countyscore
64.4
County Score
Safety 97.5Property Tax 81.5Schools 69.7

County Report Card

About Vernon Parish, Louisiana

Vernon Parish Outperforms National Standards

With a composite score of 64.3, Vernon Parish sits significantly higher than the 50.0 national median. This high ranking places it among the more desirable parishes in the region for overall quality of life.

Leading the Way in Louisiana

Vernon's 64.3 score easily clears the state average of 53.0. It is a standout performer that offers a unique combination of safety and affordability not found in many neighboring parishes.

Elite Safety and Financial Ease

The parish boasts an impressive Safety Score of 97.5, making it one of the most secure areas in the country. A Tax Score of 81.5 further enhances its appeal by keeping more money in residents' pockets.

Room for Economic and Risk Improvement

The Income Score of 33.6 and Risk Score of 31.1 are the local weak points. While housing is accessible, the median household income of $58,281 suggests a tighter job market compared to urban centers.

The Verdict: A Haven for Security-Focused Families

Vernon Parish is an excellent fit for families who prioritize safety and low crime above all else. The strong school score of 69.7 and high safety rating create a nurturing environment for growing households.

Score breakdown

Tax81.5Cost54.6Safety97.5Health42.3Schools69.7Income33.6Risk31.1Water36.3Weather30.1
🏛81.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠54.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤42.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓69.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡31.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧36.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤30.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨26.6
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 →
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Deep Dives

Vernon Parish across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Vernon Parish

via TaxByCounty

Vernon Parish taxes at roughly half the national average

Vernon Parish's effective tax rate of 0.541% remains far below the national median effective rate, putting it in the lowest 25% across the country. While the national median property tax is $2,690, Vernon Parish homeowners on median-value homes pay just $776—less than a third.

Mid-range tax burden among Louisiana parishes

Vernon Parish's effective rate of 0.541% sits above Louisiana's state average of 0.421%, placing it in the middle-to-upper half of the state's parishes. It ranks higher than low-tax rural parishes but lower than some urban and industrial-heavy parishes.

Higher taxes than most surrounding parishes

Vernon Parish's 0.541% rate exceeds nearby Vermilion (0.337%), Washington (0.350%), and Winn parishes (0.315%), making it one of the more heavily taxed parishes in its region. Only West Feliciana Parish among nearby counties approaches or exceeds Vernon's tax burden.

Median annual tax is $776 on typical home

On Vernon Parish's median home value of $143,500, property owners pay approximately $776 annually in property taxes. After accounting for mortgage interest deductions and homestead exemptions, the typical tax liability drops to around $305 per year.

Appeal your assessment if value seems inflated

Vernon Parish residents who question whether their home's assessed value reflects current market conditions have the right to file an assessment appeal. The parish assessor's office can review comparable sales data to determine if your property has been overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Vernon Parish

via CostByCounty

Vernon rents stretch household budgets

Renters in Vernon Parish spend 21.4% of their income on rent, exceeding the 30% affordability threshold but edging above the national comfort zone. With median household income at $58,281 and median rent at $1,038 monthly, housing costs claim a significant portion of earnings.

Above state average for affordability

Vernon Parish's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Louisiana's 19.5% state average, placing it among the less affordable rental markets statewide. The median rent of $1,038 is $165 higher than the state average, a notable gap for working families.

Vernon rents higher than Vermilion

Vernon Parish renters pay substantially more than neighbors in Vermilion Parish—$1,038 versus $802 monthly, a difference of $236 annually per household. Despite higher rents, Vernon's median home value of $143,500 undercuts Vermilion's $159,700.

Rent takes bigger share of income

The $1,038 median rent consumes 21.4% of Vernon's $58,281 annual household income, above the national comfort threshold but manageable for dual-income households. Homeowners invest $593 monthly, representing 12.2% of income for mortgage and ownership costs.

Vernon offers trade-offs for movers

Vernon Parish suits renters with moderate incomes willing to dedicate slightly more to housing costs in exchange for lower home prices than comparable parishes. Homebuyers benefit from median values under $144,000, making ownership accessible despite rental pressures.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Vernon Parish

via IncomeByCounty

Vernon trails national income benchmark

Vernon Parish households earn $58,281 annually, about 22% below the national median of $74,755. The parish sits in the lower-income tier nationally, reflecting challenges common to rural military-dependent communities in Louisiana.

Slightly above Louisiana average

Vernon Parish median household income of $58,281 exceeds Louisiana's state average of $55,250 by $3,031, placing it in the upper-middle tier among the state's parishes. This modest advantage reflects the presence of Fort Polk and related economic activity.

Middle ground among regional peers

Vernon Parish ($58,281) edges out Vermilion Parish ($57,537) and substantially outpaces Washington Parish ($42,776) and Webster Parish ($37,396). Its position reflects the parish's military-anchored economic base relative to purely agricultural neighbors.

Rising housing cost pressures here

Vernon Parish faces a concerning 21.4% rent-to-income ratio, approaching the national affordability threshold of 30%. While median home values of $143,500 remain relatively affordable, residents should monitor rental market increases that could strain household budgets.

