countyscore
44.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 96.1Health 91.1Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Albemarle County, Virginia

High Prosperity vs. High Costs

Albemarle County holds a 44.7 composite score, placing it below the national median of 50.0 despite its immense wealth. This ranking is largely weighed down by extreme housing costs compared to national figures.

Lagging the Virginia Average Score

The county's 44.7 score sits over six points lower than the Virginia state average of 50.9. While it is a state leader in health, its overall ranking suffers due to local safety and affordability metrics.

Exceptional Health and High Incomes

Albemarle excels in personal well-being with a Health Score of 91.1 and an Income Score of 96.1. Residents enjoy a high median household income of $102,617 and excellent water quality at 86.0.

Severe Housing Affordability Pressures

Affordability is the primary struggle here, evidenced by a very low Cost Score of 5.8. Median home values reach $471,000, while rents average $1,623, creating a significant barrier for entry-level residents.

Ideal for High-Earning Health Enthusiasts

This county is a perfect match for affluent families and professionals who value top-tier health services and high-paying jobs. It remains less accessible to those sensitive to housing costs or looking for low-risk safety profiles.

Score breakdown

Tax58.7Cost5.8Safety20.3Health91.1SchoolsComing SoonIncome96.1Risk21.9Water86Weather69.1
🏛58.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠5.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼96.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡20.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤91.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡21.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨26.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.3
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 Albemarle County

Whether buying or refinancing in Albemarle 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 Albemarle County with Chambers County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Chambers County
Alabama
Median income: $49,295
44.7
Wayne County
Georgia
Median income: $49,562
44.7
Kearny County
Kansas
Median income: $74,135
44.7
Mower County
Minnesota
Median income: $71,495
44.7
McDonald County
Missouri
Median income: $48,145
44.7
Carter County
Tennessee
Median income: $48,435
44.7
San Jacinto County
Texas
Median income: $59,526
44.7
Sonoma County
California
Median income: $102,840
44.8

Nearby counties

Charlottesville city
Virginia
40.3
Greene County
Virginia
50.6
Waynesboro city
Virginia
40.2
Fluvanna County
Virginia
59.6
Nelson County
Virginia
51.8
Madison County
Virginia
59.1
Staunton city
Virginia
45.7
Louisa County
Virginia
51.9

Deep Dives

Albemarle County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Albemarle County

via TaxByCounty

Albemarle's 0.739% rate exceeds most U.S. counties

Albemarle County's effective property tax rate of 0.739% ranks above the national median of 0.71%, placing it in the top 40% of U.S. counties. The median tax bill of $3,482 nearly doubles the national median of $2,690, reflecting both higher tax rates and property values.

Albemarle ranks among Virginia's higher-taxed counties

At 0.739%, Albemarle's effective rate exceeds Virginia's state average of 0.671%, placing it among the state's top 15% for tax burden. The county's median tax of $3,482 is 78% above the state median of $1,960.

Albemarle taxes higher than most Central Virginia peers

Albemarle's 0.739% rate significantly outpaces nearby rural counties, reflecting investment in schools and services that drive higher assessments. The county's median home value of $471,000 is notably elevated compared to neighboring areas, contributing to steeper annual tax bills.

Albemarle homeowners pay over $3,400 annually on median homes

A median-value home at $471,000 generates approximately $3,482 in annual property taxes at Albemarle's 0.739% rate. Those with mortgages pay $3,395, while owners without mortgages pay $3,664.

Albemarle property owners should verify their assessments

With median home values at $471,000, even small assessment errors can cost hundreds in annual taxes. Homeowners are encouraged to review their assessments and file appeals if they believe their properties are overvalued—a process that costs nothing to pursue.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Albemarle County

via CostByCounty

Albemarle's housing stays affordable despite high costs

Albemarle residents spend 19.0% of household income on rent, just slightly above the national average of 18.6%, thanks to a robust median household income of $102,617. This is 37% higher than the U.S. median, allowing higher housing costs to remain proportionally manageable.

Virginia's most affordable high-cost county

Albemarle ranks among Virginia's most balanced housing markets, with a rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% just above the state average of 18.6%. Despite median rent hitting $1,623—42% above the state median—strong incomes here keep affordability stress relatively low.

Pricier than rural peers, cheaper than Northern Virginia

Albemarle's $1,623 median rent far exceeds rural counties like Amherst ($842) and Appomattox ($883), but remains $408 below nearby Alexandria ($2,031). Its $471,000 median home value sits between the rural counties and the premium-priced Northern Virginia metros.

High incomes buffer substantial housing costs

Renters pay $1,623 monthly while homeowners pay $1,611—nearly equal burdens reflecting the county's affluent market—on a median household income of $102,617. Together, housing consumes just under 19% of household income, well-managed for a county this desirable.

