countyscore

Washington County, Mississippi — County Report Card

MS

#39 in Mississippi

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
48.4
County Score
Safety 97.5Cost of Living 73.4Property Tax 49.5

County Report Card

About Washington County, Mississippi

Meeting the state but trailing the nation

Washington County earns a composite score of 48.4, placing it slightly below the national median of 50.0. While it performs well in specific areas like safety, it faces broad challenges common in the Delta region. It maintains a middle-of-the-pack standing when compared to the country as a whole.

Perfectly aligned with the state average

With a score of 48.4, Washington County perfectly matches the Mississippi state average. It serves as a representative benchmark for livability within the state. It balances exceptional safety scores with significant economic and health-related challenges.

Exceptional safety and affordability

Washington County shines with a Safety Score of 97.5, making it one of the most secure-feeling areas in the region. Housing is extremely affordable with a Cost Score of 73.4 and median home values under $100,000. For those looking for a quiet, low-cost life, these metrics are highly attractive.

Severe economic and health gaps

The county struggles with an Income Score of 2.9 and a Health Score of 9.3, both near the bottom of national rankings. Median household income sits at $40,117, creating a steep uphill climb for local wealth building. A School Score of 13.3 suggests the education system needs significant support to drive future growth.

Best for safety-conscious budgeters

Washington County is a strong fit for individuals with external income sources, such as retirees, who prioritize peace of mind and low expenses. The combination of a 97.5 Safety Score and $786 median rent is a rare find. It suits those who can navigate a landscape with limited local healthcare and economic opportunity.

Score breakdown

Tax49.5Cost73.4Safety97.5Health9.3Schools13.3Income2.9Risk17Water42.4Weather42.6
🏛49.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼2.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤9.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓13.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡17
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧42.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤42.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨47.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱38.2
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

Chicot County
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Sharkey County
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Humphreys County
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Sunflower County
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Issaquena County
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East Carroll Parish
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Bolivar County
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West Carroll Parish
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Deep Dives

Washington County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Washington County

via TaxByCounty

Washington County taxes low despite higher rate

Washington County's effective tax rate of 0.843% exceeds the national median of 0.92% only slightly, yet the median annual tax of $837 remains far below the national median of $2,690. This reflects Washington County's lower median home values compared to national averages.

Above-average rate for Mississippi

Washington County's 0.843% effective rate ranks above Mississippi's state average of 0.743%, placing it in the upper third statewide. It's exceeded only by Warren County (0.855%) and Wilkinson County (0.862%) among the surveyed counties.

Second-highest rate in the regional group

Washington County's 0.843% rate trails only Warren County (0.855%) and Wilkinson County (0.862%) in the region, exceeding Union (0.576%), Webster (0.574%), Wayne (0.779%), Walthall (0.784%), and Winston (0.648%). Regional variation can translate to hundreds in annual tax differences.

Median Washington home taxed at $837 yearly

A median Washington County home valued at just $99,300 generates $837 in annual taxes, the lowest median tax among the eight counties despite a relatively high effective rate. With a mortgage, the figure rises to $1,351; without, it drops to $492.

Challenge inflated assessments immediately

Washington County's combination of higher effective rates and lower home values means assessment accuracy is critical to affordability. Homeowners should obtain their assessment record, compare it to recent arm's-length sales of similar properties, and appeal if the assessed value appears unjustified.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washington County

via CostByCounty

Washington County faces affordability pressure

Washington County renters spend 23.5% of income on rent—a full 4.7 percentage points above the national affordability threshold. With median household income at just $40,117, the $786 monthly rent burden leaves tighter budgets than most U.S. counties.

Above-average housing cost burden

Washington County's 23.5% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds Mississippi's 19.6% state average, ranking among the state's least affordable counties. This burden reflects both low median income ($40,117) and mid-range rents ($786) that outpace local earning power.

Struggling more than peers

Washington County's 23.5% rent burden far exceeds neighbors like Warren (18.8%) and Union (19.2%), and even surpasses Wayne County (25.6%) only marginally. The $786 rent eats into household budgets faster here than anywhere in the immediate region.

Rent squeezes low-wage households

Renters pay $786 monthly while homeowners spend $620, yet median household income of $40,117 makes both tenures tight. At 23.5% of income going to rent alone, Washington County households have less left for food, transport, and healthcare.

Consider relocation to stronger counties

If you're in Washington County and weighing a move, counties like Union (19.2%), Warren (18.8%), or Webster (12.4%) offer substantially better rent-to-income ratios. The 5-percentage-point difference between Washington and Union means real monthly savings for working families.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washington County

via IncomeByCounty

Washington County faces severe income gap

Washington County's median household income of $40,117 ranks among the lowest in the nation, sitting 46% below the $74,755 national median and 17% below Mississippi's already-challenged state average. This deep income deficit signals substantial economic disadvantage and limited local wage growth.

