CountyScore

Augusta County

Virginia · VA

#65 in Virginia
71.2
County Score

County Report Card

About Augusta County, Virginia

Augusta outpaces the nation

Augusta County's composite score of 74.8 sits well above the national median of 50.0, placing it in the top tier of U.S. counties for overall livability. This 49% advantage over the national baseline reflects strong fundamentals in tax efficiency and housing affordability that resonate across the Southeast.

Virginia's solid middle performer

With a score of 74.8, Augusta ranks above Virginia's state average of 70.3, making it a reliably livable option within the Commonwealth. The county's position reflects competitive advantages in tax burden and housing costs that appeal to budget-conscious families.

Tax efficiency and affordable homes

Augusta shines brightest in its tax score of 88.5, with an effective tax rate of just 0.49%—among Virginia's lowest. Median home values of $281,400 and rents of $1,057/month balance affordability with solid property values, creating good entry points for homebuyers.

Income growth lags behind peers

The county's income score of 35.6 is its weakest dimension, with a median household income of $79,972 trailing some neighboring counties. Complete data on schools, health, safety, and environmental factors remains limited, leaving some livability questions unanswered.

Smart choice for tax-conscious families

Augusta County suits families and retirees seeking a lower tax burden without sacrificing reasonable housing costs or earning potential. It's a practical pick for those who prioritize fiscal responsibility and steady, if not spectacular, economic foundations.

Score breakdown

5 dimensions have live data. 3 more coming as vertical sites launch.

Tax88.5Cost74.3SafetyComing SoonHealth74.9SchoolsComing SoonIncome35.6Risk31.4WaterComing Soon
🏛88.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠74.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼35.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡Coming Soon
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
❤74.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓Coming Soon
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
⚡31.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧Coming Soon
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncomeincomebycounty.com
Compare Augusta County with another county →

Counties with similar scores

Alamosa County
Colorado
71.2
Median income: $51,445
Grand County
Colorado
71.2
Median income: $84,558
Bingham County
Idaho
71.2
Median income: $76,842
Hamilton County
Illinois
71.2
Median income: $61,520
Hancock County
Indiana
71.2
Median income: $91,326

Deep Dives

Augusta County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 5 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Augusta County

via TaxByCounty

Augusta taxes well below national average

At 0.490%, Augusta's effective tax rate is less than half the national median of 0.96%, placing the county in the bottom 25% nationally. The median property tax here is $1,379 annually, compared to $2,690 across the country—a difference of nearly $1,300 per year.

Augusta ranks among Virginia's lowest

Augusta's 0.490% rate falls well below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, making it one of the more tax-friendly counties in the Commonwealth. At $1,379, the median property tax is also significantly lower than the state median of $1,960.

More affordable than most regional peers

Augusta's 0.490% rate beats neighboring Botetourt County (0.655%) and Bland County (0.552%), though it's slightly higher than Bath County's 0.405%. Among the eight-county region, Augusta offers solid value with moderate taxes on a median home worth $281,400.

What homeowners pay annually

On Augusta's median home value of $281,400, the typical annual property tax bill is $1,379. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly more at $1,387, while those owning outright pay $1,366.

Check if your assessment is accurate

Many Augusta homeowners are unaware that they may be overassessed, potentially overpaying their property taxes. It's worth requesting a reassessment if you believe your home's tax value doesn't match current market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Augusta County

via CostByCounty

Augusta stays below the national housing burden

Augusta County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% sits comfortably below the national threshold of 30% that housing experts consider affordable. With a median household income of $79,972—higher than the national median of $74,755—Augusta residents spend less of their paychecks on rent than most Americans do.

Virginia's most affordable rental markets

Augusta ranks among Virginia's better housing values, with a rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% compared to the state average of 18.6%. The county's median rent of $1,057 falls below Virginia's state average of $1,140, making it an accessible option for renters across the income spectrum.

A sweet spot in the region

Augusta's median rent of $1,057 runs nearly identical to nearby Bedford County ($955) and Botetourt County ($951), making the three counties highly competitive for renters. However, Augusta offers slightly higher median income ($79,972) than Bath County ($61,709), giving residents more breathing room in their budgets.

Rent and ownership costs in balance

Renters pay $1,057 monthly while homeowners spend $978, a rare equilibrium in Virginia's housing market. With a median home value of $281,400 and household income of $79,972, Augusta residents allocate roughly 15.9% to rent and 14.7% to mortgage payments—both well within the affordable range.

