countyscore

Sunflower County, Mississippi — County Report Card

MS

#47 in Mississippi

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
46.4
County Score
Cost of Living 85.3Safety 82Property Tax 46.8

County Report Card

About Sunflower County, Mississippi

Steady Competition with National Standards

Sunflower County posts a composite score of 46.4, nearly reaching the national median of 50.0. While slightly below the mark, it remains competitive with many rural areas across the country.

Aligning with Mississippi Norms

The county's score of 46.4 is just below the state average of 48.4. This indicates that Sunflower County provides a typical Mississippi lifestyle with a balance of regional benefits and struggles.

Housing Affordability and High Safety

Affordability is a major draw here, reflected in a cost score of 85.3 and a median home value of $103,400. Furthermore, a safety score of 82.0 makes it one of the more secure environments in the region.

Persistent Economic and School Hurdles

The county struggles with an income score of 3.0 and a school score of 7.2, reflecting systemic economic pressure. A median household income of $40,265 limits local purchasing power and investment.

Best for Secure, Low-Cost Living

This county is well-suited for families who value peace and quiet and need highly affordable housing. It offers a safe haven for those who are less dependent on the local school system or high-wage labor market.

Score breakdown

Tax46.8Cost85.3Safety82Health9.5Schools7.2Income3Risk30.4Water21.2Weather45.5
🏛46.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠85.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡82
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤9.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓7.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡30.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨36.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26.5
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

Leflore County
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46.3
Humphreys County
Mississippi
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Bolivar County
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Washington County
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Holmes County
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Tallahatchie County
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Desha County
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Chicot County
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Deep Dives

Sunflower County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Sunflower County

via TaxByCounty

Sunflower County's rate runs high

At 0.879%, Sunflower County's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.88%, placing it near the upper 50th percentile nationally. Despite homes costing 63% less than the U.S. median, the rate reflects above-average reliance on property tax revenue.

Highest rate among these eight counties

Sunflower County's 0.879% rate is the highest among Smith, Stone, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tippah, Tishomingo, and Tunica counties, running 18% above Mississippi's state average of 0.743%. The $909 median tax bill is slightly below the state median, reflecting lower home values offsetting the higher rate.

Notably higher than nearby counties

Sunflower County residents pay significantly more than Smith County (0.457%) and Tunica County (0.440%), nearly matching Tate County (0.768%) despite lower home values. This makes Sunflower the tax-heaviest county in this regional peer group.

What $909 costs Sunflower homeowners

On the median home valued at $103,400, Sunflower County homeowners pay about $909 annually—roughly $76 monthly. Those with mortgages see this rise to $1,132 due to mortgage impound and service district charges.

Assessment review could ease burden

In a county with above-average rates, contesting an inflated assessment delivers real savings. Sunflower County homeowners should verify their assessed values match current market conditions; overassessment is common and often winnable on appeal.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sunflower County

via CostByCounty

Sunflower County rents strain lower-income families

At 20.0%, Sunflower County's rent-to-income ratio exceeds the national comfort zone, especially given its median household income of just $40,265—46% below the U.S. average. A $670 monthly rent consumes over a fifth of household earnings, limiting financial flexibility for renters.

Above-average affordability challenge in Mississippi

Sunflower County's 20.0% rent-to-income ratio slightly edges out Mississippi's 19.6% state average, placing it among the state's least affordable counties. The combination of lower-than-average median income and median rent matching Smith County creates acute housing pressure for local families.

Similar rents, tighter budgets than Smith County

Sunflower County's $670 rent matches Smith County's pricing almost exactly, yet Sunflower households earn $11,000 less annually ($40,265 vs. $51,396). This income gap means the same rent consumes a larger percentage of Sunflower households' budgets, creating meaningful economic strain.

Housing dominates household budgets here

Sunflower County renters dedicate 20.0% of their $40,265 median income to monthly rent, leaving just $3,281 annually from gross earnings for all other expenses. Homeowners face similar pressure: $622 monthly owner costs claim 18.5% of household income, well above the 15% affordability benchmark.

Relocate only if income grows significantly

Sunflower County's affordability challenges demand careful planning—a $40,000 household income simply stretches too thin across $670 rent plus other necessities. Consider relocation only if your income prospects improve, or explore counties like Smith or Tippah where the same rent consumes less of your budget.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sunflower County

via IncomeByCounty

Sunflower County faces income gap

Sunflower County's median household income of $40,265 falls $34,490 below the national median of $74,755, representing one of the most substantial income gaps in the nation. This reflects long-standing economic challenges and limited high-wage employment opportunities in the county.

Lowest-earning Mississippi county

Sunflower County ranks among the lowest in Mississippi, with median household income trailing the state average of $48,514 by $8,249. Only a handful of Mississippi counties struggle with lower earnings, highlighting Sunflower's acute economic challenges.

