countyscore
45.4
County Score
Safety 97.5Cost of Living 58.6Soil Quality 52.6

County Report Card

About Yazoo County, Mississippi

Yazoo County Ranks Below National Average

Yazoo County earns a composite score of 45.3, falling nearly five points below the national median of 50.0. This ranking reflects a divide between its exceptional safety marks and significant economic and health-related challenges.

Lagging Behind the Mississippi State Average

With a score of 45.3, Yazoo County sits below the state average of 48.4. It struggles to compete with neighboring counties due to lower performance in health and environmental risk dimensions.

Remarkable Safety and Low Rent Costs

The county boasts an elite Safety Score of 97.5, making it one of the most secure-feeling areas in the region. Housing is also accessible, with a median gross rent of $804 per month and a Cost Score of 58.6.

Health and Economic Indicators Present Hurdles

Economic opportunity is the primary challenge, evidenced by a very low Income Score of 3.3 and a median household income of $40,974. Environmental vulnerability is also a concern, with a Risk Score of 28.9 and a Health Score of 11.8.

A Haven for Safety Seekers on a Budget

Yazoo County is best suited for individuals who value personal security above all else and need low-cost housing. Families will need to navigate low school and health scores, which at 12.9 and 11.8 respectively, suggest a need for external community support.

Score breakdown

Tax45.7Cost58.6Safety97.5Health11.8Schools12.9Income3.3Risk28.9Water42.3Weather33.2
🏛45.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠58.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡97.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤11.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓12.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡28.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧42.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤33.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨52.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱34.2
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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Deep Dives

Yazoo County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Yazoo County

via TaxByCounty

Yazoo's rate stays below the national norm

Yazoo County's effective property tax rate of 0.890% remains lower than the national median of 0.99%, placing it in the moderate range nationally. Though the median annual tax of $1,150 trails the national median of $2,690, it's driven more by lower home values than by tax-code generosity.

Among Mississippi's highest-taxed counties

Yazoo County's 0.890% effective rate ranks notably above Mississippi's state average of 0.743%, making it one of the state's pricier counties for property taxes. At $1,150 annually, the median tax exceeds the state median of $931 by over 23%, signaling a genuine local burden for residents.

Yazoo taxes top nearby Yalobusha

Yazoo County's 0.890% rate edges higher than neighboring Yalobusha County's 0.823%, costing homeowners roughly $350 more annually on a median-value property. Both counties exceed the state average, but Yazoo carries the heavier local tax load in this corner of Mississippi.

What $129,200 homes cost annually

The median Yazoo home valued at $129,200 generates an estimated $1,150 annual property tax bill. Homeowners with a mortgage pay closer to $1,366 once escrow is included, while those owning outright pay approximately $673.

Many homeowners could save by appealing

Property assessments in Mississippi counties are regularly challenged and reduced through formal appeals. If you believe your home is overassessed relative to its market value, contacting your county assessor's office about an appeal could significantly lower your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Yazoo County

via CostByCounty

Yazoo renters squeeze 23.6% of income

At $804 monthly rent against a median household income of just $40,974, Yazoo County renters dedicate 23.6% of earnings to housing—a significant burden that outpaces Mississippi's 19.6% state average. Compared to the national median income of $74,755, Yazoo's income gap widens the affordability crisis considerably.

Yazoo ranks among least affordable counties

Yazoo County's 23.6% rent-to-income ratio places it among Mississippi's least affordable counties, well above the state average of 19.6%. The combination of low median income and housing costs that don't decrease proportionally creates real strain on renters throughout the region.

Yazoo faces tougher odds than Yalobusha

Yazoo renters pay only $6 less monthly than Yalobusha ($804 vs. $810), yet earn $8,197 less annually ($40,974 vs. $49,171), pushing their rent burden to 23.6%—4 percentage points higher than their neighbor. Homebuyers face even steeper challenges: median home values of $129,200 significantly exceed Yalobusha's $97,200.

