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Beaufort County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#26 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
50.3
County Score
Safety 66.7Water Quality 64.2Weather & Climate 63.3

County Report Card

About Beaufort County, North Carolina

Beaufort Matches National Median Livability

Beaufort County scores a 50.3, aligning almost perfectly with the national median of 50.0. It represents a standard American quality of life with balanced pros and cons.

Exceeding the North Carolina Average

With a score of 50.3, Beaufort outperforms the North Carolina average of 44.7. It serves as a reliable anchor in the eastern part of the state, offering better security than many neighboring areas.

Strong Safety and Reliable Resources

The county shines in public safety with a score of 66.7 and maintains a solid water score of 64.2. Residents also benefit from a healthy tax score of 62.6, keeping local costs predictable.

High Environmental Risks

The primary concern in Beaufort is a risk score of 11.8, reflecting vulnerability to natural disasters or climate events. Health scores also lag at 35.8, indicating a need for better access to care.

A Solid Choice for Coastal Security

Beaufort suits residents who want a safe, community-oriented lifestyle near the water. It is a great fit for those who prioritize crime prevention and water quality, provided they are prepared for regional environmental risks.

Score breakdown

Tax62.6Cost50Safety66.7Health35.8Schools41.5Income32.7Risk11.8Water64.2Weather63.3
🏛62.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠50
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼32.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡66.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
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⚡11.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧64.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨44.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.1
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

Pamlico County
North Carolina
52.6
Washington County
North Carolina
33.3
Pitt County
North Carolina
33.6
Craven County
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Martin County
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Hyde County
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Bertie County
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Deep Dives

Beaufort County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Beaufort County

via TaxByCounty

Beaufort taxes close to national average

Beaufort County's effective tax rate of 0.705% sits just slightly above the national median of roughly 0.9% and matches the state average. At $1,277 in median annual property taxes on a median home of $181,200, residents pay less than half the national median of $2,690.

Middle-range tax burden in North Carolina

Beaufort County ranks at the state average with an effective rate of 0.705% compared to North Carolina's 0.701% statewide average. The median property tax of $1,277 is 11% below the state median of $1,433, reflecting below-average home values in the coastal county.

Higher than inland Piedmont, similar to coast

Beaufort's 0.705% rate exceeds nearby Pitt and Nash counties but matches other Coastal Plain jurisdictions like Martin and Edgecombe. The region's rates generally cluster between 0.65% and 0.75% due to similar assessment practices.

Modest coastal homes, typical tax bill

The median home in Beaufort County is valued at $181,200, resulting in an estimated annual property tax of $1,277 without mortgage deduction. With mortgage interest factored in, homeowners typically pay approximately $1,539 per year.

Coastal properties warrant careful review

In counties experiencing coastal development and demographic shifts, assessments can lag behind or overshoot actual market values. Beaufort homeowners should verify their assessment matches recent comparable sales and appeal if significantly overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Beaufort County

via CostByCounty

Beaufort's coastal affordability beats the nation

Beaufort County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% outperforms the national average of 18.6% by 0.8 percentage points, with median household income of $57,997 supporting moderate housing costs. At $859/month for rent and $831 for owner costs, Beaufort offers balanced coastal living without coastal-tier pricing.

Beaufort holds strong in state affordability rankings

At 17.8%, Beaufort's rent-to-income ratio is below North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, placing it in the state's more affordable county tier. The county's median rent of $859 is below the state median of $938 and paired with solid median household income of $57,997.

Beaufort delivers coastal value without coastal prices

Beaufort's $859 rent sits between mountain peers, while its median home value of $181,200 is the lowest among counties in this analysis—offering exceptional equity potential. Owner costs at $831/month are competitive, making Beaufort an attractive option for homebuyers seeking coastal character without premium pricing.

Beaufort renters balance housing with other needs

At $859/month, renters spend 17.8% of their $57,997 annual income on housing, leaving roughly $4,773 annually for utilities, food, and savings. Homeowners at $831/month face a similar burden, with median home values under $182,000 providing accessible pathways to ownership in a coastal region.

Beaufort: coastal living on a reasonable budget

If you're drawn to North Carolina's coastal communities, Beaufort County offers the lowest median home values in this group ($181,200) paired with a respectable 17.8% rent-to-income ratio. Compare against mountain alternatives like Ashe or Avery to decide between coastal and mountain communities—both offer below-state-average affordability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Beaufort County

via IncomeByCounty

Beaufort's median income lags U.S. by 22%

Beaufort County's median household income of $57,997 trails the national median of $74,755 by $16,758, ranking it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. The county's coastal economy depends heavily on agriculture, seafood, and government employment.

Slightly below state average

At $57,997, Beaufort's median household income falls 5.0% short of North Carolina's state average of $61,072, placing it in the middle-to-lower band statewide. The county's economic structure has shifted from manufacturing to services and agriculture.

