countyscore
43.5
County Score
Water Quality 86Cost of Living 76.5Disaster Risk 56.6

County Report Card

About Early County, Georgia

Early County Trails National Livability Median

Early County earns a composite score of 43.5, placing it below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a rural profile where affordability is high but infrastructure and service metrics lag behind the broader U.S. landscape.

Falling Short of the Georgia Average

The county's overall score of 43.5 sits roughly three points below the Georgia state average of 46.7. While it offers a distinct cost advantage, it faces significant hurdles in categories that drive the state's top-performing counties.

Strong Water Quality and Deep Affordability

Early County shines in housing affordability with a cost score of 76.5 and a median home value of just $130,100. It also maintains exceptional infrastructure reliability, evidenced by a water quality score of 86.0.

Critical Gaps in Health and Safety

The county faces significant pressure in public health and safety, scoring just 12.3 and 18.2 respectively. These figures suggest limited access to medical facilities and higher crime rates compared to regional peers.

A Haven for Budget-Conscious Living

Early County is best suited for individuals or families prioritizing ultra-low living costs, with median rent at only $774. It offers a quiet, affordable lifestyle for those who can navigate the local healthcare and safety limitations.

Score breakdown

Tax51.3Cost76.5Safety18.2Health12.3Schools54Income22.3Risk56.6Water86Weather31.6
🏛51.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠76.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼22.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡18.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤12.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡56.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤31.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱21.6
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

Early County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Early County

via TaxByCounty

Early County taxes run low nationwide

At 0.822%, Early County's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.927%, placing it in the lower 30th percentile of U.S. counties. Homeowners here pay just $1,069 annually versus the national median of $2,690, a difference of nearly $1,600 per year.

Below average for Georgia

Early County ranks below the state average effective rate of 0.898%, with median taxes of $1,069 compared to Georgia's statewide median of $1,529. This places the county among the more tax-friendly options across Georgia's 159 counties.

Early County versus nearby counties

Neighboring Echols County (0.986%) and Emanuel County (0.975%) both carry higher effective rates, while the region's median home values cluster between $88,000 and $245,000. Early County's rate of 0.822% offers one of the better deals in this corner of southeast Georgia.

Your estimated annual tax bill

On Early County's median home value of $130,100, you'd pay approximately $1,069 annually at the county's 0.822% effective rate. With mortgage and homestead exemptions factored in, that drops to around $877 per year for most homeowners.

Check if you're paying too much

Many Georgia homeowners are overassessed on their property values and have the right to challenge their assessments before the local board of assessors. If you believe your assessed value exceeds the current market, filing an appeal could lower your annual tax bill at no cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Early County

via CostByCounty

Early County rents bite less than typical

At 17.3%, Early County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend less of their paycheck on housing than the average American. The median gross rent of $774 per month is also significantly lower than typical rents across the U.S., though household incomes ($53,750) run about 28% below the national average.

Better than Georgia's housing burden

Early County outperforms Georgia's state average rent-to-income ratio of 18.6%, offering more breathing room for renters. The county's median rent ($774) also undercuts the state average by $153 per month, positioning it as one of Georgia's more affordable housing markets.

Early County compared

Among rural southeastern Georgia counties, Early offers competitive rent levels at $774—below Emanuel County ($742) and Evans County ($720), but lower than Effingham County's $1,116. Early's rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% ranks favorably against all neighboring counties in this region, reflecting modest rents paired with adequate incomes.

Where your Early County dollar goes

Renters in Early County pay $774 monthly against a median household income of $53,750, consuming 17.3% of gross income on rent. Homeowners face a median monthly cost of $597 for owner-occupied housing, with median home values at $130,100—a realistic buy-in point for middle-income households.

Consider Early County if you're relocating

Early County delivers affordable rents and moderate homeownership costs in a rural setting where your paycheck stretches further than national norms. If you work remotely or are relocating your small business, the 17.3% rent-to-income ratio leaves you room for savings and stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Early County

via IncomeByCounty

Early County lags national income

Early County's median household income of $53,750 trails the U.S. median by $21,005, placing the county well below the national standard. This income gap reflects broader economic challenges in rural Georgia compared to the nation's wealthier metropolitan areas.

Below Georgia's median income

Early County ranks below the Georgia state average of $60,488 in median household income. The $6,738 gap suggests residents here earn less than most of their counterparts across the state.

