countyscore
49.8
County Score
Property Tax 73.1Safety 61.3Weather & Climate 58.8

County Report Card

About Pulaski County, Missouri

Balanced Against the National Median

Pulaski County earns a composite score of 49.8, placing it right at the national median of 50.0. It offers a very typical American quality of life across its diverse data points.

Meeting the Missouri Average

At 49.8, Pulaski County is nearly identical to the Missouri state average of 50.3. It represents a stable middle-ground for Missouri residents seeking a predictable cost-to-benefit ratio.

Strong Security and Low Taxes

The county features a robust Tax Score of 73.1, complemented by a low 0.611% effective tax rate. Residents also enjoy a Safety Score of 61.3, which is significantly better than many neighboring counties.

Housing and Schooling Limitations

A Cost Score of 30.3 suggests housing is becoming less affordable, with median gross rent rising to $1,072. The School Score of 36.5 also indicates room for growth in local educational outcomes.

Ideal for Career-Minded Families

Pulaski County suits families who value safety and tax efficiency while earning a respectable median income of $66,435. It is a solid choice for those who want a secure community and can navigate a slightly higher rental market.

Score breakdown

Tax73.1Cost30.3Safety61.3Health46.9Schools36.5Income58Risk39.5Water58.3Weather58.8
🏛73.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠30.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼58
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡61.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡39.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧58.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨52.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55
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

Laclede County
Missouri
43.7
Phelps County
Missouri
43
Texas County
Missouri
50.3
Maries County
Missouri
64
Miller County
Missouri
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Camden County
Missouri
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Wright County
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Dallas 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 well below national tax average

Pulaski County's effective tax rate of 0.611% sits comfortably below the national median, with homeowners paying $1,159 in annual property taxes versus $2,690 nationally. County residents enjoy a significant tax advantage compared to homeowners across the United States.

Below-average taxes for Missouri

Pulaski County's 0.611% effective rate falls below Missouri's state average of 0.733%, and its median tax bill of $1,159 sits just below the state median of $1,199. The county offers modest property tax relief to homeowners.

Low-tax option in the region

Pulaski County's 0.611% rate is lower than Pike County's 0.768%, Phelps County's 0.640%, and Randolph County's 0.849%, though slightly higher than Polk County's 0.581%. The county ranks among the region's more affordable areas for property taxation.

What $189,700 home costs in taxes

A homeowner with a median-priced home valued at $189,700 pays approximately $1,159 in annual property taxes in Pulaski County. With a mortgage, that bill rises to $1,277; without one, it drops to $914.

Contest inflated assessments

Pulaski County homeowners should regularly check their property assessments against comparable sales in their area, as overvaluation can result in unnecessary tax overpayment. If your assessed value seems high, the county assessor's office accepts formal appeals.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pulaski County

via CostByCounty

Pulaski's housing pinch is real

Pulaski County's 19.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most strained housing markets, well above the national comfort zone and Missouri's 15.6% average. Median household income of $66,435 falls short of national norms, while median rent of $1,072/month soars above state averages.

Missouri's least affordable county here

Pulaski County records the worst rent-to-income ratio among these eight counties at 19.4%, signaling the deepest housing affordability crisis in the region. This places Pulaski squarely in Missouri's least affordable tier, driven by a collision of rising rents and modest incomes.

Pulaski commands the highest rents

Pulaski's $1,072 median rent tops every neighbor in this analysis—$270 above Pike's cheapest and $75 above Phelps. Home values near $189,700 stay moderate, suggesting the rental market, not ownership, drives Pulaski's affordability stress.

Renters hurt most; owners get relief

Renters carry the heaviest load at 19.4% of income ($1,072/month), while homeowners ease to 16.6% ($922/month), revealing a two-tier market. The gap suggests strategic homebuyers find real savings, but renters face genuine hardship.

Pulaski demands serious income gains

Pulaski County suits only those with jobs or income that offset its high rents—think Fort Leonard Wood employment or military ties. If you're relocating for a lateral move in pay, Pike or Putnam offer far easier affordability; prioritize Pulaski only if your paycheck justifies it.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pulaski County

via IncomeByCounty

Pulaski lags behind national norms

Pulaski County's median household income of $66,435 trails the national median of $74,755 by 11.1%, reflecting modest regional earning power. However, the gap is narrower than most rural Missouri counties, positioning Pulaski in the middle tier nationally.

Above Missouri's state average

Pulaski County exceeds Missouri's state average of $59,503 by $6,932, ranking comfortably in the upper half of the state's counties. Per capita income of $29,250 sits near the state average of $31,011, indicating relatively balanced earning distribution.

Pulaski leads the lower-income belt

Pulaski's $66,435 income ranks second in this region after Platte ($95,748), substantially ahead of Phelps ($55,427), Pike ($57,572), Polk ($56,686), and Randolph ($55,310). Ralls County ($62,054) approaches Pulaski's level, while Putnam ($56,875) falls into the lower cluster.

