countyscore
44.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 99.6Health 97Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Arlington County, Virginia

Elite Wealth vs. National Median

Arlington County’s 44.8 composite score falls below the national median of 50.0. The county's extreme housing prices heavily penalize its overall rank despite world-class incomes.

Underperforming the Virginia State Average

Arlington's score of 44.8 is roughly six points lower than the Virginia state average of 50.9. While it is an economic engine for the state, its high barrier to entry limits its composite score.

National Leader in Income and Health

Arlington is a powerhouse with an Income Score of 99.6 and a Health Score of 97.0. The staggering median household income of $140,160 reflects its highly educated and prosperous workforce.

Critical Housing Affordability Crisis

The county suffers from a Cost Score of 0.3, one of the lowest in the country. With median home values at $864,800 and rents at $2,275, living here requires a significant financial commitment.

Exclusively for High-Earning Urbanites

Arlington is the ultimate destination for top-tier earners who want the best health and career outcomes in Virginia. It is not suitable for those seeking affordability or a low-stress safety profile.

Score breakdown

Tax45.2Cost0.3Safety17.2Health97Schools60.4Income99.6Risk33.2Water86Weather68.7
🏛45.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠0.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼99.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡17.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤97
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓60.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨26
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.7
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 →
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Nearby counties

Falls Church city
Virginia
51.8
District of Columbia
District of Columbia
41.2
Alexandria city
Virginia
39.3
Fairfax County
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Fairfax city
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Prince George's County
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Montgomery County
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Manassas Park city
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Deep Dives

Arlington County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Arlington County

via TaxByCounty

Arlington ranks among America's highest-taxed jurisdictions

At 0.899%, Arlington County's effective property tax rate ranks in the top 3% of all U.S. counties, far exceeding the national median of 0.71%. The median annual tax of $7,774 is nearly 3 times the national median of $2,690, driven by premium property values averaging $864,800.

Arlington leads Virginia in total property tax bills

At 0.899%, Arlington's effective rate is 34% above Virginia's state average of 0.671%, ranking second statewide after Alexandria. The median tax of $7,774 is nearly 4 times the state median of $1,960, reflecting the region's ultra-premium real estate market.

Arlington's taxes rival Northern Virginia's highest burdens

Only Alexandria (0.987%) carries a higher tax rate than Arlington's 0.899%, though Arlington's higher property values ($864,800 median) mean residents often pay the largest absolute bills in the region. Both counties exemplify Northern Virginia's premium tax-and-service model.

The typical Arlington home generates over $7,700 annually

A median-value home at $864,800 generates approximately $7,774 in annual property taxes at Arlington's 0.899% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay $7,684, while those without mortgages pay $7,978.

Arlington homeowners should challenge inflated assessments

With homes assessed near $865,000, even a 3% overassessment means over $230 in unnecessary annual taxes. Arlington's assessment appeal process is available to homeowners who believe their properties are valued above fair market value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Arlington County

via CostByCounty

Arlington's premium justified by top incomes

Arlington residents spend 19.5% of household income on housing, just slightly above the national average of 18.6%, despite owning costs of $2,893 monthly. With a median household income of $140,160—88% above the U.S. median—Arlington's very affluent residents absorb premium prices.

Virginia's most expensive housing market

Arlington's median home value of $864,800 ranks as Virginia's highest, and its owner costs of $2,893 monthly exceed all other surveyed counties. Yet the rent-to-income ratio of 19.5% stays just above the state average of 18.6%, thanks to extraordinary incomes.

Slightly cheaper than nearby Alexandria overall

Arlington's $2,893 monthly owner costs exceed Alexandria's $2,635, while Alexandria's $2,031 rent tops Arlington's implied rental market. Arlington's $864,800 median home value slightly edges Alexandria's $696,800, reflecting the county's extreme desirability.

Housing-income ratio tells Arlington's real story

With owner costs at $2,893 monthly on a median household income of $140,160, Arlington's 19.5% housing burden stays remarkably low despite the nation's highest absolute costs. This is a county where housing affordability improves as incomes rise.

Arlington for six-figure earners seeking premium

If your household income exceeds $140,000 and you prioritize walkability, transit access, and proximity to D.C., Arlington's premium costs remain manageable. For middle-income earners, this county's housing costs will strain budgets despite strong incomes compared to the state.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Arlington County

via IncomeByCounty

Arlington ranks among America's wealthiest counties

Arlington County's median household income of $140,160 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by about 88%, placing the county in the very top income tier across the United States. Households here earn roughly $65,405 more annually than the typical American family.

Virginia's wealthiest county by income

Arlington ranks as the highest-income county in Virginia, with median household income 87% above the state average of $74,957. The county's per capita income of $88,024 is 125% higher than Virginia's state average of $39,155.

