countyscore
53.4
County Score
Cost of Living 80.8Schools 73.7Weather & Climate 68.5

County Report Card

About Alleghany County, Virginia

Above the National Livability Curve

Alleghany County earns a 53.3 composite score, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This indicates a high level of livability driven by exceptional affordability.

Surpassing Virginia's Average Scores

The county's 53.3 score places it above the Virginia state average of 50.9. It stands out as a strong performer among the state's rural western regions.

Strong Schools and Low Expenses

Alleghany excels in education with a School Score of 73.7 and offers great affordability with a Cost Score of 80.8. Median gross rent is a highly accessible $774 per month.

Safety and Income Limitations

The county struggles with safety, recording a low score of 16.6. Economic growth is also modest, with an Income Score of 25.3 and a median household income of $55,160.

A Choice for Value-Seeking Families

Alleghany is a great fit for families who prioritize affordable housing and solid school systems. It works best for those with stable remote jobs, as local income levels are lower than state averages.

Score breakdown

Tax50.7Cost80.8Safety16.6Health53.7Schools73.7Income25.3Risk61.9Water45.6Weather68.5
🏛50.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤53.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓73.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡61.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧45.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨38.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.7
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

Think property taxes are too high in Alleghany County?

Many homeowners in Alleghany County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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 Alleghany County with Liberty County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Liberty County
Florida
Median income: $53,824
53.4
Oglethorpe County
Georgia
Median income: $69,784
53.4
Jersey County
Illinois
Median income: $79,104
53.4
Montgomery County
Missouri
Median income: $61,042
53.4
Henry County
Ohio
Median income: $79,267
53.4
Highland County
Ohio
Median income: $62,008
53.4
Adams County
Pennsylvania
Median income: $81,071
53.4
Blount County
Tennessee
Median income: $74,607
53.4

Nearby counties

Covington city
Virginia
47
Botetourt County
Virginia
65
Bath County
Virginia
74.4
Greenbrier County
West Virginia
59
Craig County
Virginia
61.3
Lexington city
Virginia
64.7
Rockbridge County
Virginia
53.6
Monroe County
West Virginia
73

Deep Dives

Alleghany County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Alleghany County

via TaxByCounty

Alleghany's 0.827% rate ranks in the top 10% nationally

Alleghany County's effective property tax rate of 0.827% significantly exceeds the national median of 0.71%, placing it among the highest-taxed counties nationwide. Yet the median tax bill of $1,011 remains below the national median of $2,690, thanks to modest property values averaging $122,300.

Alleghany ranks among Virginia's highest-rate counties

At 0.827%, Alleghany's effective rate is 23% above Virginia's state average of 0.671%, ranking it in the top 10% statewide. Despite the high rate, median taxes of $1,011 stay below the state median of $1,960 due to lower home values.

Alleghany taxes higher than nearby mountain counties

Alleghany's 0.827% rate substantially exceeds most surrounding rural Virginia counties, reflecting higher service costs in the region's mountainous terrain. Home values around $122,300 are among the lowest in the state, yet residents still face steep percentage rates.

Alleghany homeowners pay about $1,000 per year

A median-value home at $122,300 generates approximately $1,011 in annual property taxes at Alleghany's 0.827% rate. Owners with mortgages pay $1,181, while those without mortgages pay $902.

Even modest Alleghany homes can be overassessed

High effective tax rates like Alleghany's 0.827% make assessment accuracy critical for households. Homeowners should review their assessments to ensure their $122,000-range properties haven't been overvalued, as even small correction could reduce their annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Alleghany County

via CostByCounty

Alleghany County offers Virginia's most relief

Alleghany residents spend just 16.8% of household income on rent, the lowest ratio in Virginia and well below the national average of 18.6%. With a median household income of $55,160 and median rent of only $774, this rural county delivers genuine housing affordability.

Virginia's most affordable county for renters

Alleghany's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% ranks as Virginia's best, sitting 1.8 percentage points below the state average of 18.6%. The median gross rent of $774 is the state's lowest, offering relief for lower-income households.

Beats all nearby rural counties on affordability

Alleghany's $774 rent undercuts Amherst ($842), Appomattox ($883), and Accomack ($973), making it the most affordable option in western and rural Virginia. Its rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% is also superior to all surveyed neighbors.

Housing costs stay genuinely modest here

Renters pay just $774 monthly while homeowners pay $529—Virginia's lowest ownership costs—on a median household income of $55,160. Together, housing consumes under 17% of income, genuine relief for working-class families.

Alleghany suits budget-conscious relocators

If you prioritize affordability above all and can embrace rural mountain living, Alleghany offers the state's lowest rents and steepest discounts on home ownership. Remote workers with modest incomes will find this Appalachian county especially welcoming.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Alleghany County

via IncomeByCounty

Alleghany's incomes fall well below national average

Alleghany County's median household income of $55,160 trails the national median of $74,755 by about 26%, placing the county in the lower-income tier nationally. Households here earn roughly $19,595 less annually than the typical American family.

