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Burke County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#59 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
41.4
County Score
Weather & Climate 66.5Cost of Living 63.8Property Tax 63.5

County Report Card

About Burke County, North Carolina

Affordable Foothills Living

Burke County posts a composite score of 41.4, which is lower than the national median of 50.0. The county trades higher safety and income scores for significant housing affordability.

Tracking Below State Benchmarks

At 41.4, Burke remains below the state average of 44.7. While it is more affordable than its neighbors, it struggles to match the economic momentum of North Carolina's larger metro areas.

Cost and Water Quality

The county shines in affordability with a cost score of 63.8 and median rents of $805. It also provides reliable infrastructure, evidenced by a water score of 56.0 and an effective tax rate of 0.699%.

Safety and Income Gaps

Burke faces a very low safety score of 3.1 and an income score of 26.9. With a median household income of $55,684, the county continues to work toward higher-wage job growth.

The Verdict for Practical Renters

Burke is best for individuals who need to keep housing costs low while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills. It offers a stable, low-cost environment for those with flexible income sources.

Score breakdown

Tax63.5Cost63.8Safety3.1Health38.7Schools43.1Income26.9Risk29.8Water56Weather66.5
🏛63.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠63.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼26.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡3.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤38.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓43.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡29.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧56
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱45.3
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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Compare Burke County with Cross County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Caldwell County
North Carolina
45.5
McDowell County
North Carolina
47.8
Catawba County
North Carolina
49.3
Avery County
North Carolina
60.2
Alexander County
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Rutherford County
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Cleveland County
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Lincoln County
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Deep Dives

Burke County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Burke County

via TaxByCounty

Burke's rate sits slightly below national median

Burke County's effective tax rate of 0.699% is below the national median of 1.09%, placing it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,191 reflects both a reasonable rate and modest home values typical of the foothills region.

Nearly identical to North Carolina average

Burke's 0.699% rate is virtually even with North Carolina's 0.701% state average, making it representative of typical tax burdens across the state. Burke homeowners pay roughly what the typical Tar Heel resident pays.

Mid-range for the mountain region

Burke's 0.699% rate sits between Caldwell County (0.639%) to the north and Buncombe County (0.601%) to the south. Among western North Carolina counties, Burke maintains a fairly standard tax level.

Average annual tax around $1,191

With a median home value of $170,500 and a rate of 0.699%, Burke homeowners typically pay approximately $1,191 in annual property tax. Mortgage escrow payments typically total around $1,326 per year.

Many assessments warrant a second look

Assessments in Burke County may not always reflect current market values, and homeowners have the right to appeal if they believe theirs is incorrect. A quick comparison with recent sales of similar homes can reveal whether an appeal might be worthwhile.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Burke County

via CostByCounty

Burke offers rare affordability advantage

Burke County renters spend just 17.4% of income on rent—comfortably below the national baseline and well under national affordability stress levels. With a median household income of $55,684 and median rent of $805, Burke demonstrates how lower-cost regions can deliver better housing affordability ratios.

Below state average affordability strain

Burke's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio beats North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, positioning it among the state's more affordable counties. The median rent of $805 sits just below the state average, while local incomes create a favorable affordability balance.

Second-best affordability in region

Burke's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio is surpassed only by Caldwell County's 15.9% in this sample, both mountain counties with strong affordability profiles. Burke's median rent of $805 undercuts nearby Buncombe ($1,281) by 37%, making it an appealing alternative for budget-conscious relocators.

Balanced housing costs for modest incomes

Burke renters pay $805 monthly while homeowners spend $722, with a median home value of $170,500. The $55,684 median income means housing consumes less than one-fifth of budgets—one of the healthiest ratios in this county set.

Burke County: affordable mountain living

If affordability is your priority, Burke delivers: median rents under $805 and a 17.4% rent-to-income ratio beat most of North Carolina. The trade-off is lower median incomes, so ensure local employment opportunities align with your career needs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Burke County

via IncomeByCounty

Burke earns 26% less than nation

Burke County's median household income of $55,684 lags the national median of $74,755 by $19,071. This gap reflects rural economic constraints and limited high-wage job opportunities in the foothills region.

Lower-middle tier statewide

At $55,684, Burke County falls short of the state average of $61,072 by $5,388—nearly a 9% deficit. The county ranks in the lower-middle range among North Carolina counties, indicating structural economic challenges.

Neighborhood income gaps are stark

Burke County ($55,684) earns more than Bladen ($44,528) but significantly less than Cabarrus ($86,084) and Camden ($87,781). Its foothills location and manufacturing-dependent economy limit income growth compared to more dynamic urban neighbors.

