countyscore
47
County Score
Property Tax 86.2Weather & Climate 75.6Lawn Care 60.9

County Report Card

About Accomack County, Virginia

Falling Just Below National Averages

Accomack County earns a 47.0 composite score, trailing slightly behind the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a rural profile that balances low taxes against lower infrastructure scores.

Trailing Virginia’s Statewide Benchmark

The county's overall score sits nearly four points below the Virginia state average of 50.9. While it offers unique coastal living, it ranks lower than many of the state's interior metropolitan areas.

A Haven for Low Tax Burdens

Accomack shines with a Tax Score of 86.2, driven by an exceptionally low effective tax rate of 0.498%. Housing also remains affordable relative to northern neighbors, with median rents under $1,000.

Environmental and Infrastructure Hurdles

The county faces significant environmental pressures, marked by a low Water Score of 15.1 and a Risk Score of 19.0. Local incomes also lag behind the state, with a median household income of $57,500.

Best for Budget-Conscious Coastal Living

Accomack is ideal for retirees or remote workers who prioritize low taxes and affordable $193,100 home values. However, residents must be comfortable with higher environmental risks and lower local income opportunities.

2040608010086.251.441.932.336.531.61915.175.6Tax86.2Cost51.4Safety41.9Health32.3Schools36.5Income31.6Risk19Water15.1Weather75.647/100
This county
National avg
2 above average6 below average

Accomack County DNA

Foverall

How Accomack County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Accomack County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (86.2/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (15.1/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
86.2+34.2
Cost
51.4
Safety
41.9-13.100000000000001
Health
32.3-17.700000000000003
Schools
36.5-17.5
Income
31.6-19.4
Risk
19-28
Water
15.1-42.9
Weather
75.6+19.599999999999994
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$193,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$973/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$193,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$38,920/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.4x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $57,500/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

48.0

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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Deep Dives

Accomack County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Accomack County

via TaxByCounty

Accomack's tax rate ranks among the lowest nationally

At 0.498%, Accomack's effective property tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.71%, placing it in the bottom 20% of all U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay a median of $962 annually—roughly one-third of the national median tax of $2,690—despite owning homes valued near the national average.

Accomack has Virginia's most affordable property taxes

At 0.498%, Accomack County's effective rate is the lowest in Virginia, significantly below the state average of 0.671%. The county ranks first statewide for tax affordability, charging just $962 in median annual property taxes compared to Virginia's state median of $1,960.

Accomack undercuts neighboring Eastern Shore rates

Accomack's 0.498% rate beats comparable rural Virginia counties across the state, offering some of the region's most favorable property tax conditions. With homes valued around $193,100, residents enjoy both lower home prices and lower tax rates than most Virginia alternatives.

The typical Accomack homeowner pays under $1,000 yearly

A median-value home at $193,100 generates approximately $962 in annual property taxes at Accomack's 0.498% rate. Owners with mortgages pay slightly more at $1,190, while those without mortgages pay $851.

Even low-tax Accomack homeowners can appeal assessments

Despite having Virginia's lowest effective tax rate, some Accomack homeowners may still be overassessed on their properties. Filing an assessment appeal—typically a free or low-cost process—could lower your tax obligation even further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Accomack County

via CostByCounty

Accomack's rent burden slightly above national norm

Accomack residents spend 20.3% of household income on rent, slightly higher than the U.S. average of 18.6%. With a median household income of $57,500—about 23% below the national median of $74,755—housing costs take a noticeably larger bite out of local paychecks.

Above-average affordability stress for Virginia

Accomack's rent-to-income ratio of 20.3% ranks it as one of Virginia's least affordable counties, above the state average of 18.6%. The median gross rent of $973 is $167 below the state median, but lower incomes here mean affordability is still stretched.

More affordable than rural Virginia peers

Accomack's median rent of $973 is comparable to nearby Amelia County ($972) and undercuts Appomattox County ($883) slightly. However, Accomack's lower median income ($57,500) versus Amelia's ($66,339) makes the same rent burden heavier here.

Renters and owners both stretched

Renters here spend $973 monthly while homeowners pay $686—a relatively modest ownership cost that reflects the county's $193,100 median home value. Together, these housing costs consume roughly one-fifth of the typical household's $57,500 annual income.

Consider Accomack for coastal affordability

If you're seeking a quieter Eastern Shore setting with below-state-average rents, Accomack offers access to waterfront living without the premium prices of Northern Virginia. Budget carefully: your income will need to stretch further here than in higher-wage Virginia counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Accomack County

via IncomeByCounty

Accomack lags behind national income benchmarks

Accomack County's median household income of $57,500 trails the national median of $74,755 by about 23%, placing the county below the U.S. average. This gap suggests households here earn roughly $17,255 less annually than the typical American household.

Below average among Virginia counties

Accomack ranks in the lower tier of Virginia's 133 counties and cities, with median income about 23% below the state average of $74,957. The county's per capita income of $33,213 is also notably below Virginia's state average of $39,155.

