countyscore
43.5
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 84.9Weather & Climate 71.7

County Report Card

About Bradley County, Tennessee

Bradley County Scores Below National Median

Bradley County carries a composite score of 43.6, which falls short of the national median of 50.0. This suggests that the county has room to grow in several key livability categories.

Trailing the Tennessee State Average

The county's score of 43.6 is lower than the Tennessee average of 51.3. It faces pressure to improve public services to keep pace with higher-ranked counties in the state.

Strong Utilities and Favorable Taxes

Bradley County earns a water score of 86.0 and a tax score of 84.9. Property owners benefit from a low 0.509% effective tax rate, keeping the cost of ownership manageable.

Safety and Risk Management Gaps

Safety is a significant challenge with a score of 12.8, among the lowest in the region. The risk score of 26.6 also indicates a need for better community resilience planning.

An Affordable Entry for Commuters

Bradley County suits those working in nearby hubs like Chattanooga who want lower taxes and decent water infrastructure. It remains a budget-friendly option with a median home value of $230,800.

Score breakdown

Tax84.9Cost34.3Safety12.8Health38.4Schools48.8Income50.3Risk26.6Water86Weather71.7
🏛84.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠34.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼50.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡12.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤38.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡26.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤71.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨30.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱35.5
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

Polk County
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Hamilton County
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McMinn County
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Meigs County
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Deep Dives

Bradley County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Bradley County

via TaxByCounty

Bradley's taxes beat national expectations

Bradley County's 0.509% effective rate falls well short of the national average of around 0.85%, and the median tax of $1,174 represents less than 44% of the national median of $2,690. This Cleveland-area county delivers below-average tax burdens despite its more developed character.

Near Tennessee's statewide average

Bradley County's 0.509% effective rate sits virtually at Tennessee's state average of 0.511%, making it representative of the typical Tennessee county. The median tax of $1,174 runs 15% above the state median of $1,016, reflecting a slightly higher median home value of $230,800.

Middle ground for Southeast Tennessee

Bradley County's 0.509% rate sits between Blount County (0.503%) to the north and Cannon County (0.479%) to the west. It represents a balanced, moderate tax approach for its region.

Median home costs about $1,174 yearly

A typical Bradley County home valued at $230,800 generates an annual tax of approximately $1,174. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly more at $1,263, while those without mortgages pay about $1,020.

Appeals work for Bradley County homeowners

Many Bradley County residents discover their assessments outpace recent market conditions, particularly in neighborhoods experiencing property value shifts. Filing an assessment appeal takes minimal effort and could yield meaningful annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Bradley County

via CostByCounty

Bradley slightly underperforms on affordability

Bradley County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.0% edges above the national median, with a median household income of $63,789 trailing the US average of $74,755 by 15%. Renters here face moderately elevated affordability pressure compared to typical American households.

Slightly above Tennessee average burden

Bradley's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks slightly above Tennessee's 17.6% state average, placing it in the mid-range of county affordability. The $959 median rent also exceeds the state average of $860, signaling a tighter market than many rural peers.

Similar to Anderson, cheaper than Blount

Bradley's $959 median rent is nearly identical to Anderson County ($960) and substantially lower than Blount County ($1,042), while the $230,800 median home value falls between these two counties. This positions Bradley as a stable mid-market alternative in the region.

Rent and mortgage costs nearly equal

Bradley renters spend 18.0% of their $63,789 income on $959 rent, while homeowners average $953—showing nearly parity between tenure costs. This suggests a market where both renting and buying carry comparable affordability challenges.

Steady mid-market option for region explorers

Bradley offers stable, middle-ground housing costs without the premium prices of Blount or the rural constraints of Benton. Those seeking a reliable East Tennessee community with moderate affordability should seriously evaluate Bradley alongside neighboring Anderson County.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Bradley County

via IncomeByCounty

Bradley trails national income modestly

Bradley County's median household income of $63,789 falls 14.7% below the national median of $74,755, a gap of $10,966. The county reflects mid-range American economic performance, neither dramatically above nor below the national norm.

Among Tennessee's stronger performers

Bradley County ranks second-highest in this group with $63,789, exceeding the state median of $58,994 by 8.1%. Per capita income of $32,249 also surpasses the state average of $31,458, indicating healthy income distribution across the population.

Strong showing in the region

Bradley's $63,789 ranks just below Anderson ($63,171) and substantially ahead of Campbell ($50,260) and Benton ($50,435). The county's economic diversity, including healthcare and manufacturing sectors, supports higher median earnings than many rural peers.

