countyscore

Ashe County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#21 in North Carolina

Explore on ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
52.7
County Score
Property Tax 84.6Cost of Living 70.8Weather & Climate 67.7

County Report Card

About Ashe County, North Carolina

Ashe Slightly Above National Average

Ashe County earns a composite score of 52.7, placing it just above the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced profile that mirrors the typical American experience but with better affordability.

Solid Performance in North Carolina

The county outscores the North Carolina average of 44.7 by 8 points. It stands out as a reliable mountain community that balances fiscal health with rural charm.

Exceptional Tax and Cost Benefits

Ashe is a standout for fiscal value, with a tax score of 84.6 and a cost score of 70.8. Its effective tax rate of 0.512% is among the lowest in the region, keeping more money in residents' pockets.

Income and Infrastructure Hurdles

The county's income score of 16.4 reflects a lower median household income of $50,827. Additionally, a water score of 26.9 suggests that utility infrastructure or resource quality needs attention.

A Haven for Tax-Conscious Residents

Ashe County is an excellent fit for retirees and individuals looking for low-tax, high-affordability mountain living. It appeals to those who prioritize financial efficiency over high-speed urban infrastructure and high local wages.

Score breakdown

Tax84.6Cost70.8Safety45Health45.4Schools34Income16.4Risk33.2Water26.9Weather67.7
🏛84.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠70.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼16.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡45
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤45.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓34
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡33.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧26.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤67.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨40.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.6
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 Ashe County

Whether buying or refinancing in Ashe 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 Ashe County with Johnson County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Johnson County
Arkansas
Median income: $44,808
52.7
Page County
Iowa
Median income: $57,752
52.7
Becker County
Minnesota
Median income: $71,117
52.7
Livingston County
Missouri
Median income: $60,148
52.7
Richland County
Montana
Median income: $69,578
52.7
Lewis County
Tennessee
Median income: $49,477
52.7
Klickitat County
Washington
Median income: $70,400
52.7
Manitowoc County
Wisconsin
Median income: $68,611
52.7

Nearby counties

Watauga County
North Carolina
53.9
Johnson County
Tennessee
61.5
Wilkes County
North Carolina
48.9
Alleghany County
North Carolina
59
Grayson County
Virginia
65.7
Smyth County
Virginia
56.8
Avery County
North Carolina
60.2
Washington County
Virginia
58.3

Deep Dives

Ashe County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ashe County

via TaxByCounty

Ashe County offers lowest-in-state tax rates

Ashe County's effective tax rate of 0.512% ranks in the nation's bottom 5%, far below the national median of roughly 0.9%. On the median home valued at $221,900, residents pay just $1,136 annually—less than half the national median of $2,690.

Fourth-lowest rate in North Carolina

Ashe County ranks among the most tax-friendly jurisdictions in North Carolina with a 0.512% effective rate, well below the state average of 0.701%. The median annual tax of $1,136 is 21% lower than the state median of $1,433.

Best rates in the High Country region

Ashe's 0.512% rate is significantly lower than nearby Watauga, Wilkes, and Alleghany counties, positioning it as the most affordable mountain county in northwestern North Carolina. This tax advantage has attracted growing numbers of retirees and remote workers.

Mountain property, exceptional tax value

A median-valued home in Ashe County ($221,900) generates an estimated annual tax of $1,136 without mortgage deduction. With mortgage interest factored in, the typical homeowner's bill rises to about $1,153 per year.

Verify your assessment despite low rates

Even in one of the nation's lowest-tax counties, individual assessments can be inaccurate or out of sync with recent sales. Ashe homeowners should review comparable property sales and request a reassessment if they believe their valuation is too high.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ashe County

via CostByCounty

Ashe: affordable rents, moderate income trade-off

Ashe County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% is nearly identical to the national average of 18.6%, despite a median household income of $50,827—about $24,000 below the national norm. The county's success hinges on keeping median rent low at $774/month, just $164 below the state average.

Ashe keeps pace with North Carolina averages

At 18.3%, Ashe's rent-to-income ratio sits just below the state average of 18.6%, placing it squarely in the moderate affordability range for North Carolina. The county's median rent of $774 is comfortably below the state median of $938.

Ashe balances rents and mountain home values

Ashe's $774 monthly rent is mid-range among peers, but its median home value of $221,900 matches Alamance despite lower income, suggesting strong mountain real estate appeal. Owner costs at $683/month offer reasonable paths to homeownership compared to neighboring counties.

Ashe renters maintain modest budget flexibility

At $774/month, Ashe renters spend 18.3% of their $50,827 annual income on housing, leaving roughly $4,270 annually for taxes, utilities, food, and savings. Homeowners at $683/month face an even lighter burden, with median home values near $222,000 providing long-term equity.