Lower quartile struggles statewide

Washington County ranks in the bottom quarter of Mississippi's 82 counties, with only about 20 counties earning less. This position reflects decades of agricultural consolidation, population loss, and limited job diversification in the Delta region.

Among the region's hardest hit

Washington County's $40,117 income exceeds only Wayne County ($36,791) and Wilkinson County ($35,930) among these eight counties, trailing Union, Warren, Webster, Walthall, and Winston significantly. The gap to Webster County ($59,964) exceeds $19,000, underscoring stark local inequality.

Housing squeeze threatens stability

Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 23.5% approaches the danger zone, with households spending nearly a quarter of earnings on housing alone. The median home value of $99,300, while modest, still strains a $40,117 median income and leaves little for other necessities.

Protect what you have, then grow

With tight income, focus first on reducing debt and building a small emergency fund—even $500 makes a difference in crisis prevention. Then explore employer 401(k) matches or individual savings accounts that offer tax advantages to build stability over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washington County

via CrimeByCounty

Data Limitations in Washington County

Washington County currently shows a reported crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents, which is mathematically below the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a technical safety score of 100.0, though this likely reflects reporting gaps.

A Statistical Outlier in Mississippi

With no reported incidents for the current period, Washington County appears safer than the state average of 98.4. This data represents four reporting agencies, but the lack of numbers suggests an incomplete picture compared to state averages.

Incomplete Data Makes Comparisons Difficult

While neighbors like Warren County report high activity, Washington County's current data shows no crime. Residents should interpret these low numbers with caution as agencies may still be processing 2022 reports.

Understanding the Zero Crime Rate

The current data shows 0.0 for both violent and property crime rates. In practical terms, this means the four reporting agencies have not submitted qualifying incident data to the national database for this period.

Stay Vigilant Despite Missing Data

Lack of data does not mean a total absence of risk, so standard safety precautions are still recommended. Keep your home secure and maintain contact with local law enforcement for the latest neighborhood updates.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Washington County

via HealthByCounty

Washington County faces significant health disparities

At 66.9 years, Washington County's life expectancy trails the U.S. average of 76.4 years by nearly 9.5 years—the widest gap among its peer group. A poor/fair health rate of 26.9% nearly exceeds the national average of 18%, reflecting considerable population-level health challenges.

Lowest life expectancy in Mississippi

Washington County's life expectancy of 66.9 years is the lowest statewide—nearly 4 years below Mississippi's state average of 70.9 years. Its poor/fair health rate of 26.9% ranks among the highest in the state, indicating severe health burdens.

Behind neighboring counties on most measures

Washington County's 66.9-year life expectancy falls short of all nearby counties, including Wilkinson County (68.6 years) and Webster County (69.0 years). Though its mental health provider rate of 184 per 100K exceeds some peers, primary care at 41 per 100K remains below Warren County's 67.

Coverage and access both need strengthening

Washington County's uninsured rate of 14.1% exceeds the state average of 13.9%, with fewer primary care providers (41 per 100K) than Warren County. Addressing coverage gaps and expanding primary care capacity are critical steps toward improving health outcomes.

Expand coverage to close the health gap

Washington County residents deserve access to preventive and primary care. Visit healthcare.gov or call 601-355-4808 to explore Medicaid or Marketplace plans that fit your budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Washington County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive School Network Across Four Districts

Washington County maintains 25 public schools, the highest count among its neighbors, serving 6,422 students. The infrastructure is spread across four districts and includes 11 elementary schools and seven high schools.

Addressing Academic and Funding Gaps

The graduation rate of 82.9% falls below the Mississippi state average of 87.1%. Spending also lags behind, with $5,784 per pupil compared to the state average of $5,954 and the national average of $13,000.

Greenville Public Schools Leads the County

Greenville Public Schools is the largest of the four districts, operating 13 schools for 3,542 students. Other key providers include the Hollandale and Leland School Districts, all of which exclusively follow the traditional public school model with no charter schools present.

Town-Centered Schools with Smaller Class Sizes

The majority of schools—21 out of 25—are located in town settings, with an average school size of 306 students. Greenville High School is the largest at 871 students, while many other campuses offer a more intimate, smaller-scale environment.

Discover Neighborhoods Near Washington Schools

For those seeking a town-based lifestyle with a wide variety of school options, Washington County offers numerous geographic choices. Research local districts today to find the perfect home near your preferred campus.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washington County

via RiskByCounty

Washington County faces serious hazards

Washington County's composite risk score of 82.98 earns a relatively moderate rating, significantly exceeding Mississippi's state average of 50.94. This high score reflects a convergence of multiple major natural disaster risks.

Second-highest risk in state

Washington County ranks among Mississippi's highest-risk counties, with its 82.98 score placing it near the top of the state's danger list. Only a few Mississippi counties exceed this level of natural hazard exposure.