Comfortable housing affordability

Bradley's rent-to-income ratio of 18.0% is well within healthy ranges, and median home values of $230,800 align logically with the county's income level. Households here can afford both renting and homeownership without financial strain.

Build wealth through disciplined investing

Bradley households earning $63,789 should allocate 15–20% of income toward retirement and investment accounts to solidify long-term security. With reasonable housing costs, the county's earners have meaningful opportunity to build generational wealth through consistent savings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Bradley County

via CrimeByCounty

Higher Activity Levels in Bradley County

Bradley County reports a total crime rate of 2,547.4 per 100K, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a local safety score of 96.0.

Navigating Safety Above State Averages

The county's crime rate exceeds the Tennessee average of 1,785.6 per 100K. Five reporting agencies work to address the higher volume of incidents in this active region.

Comparing Bradley to Regional Peers

Bradley experiences more crime than neighboring Blount County, which stays closer to 1,200 incidents per 100K. This makes local crime prevention a higher priority for residents.

Property and Violent Crime Breakdown

Property crime is significant at 2,065.1 per 100K, while violent crime stands at 482.3. Both metrics are higher than the respective national averages of 2,015.7 and 369.8.

Essential Safeguards for Your Home

Comprehensive home security systems are highly recommended to combat elevated property crime rates. Investing in high-quality locks and alarm monitoring provides critical protection.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Bradley County

via HealthByCounty

Bradley outperforms national health norms

At 73.8 years, Bradley County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 71.4 years by 2.4 years, reflecting relatively strong longevity. The county's 19.7% poor/fair health rate is also below the national average of 21%, suggesting residents report better day-to-day wellbeing than most Americans.

Bradley ranks in Tennessee's healthy tier

Bradley's 73.8-year life expectancy exceeds Tennessee's state average of 72.4 years, placing it in the healthier portion of the state's 95 counties. The 11.2% uninsured rate also beats the state average of 11.9%, meaning slightly more residents have health coverage than typical Tennesseans.

Bradley mirrors Blount's strong performance

Bradley's health metrics rank favorably against neighbors: its 73.8-year life expectancy trails only Blount's 74.8 years, and its 19.7% poor/fair health rate is similar to Anderson's 18.3%. The county offers solid provider access with 48 primary care physicians per 100,000 residents.

Well-resourced healthcare system

Bradley County provides good healthcare access, with 48 primary care providers and 152 mental health providers per 100,000 residents supporting residents' medical and mental health needs. At 11.2% uninsured, nearly 9 in 10 residents have health coverage, facilitating regular doctor visits and preventive care.

Confirm your health coverage status

While Bradley has above-average coverage rates, 11.2% of residents still lack health insurance—thousands of people vulnerable to unexpected medical costs. Visit healthcare.gov or TNCover.org to review your options and ensure you have continuous coverage throughout the year.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Bradley County

via SchoolsByCounty

Urban and Suburban Educational Access

Bradley County hosts 27 public schools serving 16,037 students across two districts. The infrastructure is built around 18 elementary schools and four high schools to support a growing student population.

Solid Graduation Rates and Local Investment

Bradley County's 92.5% graduation rate remains well above the national average of 87%. The county spends $6,470 per pupil, maintaining a level of investment that is slightly higher than the Tennessee state average of $6,215.

Cleveland and Bradley County District Roles

Bradley County Schools serves 10,269 students, while the Cleveland district serves 5,768 students. Both districts operate without charter schools, focusing entirely on traditional public education for the community.

Large Schools in a City Environment

With 15 schools in city locales and seven in suburbs, the county offers a distinctly urban-suburban educational feel. Cleveland High is the county's largest school with 1,842 students, and the overall average school size is 617.

Find Home Near Cleveland's Academic Centers

Bradley County offers diverse school environments ranging from rural outposts to large city high schools. Families should explore homes in Cleveland to stay close to the county's largest and most central educational facilities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Bradley County

via RiskByCounty

Bradley County's Risk Profile Nationally

Bradley County scores 73.41 on composite natural disaster risk, earning a Relatively Low rating that matches the national average. The county's hazard profile reflects significant earthquake (91.86) and tornado (88.42) exposure, both among Tennessee's highest.

How Bradley Ranks Among Tennessee Counties

Bradley County's 73.41 score substantially exceeds Tennessee's state average of 52.45, placing it in the state's top-risk tier. The county's tornado (88.42) and earthquake (91.86) exposure ranks among Tennessee's highest, creating dual major hazards.

