countyscore
55.5
County Score
Safety 94.5Income & Jobs 76Property Tax 68.5

County Report Card

About Wakulla County, Florida

Wakulla scores above the national average

With a composite score of 55.5, Wakulla County outperforms the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 61st percentile nationally. This means the county offers livability advantages that exceed the typical U.S. county across multiple quality-of-life measures.

A top performer within Florida

Wakulla's score of 55.5 significantly exceeds Florida's state average of 45.1, ranking it well above most of the state's 67 counties. The 10.4-point advantage reflects stronger income levels and tax efficiency than typical for the state.

Safety, taxes, and strong incomes lead

Wakulla excels in safety (94.5/100) and maintains a low effective tax rate of 0.651%, earning a score of 68.5 on tax burden. With a median household income of $74,183 and an income score of 76.0, residents enjoy solid earning power relative to cost of living.

Housing costs and water quality lag

The county's cost score of only 22.6 reflects a median home value of $216,300 and monthly rent averaging $1,155—challenging affordability for lower-income households. Water quality and health scores (30.1 and 49.3 respectively) also suggest room for improvement in environmental and public health outcomes.

Safety-minded families with stable incomes

Wakulla suits professionals and families prioritizing personal safety and favorable tax treatment over affordable housing. The county offers a secure, income-friendly lifestyle for those who can manage moderate housing costs and accept trade-offs in educational and health infrastructure.

2040608010068.522.694.549.344.87653.330.128.9Tax68.5Cost22.6Safety94.5Health49.3Schools44.8Income76Risk53.3Water30.1Weather28.955.5/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Wakulla County DNA

Foverall

How Wakulla County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Wakulla County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (94.5/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (30.1/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
68.5+16.5
Cost
22.6-25.4
Safety
94.5+39.5
Health
49.3
Schools
44.8-9.200000000000003
Income
76+25
Risk
53.3
Water
30.1-27.9
Weather
28.9-27.1
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$216,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,155/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$216,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$46,200/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $74,183/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

5.8

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Leon County
Florida
34.5
Franklin County
Florida
55
Liberty County
Florida
53.4
Jefferson County
Florida
57
Gadsden County
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51.7
Taylor County
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52.9
Calhoun County
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62.2
Gulf County
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54.7

Deep Dives

Wakulla County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Wakulla County

via TaxByCounty

Wakulla taxes well below national norm

Wakulla's effective tax rate of 0.651% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.89%, placing the county in the lower half of U.S. property tax burdens. Homeowners here pay a median of $1,408 annually—roughly half the national median of $2,690—despite homes worth nearly as much as the national average.

Competitive rate within Florida

At 0.651%, Wakulla's effective rate undershoots Florida's state average of 0.731%, giving it a modest advantage among Sunshine State counties. The median tax bill of $1,408 also trails the state median of $1,885, reflecting relatively restrained local tax pressure.

Wakulla sits in the middle regionally

Among nearby Big Bend counties, Wakulla's rate of 0.651% falls between Walton County's notably low 0.454% and Washington County's 0.504%. Wakulla residents pay more in absolute dollars ($1,408) than Washington County neighbors ($787), but less than Walton's median of $1,709.

What a Wakulla homeowner pays

The median Wakulla home valued at $216,300 generates an estimated annual tax of roughly $1,408 without homestead exemption, or $1,555 if you carry a mortgage. For those who itemize deductions, property tax savings can add up over time.

Check if you're overassessed

Many Wakulla homeowners pay more than they should due to inflated property assessments. Appealing your assessment during Florida's annual review window is free and can substantially lower your tax bill if the county overestimated your home's value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Wakulla County

via CostByCounty

Wakulla's rent burden beats the nation

Wakulla County residents spend just 18.7% of their income on rent, well below the national affordability sweet spot and significantly lower than Florida's 22.5% average. With a median household income of $74,183—essentially matching the national median of $74,755—this county offers surprisingly accessible rental housing for middle-income families.

Most affordable rents in north Florida

Among Florida's 67 counties, Wakulla ranks among the most affordable for renters, with a rent-to-income ratio that outperforms the state average by nearly 4 percentage points. At $1,155 per month, median rent runs $78 below the state average, giving residents more breathing room in their budgets.

Cheaper than Walton, pricier than Washington

Wakulla's $1,155 monthly rent falls between its neighbors: Walton County ($1,674) and Washington County ($884). Homebuyers find similar middle-ground positioning, with Wakulla's median home value of $216,300 offering a more affordable path to ownership than Walton's $376,400 median.

Renting and owning stay affordable here

Wakulla households allocate 18.7% of income to rent or just 16.9% to mortgage payments—both comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold. This leaves residents with substantially more income for savings, healthcare, and other essentials compared to higher-burden counties.

Consider Wakulla for balanced living costs

If you're priced out of coastal Florida but need reasonable housing costs, Wakulla delivers both. Compare its $1,155 rent and $216,300 home values to your current market—you may find thousands of dollars annually freed up for other priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Wakulla County

via IncomeByCounty

Wakulla tracks with the nation

Wakulla County's median household income of $74,183 sits just $572 below the national median of $74,755, placing it almost exactly at the U.S. average. This competitive positioning reflects a county keeping pace with American earning trends despite Florida's statewide average lagging $9,287 behind the nation.