Income varies across rural southeast

Early County's $53,750 median sits between similar rural counties: slightly above Emanuel County ($50,053) but below Echols County ($61,723). Housing affordability looks favorable with a 17.3% rent-to-income ratio, among the better rates in the region.

Affordable housing supports stretched budgets

With a median home value of $130,100 and a rent-to-income ratio of 17.3%, Early County residents spend reasonable portions of income on housing. However, the lower overall income means less margin for healthcare, education, and savings after housing and basic expenses.

Build financial security in Early County

Early County residents should prioritize emergency savings and explore low-cost investment accounts to grow wealth over time. Even modest monthly contributions to a diversified portfolio or high-yield savings account can compound significantly—especially important when household income is below national average.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Early County

via CrimeByCounty

Early County Stays Below National Crime Average

Early County reports a total crime rate of 2176.2 per 100K residents, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 96.6, indicating a relatively secure environment compared to many U.S. regions.

Crime Rates Exceed Georgia State Averages

Despite beating national figures, Early County's safety score of 96.6 sits below the Georgia average of 97.8. Its total crime rate is roughly 54% higher than the statewide average of 1412.9 per 100K.

Comparative Trends in Southwest Georgia

Early County faces a total crime rate of 2176.2, which is significantly higher than neighbors like Fayette County. While common for its rural profile, the rate remains higher than most of the 159 counties in the state.

Violent Crime Trends Concern Local Officials

The county's violent crime rate of 790.5 is more than double the national average of 369.8. Conversely, property crime stands at 1385.7, which is notably lower than the national property crime rate of 2,015.7.

Enhance Security in Early County Homes

With two reporting agencies active, residents should prioritize home security to mitigate the risk of property crime. Installing motion-sensor lighting and smart cameras provides an effective first line of defense.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Early County

via HealthByCounty

Early County trails national health

At 69.7 years, Early County's life expectancy falls 5.8 years below the U.S. average of 75.5 years, placing residents at significant health risk. The county's 25.2% poor or fair health rate exceeds the national average by 8 percentage points, signaling chronic disease burden across the population.

Among Georgia's least healthy counties

Early County ranks in the bottom tier of Georgia's 159 counties, with a life expectancy 3.6 years below the state average of 73.3 years. The 25.2% rate of residents reporting poor or fair health stands well above Georgia's typical county profile.

Struggling compared to regional peers

Early County's 69.7-year life expectancy significantly underperforms neighboring Effingham County (75.0 years) and Fannin County (74.1 years). With a 25.2% poor health rate, Early residents face markedly worse health outcomes than comparably sized Georgia counties nearby.

Healthcare gaps compound health risks

Early County has 47 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—below the state median—while 14.2% of residents remain uninsured, slightly undercutting Georgia's 15.0% rate. Limited mental health capacity at 95 providers per 100K suggests residents struggle to access both routine and behavioral health support.

Get insured, stay healthier

With 14.2% uninsured, Early County residents should explore coverage during open enrollment or through Georgia's Medicaid program. Health insurance reduces out-of-pocket costs and makes preventive care accessible—a critical step toward improving the county's troubled health trajectory.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Early County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Concise Educational Infrastructure in Early County

Early County operates a streamlined educational system consisting of just three public schools serving 1,668 students. This single-district infrastructure includes one elementary, one middle, and one high school to cover the entire K-12 spectrum.

Meeting National Graduation Standards

The county achieves an 87.0% graduation rate, which matches the national average but sits slightly below the Georgia state average of 88.1%. Local investment reaches $8,681 per pupil, exceeding the state average of $7,405 while maintaining a school score of 55.6.

Early County School District Leads the Way

The Early County School District manages all 1,668 students across its three local campuses. There are currently no charter school options available within the county, concentrating all resources into the traditional public system.

A Blend of Town and Rural Learning

Schools here maintain an average size of 556 students, set within two town locales and one rural setting. Early County Elementary is the largest hub with 731 students, while Early County Middle School offers a more intimate environment for 386 students.

Find a Home Near Early County Schools

Families looking for a close-knit school community will find that Early County's centralized campus structure offers a stable environment for relocation. Explore local real estate to find a home that keeps your students near these core educational facilities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Early County

via RiskByCounty

Early County's risk: Above average nationally

Early County scores 43.38 on the composite risk scale, placing it above the national median and well above Georgia's state average of 39.49. This "Relatively Low" rating reflects moderate exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly hurricanes and tornadoes that threaten the region.