Housing costs require attention

Pulaski County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.4% is the highest in this cohort, indicating renters spend a notably larger share of earnings on housing. The median home value of $189,700 demands roughly 2.9 years of median household income, pressing homeownership into the challenging range for many families.

Ease housing costs, invest surplus

Pulaski County households earning $66,435 should prioritize reducing housing cost burden—consider refinancing, sharing expenses, or exploring first-time homebuyer programs. After stabilizing housing, redirect freed-up dollars into employer retirement plans and regular brokerage investing to compound wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pulaski County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite Safety in Pulaski County

Pulaski County boasts a top-tier safety score of 98.6. Its total crime rate of 891.6 per 100K is nearly 63% lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

A Missouri Safety Leader

Pulaski ranks significantly higher than the state average safety score of 97.0. The local crime rate of 891.6 per 100K is less than half of the state average of 1,926.2.

Comparing Regional Safety Metrics

Pulaski County is significantly safer than neighboring Phelps County, which sees over three times the crime rate. This makes the area a regional standout for public safety and low incident volumes.

Analyzing Low Crime Numbers

Violent crime in the county is extremely low at 96.8 per 100K, compared to the national 369.8. Property crime is also exceptionally low, totaling only 794.8 per 100,000 residents.

Protecting Your Community

While crime is low, maintaining community safety is a group effort. Residents can help keep Pulaski safe by reporting suspicious activity and securing their personal property daily.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pulaski County

via HealthByCounty

Pulaski below national health standards

At 73.7 years, Pulaski County's life expectancy falls 4.4 years short of the U.S. average of 78.1 years. While the 17.6% poor/fair health rate is better than several peers, it still exceeds the national norm.

Just below Missouri's baseline

Pulaski County's 73.7-year life expectancy trails Missouri's 74.3-year average by 0.6 years, placing it among the state's lower-performing counties. Targeted health interventions could help close the gap.

Sparse primary care, strong mental health

Pulaski County has only 28 primary care providers per 100K—a significant gap compared to Platte County's 81 or Phelps County's 82. However, its 284 mental health providers per 100K exceed regional averages substantially.

10% uninsured with access gaps

Pulaski County's 10% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 12.5%, but limited primary care capacity means even insured residents struggle to access preventive care. The mismatch between insurance coverage and provider availability challenges health management.

Secure coverage to enable care

For Pulaski County's 10% uninsured residents, enrollment in Medicaid or marketplace plans is critical given limited provider options. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to find coverage that connects you to available care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pulaski County

via SchoolsByCounty

Serving nearly 9,000 students in central Missouri

Pulaski County operates 22 public schools that serve a total of 8,904 students across six districts. The infrastructure includes 10 elementary schools and six high schools, creating a strong pipeline for student development. Three additional 'other' schools provide specialized educational opportunities for the region.

Reliable outcomes and steady school funding

The county reports a 90.1% graduation rate, significantly exceeding the national average of 87%. Per-pupil spending is $6,230, sitting just below the state average of $6,334 but reflecting efficient resource management. With a school score of 51.9, the county performs near the state median for academic quality.

Waynesville R-VI defines the regional system

Waynesville R-VI is the dominant district, managing 11 schools and 6,155 students, which is more than half of the county's total enrollment. Dixon R-I and Laquey R-V serve smaller student bodies of roughly 800 to 900 each. Traditional public schools make up 100% of the county's options, as there are no charter schools.

A mix of town and rural campuses

The county is evenly split between 11 rural schools and 11 town-based schools, offering varied environments for families. The average school size is 424 students, though Waynesville Sr. High is notably large with ,1704 students. Smaller elementary schools like those in Dixon provide a more intimate community feel.

Find a home in the Waynesville heartland

Families moving to Pulaski County often gravitate toward the Waynesville R-VI district for its diverse school levels and strong graduation rates. The area offers a perfect balance of rural scenery and town amenities near major school campuses. Choosing a home here means accessing a school system that consistently outperforms national graduation benchmarks.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pulaski County

via RiskByCounty

Pulaski County faces multiple hazards

Pulaski County's composite risk score of 60.53 places it above the national average with a relatively low overall rating, but residents face exposure across multiple hazard types. Wildfire (62.53), flood (62.44), earthquake (69.85), and tornado (61.51) risks are all elevated, creating a complex risk landscape.

Above-average risk in Missouri context

Pulaski County's score of 60.53 ranks it above Missouri's state average of 50.56, placing it among the higher-risk counties in the state. The county's earthquake risk of 69.85 is notably above state norms, alongside significant wildfire and flood exposure.

Riskier than most nearby counties

Pulaski County (60.53) carries higher overall risk than Pike County (40.30), Randolph County (35.85), and Phelps County (53.72). Only Platte County (71.37) exceeds Pulaski's composite risk in the immediate region, though Pulaski's earthquake threat is greater than Platte's.

