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Cabarrus County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#57 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
42.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 89.2Health 69.2Weather & Climate 61.3

County Report Card

About Cabarrus County, North Carolina

High Prosperity, High Costs

Cabarrus County scores a 42.2, trailing the national median of 50.0. The county features some of the highest income levels in the region, but this wealth is offset by high housing costs.

Competitive Within the Piedmont

The score of 42.2 is slightly below the state average of 44.7. Despite being a major growth engine near Charlotte, the rapid rise in living expenses prevents a higher ranking.

Economic Power and Health

Cabarrus excels with a massive income score of 89.2 and a median household income of $86,084. It also maintains a strong health score of 69.2, indicating a high quality of life for its workforce.

Rising Rents and Risks

The cost of living is a major hurdle, with a cost score of 11.6 and median rents at $1,303. School quality and environmental risk also represent areas for local improvement, scoring 32.6 and 12.9.

The Verdict for Upwardly Mobile Families

Cabarrus is a premier destination for high-earning families looking for a suburban feel near the city. You pay a premium for the location, but the economic opportunities here are among the best in the state.

Score breakdown

Tax56.4Cost11.6Safety40.4Health69.2Schools32.6Income89.2Risk12.9Water40.2Weather61.3
🏛56.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠11.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼89.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡40.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤69.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓32.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡12.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧40.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤61.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨31.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.6
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 →
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Deep Dives

Cabarrus County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Cabarrus County

via TaxByCounty

Cabarrus ranks above national median

Cabarrus County's effective tax rate of 0.762% exceeds the national median of 1.09% but remains solidly in the middle range of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $2,429 reflects both a moderately elevated rate and higher suburban home values near Charlotte.

Above average for North Carolina

At 0.762%, Cabarrus's rate runs about 9% higher than North Carolina's 0.701% state average, placing it in the upper half of the state's 100 counties. Cabarrus residents pay a noticeably steeper rate than most other Tar Heels.

Higher than other Charlotte suburbs

Cabarrus's 0.762% rate is higher than neighboring Camden County (0.616%) to the north and significantly above Brunswick County (0.569%) in the southeast. Among the greater Charlotte region, Cabarrus carries one of the higher property tax burdens.

Median home tax exceeds $2,400 annually

With a median home value of $318,600 and a rate of 0.762%, Cabarrus homeowners typically pay around $2,429 in annual property tax. Homeowners with mortgages usually see escrow payments near $2,614 per year.

Higher rates make appeals more valuable

In higher-tax counties, even a small reduction in assessed value creates meaningful annual savings. Cabarrus homeowners should carefully review their assessments, as overvaluations carry a larger financial penalty in this county.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cabarrus County

via CostByCounty

Cabarrus combines income strength with affordability

Cabarrus County renters spend 18.2% of their income on rent—below the national average and the state average—while earning a median household income of $86,084, nearly 15% above the national median. This combination of strong incomes and reasonable housing costs makes Cabarrus one of the region's most balanced markets.

Best income-to-affordability ratio statewide

Cabarrus's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among North Carolina's most affordable, beating the state average of 18.6%, while its $86,084 median income is the highest in this sample. The county punches well above its weight for households seeking strong earnings and reasonable housing costs.

Superior affordability with higher incomes

Cabarrus residents earn nearly $12,000 more annually than Buncombe County residents, yet face lower rent burdens—a striking advantage over nearby mountain counties. Cabarrus's $1,303 rent is higher than Burke ($805) and Caldwell ($735), but the income ratio makes it feel lighter.

Renters and owners both well-positioned

Cabarrus renters pay $1,303 monthly while homeowners spend $1,393, with median home values of $318,600. The $86,084 median income means housing consumes just 18% of budgets, leaving substantial room for savings and other expenses.

Cabarrus: prosperity meets affordability

Consider Cabarrus if you're seeking suburban North Carolina living with strong incomes and stable housing costs—median rents of $1,303 feel manageable on an $86,084 average household income. The county's balanced market appeals to families and professionals prioritizing financial stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cabarrus County

via IncomeByCounty

Cabarrus tops national income average

Cabarrus County's median household income of $86,084 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $11,329—a 15% premium. This strong performance reflects diversified manufacturing, logistics, and professional services driving the county's economy.

Among North Carolina's highest earners

At $86,084, Cabarrus County ranks in the top tier statewide, surpassing the state average of $61,072 by $25,012—41% above state median. The county's proximity to Charlotte and established industrial base support robust household earnings.

Leads regional income comparison

Cabarrus County ($86,084) trails only Camden County ($87,781) among the eight counties profiled, outpacing Buncombe ($70,578), Brunswick ($74,034), and all lower-income neighbors. This leadership reflects its status as a regional economic powerhouse.

