellent region for long-term home investment. Look for properties in the Meridian or Century districts to take advantage of these highly-rated academic programs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pulaski County

via RiskByCounty

Pulaski County sits near national risk average

Pulaski County's composite risk score of 49.05 is close to the national average and slightly below Illinois's statewide average of 54.46, with a "Relatively Low" rating. This puts Pulaski in the middle of the U.S. disaster risk spectrum, requiring thoughtful hazard preparedness without being in a high-danger zone.

Pulaski ranks in Illinois's midrange

With a score of 49.05, Pulaski County places in the middle band of Illinois's 102 counties for natural disaster risk, performing better than about half its peers. The county's balanced hazard profile—neither exceptionally safe nor particularly vulnerable—reflects its position in southern Illinois.

Pulaski is safer than most regional peers

Pulaski County's 49.05 score significantly outperforms neighboring Perry County (72.07) and Randolph County (78.63), making it a relatively safer jurisdiction in southwestern Illinois. It scores higher than Piatt County (34.96) and Pike County (30.34) to the north, reflecting greater seismic exposure.

Earthquake risk dominates Pulaski's profile

Pulaski County's earthquake risk scores 91.19—among the highest in Illinois—while tornado risk is moderate at 37.63 and flood risk is low at 15.14. The county's overall risk is heavily weighted toward seismic activity, making earthquake preparedness the top priority.

Earthquake insurance is essential here

Pulaski County residents should prioritize standalone earthquake insurance, as standard homeowners policies exclude seismic damage; this specialized coverage directly addresses the county's dominant hazard. Wind/hail coverage remains important for tornado protection, though less pressing than earthquake preparedness.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pulaski County

via WeatherByCounty

Southern Comfort in the Heartland

Pulaski County averages a warm 57.9°F annually, placing it well above the median for U.S. counties. Its climate represents the northern edge of the humid subtropical zone, characterized by intense summer heat.

Illinois' Southern Thermal Peak

At 57.9°F, Pulaski is one of the warmest counties in the entire state, significantly outpacing the 52.8°F Illinois average. Precipitation is also heavy, totaling 49.4 inches compared to the state average of 41.7.

Warmer Than the Rest

Pulaski is warmer than its neighbor Pope County by nearly a full degree on average. It experiences 41 days of extreme heat, reflecting the consistent summer intensity found at the state's southern tip.

Intense July Peaks and Mild Winters

The July average reaches 78.9°F, while January stays relatively mild at 34.6°F. Snow is rare here, with the county only receiving 7.2 inches during a typical winter season.

Beat the Heat and Humidity

Residents should invest in high-capacity air conditioning to manage the 41 days of 90-degree weather. Excellent drainage and gutter maintenance are vital to handle the nearly 50 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pulaski County

via SoilByCounty

Rich Silt Loams of the Deep South

Pulaski County is defined by its Alfisols and an average pH of 6.14, which is more acidic than the state average of 6.39. This silt loam texture provides a classic foundation for agriculture in the state's southernmost region.

Classic Texture for Farm and Garden

The soil includes 65.0% silt, 22.0% clay, and 13.0% sand, creating a versatile silt loam profile. This balance offers excellent workability while maintaining enough clay to hold onto vital plant nutrients.

Superior Moisture for Hot Summers

Organic matter levels reach 1.79%, trailing the state average of 2.94%. Conversely, the available water capacity of 0.207 in/in is higher than the state average, giving plants a crucial edge during the hot summer months.

Well-Drained and Ready to Build

Classified as well-drained and part of hydrologic group C, this soil moves water more efficiently than many neighboring counties. This makes the land particularly suitable for infrastructure and reduces the risk of plant root rot.

Heat-Tolerant Crops Thrive Here

Hardiness zone 7a grants Pulaski County a lengthy growing season, perfect for heat-tolerant varieties like sweet potatoes and okra. The well-drained silt loam is a major asset for any gardener looking to maximize their annual harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pulaski County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Southern Illinois Turf Challenges

Pulaski County scores a 60.4 on the lawn difficulty scale, making it more demanding than the Illinois average. The Zone 7a climate means longer growing seasons but more aggressive summer heat for your backyard turf.

High Growing Potential and Humidity

With 49.4 inches of rain and 41 extreme heat days, Pulaski County is much wetter and hotter than the state averages. The 4,461 growing degree days mean your mower will stay busy from early spring through late autumn.

Productive and Well-Drained Soil

Pulaski County features well-drained silt loam soil with a 6.14 pH, providing a solid foundation for turf growth. The 22.0% clay content offers good nutrient retention, but the excellent drainage helps prevent the root rot issues common in wetter Illinois counties.

Stable Moisture Despite Dry Spells

The county has only seen 10 weeks of drought in the last year, and currently, no areas are in severe drought. While 100% of the county is considered abnormally dry, your well-drained soil and high annual rainfall of nearly 50 inches provide a strong buffer.

A Long Window for Growth

With a late first frost date of November 5, Pulaski County offers one of the longest growing seasons in the state. Grass types like Tall Fescue are recommended for their ability to withstand the 41 days of heat while staying green into the late fall.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pulaski County's county score?
Pulaski County, Illinois has a composite county score of 62.9 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 Pulaski County rank among counties in Illinois?
Pulaski County ranks #12 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 Pulaski County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Pulaski County is $668, with an effective tax rate of 0.82%. This earns Pulaski County a tax score of 51/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pulaski County?
The median household income in Pulaski County, Illinois is $43,227 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pulaski County earns an income score of 5.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pulaski County, Illinois a good place to live?
Pulaski County scores 62.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Pulaski 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 Pulaski 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.