countyscore
46.8
County Score
Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 72.6Disaster Risk 69.2

County Report Card

About Elbert County, Georgia

Slightly Below the National Middle

Elbert County registers a composite score of 46.8, which is just under the national median of 50.0. The county maintains a stable middle-of-the-pack position relative to the rest of the United States.

Perfectly Aligning with Georgia Averages

The county's score of 46.8 almost perfectly mirrors the Georgia state average of 46.7. It serves as a representative example of a typical Georgia county in terms of overall livability.

Low Risk and Good Infrastructure

Elbert County provides a reliable foundation with a water score of 86.0 and a risk score of 69.2. These numbers indicate a consistent supply of quality water and a relatively safe environment from natural hazards.

Economic and Healthcare Struggles

The county struggles with low income levels, scoring just 13.9, with a median household income of $49,727. Health services also lag behind, as evidenced by a low health score of 14.2.

Solid Stability for Budget Homeowners

Elbert County is a good fit for those seeking homeownership at an accessible price point, with median home values of $114,600. It favors residents who value environmental stability and utility reliability over high income growth.

2040608010039.368.747.714.248.413.969.28672.6Tax39.3Cost68.7Safety47.7Health14.2Schools48.4Income13.9Risk69.2Water86Weather72.646.8/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Elbert County DNA

Foverall

How Elbert County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Elbert County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Water Quality (86/100) but notably weak in Income (13.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
39.3-12.700000000000003
Cost
68.7+20.700000000000003
Safety
47.7
Health
14.2-35.8
Schools
48.4
Income
13.9-37.1
Risk
69.2+22.200000000000003
Water
86+28
Weather
72.6+16.599999999999994
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Think property taxes are too high in Elbert County?

Many homeowners in Elbert County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$114,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$849/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$114,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$33,960/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $49,727/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

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Compare Elbert County with Dillingham Census Area →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Abbeville County
South Carolina
51
Wilkes County
Georgia
39.7
Oglethorpe County
Georgia
53.4
Hart County
Georgia
53
Lincoln County
Georgia
52.5
Madison County
Georgia
48.3
Anderson County
South Carolina
40.9
McCormick County
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59.4

Deep Dives

Elbert County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Elbert County

via TaxByCounty

Elbert County below national tax median

Elbert County's effective tax rate of 0.983% sits slightly above the national median of 0.927%, placing it in the lower-middle range of U.S. counties. Homeowners pay $1,126 annually versus the national median of $2,690, saving roughly $1,564 per year.

Slightly above state average

At 0.983%, Elbert County's effective rate exceeds Georgia's state average of 0.898%, though median taxes of $1,126 remain well below the state median of $1,529. The county falls in Georgia's middle tier for tax burden.

Elbert County in the regional context

Elbert County (0.983%) tracks closely with Echols County (0.986%) and Emanuel County (0.975%), all three sharing similar effective rates and modest home values below $120,000. This clustering makes the region consistently affordable for property-tax conscious buyers.

Your estimated annual tax bill

On Elbert County's median home value of $114,600, you'd pay approximately $1,126 annually at the 0.983% effective rate. After homestead and mortgage exemptions, most homeowners pay around $993 per year.

Appeal if your assessment seems high

Elbert County residents should verify their assessed values against recent comparable sales in their neighborhoods. If your assessment is inflated, Georgia law allows you to file an appeal at no charge and potentially reduce your annual tax bill significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Elbert County

via CostByCounty

Elbert County: rents squeeze tighter

Elbert County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.5% exceeds the national average, signaling a tighter housing market where renters dedicate more of their paychecks to housing than typical Americans. With median household income at $49,727—far below the national $74,755—renters face a double squeeze from lower wages and moderate rents.

Above Georgia's affordability threshold

Elbert County's 20.5% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Georgia's state average of 18.6%, indicating a less affordable rental market compared to most of the state. The county's lower household incomes ($49,727) relative to state norms amplify the housing affordability challenge.

Elbert faces affordability pressures

Among neighboring counties, Elbert's 20.5% ratio stands highest—Early County (17.3%), Evans County (16.0%), and Emanuel County (17.8%) all offer better housing affordability. Despite a modest rent of $849/month, Elbert's lower household incomes push the rent-to-income burden above regional peers.

Elbert County housing breakdown

Renters pay $849 monthly against a median household income of $49,727, consuming 20.5% of gross earnings—the tightest affordability ratio in this peer group. Homeowners spend $581 per month on median-valued properties of $114,600, offering an alternative pathway for those seeking to build equity.

Elbert County for homeowner-focused families

If you're relocating to Elbert County, prioritize homeownership over renting; monthly ownership costs ($581) are notably lower than rents ($849), freeing cash for savings. The 20.5% rent-to-income ratio suggests rental affordability is tight, so buyers should explore properties near the $114,600 median home value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Elbert County

via IncomeByCounty

Elbert County significantly below national median

Elbert County's median household income of $49,727 falls $25,028 short of the U.S. median of $74,755, placing the county in the lower-income tier nationally. This 33% gap reflects substantial economic challenge and limited employment opportunities.