Most dangerous county nearby

Washington County's risk profile nearly matches neighboring Warren County (86.29) and far exceeds Union County (43.51) to the east. This positions Washington as the most hazard-exposed county in its region.

Tornadoes, earthquakes, and flooding

Washington County faces the state's worst tornado risk (93.00), combined with extreme earthquake exposure (90.84) and severe flooding threats (81.20). Hurricane risk (72.34) compounds an exceptionally dangerous natural hazard profile.

Comprehensive coverage is critical

Washington County residents must secure separate flood insurance immediately—the county's 81.20 flood risk score makes this non-negotiable for any property. Additionally, verify your homeowners policy covers wind, hail, and tornadoes with adequate limits given the county's 93.00 tornado risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washington County

via WeatherByCounty

High Heat in the Mississippi Delta

Washington County averages 64.1°F annually, which is about 10 degrees warmer than the national median. The county experiences a humid subtropical climate with a moderate 52.5 inches of annual rainfall.

Typical Mississippi Heat and Humidity

The county’s 64.1°F average temperature closely aligns with the Mississippi state average of 63.9°F. While it matches the state in temperature, it is slightly drier than the state average of 59.6 inches of rain.

Drier than the Piney Woods

Washington County receives 52.5 inches of rain, making it significantly drier than southern counties like Wayne or Walthall. However, it faces more extreme heat, with 10 more 90-degree days than Tunica to the north.

Eighty-Four Days of Extreme Heat

Summer is intense here, with 84 days per year reaching at least 90°F and a July average of 82.3°F. Winters are short and cool, averaging 45.9°F with only 0.4 inches of annual snow.

Prepare for Intense Summer Sun

With 84 extreme heat days, residents must prioritize sun protection and high-performance cooling systems. Agricultural planning should account for the relatively lower 52.5 inches of rain compared to other Mississippi regions.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washington County

via SoilByCounty

The Delta's Neutral, Productive Profile

Washington County stands out with a soil pH of 6.13, approaching the national median of 6.5 and far exceeding the state average of 5.30. This relatively neutral pH is a hallmark of the fertile Mississippi Delta, supporting diverse and intensive crop production.

Heavy Clay and Silt Balance

The soil consists of 31.6% clay and 43.1% silt, a combination that creates a heavy, nutrient-rich profile. This mix provides excellent structural support for plants but can be difficult to work when it is either too wet or too dry.

High Performance and Steady Moisture

The available water capacity hits the state average exactly at 0.174 in/in, ensuring reliable moisture for crops. While organic matter is 1.49%, the high clay content naturally helps the soil retain the nutrients that modern agriculture requires.

Managing Delta Drainage

With over 31% clay, these soils likely exhibit slow drainage, a common challenge in the flat Delta landscape. Farmers here rely on precision leveling and drainage ditches to manage water movement across these heavy-textured fields.

Delta Gold in Zone 8b

The combination of neutral pH and zone 8b warmth makes this a gardener's paradise for cotton, soybeans, and corn. For home growers, this is the perfect spot for robust summer vegetables like squash, peppers, and beans.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washington County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Lawn Success in Washington

Washington County features a lawn difficulty score of 38.2, making it one of the better counties in Mississippi for lawn care. It significantly beats the state average of 30.9 but remains below the national 50.0 benchmark. Its Zone 8b climate provides a robust but demanding growing environment.

Eighty-Four Days of Extreme Sun

This county endures 84 extreme heat days per year, which is well above the state average of 73. However, the annual precipitation of 52.5 inches is very close to the 50-inch ideal max. This creates a balance where the rain mostly matches the high evaporation rates.

Ideal pH Levels for Lush Turf

The soil pH here is 6.13, placing it squarely within the ideal range of 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth. High clay content at 31.6% means the soil holds water effectively during the long heatwaves. This natural soil chemistry gives local lawns a significant head start over neighboring counties.

Managing Twenty-One Weeks of Drought

Over the past year, Washington County spent 21 weeks in drought, indicating a need for reliable watering systems. Currently, 66.4% of the county is abnormally dry, though no areas have reached severe drought levels. Deep, infrequent watering is the best strategy to survive these dry cycles.

The Best Timing for Zone 8b

March 12 marks the typical end of the spring frost, giving you a green light for lawn projects. Bermuda grass is a top performer here because it thrives in the 84 days of extreme heat. Plan to fertilize in late spring to capitalize on the excellent soil pH.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington County's county score?
Washington County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 48.4 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 Washington County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Washington County ranks #39 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 Washington County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Washington County is $837, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Washington County a tax score of 49.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washington County?
The median household income in Washington County, Mississippi is $40,117 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washington County earns an income score of 2.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washington County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Washington County scores 48.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #39 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Washington 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 Washington 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.