Comparable to Avery and Ashe counties

Beaufort's $57,997 median income aligns closely with Avery County ($57,657) and Ashe County ($50,827), suggesting similar rural economic challenges. All three counties lag wealthier, more industrialized peers in the piedmont region.

Healthy housing affordability at 17.8%

Beaufort's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% reflects manageable housing costs, with families spending less than one-fifth of income on rent. The median home value of $181,200 is more accessible than wealthier counties, supporting homeownership opportunities.

Build savings on stable rural foundation

With 17.8% of income available after housing costs, Beaufort households can prioritize consistent savings and modest investment contributions. Automation—setting up regular transfers to savings or investment accounts—makes wealth-building easier even on moderate incomes.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Beaufort County

via CrimeByCounty

Beaufort County Offers Strong Public Safety

Beaufort County reports a total crime rate of 785.0 per 100K, far below the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a superior safety score of 98.8.

Well Above the State Safety Score

The county's 98.8 safety score easily exceeds the North Carolina average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 785.0 is much lower than the state average of 2050.0 per 100K.

Safe Relative to Regional Peers

Beaufort's crime rate of 785.0 is nearly half that of Bertie County, which stands at 1515.3. It also outperforms Avery County's low rate of 757.9 per 100K.

Property Concerns Predominate Over Violence

Violent crime is very low at 105.1 per 100K, while property crime accounts for 679.9 incidents. Property theft is the most likely issue residents might encounter locally.

Maintaining Your Peace of Mind

Basic home security like door sensors and yard lighting helps keep Beaufort safe. Monitoring your property is the best way to prevent opportunistic theft in this low-crime area.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Beaufort County

via HealthByCounty

Beaufort trails national health benchmarks

Beaufort County residents have a life expectancy of 73.7 years, falling short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years by nearly 2.7 years. The county's 19.9% poor or fair health rate is slightly above the national average, reflecting a population facing notable health challenges.

Below North Carolina state average

Beaufort County's 73.7-year life expectancy lags the state average of 74.4 years, placing it in the lower tier of North Carolina county health rankings. This gap indicates the county faces similar or worse health challenges than the broader state population.

Coastal county faces headwinds

Beaufort County's 73.7-year life expectancy trails most neighboring eastern North Carolina counties and significantly trails the state average. The county provides 52 primary care providers and 207 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, offering moderate access despite health outcome gaps.

Insurance rates solid, outcomes lag

Beaufort County's 12.2% uninsured rate is below the state average, yet health outcomes remain below expectations, suggesting barriers beyond coverage alone—likely including poverty, chronic disease burden, and healthcare delivery gaps. Residents with insurance may still face challenges accessing or affording specialized care.

Ensure your family is covered

Beaufort County faces higher-than-average health challenges despite relatively good insurance rates. Make sure you're covered: visit healthcare.gov, call 211, or contact Beaufort County Health Department to explore Medicaid and marketplace plans in your area.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Beaufort County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Educational Network in Beaufort

Beaufort County manages 15 public schools serving 6,378 students across two districts. This diverse system includes seven elementary, two middle, and five high schools, plus an alternative school.

Strong Outcomes and Competitive Funding

With an 88.1% graduation rate, Beaufort County exceeds both state and national averages. The county also invests $7,170 per pupil, which is higher than the state's $6,969 average expenditure.

District Excellence and Charter Options

Beaufort County Schools is the largest district, serving nearly 6,000 students across 14 schools. Washington Montessori adds variety as a charter school, representing roughly 7% of the total school landscape.

Town and Country School Settings

While 13 schools are rural, two are located in town settings, providing a choice of environments. Washington High is the county's largest school with 839 students, while average school enrollment stays near 425.

Relocate Near Beaufort's Top Schools

Strong graduation rates and varied district options make Beaufort County a premier choice for families. Look for your next home in Washington to access the county's most diverse educational opportunities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Beaufort County

via RiskByCounty

Beaufort County faces elevated national risk

Beaufort County's composite risk score of 88.17 places it significantly above the U.S. average, earning a "Relatively Moderate" rating. This coastal county's exposure to hurricanes (97.46) and flooding (82.20) creates one of North Carolina's most hazard-exposed locations.

Among North Carolina's highest-risk counties

At 88.17, Beaufort County far exceeds the state average of 66.72, ranking among the most disaster-prone jurisdictions in North Carolina. The county's coastal location and low elevation create compounding flood and hurricane vulnerability.

Highest risk in eastern North Carolina

Beaufort County's 88.17 score significantly exceeds neighboring Bertie County (66.38), making it the riskiest jurisdiction in eastern North Carolina. The county's hurricane risk at 97.46 is unmatched among its peers.

