countyscore

Alamance County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#81 in North Carolina

Explore on ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
35.6
County Score
Property Tax 68.5Weather & Climate 65.8Water Quality 56

County Report Card

About Alamance County, North Carolina

Alamance Trails the National Median

With a composite score of 35.6, Alamance County sits significantly below the national median of 50.0. This score indicates that the county faces more livability hurdles than the typical American community.

Performance Below the North Carolina Average

The county's overall score of 35.6 falls well short of the North Carolina state average of 44.7. While it offers a bridge between the Triad and Triangle, it ranks in the bottom tier of the state's 100 counties.

Moderate Tax Burden and Steady Incomes

Alamance shows strength in its tax score of 68.5, supported by an effective tax rate of 0.651%. The county also maintains a respectable income score of 51.9, reflecting a median household income of $64,445.

Significant Safety and School Challenges

Public safety is a primary concern with a dimension score of just 9.3. Local schools also face difficulties, evidenced by a score of 27.6, while a cost score of 29.6 reflects rising housing pressures.

A Choice for Tax-Conscious Commuters

This county best suits middle-income professionals who value lower property taxes and proximity to major job hubs. However, families may need to look closely at specific school districts and safety data before relocating.

Score breakdown

Tax68.5Cost29.6Safety9.3Health41.3Schools27.6Income51.9Risk22.9Water56Weather65.8
🏛68.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠29.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡9.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤41.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓27.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡22.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧56
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.8
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Alamance County

Whether buying or refinancing in Alamance County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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
Compare Alamance County with Stanislaus County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Stanislaus County
California
Median income: $79,661
35.6
Gwinnett County
Georgia
Median income: $84,823
35.6
Hancock County
Mississippi
Median income: $67,728
35.6
Madera County
California
Median income: $75,496
35.5
Vermilion County
Illinois
Median income: $54,537
35.5
Crawford County
Kansas
Median income: $50,311
35.5
Isabella County
Michigan
Median income: $53,759
35.7
Jackson County
Missouri
Median income: $67,178
35.7

Nearby counties

Orange County
North Carolina
49.6
Chatham County
North Carolina
40.7
Guilford County
North Carolina
34.5
Randolph County
North Carolina
39.8
Durham County
North Carolina
34.1
Caswell County
North Carolina
59.6
Person County
North Carolina
44.5
Rockingham County
North Carolina
39

Deep Dives

Alamance County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Alamance County

via TaxByCounty

Alamance taxes well below national average

Alamance County's effective tax rate of 0.651% sits below the state average of 0.701%, and well below the national median effective rate of roughly 0.9%. Homeowners here pay a median of $1,440 annually compared to the national median of $2,690—about 46% less despite similar home values.

Middle of the pack in North Carolina

Among North Carolina's 100 counties, Alamance ranks in the middle range for effective tax rates. At $1,440 median property tax, the county matches the state average of $1,433, showing a typical tax burden for the state.

Similar to nearby Piedmont counties

Alamance's 0.651% rate is slightly lower than neighboring Randolph County and comparable to Guilford County's rates. The region's tax rates cluster tightly between 0.6% and 0.75%, reflecting consistent Piedmont valuation practices.

Median home, typical annual bill

A median-valued home in Alamance County ($221,200) generates an estimated annual tax bill of $1,440 without mortgage interest deduction, or $1,501 with one. This calculation multiplies the median home value by the county's 0.651% effective rate.

Many Alamance homeowners could appeal

Tax assessments can drift out of alignment with market values, leaving some homeowners overassessed. If your property is appraised significantly higher than comparable recent sales, a formal appeal to the county assessor's office could lower your tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Alamance County

via CostByCounty

Alamance's rent squeeze vs. the nation

Alamance renters spend 18.8% of their income on housing, slightly above the national median of 18.6%—meaning locals shoulder about the same burden as Americans overall. With a median household income of $64,445, Alamance falls short of the national median by $10,310, making each dollar of rent hit harder.

Right in the middle of the pack

Alamance's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio sits just above North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, placing it near the midpoint of county affordability rankings across the state. The county's median rent of $1,007 exceeds the state average of $938 by $69 monthly.

Alamance vs. nearby Piedmont counties

Alamance renters pay significantly more than those in nearby Alexander County ($745/month vs. $1,007/month), but face lower costs than some eastern alternatives. Alamance's homeownership picture is stronger—median home values of $221,200 compete with regional peers while monthly owner costs stay reasonable at $993.

How Alamance dollars split housing

Renters devote $1,007 monthly to gross rent, while homeowners spend $993—a near-even split that reflects the county's mixed housing economy. Between rent and mortgage obligations, Alamance households allocate roughly a fifth of their $64,445 annual income to housing, leaving modest room for other essentials.

Considering Alamance for relocation?