Sunflower lags neighboring counties

Sunflower County's $40,265 income falls significantly below Stone County ($59,307) and Smith County ($51,396) to the east. Only Tallahatchie County ($37,383) struggles more, making Sunflower one of the region's most economically vulnerable areas.

Housing strains local budgets

Sunflower County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.0% pushes toward the 30% affordability threshold, indicating tighter housing cost pressure than wealthier counties. The median home value of $103,400 remains relatively affordable, but monthly rental burdens consume a larger share of household income.

Maximize limited resources strategically

Sunflower County residents should prioritize emergency savings funds and explore free or low-cost financial literacy resources available through local nonprofits and libraries. Even modest, consistent savings in high-yield savings accounts or employer retirement plans can build toward financial security over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sunflower County

via CrimeByCounty

Sunflower County Boasts High Safety

Sunflower County earns a high safety score of 99.3, indicating a very secure environment for families. Its total crime rate of 433.0 per 100,000 residents is far lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming State Averages

Sunflower County's total crime rate of 433.0 is less than half of the Mississippi state average of 978.4. Eight reporting agencies contribute data, ensuring a comprehensive view of this high-performing county.

Regional Comparison with Tallahatchie

Sunflower County is significantly safer than neighboring Tallahatchie County, which has a total crime rate of 1,735.2. This makes Sunflower one of the most secure counties in the Delta region.

Analyzing Violent and Property Crime

The county sees a property crime rate of 371.1 per 100,000, which is remarkably low compared to the U.S. average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is also minimal, occurring at a rate of just 61.9 per 100,000 people.

Smart Security for Sunflower Residents

Sunflower County residents benefit from low incident rates, but property theft remains the primary concern. Simple measures like outdoor lighting can further deter the 371.1 property crimes reported per 100,000 people.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Sunflower County

via HealthByCounty

Sunflower County faces severe health crisis

At 67.2 years, Sunflower County's life expectancy lags the U.S. average of 76.4 years by more than 9 years—among the lowest in Mississippi and nationally concerning. Nearly 30% of residents report poor or fair health, more than double the national average of about 15%, signaling widespread chronic disease and health disparity.

Sunflower County ranks lowest in state health

Sunflower County's 67.2-year life expectancy falls nearly 4 years below Mississippi's state average of 70.9 years, placing it among the state's unhealthiest counties. The 29.7% poor or fair health rate is the highest among all eight counties analyzed, reflecting entrenched poverty and limited healthcare infrastructure.

Lowest life expectancy among peer counties

Sunflower County's 67.2-year life expectancy significantly trails all comparable counties, including Tunica (66.6 years—the only lower county), Stone County (71.5 years), and Smith County (72.8 years). Despite having 35 primary care and 37 mental health providers per 100,000, Sunflower's poor outcomes suggest barriers beyond provider availability, including poverty and patient access.

Insurance coverage not enough to offset barriers

Sunflower County's 13.3% uninsured rate is among the lowest in this group, yet provider access (35 primary care per 100,000) doesn't translate into better health—suggesting transportation, cost, and chronic poverty create barriers even for insured residents. The disconnect points to deeper structural health inequities beyond insurance coverage.

Take the first step: verify your coverage

Even with strong provider numbers locally, having verified health insurance removes financial barriers to seeking care. If you're among Sunflower County's uninsured 13.3%, visit Healthcare.gov or contact the county health department to explore Medicaid or marketplace plans today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Sunflower County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse School Network in the Delta

Sunflower County supports 2,929 students across 13 public schools, including a mix of five elementary, four middle, and three high schools. A single consolidated district manages this extensive network, which also includes one alternative school.

Navigating Performance and Investment Challenges

The county reports an 80% graduation rate, trailing both the state average of 87.1% and the national benchmark. Investment follows a similar trend, with per-pupil spending at $5,381, roughly $600 below the Mississippi state average.

Sunflower County Consolidated School District Leads

The Sunflower County Consolidated School District is the sole provider for the region, managing all 13 schools for its nearly 3,000 students. There are no charter schools in the county, focusing all resources on the traditional public district model.

Town-Centered Schools with Small Classrooms

Most students attend schools in town settings, where the average campus size is a modest 266 students. Gentry High School is the largest facility with 488 students, while several smaller elementary and middle schools provide intimate learning environments.

Discover Homes in Sunflower County

Choosing a home in Sunflower County means joining a community where schools are centrally located in local towns. Research the area to find a neighborhood that aligns with your family's educational and lifestyle priorities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sunflower County

via RiskByCounty

Sunflower County's risk exceeds national average

With a composite risk score of 69.62, Sunflower County ranks Relatively Low but substantially above the national average, reflecting concentrated hazard exposure. This elevated positioning stems primarily from tornado (81.08) and earthquake (85.02) risks that significantly surpass typical U.S. levels.

