countyscore
44.1
County Score
Income & Jobs 87.7Disaster Risk 80.7Property Tax 74.4

County Report Card

About Dinwiddie County, Virginia

Dinwiddie County Below National Median

Dinwiddie County earns a composite score of 44.1, placing it below the national median of 50.0. The county faces a mix of high income potential and high living costs.

Trailing the Virginia Average

With a score of 44.1, the county sits roughly six points below the Virginia state average of 50.9. It ranks as a middle-tier county when compared to its regional neighbors.

High Incomes and Environmental Resilience

The county's primary strength is an impressive income score of 87.7, fueled by a median household income of $83,898. It also scores well in environmental resilience with a risk score of 80.7.

Cost and Infrastructure Pressures

Affordability is a major hurdle, as evidenced by a low cost score of 15.2 and median gross rents of $1,242. Public schools and water quality also lag, with scores of 36.0 and 23.1 respectively.

Best for High-Earning Commuters

Dinwiddie is an ideal spot for professionals who can leverage the high median income while navigating the steeper cost of living. It suits families who value financial security and environmental safety over modern infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax74.4Cost15.2Safety30.8Health53.7Schools36Income87.7Risk80.7Water23.1Weather65.5
🏛74.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠15.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼87.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡30.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤53.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓36
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡80.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧23.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱65.9
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

Dinwiddie County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Dinwiddie County

via TaxByCounty

Dinwiddie taxes well below national average

Dinwiddie County's effective tax rate of 0.601% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.92%, placing it in roughly the 20th percentile nationally. The median tax of $1,478 is 55% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting both a moderate rate and moderate home values.

Below average for Virginia

Dinwiddie County's 0.601% rate trails Virginia's state average of 0.671%, making it one of the state's more affordable jurisdictions. The median tax of $1,478 is about 25% below the state median of $1,960, benefiting from a combination of a lower rate and below-average home values.

Moderate taxes in the region

Dinwiddie County's 0.601% rate falls between Dickenson County's 0.497% and Emporia city's 0.755%, placing it in the middle of the local pack. A median home value of $246,100 means the county's median tax is higher in absolute dollars than nearby Danville and Dickenson despite a lower rate.

What a typical home costs in taxes

Own a median-priced home worth $246,100 in Dinwiddie County? You'll pay approximately $1,478 in annual property taxes. That breaks down to about $123 per month, or roughly $1,490 when mortgage-related taxes are factored in.

Homeowners can challenge assessments

Dinwiddie homeowners should verify their property assessments—even here, overassessments are possible and can be challenged at no cost. A successful appeal could reduce your $1,478 annual bill and put money back in your pocket.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Dinwiddie County

via CostByCounty

Dinwiddie balances higher incomes and costs

Dinwiddie County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.8% beats the national average of 18.6%, positioning it as a genuinely affordable market despite higher absolute costs. Median household income of $83,898 exceeds the national average of $74,755 by 12%, while median rent of $1,242 reflects the stronger local economy. This county demonstrates how rising incomes can outpace rising rents, improving overall affordability.

Virginia's sweet spot for balance

Dinwiddie ranks among Virginia's most affordable communities by ratio at 17.8%, matching the state average of 18.6% at the upper end of efficiency. Incomes here significantly exceed the state average, while rents remain only 9% above Virginia's median—a favorable combination. This central Virginia county offers wage growth alongside housing stability.

Higher wages, higher but manageable costs

Dinwiddie's $83,898 median income dwarfs Danville's $42,778 and Dickenson's $43,831, allowing residents to absorb $1,242 rent more comfortably despite the higher nominal cost. At 17.8%, Dinwiddie's rent-to-income ratio is the lowest in this peer group, demonstrating how wage strength beats rental restraint. For those prioritizing income opportunity, Dinwiddie's higher costs become negligible.

Housing consumes modest share of income

Dinwiddie renters spend $1,242 monthly while earning $83,898 annually—just 17.8% of gross income, leaving substantial discretionary spending capacity. Homeowners face $1,238 monthly costs on a median value of $246,100, also consuming a reasonable 17.7% of household income. Both figures place Dinwiddie among Virginia's most comfortable housing situations relative to earning power.

Dinwiddie rewards career growth and wages

This county offers the rare combination of strong incomes ($83,898 median) with genuinely affordable housing ratios, making it ideal for families prioritizing economic stability. Homes averaging $246,100 and rents at $1,242 remain comfortably below 18% of income, leaving room for savings and quality of life. Professionals relocating for jobs in central Virginia will find Dinwiddie's balance hard to beat.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Dinwiddie County

via IncomeByCounty

Dinwiddie County income exceeds national standard

Dinwiddie County's median household income of $83,898 runs 12% ahead of the nation's $74,755 median. This above-average standing reflects the county's stronger economic position compared to most U.S. communities.