Strategic saving shields against uncertainty

Military-connected households in Vernon Parish benefit from structured benefits; maximize TSP contributions and transition planning if separating from service. Building a 6-month emergency fund becomes especially important given housing cost pressures and economic dependence on a single anchor employer.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Vernon Parish

via CrimeByCounty

Vernon Parish Reports Zero Crime

Vernon Parish reports a total crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents, a stark contrast to the national average of 2,385.5. This exceptional reporting results in a perfect safety score of 100.0.

Leading the State in Safety

With a safety score of 100.0, Vernon Parish ranks at the very top of Louisiana's safety scale. It significantly outperforms the state average safety score of 97.1 and the average crime rate of 1,853.7.

Safety Leader Among Neighbors

Vernon’s reported crime rate is the lowest in the region, far below the state's average activity levels. While neighboring parishes face varying challenges, Vernon maintains an outlier status for its peaceful data.

A Clean Safety Record

Both violent and property crime rates are recorded at 0.0 per 100,000 across four reporting agencies. These numbers indicate a remarkably secure environment for all parish residents.

Staying Proactive in Vernon

Even with zero reported crimes, maintaining home security ensures long-term peace of mind. Consistent awareness helps Vernon Parish keep its status as a safety leader in Louisiana.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Vernon Parish

via HealthByCounty

Slightly below national life expectancy

Vernon Parish residents live to 73.0 years, just 0.5 years below the U.S. average of 73.5 years. One in five residents (21.3%) report being in poor or fair health, indicating a community navigating significant health challenges.

About even with Louisiana

At 73.0 years, Vernon's life expectancy sits 0.5 years below Louisiana's 72.5-year state average, placing the parish near the middle of the state's health rankings. The 21.3% poor/fair health rate is below the state's typical burden.

Mid-range among peers

Vernon Parish (73.0 years) falls between Vermilion Parish (74.1) and Washington Parish (68.9) in life expectancy. With a 7.6% uninsured rate, Vernon performs slightly better than the state average of 8.1%.

Limited primary care, strong mental health

Vernon Parish has only 27 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—well below the state's needs—but compensates with 205 mental health providers per 100,000, one of the strongest mental health workforces in the region. Just 7.6% of residents lack insurance, easing access barriers for some.

Secure coverage to ensure access

With primary care providers in short supply, every resident should maintain active health insurance to maximize access when appointments are limited. Visit louisiana.gov/dhh to explore marketplace plans or Medicaid eligibility this open enrollment season.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Vernon Parish

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad Educational Reach in Vernon Parish

Vernon Parish operates a single-district system with 18 public schools serving 9,037 students. The landscape features seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and four high schools, alongside five specialized campuses. This streamlined district structure provides consistent oversight for families throughout the parish.

Exceptional Graduation and Solid Scores

The parish maintains a high graduation rate of 96.0%, well above the national benchmark of 87.0%. With a school score of 57.4, the district outperforms the state average of 53.0 despite spending slightly less per pupil at $7,311. These metrics highlight an efficient system that delivers strong academic outcomes.

Unified District Leadership in Vernon

Vernon Parish District manages all 9,037 students, ensuring a unified educational strategy across the region. There are currently no charter schools in the parish, focusing all resources on the traditional public school system. This centralized approach supports major campuses like Leesville High School.

Rural Roots and Mid-Sized Campuses

The parish features 10 rural and 8 town-based schools, with an average enrollment of 502 students per campus. Large schools like Leesville High and Rosepine Elementary serve over 800 students each, while others offer a more rural, intimate feel. Most students attend schools that are integrated into the small-town fabric of the community.

Settling Down in Vernon Parish

Vernon Parish offers a high-performing public school system that is a major draw for home buyers. Families seeking stability will find the unified district and high graduation rates compelling reasons to move here. Start your home search near these top-rated rural and town campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Vernon Parish

via RiskByCounty

Vernon Parish carries moderate national risk

Vernon's composite risk score of 68.89 places it in the relatively low risk category, positioning it close to the national average despite Louisiana's elevated statewide risk profile. The parish faces balanced exposure across multiple hazard types rather than concentration in a single threat.

Mid-range risk within Louisiana

Vernon Parish ranks near the state median among Louisiana's 64 parishes with a composite score of 68.89, sitting above the state average of 62.37. The parish avoids the extreme vulnerability of coastal parishes but exceeds the protection of inland western parishes.

Higher tornado risk than adjacent parishes

Vernon's tornado risk score of 85.97 significantly exceeds those of nearby Rapides and Sabine parishes, making severe thunderstorms a particular concern. However, its hurricane risk of 87.03 remains lower than coastal neighbors, reflecting its inland position.

Tornadoes and wildfires lead threats

Vernon faces elevated tornado risk (85.97) and wildfire risk (79.80), making spring and summer severe weather periods critical for preparedness. Flooding risk of 66.57 also warrants attention, particularly during heavy precipitation events.