Among Virginia's lowest-earning counties

Alleghany ranks in the bottom tier of Virginia's income distribution, with median household income 26% below the state average of $74,957. The county's per capita income of $30,925 is about 21% below Virginia's state average of $39,155.

Alleghany faces income challenges in the region

Alleghany's $55,160 median income is among the lowest in western Virginia and the surrounding Appalachian region. Neighboring counties and similar rural areas generally earn $60,000–$70,000 annually, making Alleghany's earnings notably below regional peers.

Housing affordability is a bright spot

Alleghany's rent-to-income ratio of 16.8% is excellent, showing housing costs consume a small fraction of median income. The median home value of $122,300 is among the lowest in the state, making homeownership accessible to working families.

Start small, build consistently, aim high

Even modest incomes can accumulate wealth through disciplined saving and smart investing. Begin with an employer 401(k) or an IRA, automate monthly contributions, and explore free or low-cost financial literacy resources to put your housing savings advantage toward long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Alleghany County

via CrimeByCounty

Alleghany Stays Below National Crime Levels

Alleghany County reports a total crime rate of 2,269.3 per 100K, which is safer than the national mark of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.4.

Measuring Up Against Virginia Averages

Alleghany's safety score of 96.4 is nearly a full point below the Virginia state average of 97.3. Three reporting agencies provide the data that shapes this local safety profile.

Higher Crime Than Nearby Rural Counties

Alleghany's total crime rate of 2,269.3 is higher than Amherst's 1,381.0. It also sees more violent crime (290.3) compared to neighbors like Appomattox (209.2).

Analyzing the Incident Mix

The local property crime rate of 1,979.0 accounts for the vast majority of law enforcement activity. The violent crime rate of 290.3 is higher than the state average but remains lower than the national average.

Strengthening Your Home Defenses

Given the property crime numbers, Alleghany residents should focus on securing sheds and outbuildings. Visible security cameras can be a strong deterrent against local theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Alleghany County

via HealthByCounty

Alleghany faces significant health gaps

Alleghany County residents have a life expectancy of 73.1 years—6.2 years below the U.S. average of 79.3 years. With 18.6% reporting poor or fair health compared to 17% nationally, the county shows measurable health disparities.

Among Virginia's lowest-ranked counties

At 73.1 years, Alleghany's life expectancy ranks among the lowest in Virginia, falling 2 years below the state average of 75.1 years. The 18.6% poor/fair health rate exceeds the state average, signaling substantial public health challenges.

Alleghany trails Appalachian peers

Alleghany residents live shorter lives than those in nearby Appomattox (77.2 years) and Amherst (75.5 years) counties. The county's severe shortage of mental health providers (34 per 100K) ranks among Virginia's lowest, leaving mental health care access critically constrained.

Limited provider networks strain access

With only 40 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Alleghany faces geographic and capacity challenges for routine care. Though the 6.5% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 7.9%, those with insurance still struggle to find nearby providers.

Explore coverage and telehealth options

Visit healthcare.gov or Virginia's Medicaid site to review coverage options; remote telehealth options can supplement limited local provider access. Call 1-800-318-2596 for personalized assistance in finding plans that work for your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Alleghany County

via SchoolsByCounty

Efficient Rural Schooling in Alleghany

Alleghany County operates eight public schools, including a core structure of three elementary, one middle, and one high school. This small-scale infrastructure serves 1,901 students across three specialized districts.

Exceptional Graduation and Solid Value

The county boasts an impressive 97% graduation rate, far exceeding the Virginia average of 89% and the national average of 87%. This high achievement comes with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,454, which is efficient relative to the state's average spending.

Leading Through the Highlands District

Alleghany Highlands Public Schools is the largest district, managing six schools and all 1,901 enrolled students. The county does not utilize charter schools, focusing instead on traditional public education and regional technical centers.

Small-Scale Learning in the Highlands

All eight schools are in rural locales, providing a quiet learning atmosphere with an average of 380 students per school. Alleghany High is the largest campus with 579 students, while Sharon Elementary offers a very personal experience for its 195 students.

A High-Performing Choice for Families

With one of the highest graduation rates in the state, Alleghany County is a compelling choice for homebuyers prioritizing education. Explore homes in this rural enclave where small school sizes and high success rates are the local standard.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Alleghany County

via RiskByCounty

Alleghany's risk is below Virginia average

Alleghany County's composite risk score of 38.07 rates as very low and exceeds Virginia's state average of 33.27 by just under 5 points. The county's mountain location provides natural protection from hurricane and coastal flood impacts.

Western mountains offer relative safety

Alleghany ranks among Virginia's lower-risk counties, benefiting from its location in the Appalachian highlands away from coastal hazards. The county's 38.07 score places it comfortably below statewide median risk.