Dinwiddie ranks above Virginia's median income

At $83,898, Dinwiddie County's median household income surpasses Virginia's state average of $74,957 by about $9,000. Per capita income of $37,955 approaches the state average of $39,155, indicating solid middle-class earnings.

Dinwiddie outearns most nearby counties

Dinwiddie's $83,898 median income significantly outpaces lower-income neighbors like Dickenson ($43,831) and Essex ($56,481). The county's economic performance places it among the stronger-earning areas in its region.

Strong income supports homeownership and goals

Dinwiddie's 17.8% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $246,100 indicate housing is affordable relative to income. With median household income comfortably supporting homeownership costs, residents can pursue additional financial objectives.

Leverage your income advantage strategically

Dinwiddie's above-average income creates opportunities for meaningful wealth building through diversified investments and retirement accounts. Consider maximizing tax-advantaged savings options like 401(k)s and IRAs to accelerate long-term financial growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Dinwiddie County

via CrimeByCounty

Dinwiddie County Offers Stronger Security Than Average

Dinwiddie County maintains a safety score of 97.4, placing it slightly above the average for Virginia and the nation. The total crime rate of 1,639.5 per 100,000 is roughly 30% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These numbers indicate a relatively stable environment for local families.

Keeping Pace with Virginia Safety Standards

The county's total crime rate of 1,639.5 per 100,000 is just below the Virginia state average of 1,728.8. Its safety score of 97.4 aligns almost perfectly with the statewide average of 97.3. Dinwiddie effectively represents the typical safety experience found across the Commonwealth.

Analyzing Security Trends Near Dinwiddie

Dinwiddie’s total crime rate of 1,639.5 per 100,000 is lower than nearby urban centers like Emporia, which sees rates near 3,996.4. However, the county faces a higher violent crime rate of 452.6 compared to the state average of 229.7. Local law enforcement from two reporting agencies works to manage these specific regional challenges.

Property Crime Outpaces Violent Incidents

Property crime makes up the bulk of local reports at 1,186.9 per 100,000 residents. While the property crime rate is lower than the national average, the violent crime rate of 452.6 exceeds the national average of 369.8. Understanding this mix helps residents prioritize their personal and home security efforts.

Simple Steps for a Safer Home

With property crime occurring at a rate of 1,186.9, simple home security measures go a long way. Installing smart doorbells and keeping valuables out of sight can deter opportunistic theft. Consistent community awareness helps maintain the county’s overall safety score of 97.4.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Dinwiddie County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy approaches national average

Dinwiddie residents live to 74.7 years—just 1.7 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. About one in five residents (19.5%) reports poor or fair health, better than the national 18%, suggesting relatively strong health status in this rural county.

Near-average health within state

Dinwiddie's life expectancy of 74.7 years sits just 0.4 years below Virginia's 75.1-year average, placing it solidly in the middle of state health rankings. The county's 19.5% poor/fair health rate aligns closely with statewide patterns.

Regional health leader among peers

Dinwiddie's 74.7-year life expectancy outperforms Dickenson (71.9 years) and Essex (73.0 years), and its 19.5% poor/fair health rate is better than most neighboring jurisdictions. The county represents a relative bright spot in rural Southside Virginia health outcomes.

Limited providers despite relatively good health

Dinwiddie has only 14 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 25 mental health providers per 100,000—both well below state averages. At 7.2% uninsured, the county's coverage rate slightly exceeds Virginia's average, but provider scarcity limits access to available insurance.

Protect your health with insurance

While Dinwiddie's uninsured rate is lower than many rural counties, 7.2% of residents still lack coverage. Check Virginia's healthcare marketplace to ensure you have insurance protection for routine care, emergencies, and chronic disease management.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Dinwiddie County

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad School Options for a Growing County

Dinwiddie County operates nine public schools, supported by a mix of three different districts. The infrastructure includes five elementary schools, a middle school, and a large high school serving 4,256 total students. Two specialized facilities provide additional support for unique student needs across the county.

Steady Growth and Consistent Outcomes

The county's 87% graduation rate perfectly aligns with the national average, reflecting steady academic stability. Officials invest $6,997 per pupil, which is lower than the state average of $7,941. Despite leaner spending, the county maintains a competitive school score of 51.9 to keep pace with regional neighbors.

Dinwiddie County Public Schools at the Center

The primary district, Dinwiddie County Public Schools, oversees seven schools and the entire 4,256-student body. Other districts like Central State Hospital and Southside Virginia Training Center exist as specialized entities with zero traditional enrollment. No charter schools currently operate within these districts, maintaining a focus on traditional public education.

A Rural-Suburban Educational Mix

Seven schools are located in rural areas, while two serve suburban neighborhoods, offering a diverse feel for local families. Dinwiddie County High is the largest hub with 1,290 students, creating a bustling campus atmosphere. In contrast, smaller elementary schools like Midway provide more intimate primary education for 346 students.

