countyscore
51
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 81.5Cost of Living 78

County Report Card

About Weakley County, Tennessee

Solidly Above the National Median

Weakley County scores a 51.0, placing it just above the national median for livability. It offers a stable environment that mirrors broader national trends.

Consistent with State Averages

The county's score of 51.0 aligns almost perfectly with the Tennessee state average of 51.3. It provides a quintessential Tennessee lifestyle with predictable costs and benefits.

Great Water and Manageable Costs

A water score of 86.0 and a tax score of 81.5 lead the county's dimensions. Housing affordability is also a major plus, reflected in a cost score of 78.0 and median home values of $136,300.

Economic Growth and Public Safety

The income score of 13.4 is the county's lowest metric, tied to a $49,502 median household income. Safety also lags at 25.0, suggesting a need for increased community investment.

A Reliable Rural Infrastructure Choice

Weakley County suits residents who prioritize reliable utilities and low housing costs. It is an excellent fit for those who work in agriculture or local education and value a low-tax environment.

2040608010081.5782531.448.413.4268663.3Tax81.5Cost78Safety25Health31.4Schools48.4Income13.4Risk26Water86Weather63.351/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Weakley County DNA

Foverall

How Weakley County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Weakley County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Cost of Living (78/100) but notably weak in Income (13.4/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
81.5+29.5
Cost
78+30
Safety
25-30
Health
31.4-18.6
Schools
48.4
Income
13.4-37.6
Risk
26-21
Water
86+28
Weather
63.3
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Whether buying or refinancing in Weakley County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$136,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$760/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$136,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$30,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $49,502/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

3.0

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

Obion County
Tennessee
45.2
Gibson County
Tennessee
44.9
Graves County
Kentucky
56
Carroll County
Tennessee
53.8
Hickman County
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67.9
Henry County
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Fulton County
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Calloway County
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Deep Dives

Weakley County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Weakley County

via TaxByCounty

Weakley taxes below national levels

Weakley County's effective tax rate of 0.541% aligns with the national median, yet homeowners pay just $737 annually—less than 27% of the national median tax of $2,690. Lower property values drive this significant difference from national norms.

Slightly above state average rate

Weakley County's effective rate of 0.541% exceeds Tennessee's state average of 0.511%, but its median tax of $737 is 28% lower than the state average of $1,016. The county's below-average home values more than compensate for the slightly higher rate.

Among the higher regional rates

Weakley County's 0.541% rate exceeds neighbors Warren County (0.447%) and White County (0.425%), but trails Washington County (0.552%). Yet its median tax of $737 remains competitive due to lower home values in the area.

A $136,300 home costs $737

The typical Weakley County homeowner with a median-valued property of $136,300 pays approximately $737 in annual property taxes. At roughly $61 per month, this represents one of Tennessee's most affordable property tax burdens.

Challenge overassessments today

Many homeowners across all counties pay taxes on inflated assessed values rather than current market values. File a free appeal with Weakley County's assessor if you believe your home is assessed above what similar properties recently sold for.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Weakley County

via CostByCounty

Weakley County: Struggling With Housing Burden

Weakley County renters spend 18.4% of their income on housing, exceeding Tennessee's 17.6% state average and pushing toward affordability stress. With a median household income of $49,502—among the lowest in this cluster—even modest rents create meaningful budget pressure for working families.

Above-Average Cost Burden Statewide

At 18.4%, Weakley County's rent-to-income ratio places it above Tennessee's state average, signaling tighter affordability conditions than most state peers. The county's lower median income relative to housing costs creates a squeeze that affects many resident households.

Middle Ground in Regional Pricing

Weakley County's $760 rent sits between Wayne ($619) and Warren ($775), while its $136,300 median home value falls below Washington ($231,700) and White ($190,200). The county occupies a middle position regionally, offering neither the deepest savings nor premium amenities.

Limited Margin in Monthly Budgets

Renters allocate $760 monthly while homeowners pay $599 on homes valued at $136,300, with each housing dollar consuming a larger percentage of the county's below-average incomes. At 18.4%, housing burden leaves tighter margins for unexpected expenses or savings compared to state-average counties.

Affordable, But Budget Tightly

Weakley County offers moderate housing costs, but your income should be carefully matched to local job market realities before relocating. Compare your salary expectations here against the county's $49,502 median to ensure your financial stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Weakley County

via IncomeByCounty

Weakley faces steepest national income gap

Weakley County's median household income of $49,502 represents the lowest in this analysis and falls 33.8% below the national median of $74,755. Per capita income of $26,807 also ranks last in the group, indicating limited wage growth and few high-paying opportunities. The county faces significant economic headwinds compared to the national landscape.

Lowest-earning county in Tennessee grouping

Weakley County's $49,502 household income trails Tennessee's $58,994 state average by nearly $9,500 annually, landing in the state's bottom tier. Per capita income of $26,807 is the lowest state comparison, pulling significantly below Tennessee's $31,458 average. The county reflects the deepest rural income challenge in this Tennessee sample.