Every housing dollar hits harder here

Renters pay $804 monthly (23.6% of income) while homeowners pay $793 (23.2% of income)—both figures far exceed the 30% affordability guideline despite lower absolute costs. The $40,974 median household income, or $3,415 monthly, leaves little buffer after housing expenses.

Yazoo demands careful affordability math

Relocating to Yazoo requires matching its lower incomes: renters earning under $41,000 will find affordable homes, but higher earners may feel constrained. Home buyers should weigh the $129,200 median value and $793 monthly ownership cost against limited local income growth opportunities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Yazoo County

via IncomeByCounty

Yazoo earns 45% below national median

Yazoo County's median household income of $40,974 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by nearly $34,000 annually. This significant gap places Yazoo among the lowest-income counties nationally and reflects persistent economic headwinds in rural Mississippi.

Ranks below state average

At $40,974, Yazoo falls short of Mississippi's median household income of $48,514 by about $7,540 per year. The county ranks in the lower third among Mississippi's 82 counties on household income.

Lower earnings than Yalobusha

Yazoo households earn approximately $8,197 less annually than those in neighboring Yalobusha County ($49,171). This 20% income gap underscores economic disparities within the region and highlights Yazoo's particular financial pressures.

Housing costs rising relative to income

Yazoo's rent-to-income ratio of 23.6% means housing expenses consume nearly one-quarter of median household earnings, approaching the affordability threshold of 30%. While the median home value of $129,200 is higher than in Yalobusha, it represents a larger burden relative to local incomes, requiring careful budgeting.

Strengthen your financial foundation

For Yazoo households earning around $41,000 annually, strategic financial planning is essential to build security and generational wealth. Explore local resources for financial literacy, explore side income opportunities, and prioritize even small contributions to savings—these steps compound significantly over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Yazoo County

via CrimeByCounty

Yazoo County Reports Minimal Crime Figures

Current data shows a total crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000 residents, resulting in a perfect safety score of 100.0. This figure stands in stark contrast to the national total crime rate of 2,385.5 per 100,000.

Top-Tier Safety Rating in Mississippi

With its reported safety score of 100.0, Yazoo County sits at the top of the state rankings compared to the Mississippi average of 98.4. This score reflects the data submitted by two reporting agencies during the 2022 calendar year.

Unmatched Safety Stats Compared to Neighbors

Yazoo County's reported crime rate of 0.0 is significantly lower than the state average of 978.4 per 100,000 residents. This statistical performance suggests an exceptionally quiet environment compared to the broader Mississippi Delta region.

Understanding the Data Behind the Numbers

Local agencies report zero violent and property crimes per 100,000 people, far below the national violent crime rate of 369.8. While these figures indicate an incredibly safe atmosphere, they often reflect the specific reporting cycles of the two active local agencies.

Sustaining Safety Through Community Awareness

Although reported crime is currently non-existent in the data, residents should remain proactive with home security measures. Consistent monitoring and community engagement help maintain the high level of safety reported across Yazoo County.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Yazoo County

via HealthByCounty

Health outcomes trail national benchmarks significantly

Yazoo County residents have a life expectancy of 70.3 years, about 5.8 years below the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Nearly 30% report poor or fair health—far exceeding the national average of 18%. These numbers underscore persistent health disparities that affect daily life and long-term outcomes for thousands in the county.

County faces among Mississippi's toughest health challenges

At 70.3 years, Yazoo's life expectancy falls below Mississippi's state average of 70.9 years, placing it in the lower tier statewide. The 30.4% poor/fair health rate is notably higher than the state average, indicating a community experiencing significant health burdens. The uninsured rate of 13.1% closely mirrors the state average of 13.9%.

Better provider access than neighboring Yalobusha

Yazoo County has 23 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly three times Yalobusha County's 8 per 100,000. Mental health support is notably stronger at 213 providers per 100,000, suggesting better access to behavioral health services. This provider density reflects Yazoo's larger population base and somewhat better infrastructure for care delivery.