Find Your Home in Dinwiddie's School Districts

Prospective homeowners will find a range of living environments from quiet rural tracts to active suburban streets near Dinwiddie High. With graduation rates meeting national benchmarks, the area provides a reliable foundation for family life. Use our school data to target neighborhoods that align with your children's educational needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Dinwiddie County

via RiskByCounty

Dinwiddie ranks very low nationally

Dinwiddie's composite risk score of 19.34 places it in the very low category, far below the national average. The county enjoys broad protection across most hazard types, though it shows moderate earthquake risk (55.41) compared to its other low exposures.

Well below Virginia's average risk

Dinwiddie's score of 19.34 sits significantly below Virginia's state average of 33.27, making it one of the commonwealth's safer communities. This advantage extends across flood, wildfire, and tornado categories, where Dinwiddie consistently underperforms the state mean.

Dinwiddie among the region's safest

Dinwiddie's composite score of 19.34 is comparable to nearby Essex County (18.58) and well below Danville city's 68.03. Both Dinwiddie and Essex remain in the very low risk category, offering residents substantial protection relative to other Virginia localities.

Earthquake poses secondary concern

Dinwiddie's earthquake risk of 55.41 is the county's highest hazard exposure, though it remains moderate compared to other Virginia counties. Flood risk (22.11), tornado risk (28.05), and wildfire risk (21.88) all present minimal threats, while hurricane risk stands at 66.54.

Focus on earthquake preparedness

While Dinwiddie's overall risk is low, residents should secure heavy furniture and appliances to walls to reduce earthquake damage. Maintain standard homeowner's insurance and ensure your family has an emergency plan for sheltering in place during seismic events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Dinwiddie County

via SoilByCounty

Dinwiddie's Landscapes Awaiting Data

Detailed chemical profiles for Dinwiddie County are currently limited in the national registry, though it shares the same general geography as the 30.6 state soil average. Without a specific pH reading, local testing is the best way to understand your property.

The Local Texture Puzzle

Regional data suggests a mix of sand and silt typical of the Virginia Piedmont, but specific percentages are not yet available for the county. Observing how your soil feels when wet can help you determine if it is sand-dominant or clay-heavy.

Building Fertility From Scratch

While specific organic matter and water capacity figures are unlisted, Dinwiddie typically mirrors the region’s moderate fertility. Most Virginia soils benefit from consistent mulching to reach the 2.90% state organic matter benchmark.

Planning for Site-Specific Drainage

In the absence of formal drainage classifications, residents should look for signs of pooling or rapid drying on their land. Site-specific hydrologic assessments are recommended before any major construction or agricultural expansion.

Gardening Success in Zone 7b

In hardiness zone 7b, you have an exceptionally long window to grow everything from kale to watermelons. Don't let the lack of data stop you; a simple home soil test kit is the first step toward a legendary garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Dinwiddie County

via LawnByCounty

Strong Success Rates for Dinwiddie Lawns

Dinwiddie County features a lawn difficulty score of 65.9, well above the national median of 50.0. In Hardiness Zone 7b, the environment supports a wide variety of turf types with relatively high success rates. While the climate is warmer than the state average, it remains favorable for consistent lawn maintenance.

Warm Temperatures and Heavy Rainfall

The county receives 47.0 inches of precipitation annually, perfectly matching the requirements for thick turf. However, residents must manage 43 extreme heat days each year, which is significantly higher than the Virginia average of 28 days. These hot peaks mean your watering schedule must be proactive during the mid-summer months.

Soil Preparation is Key to Success

While specific local soil texture and pH data are not available, regional trends suggest the need for regular testing. Aiming for a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 will ensure your lawn can absorb the necessary nutrients to survive the 79.2°F July heat. Adding organic matter can help improve water retention in the absence of specific drainage data.

High Resistance to Prolonged Drought

Dinwiddie displays strong drought resilience, with only 3 weeks of drought recorded over the past year. Although 58.8% of the county is currently abnormally dry, there are zero areas under severe drought (D2+). This reliability makes it easier to keep lawns green throughout the summer without constant emergency measures.

Warm-Season Choices for Zone 7b

In Hardiness Zone 7b, heat-tolerant species like Zoysia or Bermuda are excellent choices for lasting durability. Because specific frost dates are unavailable, monitor local soil temperatures and aim for spring planting once the ground consistently stays above 65°F. These varieties will thrive during the county's extended warm season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dinwiddie County's county score?
Dinwiddie County, Virginia has a composite county score of 44.1 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 Dinwiddie County rank among counties in Virginia?
Dinwiddie County ranks #102 among all counties in Virginia 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 Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Dinwiddie County is $1,478, with an effective tax rate of 0.60%. This earns Dinwiddie County a tax score of 74.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Dinwiddie County?
The median household income in Dinwiddie County, Virginia is $83,898 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Dinwiddie County earns an income score of 87.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Dinwiddie County, Virginia a good place to live?
Dinwiddie County scores 44.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #102 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Dinwiddie 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 Dinwiddie County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.