Albemarle rewards higher earners seeking balance

If your household income exceeds $100,000, Albemarle offers excellent quality of life with manageable housing costs despite above-state-average rents. The University of Virginia presence and Charlottesville cultural amenities make it worth the premium for affluent professionals.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Albemarle County

via IncomeByCounty

Albemarle's incomes rank well nationally

Albemarle County's median household income of $102,617 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by about 37%, placing it in the upper-income tier across the United States. Households here earn roughly $27,862 more annually than the typical American family.

Top earners in Virginia

Albemarle ranks among Virginia's highest-income counties, with median household income 37% above the state average of $74,957. The county's per capita income of $57,490 is 47% higher than Virginia's state average of $39,155.

Albemarle leads the central Virginia income race

Albemarle's $102,617 median income significantly outpaces neighboring central Virginia counties like Amherst ($67,298) and Amelia ($66,339). This income advantage reflects the county's stronger employment base and proximity to the University of Virginia's economic influence.

Strong income supports rising housing costs

Albemarle's rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% indicates housing is comfortably affordable at current income levels. With a median home value of $471,000, the county's higher prices are offset by substantially higher household earnings.

Leverage higher income for long-term wealth building

Albemarle households are positioned to maximize retirement contributions, diversify investments, and build significant wealth. Working with a financial advisor on tax-efficient strategies—such as 529 college savings plans or taxable investment accounts—can help multiply your income advantage over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Albemarle County

via CrimeByCounty

Albemarle Maintains Strong National Safety Standing

Albemarle County earns a 96.7 safety score, keeping total crime at 2,070.8 per 100K residents. This rate remains well below the national average of 2,385.5 per 100K.

Navigating the Virginia Average

The county's safety score of 96.7 falls just below the state average of 97.3. Three local agencies work together to monitor and report crime data across the region.

Lower Violent Crime Than Neighbors

Albemarle features a violent crime rate of 148.4, which is much lower than Accomack's 347.6. However, its total crime rate is higher than rural Amelia's 1,112.0.

Focusing on Property Security

Property crime constitutes the bulk of local reports at 1,922.4 per 100K. Violent crime remains rare, with the local rate of 148.4 sitting far below the national average of 369.8.

Investing in Home Security

Because property crime represents the majority of local incidents, home security systems are a wise investment. Monitoring your perimeter helps deter the most common types of crime in the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Albemarle County

via HealthByCounty

Albemarle outpaces national health trends

Albemarle County residents enjoy a life expectancy of 81.5 years—over 2 years above the U.S. average of 79.3 years. Just 12.6% report poor or fair health, compared to 17% nationally, reflecting strong population health outcomes.

Virginia's healthiest ranked counties

At 81.5 years, Albemarle's life expectancy ranks among Virginia's best, exceeding the state average of 75.1 years by 6.4 years. The county's 12.6% poor/fair health rate stands well below the state average, placing Albemarle in the top tier of Virginia counties.

Albemarle sets regional health standard

Albemarle residents live significantly longer than those in nearby Amherst (75.5 years) and Appomattox (77.2 years) counties. The county's robust primary care infrastructure—139 providers per 100K—far exceeds regional peers, enabling strong preventive care networks.

Strong provider access supports health

Albemarle boasts 139 primary care providers and 233 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, among Virginia's highest densities. The county's 6.5% uninsured rate also sits below the state average of 7.9%, ensuring most residents have regular healthcare access.

Maintain your coverage and health

Even in well-resourced Albemarle, some residents remain uninsured or underinsured. Review your current plan annually at healthcare.gov or contact local health departments to ensure continuous, appropriate coverage for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Disaster Risk in Albemarle County

via RiskByCounty

Albemarle's moderate risk exceeds state average

Albemarle County's composite risk score of 78.15 rates as relatively low but remains more than double Virginia's state average of 33.27. The county faces diverse hazard exposure across earthquake (85.59), flood (85.15), and hurricane (82.64) categories.

Mid-range risk profile for Virginia

With a score of 78.15, Albemarle ranks in the upper-middle tier of Virginia's 135 counties, reflecting its piedmont location and proximity to seismic zones. The county's earthquake risk particularly sets it apart from lower-risk jurisdictions to its east.

Albemarle faces broader hazards than neighbors

Unlike rural neighbors Amherst (20.99) and Appomattox (5.09), Albemarle's 78.15 score reflects stronger exposure to earthquakes, flooding, and hurricanes. Its piedmont location creates different vulnerabilities than the lighter-risk counties of the south-central region.

Earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes top list

Albemarle residents face notable earthquake risk (85.59)—the highest among its hazard categories—alongside substantial flood (85.15) and hurricane (82.64) exposure. Tornado risk (52.19) remains moderate but merits preparedness planning.

Prepare for seismic, water, and wind threats

Secure heavy furniture and tall appliances to walls to mitigate earthquake damage, and maintain comprehensive flood and wind coverage on your policy. Consider a home risk assessment focusing on foundation stability and roof integrity.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Albemarle County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Mid-Atlantic Climate Profile

Albemarle's 56.6°F average temperature sits just above the national median, characterizing a temperate four-season climate. The county receives 46.4 inches of rain annually, which is higher than the national average.

A Typical Virginia Average

The county's 56.6°F average is slightly warmer than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. Its rainfall also trends slightly higher than the state median of 45.7 inches.

The Piedmont's Rolling Weather

Albemarle receives 14.5 inches of snow, nearly double that of coastal Accomack. This reflects its position in the Piedmont, where elevation begins to influence winter patterns.

Distinct Seasons and Moderate Extremes

July averages a warm 76.7°F with 23 extreme heat days over 90°F. January cools to 36.0°F, providing a crisp but manageable winter season.

Ready for Rain and Snow

Diverse precipitation requires both good drainage and reliable snow removal tools. Dual-fuel heating systems are popular here to manage the fluctuating winter temperatures.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Albemarle County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Piedmont Acidic Profile

Albemarle soils feature an average pH of 5.17, sitting slightly below the Virginia average of 5.23 and well under the national 6.5 median. This acidity is common for the region and often requires amendments for traditional crops. The overall soil score of 26.5 suggests a challenging but manageable environment for local land users.

Silty Loam Texture Prevails

The soil composition is a balanced mix of 41.9% silt, 38.1% sand, and 18.9% clay. This high silt percentage provides a smooth texture that helps with nutrient retention and plant stability. It is less sandy than coastal regions, offering a heavier feel that holds its shape well when wet.

Superior Water Retention Potential

Albemarle exceeds the state average for available water capacity with a measure of 0.152 in/in compared to the state's 0.143. However, the organic matter content is relatively low at 1.76%, falling below both state (2.90%) and national (2.0%) benchmarks. Gardeners will find that while the soil holds water effectively, adding compost will be necessary to boost nutrient levels.

Steady Moisture for the Piedmont

Formal drainage class data is unavailable, but the balanced clay and silt mix typically suggests moderate drainage characteristics. The soil is likely to retain moisture longer than sandy coastal soils, which benefits deep-rooted trees and perennials. Proper site grading is important to prevent the nearly 19% clay content from causing surface compaction.

Vines and Orchards in Zone 7b

Albemarle's Zone 7b climate and silty soil make it a premier destination for vineyards and apple orchards. These soils support the deep root systems required for woody perennials and hardy shrubs. With some pH adjustment, this land provides an excellent foundation for a productive homestead or ornamental garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Albemarle County

via LawnByCounty

Albemarle Faces Average Growing Hurdles

Albemarle County earns a lawn difficulty score of 50.3, placing it right at the national average but below the Virginia state average. This zone 7b region requires more active intervention than its coastal neighbors to maintain a healthy green space.

Ample Rainfall Meets Summer Heat

Annual precipitation of 46.4 inches slightly exceeds the state average, providing a good baseline for hydration. However, 23 extreme heat days and 3,966 growing degree days mean cool-season grasses may struggle during the peak of July.

Acidic Soils Need Structural Support

The soil pH of 5.17 is significantly more acidic than the ideal 6.0 threshold, which can lock out essential nutrients from your grass. With clay making up 18.9% of the soil, compaction is a risk that requires periodic aeration to ensure water reaches the roots.

Combating Severe Regional Drought

Albemarle is currently under significant stress, with 75.2% of the county facing severe drought conditions. After 31 weeks of drought in the last year, residents must utilize mulch-mowing and smart irrigation to preserve moisture.

Optimal Timing for Piedmont Turf

Tall Fescue is the gold standard for Albemarle’s 7b climate due to its deep roots and heat tolerance. Plant your seeds in early April after the frost clears or in late October to take advantage of the 46.4 inches of annual rain.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Albemarle County's county score?
Albemarle County, Virginia has a composite county score of 44.7 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 Albemarle County rank among counties in Virginia?
Albemarle County ranks #97 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 Albemarle County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Albemarle County is $3,482, with an effective tax rate of 0.74%. This earns Albemarle County a tax score of 58.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Albemarle County?
The median household income in Albemarle County, Virginia is $102,617 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Albemarle County earns an income score of 96.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Albemarle County, Virginia a good place to live?
Albemarle County scores 44.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #97 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Albemarle 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 Albemarle 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.