45.6
County Score
Income & Jobs 72.2Schools 63.2Safety 56.4

County Report Card

About Camden County, Georgia

Camden County Nears National Averages

Camden County scores 45.6 overall, placing it slightly below the national median of 50.0. This score suggests a mix of high-end individual metrics and specific local challenges.

Aligned With Georgia Standards

Camden's 45.6 composite score sits just below the Georgia state average of 46.7. It remains a competitive coastal option compared to other Southeast Georgia counties.

High Incomes and Strong Schools

The county features a high income score of 72.2 with a median household income of $72,399. Local education also performs well, earning a school score of 63.2.

High Housing Costs and Risks

Affordability is the main challenge, with a low cost score of 18.9 and median rent reaching $1,167. Environmental risk and water quality also score below 50, reflecting coastal vulnerabilities.

Best for High-Earning Professionals

Camden County is ideal for established professionals who can leverage the high median income to offset housing costs. It offers a solid educational environment for families who enjoy a coastal lifestyle.

Score breakdown

Tax42.5Cost18.9Safety56.4Health44.9Schools63.2Income72.2Risk45.5Water43.8Weather40.6
🏛42.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠18.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼72.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡56.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
44.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓63.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
45.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧43.8
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤40.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱33
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

Camden County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Camden County

via TaxByCounty

Camden's taxes are well below national norm

Camden County's effective tax rate of 0.939% sits below the national median, where homeowners typically owe $2,690 annually. At $2,197 per year on a median home, Camden residents pay roughly 18% less than the national typical property tax, making it moderately tax-friendly despite higher-value homes.

Slightly above Georgia's average rate

Camden County's 0.939% effective rate runs marginally above Georgia's state average of 0.898%, while its $2,197 median tax substantially exceeds the state median of $1,529. This gap reflects Camden's strong median home values of $233,900, among the highest in this county group.

Mid-range rates in the coastal region

Camden County's 0.939% rate sits between Charlton County (0.908%) and Calhoun County (1.152%), positioning it as a moderate-tax option in southeast Georgia. Its high median home value of $233,900 makes it comparable to Butts County while keeping effective rates reasonable.

Median Camden home costs $2,197 yearly

On a typical $233,900 home in Camden County, you'll pay approximately $2,197 in annual property taxes. Including mortgage escrow, homeowners typically remit around $2,380 per year, reflecting the county's higher property values and moderate tax rate.

Appeal assessments if home value seems high

Camden County homeowners should verify their assessment against recent sales of comparable properties in their neighborhood, especially if their home's assessed value differs significantly from market trends. A formal appeal costs nothing and could yield substantial annual savings on higher-value properties.

Cost of Living in Camden County

via CostByCounty

Camden balances higher income with higher rents

Camden County renters spend 19.3% of income on housing, slightly above Georgia's 18.6% average and the national 20% threshold. However, Camden's median household income of $72,399 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, giving residents stronger earning power to absorb higher rents of $1,167 monthly.

Camden ranks among Georgia's priciest markets

Camden County's median rent of $1,167 ranks among the highest in Georgia, sitting $240 above the state average of $927. Its 19.3% rent-to-income ratio places it above most counties statewide, reflecting its position as a more affluent, higher-cost corner of Georgia.

Camden's rents far exceed surrounding counties

Camden's median rent of $1,167 towers over neighbors: $215 above Butts ($952), $404 above Burke ($763), and $462 above Calhoun ($638). Home values match this premium at $233,900, making Camden the priciest market among its peer counties.

Higher income justifies Camden's premium pricing

Camden renters pay $1,167 monthly (19.3% of income) while homeowners spend $1,150 (19.3% of income)—an expensive but balanced split. At $72,399 median household income, Camden households earn enough to absorb these costs without the squeeze felt in lower-income counties.

Camden suits higher-earning relocators

If your household earns near or above $72,000 and values a more affluent Georgia market, Camden County's premium rents and home values align with your income level. Compare it against neighboring Catoosa and Carroll County for similar-earning communities with different lifestyle and cost profiles.

Income & Jobs in Camden County

via IncomeByCounty

Camden approaches national income parity

Camden County's median household income of $72,399 closes within 3% of the national median of $74,755, making it one of Georgia's higher-earning counties. This near-parity with U.S. averages reflects stronger local economic foundations and opportunity.

Camden ranks among Georgia's top earners

Camden's $72,399 income exceeds Georgia's state median of $60,488 by nearly $12,000, positioning it in the state's upper tier of counties. This premium reflects Camden's economic strength relative to most Georgia peers.