Arlington leads the D.C. region income hierarchy

Arlington's $140,160 median income substantially exceeds nearby Alexandria ($113,638) and other Northern Virginia counties. This supremacy reflects Arlington's concentration of federal workers, defense contractors, and highly-paid professionals drawn to the Washington metro area.

High income is essential for expensive housing

Arlington's rent-to-income ratio of 19.5% shows housing still claims nearly one-fifth of income, despite premium earnings. The median home value of $864,800 is among the nation's highest, requiring Arlington's substantial incomes to remain affordable.

Maximize wealth-building strategies for high earners

Arlington's elite incomes position households to maximize retirement contributions (401k, backdoor Roth), build diversified investment portfolios, and create generational wealth. Partnering with a sophisticated financial advisor on tax optimization and estate planning can preserve and multiply your income advantage significantly.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Arlington County

via CrimeByCounty

Arlington County Beats National Benchmarks

Arlington County maintains a safety score of 96.5, with a total crime rate of 2,223.1 per 100K. This remains safer than the national total crime rate of 2,385.5.

Arlington Compared to Virginia Averages

Arlington's safety score of 96.5 is slightly below the state average of 97.3, which is common for urban areas. Three reporting agencies monitor the county's high-density population.

Urban Safety Comparison

Arlington's total crime rate of 2,223.1 is slightly higher than Alexandria's 2,063.6. However, it manages violent crime well compared to many urban centers of similar size.

Property Crime in the Spotlight

The property crime rate stands at 1,964.0 per 100K, while violent crime is 259.1. Violent crime remains significantly lower than the national average of 369.8 per 100K.

Securing Your Urban Residence

In a high-density area like Arlington, securing deliveries and using smart locks are effective ways to prevent property crime. Staying connected with local law enforcement updates improves overall neighborhood security.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Arlington County

via HealthByCounty

Arlington leads U.S. on longevity

Arlington County residents live to 83.9 years—4.6 years above the U.S. average of 79.3 years. Only 12.6% report poor or fair health, well below the 17% national rate, placing Arlington among America's healthiest counties.

Virginia's healthiest jurisdiction

At 83.9 years, Arlington boasts the highest life expectancy of any Virginia county profiled here, exceeding the state average of 75.1 years by 8.8 years. The county's 12.6% poor/fair health rate ranks among Virginia's lowest, reflecting exceptional population health.

Arlington sets regional health gold standard

Arlington residents live nearly a year longer than those in nearby Alexandria (82.2 years) and substantially longer than rural Virginia peers. The county's 288 mental health providers per 100K surpasses all comparable regions, supporting comprehensive behavioral health care.

Strong infrastructure enables health equity

Arlington offers 77 primary care providers and 288 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, delivering robust urban healthcare access. At 4.8%, Arlington has Virginia's lowest uninsured rate, ensuring nearly all residents have insurance pathways to care.

Maintain comprehensive health coverage

Even in well-insured Arlington, verify your coverage remains current and adequate. Visit healthcare.gov or arlingtonva.us for annual reviews and to explore supplemental plans that enhance your family's health security.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Arlington County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Urban Education in Arlington

Arlington County manages a large network of 42 public schools, including 25 elementary schools, to serve 27,562 students. This robust infrastructure is managed by a single high-performing district.

Elite Investment and Solid Performance

Arlington invests heavily in its schools, spending $11,425 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the state average of $7,941. The 86% graduation rate is competitive nationally, supporting a top-tier school score of 61.0.

Spotlight on Arlington County Public Schools

Arlington County Public Schools serves as the sole district for the county's 27,562 students. While there are no charter schools, the district offers diverse options including three alternative schools and one specialized education facility.

Thriving in a Major City Setting

All 42 schools are located in urban city environments, with an average size of 766 students. Wakefield High and Washington-Liberty High are the largest schools, each serving over 2,700 students in a dynamic, urban campus setting.

Premium Homes Near Top Schools

Arlington's high school score of 61.0 makes it a premier destination for families focused on academic excellence. If you are researching homes, consider how the high per-pupil investment in this urban district adds value to the local community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Arlington County

via RiskByCounty

Arlington's moderate risk exceeds state norm

Arlington County's composite risk score of 66.79 rates as relatively low but remains double Virginia's state average of 33.27. The dense urban jurisdiction faces notable flood (73.79), hurricane (80.43), and earthquake (73.03) exposures.

Urban center with above-average exposure

Arlington ranks in Virginia's upper-middle risk tier with a score of 66.79, reflecting its position as a major metropolitan area with riverfront vulnerability. The county's urban density and infrastructure concentration compound natural hazard impacts.

More exposed than rural counties, safer than Alexandria

Arlington's 66.79 score sits below Alexandria City (73.70) and well above rural piedmont counties like Amelia (11.96). The county's Potomac River location creates shared water hazards with Alexandria but on a slightly smaller scale.