Struggles among struggling rural neighbors

Weakley County ($49,502) earns less than all immediate peers: Wayne ($52,824), Warren ($54,088), White ($52,206), and Washington ($61,051) all exceed its income. The county's struggle is relative even within this low-income rural cluster, signaling acute local economic challenges. Regional agricultural decline and manufacturing loss compound Weakley's difficulties.

Rent costs squeeze tight household budgets

Weakley County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% consumes a significant share of limited household earnings, leaving less for savings and emergencies. Median home values of $136,300 require substantial down payments that many families struggle to accumulate. Housing affordability pressures combined with low wages create real financial strain for Weakley residents.

Tough climb requires skill development focus

Weakley County households earning $49,502 face real constraints, making emergency savings even more critical for weathering hardship. Local workforce development programs and community colleges offer training in high-demand fields that can meaningfully lift earning power. Building financial stability requires both individual savings discipline and access to better employment pathways.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Weakley County

via CrimeByCounty

Weakley County is safer than national average

Weakley County reports a total crime rate of 1857.5 per 100K, well below the national mark of 2,385.5. This earns the county a solid safety score of 97.1.

Consistency with Tennessee safety trends

The safety score of 97.1 is nearly identical to the Tennessee state average of 97.2. However, Weakley's total crime rate of 1857.5 is slightly higher than the state average of 1785.6.

Safety comparison with neighboring counties

Weakley's crime rate is higher than Washington County's 716.5 but lower than the national figures. Seven reporting agencies work together to manage public safety in this area.

Violent crime is below national figures

Weakley's violent crime rate of 330.8 is lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime represents the majority of incidents at 1526.7 per 100K residents.

Stay vigilant against property crime

Because property crime is the most frequent issue, residents should focus on home security. Visible cameras and alarm systems can discourage potential intruders.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Weakley County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Traditional Countywide School System

Weakley County features 11 public schools within a single district, educating a total of 3,987 students. The system is comprised of four elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools, primarily serving rural communities.

Consistent Performance and Balanced Spending

The county's 93.0% graduation rate is nearly identical to the state average and well above the 87.0% national baseline. Spending per pupil stands at $6,286, which is consistent with state trends but significantly lower than the $13,000 national average.

One District Focusing on Rural Success

The Weakley County district oversees all 11 schools, with no charter schools present to compete for the 3,987 student population. Westview High School is the county's largest educational facility, housing 560 students.

Rural Roots with Town Hubs

Most of the county's education takes place in its eight rural schools, supplemented by three town-based campuses. With an average school size of 399 students, schools like Greenfield School and Dresden Elementary offer moderate enrollment that balances resources with community feel.

Your Home in a Supportive Education Community

Weakley County provides a stable and reliable school system for families looking to settle in Northwest Tennessee. Research homes near Martin or Dresden to find a property close to the county's most popular schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Weakley County

via RiskByCounty

Weakley County's elevated earthquake risk

Weakley County scores 74.05 on the composite risk scale, placing it significantly above Tennessee's state average of 52.45 in the 'Relatively Low' category. The county's risk is driven primarily by extreme earthquake exposure (95.74), one of the highest seismic vulnerability scores in the state.

Among Tennessee's most earthquake-prone

Weakley County ranks in the upper tier of Tennessee's 95 counties by composite risk, with its 74.05 score reflecting hazard exposure well above the state norm. The county's earthquake score of 95.74 places it among Tennessee's most seismically vulnerable communities.

Weakley's seismic distinction

Weakley County (74.05) faces substantially higher composite risk than neighboring Wayne County (42.97) and White County (38.55), though tornado and earthquake exposure patterns are shared across northwest Tennessee. The county's 95.74 earthquake score is notably elevated even compared to other counties in its region.

Earthquakes dominate Weakley's hazards

Earthquakes (95.74) and tornadoes (77.86) represent Weakley County's primary disaster threats, with seismic risk reaching near-maximum vulnerability levels. Flooding (21.88) and wildfires (13.77) pose minimal concern, while hurricane risk (47.60) remains below state averages.

Earthquake insurance is essential

Weakley County residents must prioritize earthquake insurance, given the county's exceptional 95.74 seismic vulnerability score. Paired with tornado preparedness planning, earthquake coverage represents the most critical protection investment for properties in this high-risk seismic zone.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Weakley County

via WaterByCounty

Perfect Drinking Water Compliance

Weakley County earns an A grade for drinking water quality, with zero health violations recorded over the last five years. This 0.0 violation rate is a standout performance compared to the Tennessee average of 34.6. Local utilities are successfully meeting all Safe Drinking Water Act health standards.

Typical Watershed Impairment Levels

About 32.4% of assessed water bodies in Weakley County are impaired, which aligns closely with the state average of 30.2%. The 2022 reporting cycle identifies 33 impaired streams out of 102 assessed. Leading causes of degradation include E. coli, sedimentation, and physical alterations to stream habitats.

Consistent Nutrient and Metal Tracking

Weakley County utilizes 24 monitoring sites that have recorded 4,737 measurements in the previous five years. The Water Quality Portal shows a focus on inorganics, metals, and nutrients. These measurements help track the impact of agricultural runoff and habitat changes on local stream health.