Hurricanes and flooding dominate your profile

Hurricane risk reaches 97.46 in Beaufort County—among the highest in the nation—with flood risk following closely at 82.20. Tornado risk at 74.59 adds a third threat, making tropical storm season and spring weather your most dangerous periods.

Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable

Beaufort County residents must secure both homeowners insurance and separate flood insurance through the NFIP, as standard policies exclude water damage. Consider hurricane-resistant shutters, roof reinforcement, and a generator, and maintain an emergency kit updated for extended power outages.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Beaufort County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and wet coastal plains

Beaufort County's average temperature of 62.3°F is well above the national median. Its 52.3 inches of annual precipitation reflects the humid, moisture-rich environment of the Atlantic coast.

Warmer than the state norm

Beaufort stays warmer than the North Carolina average of 59.3°F due to coastal influences. It is also wetter than the state average, receiving 52.3 inches of rain compared to the 51.5-inch state mean.

Warmer than inland peers

Beaufort is more than a degree warmer on average than nearby Bertie County. While both share high humidity, Beaufort sees significantly less snowfall than its northern neighbor.

Long summers, virtually no snow

Summer dominates with 39 days of extreme heat and a July average of 80.4°F. Snow is a rarity, averaging just 0.9 inches per year, while winter remains mild at 45.6°F.

Manage humidity and rain

Prioritize mold prevention and high-capacity cooling for the humid 80°F summers. Snow gear is unnecessary, but sturdy rain boots and umbrellas are daily essentials for the frequent precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Beaufort County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Acidity and High Peat

Beaufort County has highly acidic soil with an average pH of 4.63, significantly lower than the national 6.5 median. This reflects the county's coastal history and the accumulation of organic material over centuries. Taxonomic data is limited, but the chemical signature is typical of the Carolina coastal plain.

Sandy Coastal Foundations

The composition is 54.8% sand, 23.3% silt, and 11.9% clay. This sandy base allows for rapid water infiltration through the topsoil layer. The low clay percentage means the soil is very easy to work but has a lower natural ability to hold onto mineral nutrients.

Elite Organic Matter and Water Capacity

The soil boasts a massive 11.21% organic matter, the highest in this group and vastly exceeding the national 2.0% average. Available water capacity is also excellent at 0.161 in/in. This combination creates a unique environment that acts as a powerful reservoir for moisture.

Navigating a High Water Table

Specific drainage classes are not currently mapped, but the high organic matter and coastal location suggest a high water table. While the sandy texture drains quickly, the overall landscape may hold water near the surface. Careful planning is needed for any building or farming that requires deep, dry roots.

Lush Growing in Zone 8b

The warm Zone 8b climate allows for sub-tropical gardening, featuring figs, palms, and long-season vegetables. The exceptionally high organic matter is a goldmine for growers who can manage the high acidity. Start your coastal garden and enjoy one of the longest growing seasons in the state.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Beaufort County

via LawnByCounty

Toughest Growing Conditions in Beaufort

Beaufort County faces a difficult lawn landscape with a score of only 25.1, the lowest in the group. This Zone 8b coastal region deals with high heat and extremely acidic soils that make traditional lawn care a constant battle. Residents should expect to put in twice the effort compared to the national average to see results.

Long Growing Season and High Heat

A massive 5,245 growing degree days means your lawn is active for most of the year, requiring near-constant maintenance. While 52.3 inches of rain is plentiful, the 39 extreme heat days can quickly parched coastal turf. This climate demands heat-tolerant grass species that can withstand the subtropical humidity.

Struggling with Extreme Soil Acidity

Beaufort's soil pH is a very low 4.63, far below the healthy threshold for most grasses. The soil is 54.8% sand, which allows water to drain quickly but fails to hold onto vital nutrients for growth. Amending your soil with lime and organic matter is not just recommended; it is a requirement for survival here.

Persistent Coastal Drought Pressures

The county has spent a staggering 40 weeks in drought over the last year, with 85.9% currently in a severe drought state. In these conditions, coastal lawns need deep, morning watering to combat the high evaporation rates. Consider xeriscaping or drought-resistant cultivars to reduce the heavy water burden.

St. Augustine and Bermuda Territory

Hardiness Zone 8b is perfect for salt-tolerant and heat-loving grasses like St. Augustine or Centipede. With a very long window between the March 22 frost and November 15 frost, you have plenty of time for establishment. Focus your efforts in late spring when these warm-season grasses enter their peak growth phase.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beaufort County's county score?
Beaufort County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 50.3 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 Beaufort County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Beaufort County ranks #26 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 Beaufort County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Beaufort County is $1,277, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns Beaufort County a tax score of 62.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Beaufort County?
The median household income in Beaufort County, North Carolina is $57,997 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Beaufort County earns an income score of 32.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Beaufort County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Beaufort County scores 50.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #26 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Beaufort 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 Beaufort County with other counties side by side.

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