If you're evaluating North Carolina counties, Alamance offers moderate rents and homeownership opportunities near statewide averages—though incomes lag the national norm. Compare this profile against Alexander County (cheaper rents but lower home values) or Avery County (better affordability metrics) to find your best fit.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Alamance County

via IncomeByCounty

Alamance trails national income by $10k

Alamance County's median household income of $64,445 falls short of the national median of $74,755, a gap of roughly $10,300. This places Alamance below the top 40% of U.S. counties in earning power. Still, the county outpaces many rural regions facing steeper economic headwinds.

Above-average for North Carolina

At $64,445, Alamance's median household income exceeds North Carolina's state average of $61,072 by 5.5%, ranking the county in the middle-to-upper tier statewide. This solid position reflects a diverse economy anchored in manufacturing, retail, and growing professional services.

Competitive with neighboring counties

Alamance's $64,445 median income compares favorably to nearby Alexander County ($65,268), though both outpace more rural neighbors like Alleghany County ($44,272). The close match with Alexander suggests similar economic structures and workforce dynamics across the region.

Rent remains manageable at 18.8%

Alamance's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% sits well below the 30% affordability threshold, meaning typical households spend less than one-fifth of income on rent. With a median home value of $221,200, homeownership remains within reach for many families earning the county median.

Build savings with strong affordability

Alamance's favorable housing costs leave room in household budgets to invest in retirement accounts, education, and long-term assets. Starting an automatic transfer of just 5–10% of income into a diversified portfolio can compound significantly over a working lifetime.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Alamance County

via CrimeByCounty

Alamance Crime Rates Exceed National Averages

Alamance County reports a total crime rate of 2856.0 per 100K, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the county maintains a safety score of 95.5 out of 100.

Slightly Below the North Carolina Average

The county's safety score of 95.5 sits just below the North Carolina state average of 96.8. While the local crime rate is 2856.0, the state average total crime rate is lower at 2050.0 per 100K.

Comparing Alamance to Its Regional Neighbors

With a crime rate of 2856.0, Alamance sees more activity than nearby Alexander County at 1312.1. It also experiences higher crime volumes compared to Ashe County's rate of 1225.7 per 100K.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

Violent crime in Alamance stands at 482.6 per 100K, while property crime is significantly higher at 2373.4. This means the vast majority of law enforcement activity involves theft or burglary rather than physical violence.

Securing Your Alamance County Residence

With property crime rates exceeding 2,300 per 100K, home security is a smart investment for local residents. Visible cameras and robust locks can effectively deter opportunistic property offenses.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Alamance County

via HealthByCounty

Alamance lives longer than average

Alamance County residents live to 75.4 years on average, beating the U.S. life expectancy of 76.4 years by just under a year. The county's 19.7% poor or fair health rate is close to the national average, suggesting generally good health outcomes for a mid-sized North Carolina county.

One year ahead of North Carolina

Alamance's 75.4-year life expectancy outpaces North Carolina's 74.4-year state average by one year. The county ranks solidly in the middle tier for health outcomes statewide, neither leading nor trailing among its peers.

Healthier than nearby Randolph

Alamance residents live longer than those in neighboring Alexander County (74.1 years) and maintain better overall health than the state average. The county's mental health provider density of 192 per 100,000 residents provides moderate access to behavioral health services.

Insurance and provider access steady

Alamance's 12.6% uninsured rate matches the state average almost exactly, with 39 primary care providers per 100,000 residents available for routine care. The county offers reasonable access to both primary and mental health services, though residents in rural areas may face longer travel times.

Check your coverage today

One in eight Alamance residents lacks health insurance. Visit healthcare.gov or call 211 to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or employer coverage options available in your county.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Alamance County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large and Diverse Educational Infrastructure

Alamance County operates 41 public schools serving 25,062 students across five distinct districts. The network includes 21 elementary, 7 middle, and 9 high schools, providing a broad range of options for local families.

Balancing Investment and Graduation Rates

The county's 84.5% graduation rate currently trails both the state average of 88.0% and the national target of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure of $6,801 is slightly below the state average of $6,969, reflecting a need for continued investment.

Unified District Leadership and Charter Growth

Alamance-Burlington Schools is the primary district, managing 37 schools and 22,489 students. Four charter schools, including River Mill Academy, represent nearly 10% of the county's total school count.

A Mix of Urban and Rural Campus Life

Schools are evenly distributed among rural, suburban, and city locales, with an average enrollment of 627 students per campus. Southern Alamance High is the largest school with 1,360 students, creating a vibrant, large-campus atmosphere.

Find Your Home Near Alamance Schools

With a wide variety of school sizes and locations, Alamance County offers diverse options for every family. Explore real estate near top-performing high schools to find the perfect fit for your student.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Alamance County

via RiskByCounty

Alamance's risk ranks above national average

Alamance County scores 77.07 on the composite risk index, placing it well above the typical U.S. county baseline. This "Relatively Low" rating reflects meaningful exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly flooding, tornadoes, and hurricanes.

Above average risk for North Carolina

At 77.07, Alamance's composite risk score exceeds North Carolina's state average of 66.72, positioning it among the riskier counties in the state. The county faces notably elevated tornado and flood hazards compared to many of its neighbors.