Low Flow on South Fork Obion

The South Fork Obion River near Greenfield is flowing at 153 cfs, which is only 25% of its long-term mean. This significantly low discharge follows a regional trend of below-average streamflow. Such conditions can reduce the river's ability to dilute pollutants like E. coli during dry periods.

Maintaining Safety During Drought

While Weakley County enjoys excellent drinking water compliance, the low streamflow at 25% of typical levels can concentrate watershed pollutants. Residents should be mindful of E. coli and sediment in local streams, particularly during these periods of reduced flow. Your drinking water is currently safe, but watershed conservation remains key to long-term quality.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Weakley County

via WeatherByCounty

Strong Seasonal Temperature Swings

Weakley County averages 58.8°F annually, which is notably warmer than the U.S. median. The region is characterized by hot summers and distinct, though manageable, winters.

Warmer Than the Tennessee Average

The county's 58.8°F average exceeds the Tennessee state average of 58.1°F. It is one of the warmer agricultural hubs in the northwest part of the state.

Typical for West Tennessee

Weakley's 58.8°F average is very similar to Williamson County's 59.0°F. Both counties represent the warmer, more humid profile found outside of the eastern mountains.

Intense Summer Heat Days

Weakley faces a grueling 48 days of 90°F+ heat each year, with July averaging 79.3°F. Winter is cold but dry, producing only 1.8 inches of annual snowfall.

Prioritize Cooling and Hydration

With nearly 50 days of extreme heat, residents should ensure HVAC systems are robust and outdoor work is done in the early morning. Winter requires only light preparation given the minimal 1.8 inches of snow.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Weakley County

via SoilByCounty

Weakley's Productive Silt-Rich Alfisols

Weakley County features Alfisols, which are generally more nutrient-rich than the more common Tennessee Ultisols. The soil has a pH of 5.27 and a dominant silt loam texture. While more acidic than the national median, these soils are highly valued for their agricultural potential in West Tennessee.

A Landscape Built on Silt

The soil is composed of a massive 70.8% silt, with very little sand at 14.4% and clay at 14.8%. This extreme silt concentration creates a smooth, almost velvety soil that is highly fertile but susceptible to erosion. It provides an ideal medium for root penetration and row crop production.

Top-Tier Water Retention Potential

Weakley boasts an impressive available water capacity of 0.200 in/in, far exceeding the state average of 0.171. This is offset by a low organic matter level of 1.42%, which is well below the national average. Despite the low organic stats, the incredible water storage makes these soils resilient during dry spells.

Managing Poorly Drained Silt

Classified as somewhat poorly drained and falling into hydrologic group D, these soils can become waterlogged easily. The high silt and low sand content prevent rapid drainage, leading to high runoff risks. Successful farming here often requires specialized drainage management or raised bed gardening.

West Tennessee's Agricultural Powerhouse

The 7b climate and high-moisture silt loams are perfect for soy, corn, and deep-rooted perennials. Because the soil drains slowly, it is a great candidate for raised garden beds that allow for better aeration. Start your garden today and tap into the high water-holding capacity of this unique West Tennessee soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Weakley County

via LawnByCounty

Tough Turf Transitions in Weakley

Weakley County faces a lawn difficulty score of 39.1, placing it among the more challenging counties in Tennessee for lawn care. This score sits nearly 10 points below the national average and significantly trails the state average of 48.0. Success requires careful selection of grass types and soil prep.

High Heat and Frequent Mowing

The county experiences 48 extreme heat days per year, which is 12 days more than the Tennessee average. Annual precipitation of 54.1 inches provides plenty of water, but the 4,651 growing degree days mean your lawn will be very active. High heat often triggers dormancy in cool-season grasses during mid-summer.

Drainage Challenges in Silt Loam

The soil here is classified as somewhat poorly drained, which can lead to standing water during heavy rains. With a pH of 5.27 and very low sand content (14.4%), the silt loam texture can become heavy and suffocating for roots. You must prioritize aeration and pH balancing to keep your turf healthy.

Combating Consistent Dry Conditions

Weakley County spent 21 weeks in drought over the last year, and the entire county is currently abnormally dry. To conserve water, mow at a higher setting during dry spells to shade the soil and reduce evaporation. This helps your lawn survive the 48 annual days of temperatures exceeding 90°F.

Warm-Season Grasses for the Win

Bermuda grass is highly recommended here due to its heat tolerance and ability to handle the local drainage profile. Plan your planting window between the last spring frost on April 4 and the first fall frost on November 1. This long growing window is ideal for establishing warm-season turf that can thrive in Zone 7b.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Weakley County's county score?
Weakley County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 51 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 Weakley County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Weakley County ranks #51 among all counties in Tennessee 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 Weakley County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Weakley County is $737, with an effective tax rate of 0.54%. This earns Weakley County a tax score of 81.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Weakley County?
The median household income in Weakley County, Tennessee is $49,502 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Weakley County earns an income score of 13.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Weakley County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Weakley County scores 51/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Weakley 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 Weakley County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.