Comparable risk to nearby mountain counties

Alleghany's 38.07 score is slightly elevated relative to more rural piedmont counties like Amelia (11.96) and Appomattox (5.09), but reflects its western mountain terrain. Flood risk (56.33) is its most notable concern compared to lower-elevation neighbors.

Flooding and hurricanes present top hazards

Alleghany's flood risk (56.33) and hurricane risk (54.90) represent the county's primary concerns, though both remain moderate in absolute terms. Tornado risk (9.38) and wildfire risk (18.07) are comparatively low for the region.

Monitor stream levels and maintain coverage

Ensure homeowners insurance includes flood coverage for properties near streams and tributaries common in mountain terrain. Keep gutters and drainage systems clear to manage precipitation runoff.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Alleghany County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Mountain Air

Alleghany's 52.4°F average temperature is cooler than the national median of 54°F. This reflects a humid continental climate influenced by the Appalachian Mountains.

One of Virginia's Coolest Counties

At 52.4°F, the county is significantly cooler than the 55.9°F Virginia state average. It also sees less rain than the state average, recording 41.3 inches annually.

High Elevation Weather Shifts

Alleghany records 18.3 inches of snow, much higher than the Virginia average. Its mountain location creates a much drier and colder profile than eastern neighbors like Albemarle.

Mild Summers and Snowy Winters

The county only sees 7 days over 90°F, making for very comfortable summers. Winters are cold, averaging 33.8°F with frequent snowfall through the season.

Focus on Winter Readiness

Reliable heating and snow tires are essential for navigating the mountain winters. Air conditioning is less critical here than in the rest of Virginia due to limited extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Alleghany County

via SoilByCounty

Mountain Soils with High Scores

Alleghany County features an average pH of 5.12, trailing both the state average of 5.23 and the national median of 6.5. Despite this acidity, the county achieves an impressive soil score of 38.5, well above the Virginia average of 30.6. This indicates high-quality natural characteristics that support healthy mountain ecosystems.

Balanced Silt and Sand Mix

The soil is a complex blend of 39.9% silt and 38.3% sand, with clay making up the remaining 17.3%. This nearly equal split of silt and sand creates a soil that is both easy to work and stable enough for construction and farming. The clay content ensures that nutrients are held within the root zone rather than washing away.

Exceptional Organic Wealth

With a high organic matter content of 4.49%, Alleghany far exceeds the state average of 2.90% and more than doubles the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity is also strong at 0.150 in/in, outperforming the state's 0.143 benchmark. This combination of rich nutrients and high moisture retention makes for highly productive land.

Stable Moisture in High Terrain

Specific drainage classes are not recorded, but the high organic matter and balanced texture suggest a soil that manages water efficiently. It likely resists the drought conditions that plague sandier counties while avoiding the waterlogging common in clay-heavy areas. The high silt content helps water move through the profile at a steady, predictable rate.

Cold-Hardy Crops in Zone 7a

Alleghany's 7a hardiness zone and high organic matter are perfect for cool-weather vegetables like kale and potatoes. The rich mountain soil also supports robust forest growth and native flowering shrubs. If you live here, your soil is already ahead of the curve, providing a fantastic head start for any garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Alleghany County

via LawnByCounty

Alleghany Offers Virginia’s Friendliest Conditions

Alleghany County boasts a high lawn difficulty score of 62.7, indicating much easier maintenance than the national average. Situated in hardiness zone 7a, the cooler mountain climate provides a sanctuary for cool-season grasses.

Cool Summers Benefit Mountain Lawns

The county experiences only 7 extreme heat days per year, significantly lower than the state average of 28. This mild weather, paired with 41.3 inches of annual rain, prevents the mid-summer dormancy common in other parts of Virginia.

Addressing Soil Acidity and Texture

The soil pH sits at 5.12, requiring lime treatments to correct acidity for optimal grass health. While texture data is limited, the 17.3% clay content suggests the soil holds moisture well but may need aeration to prevent compaction.

Reliable Moisture Despite Dry Spells

Alleghany has seen 27 weeks of drought in the past year, but currently, only 68.8% of the area is abnormally dry. This is better than many neighbors, though residents should still monitor soil moisture during the 3,061 growing degree days.

The Best Time for Bluegrass

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive in the cooler 7a climate of Alleghany County. Aim to seed around the last spring frost on April 22nd or in early October to establish a thick, weed-resistant carpet.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alleghany County's county score?
Alleghany County, Virginia has a composite county score of 53.4 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 Alleghany County rank among counties in Virginia?
Alleghany County ranks #63 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 Alleghany County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Alleghany County is $1,011, with an effective tax rate of 0.83%. This earns Alleghany County a tax score of 50.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Alleghany County?
The median household income in Alleghany County, Virginia is $55,160 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Alleghany County earns an income score of 25.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Alleghany County, Virginia a good place to live?
Alleghany County scores 53.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #63 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Alleghany 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 Alleghany 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.