Consider Augusta for stable housing costs

If you're relocating to Virginia and want reasonable rent, strong local incomes, and moderate home values, Augusta County delivers on all three fronts. Compare its $1,057 median rent and $79,972 median income against pricier Northern Virginia markets or lower-income southwestern counties to see the advantage.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Augusta County

via IncomeByCounty

Augusta outpaces the nation on income

At $79,972, Augusta County's median household income runs $5,217 ahead of the national median of $74,755. This places Augusta in the upper tier of U.S. counties, reflecting strong earning power for local households.

Among Virginia's better-earning counties

Augusta's median income of $79,972 exceeds Virginia's state average of $74,957 by about 7%. This ranking positions Augusta as a above-average earner within the Commonwealth, alongside other prosperous central Virginia communities.

Competitive with regional peers

Augusta's $79,972 income sits between Botetourt County ($80,467) and Bedford County ($77,644), three counties with similar economic profiles in the Piedmont and Blue Ridge regions. All three counties cluster above the state average, reflecting shared prosperity in this corridor.

Housing costs stay well in check

Augusta's rent-to-income ratio of 15.9% signals comfortable affordability; most experts recommend staying below 30%. With a median home value of $281,400, households earning $79,972 can realistically achieve homeownership without financial strain.

Build on Augusta's earning potential

With solid median income and low housing cost burdens, Augusta residents have room to invest in retirement accounts, education, and wealth-building. Consider maxing out 401(k) contributions or exploring homeowner equity strategies to accelerate long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Health in Augusta County

via HealthByCounty

Augusta residents live longer than average

At 78.0 years, Augusta County's life expectancy outpaces the U.S. average of 76.4 years by 1.6 years. Just 16.4% of residents report poor or fair health, significantly better than the national rate of 18%, suggesting a generally healthier population.

Strong health outcomes within Virginia

Augusta County ranks well among Virginia's 95 counties and cities, with a life expectancy of 78.0 years compared to the state average of 75.1 years. This 2.9-year advantage reflects above-average health outcomes across the region.

Outpaces neighboring mountain counties

Augusta's 78.0-year life expectancy significantly exceeds nearby Bath County (74.4 years) and Bland County (75.5 years), positioning it as a regional health leader. With 53 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 84 mental health providers per 100,000, Augusta offers solid access to both medical and behavioral health services.

Good insurance coverage, accessible care

Just 7.4% of Augusta residents lack health insurance, performing better than Virginia's 7.9% average. The county's robust provider network—including 53 primary care and 84 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—means most people can find care nearby without lengthy travel.

Already insured? Stay covered and informed.

With strong coverage rates, now is the time to review your plan and ensure it meets your family's needs. Visit healthcare.gov or Virginia's marketplace to compare options during open enrollment and secure the coverage that works best for you.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Disaster Risk in Augusta County

via RiskByCounty

Augusta faces above-average disaster risk nationally

Augusta County's composite risk score of 68.61 places it well above the national average, earning a 'Relatively Low' rating overall. However, this score masks significant variability—the county faces substantially elevated risks for specific hazards like hurricanes (79.22) and floods (80.18). Understanding these localized threats is key to preparing your community and home.

Among Virginia's riskiest counties

Augusta ranks significantly higher than Virginia's state average composite risk of 33.27, making it one of the state's more hazard-prone counties. This elevated standing reflects particular vulnerability to water-related disasters and seismic activity. Your location in the state places you in a higher-risk category than most Virginia residents.

Augusta's risks dwarf nearby counties

Neighboring Bath County (5.38) and Bland County (13.04) face dramatically lower composite risks, while Bedford County (51.18) and Buchanan County (50.60) approach Augusta's threat level. Augusta's flood risk of 80.18 is particularly notable—roughly twice Bath's exposure. If you're comparing neighborhoods or considering relocation, these differences are substantial.

Floods and hurricanes pose greatest threat

Flood risk dominates at 80.18—among the highest in the state—while hurricane risk stands at 79.22, reflecting Augusta's vulnerability to tropical systems and water accumulation. Wildfire risk (72.01) and earthquake risk (70.61) round out a concerning profile. These aren't hypothetical: flooding events regularly impact infrastructure and property in this region.

Flood insurance is essential here

Given your flood risk score of 80.18, flood insurance should be a priority whether or not your home is in a mapped floodplain—standard homeowners policies don't cover flood damage. Consider earthquake insurance as well (70.61 risk score), and ensure your coverage keeps pace with rebuilding costs. Speak with a local insurance agent who understands Augusta-specific hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS — informational only.