Prepare for multiple threat types

With elevated tornado and wildfire risks, Vernon residents should ensure homeowners insurance includes wind coverage and review property defensibility around structures. Consider a safe room or storm shelter for tornado season, and maintain defensible space around your home during wildfire season.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Vernon Parish

via WeatherByCounty

Subtropical Heat in Central Louisiana

Vernon Parish averages 66.7°F annually, placing it well above the national median temperature. The climate is classified as humid subtropical, characterized by long, hot summers and brief, mild winters. This temperature profile is typical for the American Deep South but far warmer than most of the country.

Keeping Pace With the State Average

At 66.7°F, Vernon Parish sits just below the Louisiana state average of 67.0°F. This small variance makes it one of the more representative parishes for the state's overall climate. It experiences the classic Louisiana heat without the extreme coastal humidity of its southern neighbors.

Drier and Hotter Than Coastal Parishes

Vernon sees 100 extreme heat days per year, significantly more than Vermilion’s 73 days. It is also drier than the state average, receiving 59.5 inches of annual rainfall compared to the Louisiana average of 60.8 inches. This inland position results in sharper temperature peaks during the summer months.

A Century of Extreme Heat Days

The parish endures 100 days of temperatures at or above 90°F, with July highs averaging 82.3°F. Winters are cool but rarely cold, featuring a January average of 49.4°F and a negligible 0.1 inches of annual snowfall. The summer average of 81.5°F dominates the local weather calendar.

Prioritize Heat Safety and Cooling Efficiency

With 100 days of extreme heat, efficient home cooling and hydration are the top priorities for residents. The 59.5 inches of annual rain require sturdy roofing, though the parish is slightly less prone to flooding than coastal areas. Plan for peak outdoor work during the mild 51.0°F winter season.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Vernon Parish

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Sandy Uplands

Vernon Parish has a soil score of 26.6, which reflects its challenging growing conditions compared to the state average. The soil is quite acidic with an average pH of 5.36, falling significantly below the national median of 6.5. This low pH profile often requires lime amendments for most traditional vegetable gardening.

A Dominance of Sand

The soil composition is primarily sand at 56.8%, followed by 29.3% silt and only 13.9% clay. This high sand content ensures fast drainage but often struggles to retain the nutrients necessary for hungry crops. Growers will find the soil easy to work and dig, though it dries out quickly.

Low Organic Reserves

Organic matter stands at just 1.66%, which is well below both the state average of 6.38% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.143 in/in, meaning plants may need supplemental irrigation during dry spells. Heavy composting is recommended to build up the soil's natural fertility.

Rapid Runoff Challenges

The parish is characterized by Hydrologic Group D, which typically indicates high runoff potential when the soil is saturated. Despite the sandy texture, this classification suggests restricted water movement through the deeper profile. This can lead to flash flooding or surface pooling during intense Louisiana storms.

Gardening in Zone 9a

Vernon Parish sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, offering a long growing season for heat-tolerant plants. Blueberries and pines thrive in these acidic, sandy conditions where other crops might struggle. With proper irrigation and organic amendments, your backyard garden can still become a productive oasis.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Vernon Parish

via LawnByCounty

High Stakes Lawn Care in Vernon

Vernon Parish is one of the toughest places for lawns in the state, with a difficulty score of 25.3. This is far below the national average of 50.0 and even trails the Louisiana average of 33.8. Maintaining a green space here in Hardiness Zone 9a requires intensive management and specific species selection.

Sizzling Summer Heat Challenges Turf

Vernon endures 100 extreme heat days per year, which is 16 days more than the state average. While 59.5 inches of annual rain is plentiful, the 6,487 growing degree days mean your mower will stay busy for most of the year. The intense heat often stresses grass faster than the rain can replenish it.

Sandy Soils Require Extra Nutrients

With a high sand content of 56.8% and a low pH of 5.36, Vernon soils lose moisture and nutrients very quickly. The acidic profile requires significant lime amendments to reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range. Because the soil only contains 13.9% clay, lawns here may need more frequent, lighter watering than heavier-soil neighbors.

Battling Severe Drought Conditions

Drought resilience is critical here, as nearly 48.6% of the parish currently faces severe drought conditions. The parish spent 19 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry. Investing in drought-tolerant turf like Bermuda grass is a smart long-term strategy for this region.

Maximize Your Long Growing Season

Establish your lawn after the last spring frost on March 8 to take advantage of the warming soil. Warm-season grasses are the only viable option here, given the 100 days of extreme heat. Focus on building organic matter in your sandy soil during the spring to help the lawn survive the upcoming summer stress.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Vernon Parish's county score?
Vernon Parish, Louisiana has a composite county score of 64.4 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 Vernon Parish rank among counties in Louisiana?
Vernon Parish ranks #11 among all counties in Louisiana 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 Vernon Parish, Louisiana?
The median annual property tax in Vernon Parish is $776, with an effective tax rate of 0.54%. This earns Vernon Parish a tax score of 81.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Vernon Parish?
The median household income in Vernon Parish, Louisiana is $58,281 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Vernon Parish earns an income score of 33.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Vernon Parish, Louisiana a good place to live?
Vernon Parish scores 64.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #11 in Louisiana. The best way to evaluate Vernon Parish 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 Vernon Parish 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.