Sunflower County among Mississippi's higher-risk areas

Sunflower County's 69.62 score stands well above Mississippi's state average of 50.94, placing it in the upper tier of statewide risk. This makes it one of the more hazard-exposed counties despite its Relatively Low national rating.

Sunflower County's risks significantly exceed region

Sunflower County's 69.62 score substantially exceeds safer Tate County (41.22) and Tallahatchie County (40.08), making it the highest-risk county in its vicinity. Both its tornado (81.08) and earthquake (85.02) exposures stand far above neighboring averages.

Earthquake and tornado threats lead hazards

Sunflower County residents confront exceptional earthquake risk (85.02) and significant tornado exposure (81.08), with moderate flood risk (54.99) adding complexity. Wildfire remains minimal (19.34), allowing residents to focus preparedness on seismic and wind-driven events.

Earthquake and tornado coverage absolutely critical

With earthquake risk at 85.02 and tornado risk at 81.08, homeowners need specialized earthquake insurance and comprehensive wind coverage beyond standard policies. Flood insurance is advisable in low-lying areas given the 54.99 flood risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sunflower County

via WeatherByCounty

Typical Deep South climate profile

Sunflower County's average annual temperature of 64.2°F is nearly 10 degrees warmer than the national median. This region experiences the heavy air and consistent warmth typical of the lower Mississippi Valley.

Aligning with state averages

Sunflower County's average temperature of 64.2°F sits very close to the Mississippi state average of 63.9°F. It serves as a representative baseline for the state's overall climate.

Cooler than its southern neighbors

At 64.2°F, Sunflower is slightly cooler than Sharkey County to the south, which averages 65.8°F. However, both counties share the flat, fertile landscape of the Delta and its associated humidity.

Delta heat and brief winters

The county experiences 73 days of extreme heat annually, with July temperatures averaging 82.0°F. Winter brings a cool-down to 46.0°F, though snow is rare, averaging only 0.5 inches.

Sun protection for the Delta

The 73 days of extreme heat require residents to have reliable air conditioning and sun protection. Annual precipitation of 55.8 inches means seasonal storms are a regular consideration for farmers and residents.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sunflower County

via SoilByCounty

Delta Soils with Improved pH

Sunflower County maintains a pH of 5.61, which is noticeably higher than the state average of 5.30. While more alkaline than its neighbors, it remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5.

Dense Clay and Silt Balance

This soil is heavy on the fine particles, containing 31.3% clay and 47.5% silt against just 21.2% sand. This dense mix provides excellent nutrient retention but can be difficult to work when the soil is overly wet.

Average Water Capacity for Crops

Organic matter levels are lower at 1.39% compared to the 1.81% state average. However, the available water capacity of 0.175 in/in aligns almost perfectly with the Mississippi average, ensuring reliable moisture for crops.

Slow Drainage in Heavy Soil

The high clay and silt concentration suggests slower drainage and higher water retention compared to sandier counties. Farmers must plan for potential runoff during the heavy rains common in the Mississippi Delta region.

Cotton and Soybean Powerhouse

In hardiness zone 8b, the county's moisture-retentive soil is a dream for cotton and soybeans. Gardeners should consider raised beds to help manage the heavy clay texture during the wet spring season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sunflower County

via LawnByCounty

Delta Challenges in Sunflower County

Sunflower County posts a lawn difficulty score of 26.5, making it more challenging than the national average but slightly more manageable than several coastal counties. The Zone 8b climate provides a long growing season that is often interrupted by persistent dry spells.

Balanced Rainfall and Delta Heat

The county sees 55.8 inches of rain annually, which is close to the state average of 59.5 inches. With 73 extreme heat days and 5,947 growing degree days, the climate favors warm-season grasses that can withstand prolonged temperatures above 90°F.

Heavy Clay Requires Careful Management

With 31.3% clay content, the soil here is much heavier than in southern Mississippi, which can lead to compaction and drainage issues. The pH of 5.61 is low for turf, so aeration and sulfur or lime adjustments are often necessary for a healthy lawn.

Severe Drought Impacts the Delta

The county has spent 31 weeks in drought over the past year, and 21.1% of the area is currently in severe drought. Water conservation is critical; residents should prioritize watering in the early morning to minimize evaporation during peak heat.

Plant for High Heat Resistance

Zoysiagrass and Bermudagrass are top choices for the heavy clay and high heat of the Delta. Start your lawn projects after the last frost on March 8 to take full advantage of the long window before the November 20 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sunflower County's county score?
Sunflower County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 46.4 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 Sunflower County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Sunflower County ranks #47 among all counties in Mississippi 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 Sunflower County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Sunflower County is $909, with an effective tax rate of 0.88%. This earns Sunflower County a tax score of 46.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sunflower County?
The median household income in Sunflower County, Mississippi is $40,265 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sunflower County earns an income score of 3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sunflower County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Sunflower County scores 46.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #47 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Sunflower 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 Sunflower 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.