Camden leads peer income rankings

Camden's $72,399 surpasses all comparison counties except Catoosa ($72,425), placing it at the top tier of this group. Camden and Catoosa represent the economic powerhouses among these eight counties, with incomes $12,000–$24,000 above the lowest earners.

Housing costs manageable at Camden incomes

Camden's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio sits just below affordability thresholds, meaning renters allocate roughly one-fifth of income to housing. With median home values of $233,900, homebuyers earning near the median can access mortgages with manageable monthly obligations.

Camden households ready for serious investing

Camden's above-average income positions residents to aggressively build wealth through diversified investments and retirement planning. With $72,399 in median income, households can comfortably save 20%+ of earnings while maintaining lifestyle, accelerating paths to financial independence.

Safety in Camden County

via CrimeByCounty

Camden Half the National Average

Camden County's total crime rate of 1003.5 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2385.5. The county maintains a strong safety score of 98.4.

Solid Standing in Georgia

Camden performs better than the Georgia average safety score of 97.8. Local crime rates stay roughly 29% lower than the state's average of 1412.9.

Regional Safety Comparison

Camden is notably safer than neighbors like Carroll County, where the crime rate reaches 2158.9 per 100K. It offers a balanced, secure lifestyle for residents.

Focusing on Property Safety

Property crime sits at 753.1 per 100K, while violent crime remains modest at 250.4. Most residents experience a high degree of security in their daily lives.

Simple Habits for Home Protection

Protecting your home starts with locking doors and monitoring deliveries. Keeping an eye on your surroundings helps preserve Camden's peaceful reputation.

Health in Camden County

via HealthByCounty

Camden Leads in Life Expectancy

Camden County residents live 76.5 years on average—3.1 years longer than the U.S. average of 71.4 years and well above Georgia's 73.3-year state average. Just 20.1% of Camden residents report poor or fair health, one of the lowest rates in this group and well below the national average of 21%.

Healthiest County in This Sample

At 76.5 years, Camden County's life expectancy ranks among Georgia's strongest, with only 20.1% reporting poor/fair health compared to state norms. The 12.4% uninsured rate is better than Georgia's 15.0% average, ensuring most residents can access the care that supports these positive outcomes.

Clear Health Leader in Coastal Region

Camden County's 76.5-year life expectancy and 20.1% poor/fair health rate significantly outperform neighboring Charlton County (73.5 years, 24.6%) and Glynn County, reflecting stronger community health fundamentals. Camden's health advantage extends across demographics and income levels compared to regional peers.

Exceptional Mental Health Infrastructure

Camden County offers 141 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—the highest among these eight counties—along with 27 primary care providers per 100,000. The low 12.4% uninsured rate ensures most residents can afford to use this robust provider network for routine and specialty care.

Keep Coverage Strong for Better Health

Camden County's health success reflects strong insurance coverage and mental health support, but 1 in 8 residents still lack coverage. Ensure your family stays protected by reviewing your health insurance options at Healthcare.gov or calling 211 Georgia for free enrollment assistance.

Schools in Camden County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Robust Coastal Education System

Camden County features a large infrastructure of 12 public schools serving 9,523 students. The county provides nine elementary schools and two middle schools that all funnel into a single, massive high school campus.

Leading the State in Graduation Success

Camden County boasts a stellar 96.0% graduation rate, one of the highest in the region and well above the national 87.0% mark. Despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,841, the county maintains a strong school score of 56.3.

Camden County District Manages Large Enrollment

The Camden County school district oversees all 9,523 students without the use of charter schools. The district is the sole provider, managing a system that ranges from small rural schools to large town-based facilities.

Town and Rural Schools with Diverse Sizes

The county offers a mix of eight town-based and four rural schools with an average enrollment of 794 students. Camden County High School is a major hub with 2,673 students, while the elementary schools offer a more moderate 600-student environment.

Excellence in Education Near the Coast

With some of the highest graduation rates in Georgia, Camden County is a premier destination for families. Proximity to the high-performing St. Marys and Kingsland schools is a major driver for local real estate value.

Disaster Risk in Camden County

via RiskByCounty

Camden's risk well above national average

Camden County's composite risk score of 54.55 significantly exceeds Georgia's 39.49 state average, placing it in the Relatively Low category but with notably elevated exposure. The county faces meaningfully higher natural disaster risk than typical U.S. counties.

Among Georgia's higher-risk counties

Camden ranks in the upper half of Georgia's riskiest counties due to its coastal exposure and multiple hazard vulnerabilities. The county's Relatively Low rating masks significant concentrated risks.