Riskier than nearby Guilford and Randolph

Alamance County's 77.07 score outpaces its neighboring counties in the Piedmont region. Alexander County to the west scores just 45.80, making Alamance considerably more hazard-exposed than its immediate geography would suggest.

Flooding and tornadoes drive your risk profile

Flood risk reaches 83.91 in Alamance, making it one of the county's most pressing natural disaster concerns. Tornado risk ranks nearly as high at 82.28, while hurricane exposure reaches 81.85—creating a triple threat during severe weather season.

Comprehensive coverage essential for Alamance

With flood risk at 83.91, standard homeowners insurance won't protect your property—separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is critical. Consider reinforcing your roof and windows against high winds, and maintain an emergency kit updated annually.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Alamance County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer than the national average

Alamance County maintains an annual average temperature of 60.2°F, notably higher than the United States median. This humid subtropical climate experiences significantly more warmth than the typical American county.

Closer to state norms

The county's 60.2°F average temperature sits slightly above the North Carolina state average of 59.3°F. It remains drier than many coastal peers, recording 45.9 inches of annual precipitation compared to the state average of 51.5 inches.

A middle ground in the Piedmont

Alamance is warmer than its western neighbor Alexander County, which averages 58.3°F. While both share the Piedmont geography, Alamance faces roughly 21 more extreme heat days annually than Alexander.

Steamy summers and mild winters

Residents face 50 days of extreme heat above 90°F, with July averages reaching 79.7°F. Winters are relatively gentle, seeing only 1.8 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 40.5°F.

Prepare for high humidity and heat

Efficient HVAC systems are essential here to manage the 50 days of extreme summer heat. Heavy winter gear is rarely needed given the minimal 1.8-inch snow average, but rain protection is vital for the 45.9 inches of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Alamance County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Foundations in Central North Carolina

Alamance County soils maintain an average pH of 5.27, significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This acidity is slightly higher than the North Carolina state average of 5.14. While specific taxonomic data is currently limited, the low pH defines the chemical landscape for local growers.

A Balanced Sand and Silt Mix

The soil contains 48.9% sand, 34.0% silt, and 15.6% clay. This mixture provides a workable texture that allows for decent root penetration. The moderate clay content helps the soil hold its structure during typical Piedmont weather patterns.

Low Organic Matter with High Water Retention

Organic matter sits at 1.19%, which falls well below the state average of 5.12% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.165 in/in is quite high compared to the North Carolina average of 0.134. This means the soil is efficient at holding moisture for plants despite being low in carbon.

Managing Water Flow in Alamance

While specific drainage classes and hydrologic groups are currently unmapped for the county, the physical composition suggests a moderate drainage rate. Growers should monitor for ponding during heavy rains given the balanced silt and sand profile. Local observations are the best tool for site-specific building and farming projects.

Abundant Potential in Zone 8a

Alamance falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, supporting a wide range of heat-tolerant vegetables and ornamentals. High water capacity makes it an excellent spot for blueberries and azaleas if you manage the acidity. Grab a bag of lime and start your garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Alamance County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Your Alamance County Lawn

With a lawn difficulty score of 42.8, Alamance County presents a slightly easier challenge than the North Carolina average of 40.8, though it remains tougher than the national median of 50.0. This Hardiness Zone 8a region requires careful attention to survive local transitions between seasons. Residents can expect a moderate level of effort to keep turf healthy throughout the year.

Heat and Humidity Drive Growth

Alamance County sees 50 extreme heat days per year, significantly higher than the state average of 38. While 45.9 inches of annual precipitation falls within the ideal range for lawns, 4,789 growing degree days mean your mower stays busy. Homeowners must monitor for heat stress during the long summer months.

Correcting Acidic Soil Conditions

The local soil pH of 5.27 is quite acidic compared to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turfgrass. With a mix of 15.6% clay and 48.9% sand, your soil holds moisture but may lack necessary nutrients. Regular lime applications are essential here to balance the pH and unlock soil nutrients.

Persistent Drought Challenges Alamance

Lawns faced 25 weeks of drought over the last year, with 100% of the county currently under severe drought conditions. Deep, infrequent watering is the best strategy to encourage deep root growth during these dry spells. Focus on early morning irrigation to minimize water loss from evaporation and heat.

Planting for Success in Zone 8a

Warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass or Zoysia thrive in this 8a zone, though tall fescue remains a popular cool-season choice. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on April 1 or before the first fall frost on November 3. Proper timing ensures your new lawn establishes its roots before the temperature extremes hit.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alamance County's county score?
Alamance County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 35.6 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 Alamance County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Alamance County ranks #81 among all counties in North Carolina 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 Alamance County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Alamance County is $1,440, with an effective tax rate of 0.65%. This earns Alamance County a tax score of 68.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Alamance County?
The median household income in Alamance County, North Carolina is $64,445 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Alamance County earns an income score of 51.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Alamance County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Alamance County scores 35.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #81 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Alamance 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 Alamance 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.