Flooding and hurricanes are primary concerns

Arlington's hurricane risk (80.43) and flood risk (73.79) represent the county's main hazards, driven by tidal Potomac River exposure and urban infrastructure concentration. Earthquake risk (73.03) also warrants attention for older building stock.

Flood insurance and structural retrofits advised

Flood insurance is essential for properties near the Potomac River and in flood-prone areas, and consider seismic retrofits for older residential buildings. Verify your homeowners policy includes comprehensive wind and water damage coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Arlington County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Urban Heat Island

Arlington's 59.3°F average temperature is more than 5 degrees warmer than the national median. This urban county experiences a hot, humid subtropical climate.

One of Virginia's Warmest Spots

Averaging 59.3°F, Arlington is significantly warmer than the 55.9°F state average. It is also drier than much of the state, receiving 41.8 inches of rain.

Hotter Than the Rural Interior

Arlington faces 40 extreme heat days, far more than neighboring mountain counties. Its July average of 81.0°F is the highest among the counties in this group.

Hot Summers and Brief Winters

Summers are intense with 40 days over 90°F and high humidity. Winters are mild at 39.7°F, though the county still sees a surprising 13.7 inches of snow annually.

Focus on Cooling and Commuting

Invest in high-quality air conditioning to handle the 40+ days of extreme heat. Residents should also prepare for urban snow impacts, which can disrupt transit despite mild averages.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Arlington County

via SoilByCounty

The Most Acidic Soils in the Region

Arlington's soil is notably acidic, with a pH of 4.96, which is lower than both the state average of 5.23 and the national median of 6.5. This low pH is a defining characteristic of the county's soil profile and heavily influences plant selection. Despite this acidity, the county maintains a respectable soil score of 26.0.

Sandy Loam with Substantial Clay

The soil contains 54.9% sand, 26.6% silt, and 18.4% clay, providing a texture that is both well-drained and structurally sound. The sand content prevents the soil from becoming a heavy clay block, while the 18.4% clay is one of the highest in this group. This helps the soil retain its shape and provides a good base for urban landscaping.

High Water Retention in Urban Plots

Arlington features an available water capacity of 0.158 in/in, significantly higher than the state average of 0.143. However, the organic matter content is relatively low at 1.86%, falling below the state's 2.90% benchmark. This means your garden will hold water efficiently, but you'll likely need to add nutrients to keep plants thriving.

Resilient Moisture for City Gardens

With over 54% sand, the soil generally allows for good water infiltration, reducing the risk of puddling on city lots. The high clay and silt content act as a sponge, taking advantage of the high water capacity to keep plants hydrated between rains. This combination is ideal for maintaining green spaces in a densely populated urban environment.

Lush Urban Landscapes in Zone 7b

Arlington's Zone 7b status and high water capacity are perfect for moisture-loving ornamentals and native ferns. The naturally acidic soil is an excellent match for rhododendrons and camellias, which thrive in these specific conditions. For food crops, simply add some lime and compost to transform this acidic base into a high-yielding vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Arlington County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty for Arlington’s Urban Turf

Arlington County faces a difficult lawn score of 41.7, driven largely by its urban heat and soil conditions. This is much tougher than the state average of 55.4, making lawn care a serious commitment for residents in zone 7b.

Intense Heat and Long Growing Cycles

Arlington endures 40 days of extreme heat annually, creating a high-stress environment for cool-season grasses. With 4,709 growing degree days, the grass grows quickly and requires a frequent mowing schedule throughout the long summer.

Challenging Acidic and Sandy Soil

The soil pH is notably low at 4.96, which is very acidic and requires significant lime to correct. Combined with a 54.9% sand content, your lawn will likely need frequent, light watering and specialized fertilization to thrive.

Resilience During Extended Dry Periods

Arlington spent 32 weeks in drought over the past year, and the entire county is currently flagged as abnormally dry. Homeowners should focus on increasing soil organic matter to help the sandy ground retain what little water is available.

Choosing Rugged Grass Varieties

Zoysia or Turf-Type Tall Fescue are recommended to handle the 40 days of heat and acidic soil. Seed or sod in late March after the last frost or in mid-November for the best chance of successful establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arlington County's county score?
Arlington County, Virginia has a composite county score of 44.8 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 Arlington County rank among counties in Virginia?
Arlington County ranks #96 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 Arlington County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Arlington County is $7,774, with an effective tax rate of 0.90%. This earns Arlington County a tax score of 45.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Arlington County?
The median household income in Arlington County, Virginia is $140,160 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Arlington County earns an income score of 99.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Arlington County, Virginia a good place to live?
Arlington County scores 44.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #96 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Arlington 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 Arlington County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.