Camden stands out as riskier regional hotspot

Camden's score of 54.55 dwarfs nearby Charlton County (26.72) and exceeds many state counterparts. Only high-risk counties like Carroll (70.45) and Catoosa (64.63) surpass Camden's exposure.

Hurricane and wildfire converge here

Camden's hurricane risk of 91.07 and wildfire risk of 84.38 are among the highest in Georgia, reflecting coastal and forest vulnerabilities. Flood risk at 71.60 compounds the threat, particularly during storm surge events.

Comprehensive coverage non-negotiable

Camden homeowners must carry dedicated hurricane and flood insurance—standard policies exclude both. Wildfire coverage should also be reviewed, especially for properties near forest zones or in fire-prone areas.

Weather & Climate in Camden County

via WeatherByCounty

Extreme warmth on the coast

Camden County is among the warmest in the nation with a 67.1°F annual average. It receives 50.9 inches of rain, keeping the coastal landscape lush and humid.

One of Georgia's warmest spots

The county's average temperature is nearly 3.5 degrees higher than the Georgia state average. This significant heat is moderated somewhat by its coastal position.

Ocean breezes reduce extreme heat

Despite high averages, Camden only sees 55 extreme heat days, far fewer than inland counties like Candler's 82. This coastal influence provides a ceiling on summer temperature spikes.

The warmest winters in Georgia

Winter temperatures average a balmy 53.3°F, and snowfall is non-existent. Summers are long and humid, with a July average of 81.1°F.

Focus on salt and humidity

With only 55 days of extreme heat, the ocean air is a benefit, but humidity remains high. Residents enjoy 51.5°F Januarys, allowing for outdoor gardening and recreation all winter.

Soil Quality in Camden County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Soils Along the Atlantic

Camden County's specific soil pH and taxonomy are not currently reflected in the primary dataset. In this coastal environment, soils often range from very acidic to neutral depending on proximity to the salt marshes.

Sandy Foundations Near the Coast

Detailed soil composition percentages are missing for this county. Coastal Georgia typically features very high sand content, which provides excellent drainage but requires frequent fertilization for gardening.

Coastal Productivity and Climate

While organic matter and water capacity data are limited, the maritime influence provides a unique growing environment. Gardeners here benefit from a mild climate that often compensates for sandy soil challenges.

Managing the Coastal Water Table

No specific drainage class is listed, but coastal residents must often manage high water tables. Proper site assessment is critical for both agricultural irrigation and home foundation stability in this low-lying area.

Subtropical Success in Zone 9a

Camden County enjoys a warm Zone 9a climate, allowing for citrus trees and tropical ornamentals that cannot survive further north. Use raised beds to better control soil quality and moisture in this unique coastal setting.

Lawn Care in Camden County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Challenges in Camden County

Camden County presents a unique set of challenges with a lawn difficulty score of 33.0, trailing both the state and national averages. Located in the warm Hardiness Zone 9a, the environment favors tropical-leaning turf species. Success here depends on managing high humidity and a very long growing season.

A Long Season for Constant Care

With 6495 growing degree days, your lawn stays active much longer than in most of the country. Despite the coastal location, you only face 55 extreme heat days annually, which is well below the Georgia average of 65. The 50.9 inches of rain provides ample moisture, but it also creates the perfect environment for turf diseases.

Navigating Coastal Soil Variations

Specific soil texture and pH data are not available for the county, but coastal areas typically feature sandy, fast-draining soils. You should conduct a local test to check for salt content and acidity, which are common in these maritime environments. Proper amendments will be necessary to keep nutrients from leaching through the soil profile.

Severe Drought Hits the Coast

The entire county is currently experiencing severe drought, a condition that has persisted for much of the 24 weeks of drought over the past year. Even with coastal humidity, your grass needs supplemental irrigation to survive this 100% severe drought coverage. Practice smart watering by irrigating only when the grass shows signs of wilt.

Start Growing in Zone 9a

St. Augustine and Bahia grass are top performers for the mild winters and long summers of Zone 9a. With the last frost typically occurring on March 14 and the first not until December 14, you have a massive window for establishment. Start your sod early in the spring to take full advantage of the extended growing period.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Camden County's county score?
Camden County, Georgia has a composite county score of 45.6 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 Camden County rank among counties in Georgia?
Camden County ranks #91 among all counties in Georgia 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 Camden County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Camden County is $2,197, with an effective tax rate of 0.94%. This earns Camden County a tax score of 42.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Camden County?
The median household income in Camden County, Georgia is $72,399 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Camden County earns an income score of 72.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Camden County, Georgia a good place to live?
Camden County scores 45.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #91 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Camden 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 Camden County with other counties side by side.