Comparing Risk to Neighbors

Bradley County faces similar risk to Blount County (74.17) and Anderson County (73.19), creating an eastern Tennessee corridor of elevated hazard exposure. The county's tornado risk (88.42) exceeds most neighbors, distinguishing it as particularly vulnerable to spring severe weather.

Your Biggest Natural Disaster Risks

Tornadoes (88.42) and earthquakes (91.86) represent Bradley County's twin catastrophic hazards, with moderate flood (69.05) and wildfire (47.20) exposure. The county's southeastern location creates vulnerability to multiple seasonal and structural hazards requiring year-round preparedness.

Protect Your Home in Bradley County

Bradley County homeowners should invest in safe room construction and earthquake-resistant retrofitting, given the county's dual top-tier hazards. Comprehensive homeowners insurance covering tornado and earthquake damage is essential, with particular attention to securing coverage for properties in known tornado alleys.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Bradley County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Temperatures and Heavy Rain

Bradley County’s 59.6°F average is well above the national median of 55°F. It is a wet climate, receiving 57.6 inches of precipitation annually.

Warmer and Wetter Than the State

Bradley is 1.5 degrees warmer than the Tennessee state average. It also receives about 2 inches more rain than the state average, contributing to a lush but humid environment.

Milder Winters Than Northern Neighbors

Bradley is over 2 degrees warmer than Anderson and 3.6 degrees warmer than Campbell. It experiences far less snow than Blount County, making for a much milder winter experience.

Hot Summers and Very Little Snow

Summer features 36 days of extreme heat with a 78.4°F July average. Winters are mild at 41.9°F, and snow is rare, with only 1.1 inches falling per year.

Focus on Rain Management and Cooling

With nearly 58 inches of rain and high humidity, keeping gutters clear and crawlspaces dry is essential. High-efficiency cooling is recommended for the five weeks of 90-degree summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Bradley County

via SoilByCounty

Bradley’s Strong Acidic Foundation

Bradley County soil shows an average pH of 5.17, which is more acidic than the Tennessee average of 5.35. This level sits well below the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime for traditional vegetable gardening.

A Balanced Mix of Soil Particles

The soil contains 26.8% sand, 47.2% silt, and 22.0% clay, a combination often referred to as variable in texture. This mixture provides a middle-ground for drainage and nutrient storage.

Moderate Fertility and Water Access

Organic matter levels at 1.96% are slightly below the state average of 2.44%. Additionally, the water storage capacity of 0.157 in/in is lower than the Tennessee benchmark of 0.171 in/in, requiring more frequent watering.

Local Hydrology and Drainage Variability

Official drainage classes and hydrologic groups for the dominant soil units remain unclassified in recent surveys. Growers typically find that Bradley’s varied topography creates pockets of both quick-draining and heavy-holding land.

Growing Options in Zone 7b

With a soil score of 30.1, Bradley County is well-suited for Zone 7b staples like peppers and ornamental shrubs. Adding compost can help bridge the gap in organic matter to create a more resilient garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Bradley County

via LawnByCounty

The Uphill Battle for Bradley Lawns

Bradley County presents a tough challenge with a difficulty score of 35.5, the lowest among its neighbors. Achieving a healthy lawn here requires significantly more effort than the national median of 50.0.

Intense Growth and Heat Stress

The county sees 36 extreme heat days and 4,636 growing degree days, leading to a fast-paced growing season. This requires a rigorous mowing schedule to prevent the grass from being stressed during the hot, wet summer months.

Overcoming Highly Acidic Clay

A very acidic pH of 5.17 can lock out essential nutrients, making lime applications a necessity for any Bradley County lawn. The 22% clay content means you must watch for compaction, especially in high-traffic areas of the yard.

Surviving Record-Level Severe Drought

Severe drought currently impacts 100% of the county, following 26 weeks of drought over the past year. During these critical periods, it is best to allow your lawn to go dormant rather than forcing growth with excessive watering.

Resilient Grass for Bradley's Climate

Bermuda and Zoysia are your best bets if established between the April 6th and October 30th frost dates. Focus on heavy soil prep in the fall to set the stage for success during the following spring.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bradley County's county score?
Bradley County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 43.5 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 Bradley County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Bradley County ranks #83 among all counties in Tennessee 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 Bradley County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Bradley County is $1,174, with an effective tax rate of 0.51%. This earns Bradley County a tax score of 84.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Bradley County?
The median household income in Bradley County, Tennessee is $63,789 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Bradley County earns an income score of 50.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Bradley County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Bradley County scores 43.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #83 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Bradley 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 Bradley 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.