Most residents have insurance, but health challenges persist

About 87% of Yazoo County residents carry health insurance, with 13.1% remaining uninsured. Despite having more primary care providers than neighboring counties, the high rate of reported poor/fair health suggests barriers beyond insurance—including poverty, chronic disease, and limited preventive care use. Healthcare access is necessary but not sufficient without addressing underlying community health needs.

Expand coverage to strengthen your health

If you're among the 13% of Yazoo residents without insurance, now is the time to explore coverage options through healthcare.gov or Mississippi Medicaid. With more primary care providers in the county, having insurance means you can actually access routine and preventive care. Visit your county health department or a certified enrollment counselor to find the right plan.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Yazoo County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education Infrastructure in Yazoo County

Yazoo County manages 3,349 students across two school districts and ten total campuses. This infrastructure includes four elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools that serve the local population.

Graduation Rates and Funding Realities

The county's graduation rate of 84.6% sits just below the state average of 87.1% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Currently, the $5,303 per-pupil expenditure is lower than the state’s $5,954 average and falls well below the national spending level of $13,000.

Yazoo City Municipal Leads Local Districts

The Yazoo City Municipal School District is the county's largest, overseeing 2,029 students across six schools. Traditional public education is the standard here, as there are currently no charter schools operating within the county’s two districts.

Navigating Town and Rural Learning Environments

Yazoo City High School stands as the largest campus with 632 students, while the average school size across the county remains modest at 419 students. Students attend classes in a mix of settings, with six schools located in town environments and four in rural areas.

Building a Future in Yazoo County

Prospective homeowners often prioritize school district boundaries when evaluating property in the Yazoo City and Bentonia areas. We encourage families to explore the local housing market while considering the specific academic opportunities available in these two districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Yazoo County

via RiskByCounty

Yazoo's risk is slightly above the national average

With a composite risk score of 71.15 and a Relatively Low rating, Yazoo County faces moderate natural disaster risk that exceeds typical American counties. This score reflects exposure to multiple hazards, particularly severe tornadoes and significant hurricane potential.

Above-average risk for Mississippi

Yazoo County's composite risk score of 71.15 is 40% higher than Mississippi's state average of 50.94, placing it among the more hazard-prone counties in the state. Tornado and hurricane risks drive much of this elevation above the state baseline.

Significantly riskier than neighboring Yalobusha

Yazoo's composite risk score of 71.15 towers over neighboring Yalobusha County's 19.53—nearly a 4-fold difference. This makes Yazoo substantially more exposed to natural disasters than surrounding counties, especially tornado activity.

Tornadoes and hurricanes demand attention

Yazoo County faces exceptional tornado risk with a score of 89.15 and significant hurricane risk at 70.50, making these the primary threats to residents and property. Flood risk of 48.54 and wildfire risk of 44.53 also warrant preparedness planning.

Comprehensive insurance and a safety plan are essential

Yazoo residents should prioritize homeowners insurance with adequate wind and hail coverage, plus separate flood insurance given the 48.54 flood risk score. Designate a storm shelter or safe room and maintain an emergency kit stocked for tornado season and hurricane warnings.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Yazoo County

via WeatherByCounty

Intense Heat in the Yazoo Basin

Yazoo County is significantly warmer than the national average, posting a 66.3°F annual temperature. The area is characterized by high humidity and a substantial 60.4 inches of annual precipitation.

One of the State’s Hotspots

The county's average temperature exceeds the state average of 63.9°F by more than two degrees. With 90 extreme heat days per year, Yazoo faces some of the most consistent summer heat in Mississippi.

Leading the Region in Extreme Heat

Yazoo experiences 90 days of temperatures over 90°F, significantly more than Winston’s 66 days or Yalobusha’s 69. Its annual rainfall of 60.4 inches is also slightly above the state average of 59.6.