Accomack's income compares modestly regionally

Among Eastern Shore and coastal Virginia counties, Accomack's $57,500 median income is competitive but modest. Neighboring counties and similar rural areas in the state generally fall within the $55,000–$67,000 range, placing Accomack solidly in that middle band.

Housing remains affordable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 20.3%, Accomack County meets the 30% affordability threshold, meaning renters spend roughly one-fifth of their income on housing. The median home value of $193,100 is accessible to middle-income families, supporting broader economic stability.

Build savings while housing costs stay low

Accomack's affordable housing creates opportunity to redirect income toward retirement and investment accounts. Consider consulting a financial advisor about maximizing employer 401(k) matches and building an emergency fund—steps that compound wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Accomack County

via CrimeByCounty

Accomack Outperforms National Safety Averages

Accomack County boasts a high safety score of 97.9, significantly exceeding the national average. Its total crime rate of 1,312.6 per 100K residents is much lower than the national figure of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in Virginia

With a safety score of 97.9, Accomack ranks above the Virginia state average of 97.3. Six reporting agencies coordinate to maintain this secure environment for the coastal community.

Low Crime Compared to Regional Neighbors

Accomack's total crime rate of 1,312.6 is significantly lower than urban neighbors like Arlington, which sees 2,223.1 incidents per 100K. The county maintains a quieter profile than many inland Virginia jurisdictions.

Property Crime Drives Local Incidents

Property crime accounts for 965.0 incidents per 100K, while violent crime sits at 347.6. While the violent crime rate is slightly above the state average of 229.7, it remains below the national average.

Stay Vigilant to Keep Scores High

Residents can help maintain Accomack's safety by securing property and reporting suspicious activity to local agencies. Simple steps like motion-sensor lighting provide an extra layer of protection against property crime.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Accomack County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network Across the Shore

Accomack County manages a network of 13 public schools, including five elementary, two middle, and three high schools. A single district serves 4,726 students, providing a streamlined educational infrastructure for this coastal community.

Evaluating Outcomes and Investment

The county reports an 86% graduation rate, which sits just below the state average of 89% and the national mark of 87%. With a per-pupil expenditure of $7,248, the county invests less than the Virginia average of $7,941 and significantly less than the national median of $13,000.

Inside Accomack County Public Schools

Accomack County Public Schools operates as the sole provider for the region, managing all 4,726 students. There are currently no charter schools in operation, meaning families rely entirely on traditional district-run institutions.

Consistent Rural Education Environments

Every school in the county is classified as rural, creating a consistent environment with an average enrollment of 430 students. Arcadia High is the largest facility with 713 students, while several smaller primary schools offer a more intimate feel.

Planning Your Move to the Shore

Families looking for a quiet, rural lifestyle will find Accomack County schools offer a local, community-focused feel. Consider the proximity of your next home to these central campuses when exploring properties on the Eastern Shore.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Accomack County

via RiskByCounty

Accomack faces above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 81.01, Accomack County ranks as relatively moderate—well above Virginia's state average of 33.27 and significantly higher than the typical U.S. county. This score reflects the county's exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly water-related threats along the Eastern Shore.

Among Virginia's highest-risk counties

Accomack ranks near the top of Virginia's risk distribution, placing it in the riskier percentile statewide. The county's elevated composite score is driven primarily by hurricane and flood exposure, reflecting its coastal geography.

Coastal risk sets Accomack apart

Compared to neighboring inland counties like Alleghany (38.07) and Amelia (11.96), Accomack's score of 81.01 reflects its unique position on the Atlantic barrier islands. The county's hurricane risk (94.45) and flood risk (96.80) are substantially higher than any nearby jurisdictions.

Hurricane and flood dominate your risks

Accomack's hurricane risk score of 94.45 and flood risk of 96.80 represent the county's primary hazards—both reflecting storm surge, coastal flooding, and heavy precipitation events. Tornado risk (18.03) and earthquake risk (51.15) present secondary concerns but remain below the county's water-related threats.

Flood and wind insurance essential here

Given your exposure to hurricanes and flooding, comprehensive homeowners insurance with flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program is critical. Consider also reinforcing roof systems and elevating mechanical systems to withstand storm surge and sustained winds.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Accomack County

via WaterByCounty

Accomack struggles with drinking water compliance

Accomack County holds a failing grade of F with 24 health violations recorded over the last five years. The county's violation rate of 197.2 per 100,000 residents significantly exceeds the Virginia state average of 126.9.

Pollutants impact most county water bodies

In the 2022 assessment, 60.1% of the county's 223 water bodies failed Clean Water Act standards, surpassing the state average of 46.1%. Leading causes of impairment include PCBs in fish tissue and low dissolved oxygen levels.