Housing remains affordable anchor

Burke County's low 17.4% rent-to-income ratio and modest $170,500 median home value create favorable affordability conditions. Housing costs consume less of household budgets here than in most other regions, leaving room for savings and investment.

Affordable housing fuels wealth-building

Burke County's low housing costs are a financial advantage—use the savings to build emergency funds, contribute to retirement plans, and invest in skills training for higher-wage work. Homeownership here is achievable, providing a tangible asset for long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Burke County

via CrimeByCounty

Burke County Faces Elevated Crime Challenges

Burke County reports a total crime rate of 4,059.3 per 100K, significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This contributes to a safety score of 93.6, which reflects higher reported activity across 9 agencies.

Lower Safety Ranking Within the State

The county's safety score of 93.6 is well below the North Carolina state average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 4,059.3 per 100K is nearly double the state average of 2,050.0.

Comparing Burke to Nearby Caldwell

Burke County’s crime rate of 4,059.3 per 100K is significantly higher than neighboring Caldwell County’s rate of 2,408.5. This disparity highlights localized safety challenges that differ from nearby mountain communities.

High Property and Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime in Burke sits at 539.9 per 100K, exceeding the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also elevated at 3,519.4 per 100K, which is substantially higher than national norms.

Prioritizing Home Security Solutions

Residents should take active measures to secure their property in light of high local rates. Reinforced door frames and monitored alarm systems can significantly lower the risk of becoming a statistic.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Burke County

via HealthByCounty

Burke's life expectancy near state parity

Burke County residents live to 74.2 years, falling short of the U.S. life expectancy of 78.9 years by nearly five years. The 18.4% poor/fair health rate exceeds the national 17% benchmark, indicating health challenges across the population.

Slightly below North Carolina average

Burke's 74.2-year life expectancy is essentially at the state average of 74.4 years, but the 18.4% poor/fair health rate suggests underlying health vulnerabilities. Burke ranks in the middle tier among North Carolina counties.

Mixed outcomes versus regional peers

Burke's 74.2-year life expectancy exceeds Bladen (70.3 years) and Caldwell (72.4 years) but trails Buncombe (77.4 years) and Cabarrus (77.2 years). With 63 primary care providers per 100,000, Burke offers moderate access compared to neighbors.

Moderate uninsured rate, adequate providers

Burke's 13.5% uninsured rate slightly exceeds North Carolina's 12.5% average, leaving roughly one in seven residents without coverage. The county provides 331 mental health providers per 100,000—more than triple some neighboring counties—supporting behavioral health access.

Close the coverage gap now

With more than one in seven residents uninsured, Burke residents should investigate marketplace plans and state programs to secure coverage. Getting insured helps prevent costly emergencies and improves long-term health outcomes.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Burke County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Infrastructure for the Foothills

Burke County operates 29 public schools, including 15 elementary and 6 high schools, serving 12,366 students. The system is managed by 3 districts and includes specialized facilities like special education and alternative schools. This structure ensures that diverse learning needs are met across the county's varied terrain.

Leading the Region in Graduation Success

Burke County achieves an exceptional 92.0% graduation rate, far exceeding both the state average of 88.0% and the national 87.0%. Despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $6,212, the county maintains a strong composite school score of 52.9. These results indicate a highly efficient educational system that prioritizes student completion.

Burke County Schools and Specialized Districts

Burke County Schools is the primary district, serving 11,770 students across 27 schools. The county also hosts the unique Deaf and Blind Schools district, which provides essential services to 146 students. The New Dimensions School operates as the county's sole charter, offering choice to 535 students.

Balanced Suburban and Rural Learning

Schools are evenly distributed among suburban, rural, and city locales, providing a versatile geographic mix for families. Freedom High stands as the largest campus with 1,414 students, while many elementary schools maintain a more intimate feel. The average school size is 426 students, reflecting a community-oriented approach to education.

Build Your Life Near High-Performing Schools

Families are drawn to Burke County for its 92% graduation rate, one of the highest in the state. Properties near Freedom High or Mountain View Elementary offer proximity to some of the county's most significant educational assets. Prioritizing these high-performing zones can lead to both educational success and strong home value retention.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Burke County

via RiskByCounty

Burke's risk below national levels

Burke County scores 70.17 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the relatively low category near the national average. This makes Burke one of the safer choices in North Carolina, though residents still face meaningful flood and tornado exposure.

Mid-range risk among state counties

Burke ranks in the lower-to-middle tier of North Carolina counties with a composite score of 70.17, slightly above the state average of 66.72. The county's inland foothills location protects it from coastal hazards while exposing it to mountain-related risks.