Ashe offers balanced mountain living

If you're relocating to North Carolina's mountains, Ashe County delivers near-state-average affordability with lower incomes than the national norm—ideal for remote workers or retirees seeking scenic surroundings. Compare against Alexander (cheaper rents) and Avery (similar affordability but higher home values) to determine your best value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ashe County

via IncomeByCounty

Ashe's income lags national median by 32%

Ashe County's median household income of $50,827 trails the national median of $74,755 by $23,928, ranking the county in the bottom 30% nationwide. The gap reflects limited economic opportunities in this rural mountain region.

Below-average but not among the worst

At $50,827, Ashe's median household income falls 16.8% below North Carolina's state average of $61,072, placing it in the lower third statewide. The county's scenic mountains attract tourism and retirement migrants, but job quality remains uneven.

Outearning poorest peers but lagging wealthier ones

Ashe's $50,827 median income surpasses Alleghany County ($44,272) and Anson County ($44,245) but trails nearby Avery County ($57,657). The variation suggests economic vitality depends heavily on local employer presence and workforce composition.

Housing affordability holds at 18.3%

Ashe's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% remains below the 30% threshold, though it's rising compared to wealthier peers. The median home value of $221,900 actually exceeds the county median income, creating challenges for first-time buyers.

Leverage low housing ratios for wealth growth

With only 18.3% of income going to rent, Ashe households have breathing room to build savings and invest in assets. Starting a modest automatic savings plan—even $50–100 monthly—can provide a financial cushion and lay the groundwork for homeownership.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ashe County

via CrimeByCounty

Ashe County Maintains High Safety Scores

Ashe County earns a safety score of 98.1, backed by a total crime rate of 1225.7 per 100K. This rate is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Beating the North Carolina Average

The county's 98.1 safety score is higher than the North Carolina average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 1225.7 is much lower than the state's average of 2050.0 per 100K.

Regional Trends in Ashe and Beyond

Ashe's crime rate of 1225.7 is similar to Alexander County at 1312.1. However, it is slightly higher than the very low 991.9 rate found in neighboring Alleghany County.

Property Crime Drives Local Figures

Violent crime in Ashe is low at 123.3 per 100K, while property crime is the primary concern at 1102.4. Residents are much more likely to encounter property issues than violent incidents.

Smart Security for Mountain Living

Maintaining Ashe County's safety starts at home with smart locks and exterior sensors. These simple deterrents help keep property crime rates low for the entire community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ashe County

via HealthByCounty

Ashe residents live well

Ashe County residents have a life expectancy of 75.7 years, just shy of the U.S. average of 76.4 years. The county's 17.8% poor or fair health rate is notably better than the national average, reflecting relatively good overall health status.

Above average for North Carolina

Ashe County's 75.7-year life expectancy exceeds North Carolina's 74.4-year state average by more than a year, placing it in the upper tier of county health rankings. The county performs well on both longevity and self-reported health measures.

Strong performer in mountain region

Ashe County's 75.7-year life expectancy compares well to neighboring Alleghany (77.3 years) and Avery (75.9 years) counties in the western mountains. The county provides 49 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 177 mental health providers, offering solid healthcare infrastructure.

Modest uninsured rate, stable access

Ashe County's 13.6% uninsured rate is slightly above the state average, yet the county maintains reasonable primary and mental health provider density. Residents enjoy relatively good access to care, though rural geography may still create travel challenges for some.

Close the coverage gap

One in seven Ashe County residents lack health insurance, leaving them vulnerable to medical debt and delayed care. Check healthcare.gov or call 211 to find Medicaid, marketplace, or employer coverage options available to you today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ashe County

via SchoolsByCounty

Ashe County's Mountain School Network

Ashe County operates six public schools that serve 2,743 students within one centralized district. The system includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools.

Elevated Spending on Local Students

The county invests $7,194 per pupil, significantly more than the state average of $6,969. While the graduation rate of 85.0% is below the state mark, the school score of 51.3 remains competitive with the state average.

A Tradition of Unified Public Education

Ashe County Schools manages all educational programs without the presence of charter schools. This allows for a concentrated focus on the 2,743 students enrolled in the traditional system.

Small Schools in a Rural Landscape

Every school in Ashe County is set in a rural locale, offering students a quiet and focused atmosphere. Ashe County High is the largest school with 792 students, while most other campuses maintain an average of 457.

Discover Homes in the Ashe County District

Ashe County's commitment to high per-pupil spending makes it an attractive destination for families. Consider the areas surrounding West Jefferson for easy access to the county's key school sites.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ashe County

via RiskByCounty

Ashe County approaches national average risk

Ashe County's composite risk score of 66.76 sits slightly above the U.S. baseline, earning a "Relatively Low" rating. This northwestern mountain county experiences meaningful exposure to flooding and tornadoes, particularly during spring and fall storm systems.

Nearly matches North Carolina's state average

At 66.76, Ashe County practically mirrors North Carolina's 66.72 state average, placing it directly in the middle of the state's risk distribution. The county's flood risk at 76.78 elevates it notably compared to its mountain-region peers.