Extensive monitoring network tracks coastal health

Authorities maintain a robust footprint of 123 monitoring sites that have generated 94,829 measurements over the last five years. These records focus heavily on physical, nutrient, and microbiological characteristics to track changing conditions.

Local streamflow data currently unavailable

There is currently no representative USGS streamgage recording live flow data within Accomack County. Residents should continue to rely on the county's drinking water compliance records for the most consistent water safety signal.

Prioritize filtration for high-risk water

Given the failing compliance grade and high violation rate, residents should consider certified home filtration systems and regular testing. Addressing PCB and nutrient impairments in the watershed remains a critical priority for local health.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Accomack County

via WeatherByCounty

A Mild Atlantic Coastal Climate

Accomack's 58.3°F annual average temperature is significantly warmer than the national median of 54°F. This coastal county enjoys a humid subtropical climate moderated by the Atlantic Ocean.

Warmer Than the Virginia Average

At 58.3°F, Accomack sits well above the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. Its eastern shore location helps keep the climate warmer and more consistent than inland counties.

The Delmarva Shore Comparison

Accomack receives 45.2 inches of annual precipitation, nearly matching the state average of 45.7 inches. It is notably warmer and less snowy than Virginia's western mountain regions.

Temperate Winters and Balmy Summers

Winters are mild at 40.5°F, seeing only 7.5 inches of annual snowfall. Summers average 76.1°F, though residents face 22 extreme heat days over 90°F each year.

Prepare for Humidity and Salt Air

High humidity requires robust air conditioning and dehumidification systems. Residents should also account for the corrosive effects of salt air on outdoor equipment and vehicles.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Accomack County

via SoilByCounty

Less Acidic Coastal Soils

Accomack's soil shows an average pH of 5.65, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. However, it is significantly less acidic than the Virginia state average of 5.23, making it stand out in the region. While specific taxonomic data is unavailable, the high soil score of 39.9 reflects a profile that outperforms most Virginia counties.

Sandy Shores and Easy Working

With a high sand content of 70.1% and only 8.0% clay, this soil offers exceptional workability for local farmers. The 17.8% silt provides some structure, but the dominant sand ensures the soil remains loose and crumbly. This mix allows for easy root penetration but requires careful moisture management.

Rich Organic Matter Boosts Growth

The county boasts an organic matter content of 4.60%, which is nearly double the national average of 2.0% and far exceeds the state's 2.90%. Despite this fertility, the available water capacity sits at 0.100 in/in, falling below the state average of 0.143. This means the soil holds nutrients well but dries out faster than neighboring regions.

Rapid Drainage in Coastal Plains

While specific drainage and hydrologic classifications are not formally listed, the 70.1% sand composition indicates a highly permeable profile. Rainwater likely moves through this soil quickly, which prevents pooling but may lead to leaching of nutrients. Builders and gardeners should plan for fast-draining conditions across the county.

Warm Coastal Gardening in Zone 8a

Accomack sits in Hardiness Zone 8a, allowing for a longer growing season than most of Virginia. The sandy, high-organic soil is perfect for sweet potatoes, asparagus, and salt-tolerant coastal shrubs. Residents can take advantage of these warm conditions to start early spring gardens.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Accomack County

via LawnByCounty

Accomack Leads Virginia in Easy Lawn Care

With a lawn difficulty score of 60.9, Accomack offers much easier growing conditions than the Virginia average of 55.4. This coastal county sits in hardiness zone 8a, benefiting from a milder climate that makes lawn maintenance more manageable than the national median of 50.0.

Coastal Rains Support Steady Growth

The county receives 45.2 inches of annual precipitation, which aligns perfectly with the ideal range for healthy turf. While residents face 22 extreme heat days per year, the 4,302 growing degree days provide a robust window for active grass development.

Sandy Soil Requires Nutrient Management

The soil is notably sandy at 70.1%, allowing for rapid drainage but potentially leaching nutrients quickly. A measured pH of 5.65 is below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range, suggesting that regular lime applications are necessary to balance acidity.

Managing Moderate Coastal Dry Spells

The county spent 20 weeks in drought over the past year, and 100% of the area currently experiences abnormally dry conditions. Because of the high sand content, homeowners should prioritize deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root systems.

Prime Planting for Coastal Lawns

Warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass thrive in zone 8a, though Tall Fescue remains a popular choice for year-round green. Aim to seed after the last frost on April 4th or during the cooling temperatures of early November.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Accomack County's county score?
Accomack County, Virginia has a composite county score of 47 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 Accomack County rank among counties in Virginia?
Accomack County ranks #92 among all counties in Virginia 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 Accomack County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Accomack County is $962, with an effective tax rate of 0.50%. This earns Accomack County a tax score of 86.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Accomack County?
The median household income in Accomack County, Virginia is $57,500 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Accomack County earns an income score of 31.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Accomack County, Virginia a good place to live?
Accomack County scores 47/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #92 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Accomack 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 Accomack 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.