Comparable risk to nearby Caldwell

Burke (70.17) and neighboring Caldwell County (67.43) sit in the lower-risk tier, substantially safer than western mountain peer Buncombe (89.34). Both counties benefit from their inland, elevated positions despite sharing tornado and flood vulnerabilities.

Floods and tornadoes require attention

Burke's primary hazards are flood risk (79.33) and tornado risk (75.22), both reflecting the county's Appalachian geography and seasonal storm patterns. Earthquake exposure (72.30) also registers moderately, while wildfire risk (46.98) is notably low.

Standard coverage addresses main threats

Burke residents should prioritize standard homeowners' insurance with wind and hail coverage for tornado protection, plus flood insurance if near waterways. A basement safe room or reinforced interior closet provides affordable refuge during severe weather events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Burke County

via WeatherByCounty

Moderate Climate in the Foothills

Burke County’s 57.9°F annual average reflects a temperate climate nestled in the foothills. This temperature sits slightly below the national median and the North Carolina state average.

Slightly Below the State Average

Compared to the state average of 59.3°F, Burke County maintains a slightly cooler profile. It serves as a middle ground between the cold peaks of the west and the hot Piedmont plains.

Balancing Mountain Cool and Valley Warmth

The county sees 35 days of extreme heat annually, which is moderate for the region. Its 51.2 inches of annual precipitation closely mirrors the North Carolina state average of 51.5 inches.

Distinct Seasons with Occasional Snow

Winters are crisp with 4.5 inches of snowfall and an average December-to-February temperature of 40.5°F. July is warm but not oppressive, averaging 76.9°F.

Ready Your Home for Seasonal Shifts

Residents should prepare for a mix of weather, including occasional snow and over a month of extreme summer heat. Versatile HVAC systems that handle both freezing nights and 90°F days are a smart investment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Burke County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Foothills Acidity in Burke

Burke County soil has a pH of 5.07, which almost perfectly aligns with the state average of 5.14. It is much more acidic than the national median of 6.5, often requiring lime to support common vegetable crops.

Strong Sand and Silt Foundation

The soil mix includes 54.9% sand, 22.7% silt, and 13.9% clay. This composition offers a stable environment for roots while maintaining enough sand for decent drainage and easy seasonal tilling.

Rich Organic Matter for Gardening

At 7.46%, the organic matter content in Burke is significantly higher than the state average of 5.12%. However, the available water capacity of 0.123 in/in is slightly lower than the state average, so mulching is recommended to retain moisture.

Reliable Foothills Drainage

While specific hydrologic data is not available, the 54.9% sand level suggests reliable drainage for most home gardens. This prevents water from pooling around roots during the wet spring months.

A Productive Base in Zone 7b

Hardiness zone 7b and a soil score of 33.8 make Burke an excellent place for berries, peppers, and hardy perennials. Your high organic content provides a fertile start for any new garden plot.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Burke County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Lawn Ease in Burke

Burke County features a lawn difficulty score of 45.3, which is easier than the state average of 40.8. While it trails the national median of 50.0, the Zone 7b climate is relatively hospitable for North Carolina. Residents enjoy a slight competitive edge over their neighbors to the east.

Moderate Temperatures and Steady Rain

The county experiences 35 extreme heat days, staying just under the state average of 38. Annual precipitation of 51.2 inches is slightly above the ideal range but provides a good buffer against dry spells. Mowing schedules are supported by 4,141 growing degree days, indicating steady seasonal growth.

Addressing Soil Acidity and Texture

A soil pH of 5.07 means the ground is naturally too acidic for most turfgrasses, necessitating regular lime treatments. The soil contains 54.9% sand and 13.9% clay, creating a moderately draining environment. Adding organic matter can help balance these traits and improve overall grass health.

Complete County Coverage of Severe Drought

Currently, 100% of Burke County is under severe drought conditions after 22 weeks of drought over the past year. This persistent dryness requires careful water management to keep lawns from going dormant. Adjust mowers to a higher setting to help the grass shade its own roots and retain soil moisture.

Timing Your Burke County Planting

Tall Fescue is the standard for Zone 7b, though some warm-season grasses can work in sunny spots. Seeding should occur after the last frost on April 7th or during the prime fall window before October 28th. Early autumn seeding is generally the most successful strategy for this region.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Burke County's county score?
Burke County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 41.4 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 Burke County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Burke County ranks #59 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 Burke County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Burke County is $1,191, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns Burke County a tax score of 63.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Burke County?
The median household income in Burke County, North Carolina is $55,684 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Burke County earns an income score of 26.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Burke County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Burke County scores 41.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #59 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Burke 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 Burke 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.