Strong income supports homeownership

With a 18.2% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $318,600, Cabarrus County households can comfortably afford housing. Higher incomes relative to home prices provide financial flexibility and stability for long-term planning.

Accelerate wealth with higher earnings

Cabarrus County's above-average income creates opportunity to invest aggressively in retirement, real estate, and market-based assets. Consider maxing 401(k) contributions, exploring rental properties, and diversifying into stocks and bonds to compound wealth at scale.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cabarrus County

via CrimeByCounty

Cabarrus County Ranks High for Safety

Cabarrus County earns a strong safety score of 97.9, making it safer than the majority of U.S. counties. Its total crime rate of 1,359.6 per 100K is far below the national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the State in Public Safety

The county's safety score of 97.9 outperforms the North Carolina average of 96.8. Local crime rates of 1,359.6 per 100K are roughly 33% lower than the state average of 2,050.0.

A Safer Alternative to Regional Peers

Cabarrus maintains a much lower crime rate (1,359.6) than Buncombe County (2,894.4) or Caldwell County (2,408.5). This makes it one of the more secure suburban environments in the region.

Violent Crime Rates are Notably Low

Violent crime in Cabarrus is remarkably low at 124.6 per 100K, well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 1,235.0 per 100K, also sitting far below national benchmarks.

Maintaining a Secure Local Environment

High safety scores are best preserved through community engagement and smart home habits. Keeping valuables out of sight and utilizing exterior lighting helps maintain the county's low crime levels.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cabarrus County

via HealthByCounty

Cabarrus exceeds national health standards

Cabarrus County residents live to 77.2 years, nearly matching the U.S. life expectancy of 78.9 years and reflecting strong population health. Only 15.3% report poor or fair health, well below the 17% national average.

Among North Carolina's healthiest

Cabarrus's 77.2-year life expectancy ranks 2.8 years above the state average of 74.4 years, placing it in the top tier of NC counties. The 15.3% poor/fair health rate also beats the state profile.

Strong performance in the region

Cabarrus's 77.2-year life expectancy ties Brunswick (77.1 years) and trails only Buncombe (77.4 years) among this group. With 79 primary care providers per 100,000, Cabarrus offers solid access, exceeding Burke (63 per 100K) and most smaller counties.

Lowest uninsured rate, robust access

Cabarrus's 8.8% uninsured rate is the lowest in this county group—significantly better than North Carolina's 12.5% average, meaning most residents have coverage. The county also provides 346 mental health providers per 100,000, ensuring behavioral health support is accessible.

Keep coverage strong and steady

With excellent coverage rates already in place, Cabarrus residents should focus on maintaining their insurance and using preventive services. Regular wellness visits and screenings maximize the value of your coverage and protect your health long-term.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cabarrus County

via SchoolsByCounty

Massive School System in a Growing Hub

Cabarrus County supports a large population of 42,353 students across 55 public schools. The infrastructure is robust, featuring 28 elementary schools, 10 middle schools, and 13 high schools. Six different districts manage these facilities, reflecting the county's complex and rapid suburban growth.

Strong Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

The county maintains a high 89.4% graduation rate, outperforming both the state and national averages. While per-pupil spending of $6,204 is below the state average of $6,969, the county still achieves a composite school score of 51.5. This performance demonstrates a high-output system managing large-scale student needs efficiently.

Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City Districts

Cabarrus County Schools is one of the state's largest districts, educating 34,810 students in 44 schools. Kannapolis City Schools adds significant capacity with 8 schools and 5,390 students. Four charter schools, including Carolina International School, offer additional alternatives for over 700 students.

Large-Scale High Schools and Locale Diversity

Educational life here is defined by large campuses, with West Cabarrus High serving over 1,800 students. The county offers a true mix of environments, with 22 city, 17 suburban, and 16 rural schools. With an average school size of 770 students, these campuses are bustling centers of academic and social activity.

Investing in Homes Near Academic Excellence

Homebuyers in Cabarrus County often prioritize areas served by the high-performing Cabarrus County Schools or Kannapolis City systems. Proximity to massive campuses like West Cabarrus or Cox Mill High is a major draw for families seeking comprehensive extracurriculars. Choosing a home here means joining a community that is actively expanding its educational horizons.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cabarrus County

via RiskByCounty

Cabarrus sits above national risk average

Cabarrus County scores 87.05 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the relatively moderate category above the national average. The score is driven primarily by tornado and flood risk, reflecting the county's piedmont location.

Fourth-riskiest county in North Carolina

Cabarrus ranks among the state's higher-risk counties with a composite score of 87.05, compared to the state average of 66.72. Only Brunswick (95.77), Buncombe (89.34), and Bladen (84.57) rank higher in the state.

Riskier than most piedmont peers

Cabarrus (87.05) faces elevated hazards compared to nearby counties in the piedmont region, driven by a 89.09 tornado risk score that exceeds most neighbors. Its composite risk remains moderate, making it a middle ground in the state's risk hierarchy.