Earthquakes pose the greatest threat

Pulaski County's earthquake risk of 69.85 is its most significant hazard, substantially higher than state and national averages. Wildfire (62.53), flood (62.44), and tornado (61.51) risks are all remarkably similar and elevated, requiring balanced preparedness across all four hazard types.

Comprehensive coverage is critical

Pulaski County residents need earthquake insurance as a priority given the county's above-average seismic risk, coupled with standard homeowners coverage for wind and impact. Flood insurance is strongly recommended given the 62.44 flood risk score, and creating wildfire-resistant landscaping adds an important layer of home protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pulaski County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Temperatures and High Rainfall

Pulaski County’s 55.9°F annual average is higher than the national median, reflecting its southern positioning. Its 47.1 inches of annual precipitation is significantly above the national norm.

One of Missouri’s Wettest Counties

Pulaski is warmer than the state average and ranks high for precipitation at 47.1 inches. This is more than 3 inches above the Missouri state average of 43.8 inches.

Regional Rain and Heat Patterns

Pulaski is very similar to its neighbor Phelps, though it receives slightly less snow at 10.2 inches. It experiences 36 extreme heat days, placing it in the warmer tier of the Missouri Ozarks.

Humid Summers and Light Snow

Summer temperatures peak in July at 77.5°F, with 36 days of temperatures reaching 90°F or higher. Winters are moderate compared to northern Missouri, with only 10.2 inches of annual snowfall.

Equip for Rain and High Humidity

With over 47 inches of rain, durable rain gear and well-maintained drainage systems are essential. Residents can expect a month of extreme heat, necessitating reliable and efficient home cooling.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pulaski County

via SoilByCounty

Gravelly Ozark Entisols in Pulaski

Pulaski County features acidic Entisols with a pH of 5.64, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. The dominant texture is a gravelly silty clay, reflecting the rugged and stony terrain of the Ozarks. These young soils are still developing and provide a unique growing environment.

Gritty Texture and Solid Structure

The soil is composed of 58.4% silt and 22.3% sand, providing a gritty texture that balances drainage with structural stability. A clay content of 13.6% adds enough body to hold nutrients without making the soil too heavy to dig. This mixture is well-suited for a variety of hardy plant species.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Organic matter is a major strength at 4.84%, beating the state average and more than doubling the national average of 2.0%. Despite this richness, the water capacity of 0.157 in/in is lower than the Missouri average. This means that while the soil is fertile, it may require more frequent watering.

Well Drained with Slow Infiltration

These soils are classified as well drained but belong to hydrologic group C, indicating a slow infiltration rate when fully wet. This combination is excellent for preventing root rot while still managing runoff during heavy rains. It is a reliable profile for both farming and building.

Hardy Growing in Zone 6b

Zone 6b weather paired with high organic matter makes Pulaski ideal for native Missouri wildflowers and berry bushes. These plants are well-adapted to gravelly, acidic conditions. Start your planting project today to take advantage of these naturally rich, well-drained soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pulaski County

via LawnByCounty

Solid Foundation for Pulaski Lawns

Pulaski County earns a lawn difficulty score of 55.0, staying just above the national median of 50.0. While lower than the state average of 63.7, the Zone 6b climate here supports a variety of hardy turf types. Success depends on managing the slightly acidic soil and heavy summer rainfall.

Abundant Rain Meets Summer Heat

The county receives a generous 47.1 inches of precipitation annually, which is significantly higher than the Missouri average of 43.7. Extreme heat reaches 90°F or higher about 36 days a year, which is typical for the state. This combination of moisture and 4078 growing degree days creates a fast-growing environment for your grass.

Understanding Gravelly Clay Soils

Lawns here sit on gravelly silty clay that is naturally well-drained, which helps prevent root rot during heavy rains. However, the soil pH of 5.64 is notably acidic and will likely require lime to bring it toward the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The 13.6% clay and 22.3% sand mix provides a stable but lean foundation for roots.

Drought Resistance in the Ozarks

Despite high annual rainfall, Pulaski County has seen 25 weeks of drought over the past year. All 100% of the county is currently classified as abnormally dry, requiring smart irrigation strategies. Grouping plants with similar water needs and using a smart controller can help manage these dry periods efficiently.

Seeding Season in Pulaski County

Aim to plant after the April 15 frost or before the October 24 fall freeze for the best results. Heat-tolerant tall fescues are the best fit for this Zone 6b region and the local gravelly soil texture. With a bit of lime and consistent watering, your lawn will thrive in this environment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pulaski County's county score?
Pulaski County, Missouri has a composite county score of 49.8 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 Pulaski County rank among counties in Missouri?
Pulaski County ranks #64 among all counties in Missouri 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, Missouri?
The median annual property tax in Pulaski County is $1,159, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Pulaski County a tax score of 73.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pulaski County?
The median household income in Pulaski County, Missouri is $66,435 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pulaski County earns an income score of 58/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pulaski County, Missouri a good place to live?
Pulaski County scores 49.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #64 in Missouri. 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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🏛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.