Mid-range risk among Georgia counties

Early County ranks in the middle tier of Georgia's 159 counties for natural disaster risk, with a composite score notably higher than the state average. The county faces elevated tornado and hurricane risks that distinguish it from lower-risk Georgia communities.

Riskier than most nearby counties

Early County's 43.38 score exceeds several neighboring counties—it's significantly higher than Evans County (21.91) and Emanuel County (39.85), making Early one of the riskier communities in its region. Only Effingham County to the east carries comparable overall risk levels.

Hurricanes and tornadoes pose greatest threat

Early County faces a hurricane risk score of 87.40 and tornado risk of 62.21, the two dominant hazards affecting residents. Flood risk (32.38) and wildfire risk (49.94) also merit attention, particularly during severe weather seasons and dry summer months.

Secure coverage for wind and water damage

Given Early County's high hurricane and tornado exposure, homeowners should verify comprehensive wind and hail coverage through their property insurance policies. Consider adding flood insurance—federally backed policies remain affordable and critical given the county's moderate flood risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Early County

via SoilByCounty

A Southern Frontier of Zone 9a

While specific taxonomic data for Early County is currently limited, the region sits in the warm 9a hardiness zone. This indicates a climate that avoids the harsh freezes found further north in the state. Local growers typically encounter the acidic profiles common across Georgia's coastal plain.

Exploring Local Soil Textures

Detailed sand and clay percentages are not recorded for this specific area, but the surrounding region is known for its sedimentary deposits. These coastal plain soils often lean toward sandy textures that require regular attention to moisture levels. Understanding your specific plot's texture remains the first step for local success.

Navigating Organic Matter Levels

Early County lacks specific organic matter data, but the state average sits at 1.83%. Maintaining fertility in this warm climate often requires adding compost to boost water capacity. Most local soils benefit from amendments to reach the nutrient retention seen in higher-performing counties.

Managing Water Flow on the Plain

Hydrologic data is currently unavailable for this county, requiring on-site testing for building and drainage. In this part of Georgia, drainage can vary significantly between upland ridges and low-lying creek beds. Observations during heavy rains will reveal how your specific site handles the local water table.

Planting Success in Zone 9a

Early County's 9a hardiness zone allows for a long growing season and mild winters. You can successfully cultivate heat-loving crops like okra, sweet potatoes, and citrus with proper frost protection. Start your garden today to take advantage of this extended Southern warmth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Early County

via LawnByCounty

Early County's Tough Lawn Care Landscape

Maintaining a lawn here is exceptionally difficult, with a score of 21.6 compared to the national average of 50.0. Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, your turf faces significantly more environmental stress than the Georgia state average of 35.8. Homeowners must work much harder to keep grass green in this challenging southern climate.

Sizzling Summers and High Rainfall

Your lawn endures 90 extreme heat days annually, far surpassing the state average of 65 days. While 57.2 inches of annual precipitation exceeds the national ideal of 30-50 inches, the intense heat can quickly evaporate surface moisture. This combination means you must balance drainage with frequent cooling to prevent turf burn.

Custom Soil Testing is Essential

Specific soil composition data for Early County is currently unavailable, making a local soil test your most important first step. Knowing your yard's exact pH and texture allows you to target the right amendments for Zone 9a grass types. Without this data, you risk applying expensive fertilizers that your soil may not be able to absorb.

Battling Severe Drought Conditions

With 100% of the county facing severe drought (D2+) and 30 weeks of drought over the past year, water management is critical. Deep, infrequent watering early in the morning helps develop the resilient root systems needed to survive these dry spells. Focus on efficiency to protect both your lawn and local water resources.

Selecting Hardy Grasses for Zone 9a

Heat-tolerant varieties like St. Augustine or Bermuda grass are your best bets for thriving in this climate. Because data on local frost dates is limited, keep a close watch on regional weather patterns before starting your spring sodding. With the right warm-season variety, you can overcome the county's low ease score.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Early County's county score?
Early County, Georgia 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 Early County rank among counties in Georgia?
Early County ranks #109 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 Early County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Early County is $1,069, with an effective tax rate of 0.82%. This earns Early County a tax score of 51.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Early County?
The median household income in Early County, Georgia is $53,750 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Early County earns an income score of 22.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Early County, Georgia a good place to live?
Early County scores 43.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #109 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Early 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 Early 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.