Tornadoes and floods are primary threats

Cabarrus residents face 89.09 tornado risk—among the highest in the state—combined with 92.18 flood risk reflecting piedmont waterways and seasonal precipitation. Earthquake (77.61) and hurricane (73.93) risks add supplementary concern.

Tornado and flood protection are critical

Secure comprehensive homeowners' insurance emphasizing wind and hail coverage for tornado protection, and obtain flood insurance if within mapped risk zones or near streams. Identify or construct a safe room in your home and practice severe weather drills seasonally.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cabarrus County

via WeatherByCounty

Piedmont Heat Above National Average

Cabarrus County averages 60.7°F annually, making it warmer than the national median. This Piedmont climate is characterized by long, hot summers and relatively short winters.

Warmer Than the North Carolina Average

The county is warmer than the state average of 59.3°F, reflecting the heat-retaining characteristics of its growing urban corridors. It frequently experiences more intense heat than the surrounding mountain regions.

Hotter and Drier Than Coastal Neighbors

With 47.9 inches of rain, Cabarrus is slightly drier than the North Carolina average of 51.5 inches. It faces a high 61 days of extreme heat, significantly more than its neighbors to the west.

A Long Season of Intense Heat

Summer is the dominant season, with July temperatures averaging 80.3°F and 61 days topping 90°F. Winters are manageable, featuring a 42.8°F average and just 3.3 inches of snow.

Efficient Cooling Systems are Non-Negotiable

Preparation for extreme heat is the priority here, as two full months of the year typically exceed 90°F. Efficient attic insulation and modern cooling systems are essential for managing summer energy costs.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cabarrus County

via SoilByCounty

Milder Acidity in the Piedmont

Cabarrus County soil has a pH of 5.69, making it less acidic than the North Carolina average of 5.14. While it still sits below the national median of 6.5, it provides a versatile chemical base for a wide variety of plants.

Heavy Clay and Silt Content

With 20.5% clay and 37.2% silt, this soil is much heavier and more structured than coastal varieties. This mix helps the ground hold its shape and provides excellent structural support for trees and large shrubs.

Low Organic Matter, High Moisture

The organic matter content is low at 1.37%, falling below both the state average and the 2.0% national benchmark. Despite this, the available water capacity is high at 0.151 in/in, meaning the soil excels at holding onto water.

Slower Drainage for Thirsty Plants

Specific drainage class data is unavailable, but the 20.5% clay content suggests water moves more slowly here than in sandy counties. This water retention is beneficial during dry spells but requires care to avoid over-saturation.

Success in Zone 8a

Cabarrus sits in zone 8a, a prime location for tomatoes, squash, and southern magnolias. By adding compost to boost the low organic matter, you can make the most of this moisture-retentive Piedmont soil.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cabarrus County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Heat for Cabarrus County Lawns

Cabarrus County has a lawn difficulty score of 39.6, making it slightly more difficult than the state average. This difficulty is largely driven by intense summer heat in Hardiness Zone 8a. Keeping a green lawn here requires a strategic approach to combat the Piedmont climate.

Intense Heat and High Growth Rates

With 61 extreme heat days per year, Cabarrus is significantly hotter than the state average of 38 days. This heat, combined with 4,914 growing degree days, puts immense stress on cool-season grasses during the summer months. Annual precipitation of 47.9 inches is ideal, but timing is everything when the heat arrives.

Heavier Clay Soils Require Care

At 20.5% clay, Cabarrus has some of the heaviest soil in the region, which can lead to compaction and drainage issues. The pH of 5.69 is closer to the ideal range than many neighbors, but still requires some adjustment. Core aeration is highly recommended to help air and water reach the root zone in these clay-heavy soils.

Responding to Widespread Severe Drought

The entire county is currently suffering from severe drought conditions, with 32 weeks of drought recorded over the last year. In these conditions, clay soils can bake and crack, damaging grass roots. Focus on deep, infrequent watering to encourage the grass to grow deeper, more resilient root systems.

Choosing Resilient Grass for Local Heat

Warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia are often the most successful choice to survive the 61 days of extreme heat. The safe growing window begins after April 1st and lasts until the first frost on November 2nd. For those choosing Fescue, fall overseeding is essential to repair summer damage.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cabarrus County's county score?
Cabarrus County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 42.2 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 Cabarrus County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Cabarrus County ranks #57 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 Cabarrus County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Cabarrus County is $2,429, with an effective tax rate of 0.76%. This earns Cabarrus County a tax score of 56.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cabarrus County?
The median household income in Cabarrus County, North Carolina is $86,084 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cabarrus County earns an income score of 89.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cabarrus County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Cabarrus County scores 42.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #57 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Cabarrus 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 Cabarrus 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.