Above-average earners in Florida

Wakulla ranks well within Florida's 67 counties with median household income 13.4% higher than the state average of $65,468. This upper-tier standing reflects a workforce that outearns typical Floridians, though per capita income of $32,920 trails the state average of $35,698.

Outearning western Florida peers

Wakulla's $74,183 median income exceeds Washington County's $52,723 by $21,460—a 40.7% advantage—but trails neighboring Walton County's $79,281 by $5,098. Among its regional peers, Wakulla occupies the middle ground with solid household earnings.

Rent stays affordable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 18.7%, Wakulla residents spend well below the 30% threshold housing experts recommend as sustainable. At a median home value of $216,300, homeownership remains accessible for households earning near the county median.

Build on solid county earnings

Wakulla's median income provides a stable foundation for wealth-building through home equity and retirement savings. Consider directing the difference between Wakulla's income and Florida's cost of living into long-term investments to maximize financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Wakulla County

via CrimeByCounty

Wakulla Boasts Exceptional National Safety Standing

Wakulla County achieves a perfect safety score of 100.0, making it one of the most secure locations in the country. Its total crime rate of 11.9 per 100K is a tiny fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in Florida Public Safety

The county significantly outperforms the Florida average safety score of 98.4. With seven reporting agencies, its total crime rate remains nearly 1,000 points lower than the state average of 1,027.9 per 100K.

Setting the Standard for Neighboring Counties

Wakulla maintains a crime rate that is substantially lower than most surrounding Panhandle counties. This low frequency of incidents establishes the county as a regional benchmark for community security and peace.

Non-Violent Incidents Dominate Local Data

The county reports a violent crime rate of 0.0 per 100K, indicating no major violent offenses were recorded in 2022. All reported activity consists of property crimes, which occur at the remarkably low rate of 11.9 per 100K.

Protecting Your Home in a Safe Haven

Even in a high-safety area, basic precautions like locking windows and installing motion lights help maintain this perfect score. Vigilance ensures that property crime rates stay at their current historic lows.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Wakulla County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small but Specialized Educational Network

Wakulla County operates a focused network of 15 public schools serving 5,156 students. The infrastructure includes five elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools, managed by a single unified district. Six additional specialized facilities round out the local education landscape.

Exceptional Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

The county boasts an impressive 94.0% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the national average of 87.0% and the Florida average of 89.8%. While per-pupil spending of $5,690 is below the state average of $6,118, the county's school score of 52.8 remains higher than the national median. These figures suggest a high-performing system that delivers strong results despite limited funding.

Wakulla District Leads Local Education

The Wakulla school district manages all 15 schools and 5,156 students within the county borders. Charter school options are limited, with only one such facility representing about 6.7% of the total school landscape. Families generally rely on the traditional public system for most educational needs.

A Rural and Town-Centered Learning Environment

With nine schools in rural settings and six in town locales, Wakulla offers a classic community-school feel with an average size of 516 students. Wakulla High School is the largest campus with 1,418 students, while Crawfordville Elementary serves 684 children. This mix of environments provides students with a range of social and academic experiences.

Secure Your Family's Future in Wakulla

High graduation rates make Wakulla County an attractive destination for families prioritizing academic success. When exploring the local housing market, consider proximity to top-rated campuses like Crawfordville Elementary. A home in this area offers access to a school system that consistently outperforms state benchmarks.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Wakulla County

via RiskByCounty

Wakulla's risk scores below national baseline

Wakulla County's composite risk score of 46.69 places it in the Relatively Low category, well below the national average. This means residents face fewer compounding natural hazard threats than most U.S. counties, though localized risks remain significant for specific hazard types.

Among Florida's safer counties

With a composite score of 46.69, Wakulla ranks as one of Florida's lower-risk counties compared to the state average of 75.74. However, this advantage is relative—Florida's vulnerability to coastal and severe weather hazards means even lower-scoring counties warrant preparedness planning.

Safer than coastal neighbors

Wakulla's risk profile (46.69) is significantly lower than nearby Walton County (88.58) and slightly below Washington County (59.45). The proximity to the Gulf Coast explains the elevated hurricane and wildfire risks in all three counties, but Wakulla's inland geography provides some protection.

Wildfire and hurricane dominate locally

Wakulla County's two highest risks are wildfire (84.48) and hurricane (84.48), both driven by the county's coastal pine forests and Gulf exposure. Flooding ranks third at 61.20, primarily affecting low-lying areas near the Wakulla and St. Marks rivers during heavy rainfall and storm surge events.

Prioritize hurricane and wildfire coverage

Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes wildfire and flood damage, leaving Wakulla residents exposed to two of the county's highest-scoring hazards. Consider a separate wildfire insurance policy and flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, especially if your property is near the coast or in forested areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Wakulla County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking water grade falls to F

Wakulla County struggles with a Grade F for drinking water compliance, recording 20 health violations over a five-year period. The county's violation rate of 66.4 per 100,000 residents significantly exceeds the Florida state average of 43.4.