Riskier than Alleghany, safer than Watauga

Ashe County's 66.76 score significantly exceeds safe Alleghany County's 34.67, while comparing closely to neighboring mountain counties. The county's elevated flood risk distinguishes it from surrounding peaks-and-valleys geography.

Flooding takes the lead, followed by tornadoes

Flood risk reaches 76.78 in Ashe County, making it your most pressing natural hazard concern as streams and rivers swell during heavy rains. Tornado risk of 39.82 runs lower than many North Carolina counties, but spring storms still demand preparation.

Flood insurance is essential for Ashe residents

With flood risk at 76.78, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is critical for any property in mapped flood zones or valleys. Maintain gutters and drainage systems to direct water away from structures, and know your evacuation routes.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ashe County

via WeatherByCounty

Refreshingly cool mountain climate

Ashe County averages 50.8°F annually, making it one of the coolest counties in the southern United States. It receives a heavy 54.8 inches of precipitation, well above the national median.

Far cooler than most of NC

Ashe sits nearly 9 degrees below the North Carolina average temperature of 59.3°F. It is also considerably snowier, recording 14.4 inches of annual snow compared to the state's typically low averages.

Colder than Alleghany

Ashe County maintains a cooler profile than its neighbor Alleghany, with an annual average that is 1.8 degrees lower. While Alleghany sees 12 extreme heat days, Ashe typically experiences only one.

Gentle summers, snowy winters

Extreme heat is virtually non-existent, with only one day per year hitting 90°F. Winter brings a true mountain experience, with a January average of 32.2°F and over 14 inches of snow.

Winterize your lifestyle

Invest in heavy insulation and reliable snow tires to navigate the 14.4 inches of annual snowfall. You can likely save on cooling costs, as July averages stay below 70°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ashe County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Soils of the High Country

Ashe County soils maintain a pH of 5.20, sitting between the state average of 5.14 and the national median of 6.5. This acidic profile is characteristic of the mountain landscape and the weathered minerals found here. Detailed taxonomic classifications for the area are currently being updated.

A Versatile Silt and Sand Blend

The soil consists of 45.1% sand, 37.2% silt, and 15.5% clay. This high silt content makes the soil feel smooth and helps it hold onto moisture and nutrients better than sandier counties. It provides a stable, workable medium for a variety of agricultural uses.

High Organic Content in the Mountains

Organic matter is high at 4.33%, which is more than double the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.151 in/in also beats the state average of 0.134. These figures indicate a productive soil that naturally supports the lush vegetation found in the High Country.

Understanding Mountain Hydrology

Specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not currently available for Ashe County. The blend of silt and sand suggests moderate drainage that can support both farming and building. Because of the mountain terrain, localized runoff and slope drainage are more critical factors than the soil type alone.

Thriving in the Cool Zone 7a

The cool Zone 7a climate makes Ashe a premier location for Christmas trees and cool-season vegetables like cabbage and potatoes. High organic matter gives these crops a significant nutritional head start. Dig in and start your mountain garden today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ashe County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Mountain Growth in Ashe

Ashe County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 49.6, nearly reaching the national median and far outperforming the North Carolina average. This Zone 7a region offers a respite from the sweltering heat found in the rest of the state. Homeowners here have a natural advantage when growing traditional lush, green turf.

Cool Summers and High Rainfall

With only 1 extreme heat day per year, Ashe County provides an ideal environment for cool-season grasses. The 54.8 inches of annual precipitation provides plenty of moisture, while the low 2,520 growing degree days mean less time spent behind the mower. This combination makes for a very low-stress climate for most residential lawns.

Foundational Soil Adjustments

Soil pH in Ashe County averages 5.20, requiring significant lime additions to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 level. The soil composition is 45.1% sand and 15.5% clay, providing a balanced base that generally supports healthy root structures. Without specific drainage data, ensuring organic matter is high will help maintain soil health.

Managing Severe Dry Spells

Despite the lush climate, 83.1% of Ashe County is currently in a severe drought, following 25 weeks of dry conditions over the last year. During these periods, avoid over-fertilizing, as this can force growth that the plant cannot support without water. Rely on the typically high rainfall to recover, but supplement wisely during peak dry weeks.

Cool-Season Grasses Reign Supreme

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescues are the gold standard for this Zone 7a climate. The growing window is tighter than elsewhere in the state, starting after May 7 and ending by October 10. Start your seeds in late summer to take advantage of the cooling temperatures and predictable mountain rainfall.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ashe County's county score?
Ashe County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 52.7 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 Ashe County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Ashe County ranks #21 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 Ashe County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Ashe County is $1,136, with an effective tax rate of 0.51%. This earns Ashe County a tax score of 84.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ashe County?
The median household income in Ashe County, North Carolina is $50,827 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ashe County earns an income score of 16.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ashe County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Ashe County scores 52.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #21 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Ashe 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 Ashe 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.