A Long, Hot Summer Season

Summer temperatures average 82.2°F, driven by 90 days of extreme heat. Winters are mild and short, averaging 49.3°F with almost no measurable snowfall at 0.1 inches.

Cooling is the Top Priority

Prepare for a three-month stretch of 90-degree days by investing in high-efficiency cooling and attic ventilation. With 60.4 inches of rain, keeping drainage systems clear is essential to prevent localized flooding during storms.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Yazoo County

via SoilByCounty

Yazoo's Balanced Chemical Profile

Yazoo County soil maintains an average pH of 5.76, which is notably less acidic than the state average of 5.30. Although it remains below the national median of 6.5, this level provides a more versatile foundation for a wider variety of plants. This chemical profile suggests a relatively healthy environment for both native flora and agriculture.

Dense Silt and Clay Mix

The soil is dominated by 64.9% silt and 21.5% clay, with only 13.6% sand. This composition creates a dense, heavy earth that excels at holding onto nutrients but requires careful management to avoid compaction. The high silt and clay content provides excellent structural support for larger, deep-rooted crops.

Exceptional Water Retention for Crops

Yazoo's available water capacity is a robust 0.210 in/in, significantly outperforming the state average of 0.174 in/in. While organic matter is lower than the state average at 1.41%, the soil's ability to hold water is a major asset. This high moisture capacity helps local farms withstand periods of drought more effectively than neighboring counties.

Heavier Soils Require Drainage Care

Specific drainage classifications are not currently available, but the high clay and silt levels suggest the land retains water longer than sandy regions. This characteristic is beneficial for thirsty crops but requires careful monitoring of drainage during heavy rains to prevent root rot. Growers should consider raised beds if they encounter standing water in low-lying areas.

A Premier Agricultural Zone

With a high soil score of 52.6, Yazoo dramatically outpaces the state average of 35.7. Hardiness zone 8b allows for a long growing season perfect for cotton, pecans, and heat-loving vegetables. This combination of high water capacity and strong soil scores makes Yazoo a standout location for southern gardening.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Yazoo County

via LawnByCounty

Yazoo County Beats State Averages

Yazoo County earns a 34.2 lawn difficulty score, outperforming the Mississippi state average of 30.9. While it remains more challenging than the national median of 50.0, the Hardiness Zone 8b climate offers a slightly more hospitable environment for Southern turf.

Thriving in Intense Delta Heat

The county faces a grueling 90 days of extreme heat per year, surpassing the state average of 73 days. An impressive 6,438 growing degree days and 60.4 inches of rain fuel rapid growth, requiring frequent mowing and careful attention to heat-related diseases.

Working With Heavy Clay Soil

Yazoo soil contains 21.5% clay, which is higher than many neighbors and helps with water retention during the long summers. The soil pH of 5.76 is slightly below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, suggesting that periodic soil testing and amendments will improve lawn vigor.

Stable Moisture Levels in Yazoo

Yazoo has shown resilience with only 10 weeks in drought over the last year and currently reports zero percent severe drought. Although 87.5% of the county is abnormally dry, the overall moisture profile is more stable than in higher-difficulty counties.

A Long Window for Growth

With the last spring frost on March 11 and the first fall frost not until November 24, Yazoo offers an exceptionally long growing season. Heat-tolerant species like St. Augustine or Centipede grass are excellent choices for these extended, warm Mississippi summers.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Yazoo County's county score?
Yazoo County, Mississippi has a composite county score of 45.4 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 Yazoo County rank among counties in Mississippi?
Yazoo County ranks #51 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 Yazoo County, Mississippi?
The median annual property tax in Yazoo County is $1,150, with an effective tax rate of 0.89%. This earns Yazoo County a tax score of 45.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Yazoo County?
The median household income in Yazoo County, Mississippi is $40,974 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Yazoo County earns an income score of 3.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Yazoo County, Mississippi a good place to live?
Yazoo County scores 45.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #51 in Mississippi. The best way to evaluate Yazoo 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 Yazoo County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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