One-fourth of assessed waters face impairment

In the 2022 reporting cycle, 28.3% of the county's 427 assessed water bodies failed to meet Clean Water Act standards. While 121 sites are impaired by mercury and phosphorus, this rate remains lower than the state average of 38.8%.

Moderate monitoring coverage tracks nutrients

A network of 106 monitoring sites produced 26,221 measurements over the last five years. Data collection focuses heavily on physical characteristics, nutrients, and the presence of pesticides in the water supply.

Ochlockonee River flow drops significantly

Current discharge at the Ochlockonee River near Smith Creek is 831 cfs, which is only 44% of its long-term mean. This low flow indicates unusually dry conditions for the 2,080 square mile drainage area.

Filter water and monitor low flows

Given the Grade F compliance score and high violation rate, residents should utilize certified water filtration systems. Low river flows can also concentrate pollutants like mercury and phosphorus, requiring extra caution for recreational users.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Wakulla County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm but distinct seasonal shifts

Wakulla County averages 67.8°F, which is warm by national standards but cool for Florida. It maintains a humid subtropical profile with distinct seasonal shifts.

One of Florida's cooler spots

This is one of Florida's cooler counties, sitting more than three degrees below the state average of 71.1°F. Its Panhandle location dictates these lower averages.

Warmest in the immediate region

Wakulla is slightly warmer than its neighbor Walton (67.5°F). While precipitation data is not available, its temperature profile suggests a classic Gulf Coast climate.

Hot summers and chilly winters

Summer temperatures average 81.1°F with 89 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F. Winters are noticeably cooler than the rest of the state, dipping to a 53.5°F average.

Versatile wardrobes for the Panhandle

Residents need a mix of wardrobe options to handle the 51.7°F January average and 81.9°F July heat. Cooling systems are still vital for the nearly 90 days of extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Wakulla County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Soil Defines Wakulla

Wakulla County's soil records a pH of 4.68, making it significantly more acidic than the 6.5 national median and even the 4.88 Florida average. While local taxonomic data is limited, this chemical profile dictates what can survive in the regional landscape.

A Gritty Foundation of Pure Sand

Sand dominates the soil here at a staggering 87.0%, while silt and clay make up only 3.4% and 2.8% respectively. This texture means the soil is highly workable but struggles to hold onto essential nutrients.

Lean Moisture Levels and High Organic Matter

The organic matter content of 6.35% is triple the national average, though it remains below the Florida state average of 8.03%. Available water capacity sits at 0.091 in/in, indicating the soil dries out faster than the state benchmark of 0.108 in/in.

Rapid Drainage Challenges Water Retention

While specific drainage classes are not recorded, the 87.0% sand content implies a landscape that drains very quickly. This porous structure is excellent for preventing puddles but requires careful irrigation management for agriculture.

Lush Growth in Zone 9a

Hardiness Zone 9a is perfect for acid-loving favorites like blueberries and azaleas that thrive in these sandy conditions. Start your garden today by selecting native Florida species that are naturally adapted to high-acidity soils.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Wakulla County

via LawnByCounty

Wakulla's Challenging Turf Environment

With a lawn difficulty score of 15.3, Wakulla County presents a significant challenge compared to the national median of 50.0. Growing in Zone 9a requires a more intensive management strategy than the Florida state average of 19.2.

Extreme Heat and High Growth Rates

The county faces 89 days of extreme heat over 90°F annually, stressing cool-season grasses beyond their limits. While annual precipitation data is limited, the 6,732 growing degree days indicate an exceptionally long and active growing season for warm-season varieties.

Acidic Sands Demand Heavy Soil Amending

The local soil is 87.0% sand and highly acidic with a 4.68 pH level. This falls far below the 6.0-7.0 ideal range, requiring consistent lime applications and organic matter to help the ground retain nutrients.

Managing Severe Drought Conditions

Wakulla has spent 27 weeks in drought over the last year, and currently 100.0% of the county is in a severe D2+ state. To keep grass alive during these dry spells, use deep, infrequent irrigation during the early morning hours.

Planting for Success in the Panhandle

St. Augustine or Centipedegrass are the best options for these acidic, sandy conditions in Zone 9a. Plan your sod installation or seeding shortly after the last spring frost on March 8 to give the roots time to establish.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wakulla County's county score?
Wakulla County, Florida has a composite county score of 55.5 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 Wakulla County rank among counties in Florida?
Wakulla County ranks #8 among all counties in Florida 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 Wakulla County, Florida?
The median annual property tax in Wakulla County is $1,408, with an effective tax rate of 0.65%. This earns Wakulla County a tax score of 68.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Wakulla County?
The median household income in Wakulla County, Florida is $74,183 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Wakulla County earns an income score of 76/100 on CountyScore.
Is Wakulla County, Florida a good place to live?
Wakulla County scores 55.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #8 in Florida. The best way to evaluate Wakulla 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 Wakulla County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.