Well below Georgia state average

Elbert County ranks among Georgia's lower-income counties with a median of $49,727, trailing the state average of $60,488 by $10,761. The $49,727 figure places residents in the bottom tier of Georgia counties by household income.

Lowest earners in rural comparison group

Elbert County's $49,727 median is the lowest among this rural Georgia cluster, falling below Emanuel County ($50,053) and significantly trailing Echols County ($61,723). The limited income base suggests fewer diverse employment sectors and smaller employers.

Housing costs strain limited budgets

At 20.5%, Elbert County's rent-to-income ratio is the highest in this rural group, meaning residents allocate one-fifth of income just to housing. Combined with a median home value of $114,600 and lower overall income, this burden leaves little room for emergency savings or other critical expenses.

Start small with consistent savings habits

Elbert County residents facing tighter budgets should focus on low-cost, automated savings strategies like direct deposit into a dedicated account. Even small monthly contributions—$25 or $50—compound over time; paired with employer retirement plan options, these habits build financial resilience despite modest current income.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Elbert County

via CrimeByCounty

Elbert County Maintains Secure National Standing

Elbert County's total crime rate of 1175.2 per 100K is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a strong safety score of 98.1.

Outperforming Georgia State Crime Averages

The county's total crime rate of 1175.2 is lower than the Georgia average of 1412.9 per 100K. This places Elbert County in the safer tier of Georgia counties with a score of 98.1.

Consistent Performance Compared to Neighbors

Elbert County shows crime levels nearly identical to Emanuel and Evans counties. Its safety score of 98.1 reflects a stable environment supported by two dedicated reporting agencies.

Breaking Down Violent and Property Crime

Property crime sits at 950.4 per 100K, while the violent crime rate is 224.8. Both figures are significantly lower than the national property crime rate of 2,015.7 and violent crime rate of 369.8.

Deterring Property Theft in Elbert

Since property crime is the most frequent type of incident, residents should ensure vehicles and outbuildings are locked. Simple deterrents like motion-activated lights are highly effective in this rural community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Elbert County

via SchoolsByCounty

Elbert County's Five-School Network

Elbert County provides a comprehensive public education system through five schools serving 3,066 students. The landscape includes two elementary schools, one middle school, one high school, and a specialized learning center.

Steady Performance and Solid Investment

The county's 87.0% graduation rate aligns perfectly with the national average, while the school score of 54.1 beats the Georgia state average. Per-pupil spending stands at $7,994, which is over $500 higher than the state average investment per student.

Unified Local School Leadership

The Elbert County School District manages all five local campuses and 3,066 students. No charter schools operate within the county, ensuring all local education funding remains within the traditional public district.

A Mix of Town and Rural Locales

Education in Elbert is split between town and rural settings, with an average school size of 613 students. Elbert County Middle School is the largest facility with 929 students, while the Paul J. Blackwell Learning Center provides a smaller PK environment for 145 students.

Join the Elbert County Community

With school scores outperforming state averages and a healthy per-pupil investment, Elbert County is an attractive option for families. Look for homes in this district to benefit from a community that prioritizes steady academic growth.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Elbert County

via RiskByCounty

Elbert County: Well below national risk

Elbert County scores 30.79 on the composite risk scale, placing it comfortably below the national median and well below Georgia's average of 39.49. This "Very Low" rating reflects manageable natural disaster exposure across most hazard types.

Lower-risk Georgia county

Elbert County ranks in the lower half of Georgia's counties for natural disaster risk, with a composite score 22 percent below the state average. The county benefits from reduced exposure to tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes compared to higher-risk regions.

Safer than nearby counties

Elbert County's 30.79 score is notably lower than neighboring Madison and Oglethorpe counties, making it one of the safer communities in the northeast Georgia region. Only Evans County nearby matches its low-risk profile.

Earthquake and hurricane risks elevated

Despite Elbert County's overall low risk, earthquake exposure (71.60) and hurricane risk (72.22) merit attention from residents. Flood risk (35.75) and tornado risk (40.94) remain moderate, while wildfire exposure (41.13) presents seasonal concerns.

Standard insurance covers most exposure

Elbert County residents should maintain comprehensive homeowners coverage with wind and hail protection, addressing the county's moderate earthquake and hurricane risks. Flood insurance remains optional for most residents but consider it if living in designated floodplain areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Elbert County

via WaterByCounty

Elbert County Drinking Water Safety Excels

Elbert County receives an A grade for drinking water, reporting zero health violations over the last five years. This perfect compliance record is significantly better than the Georgia state average of 152.5 violations per 100K residents. The county's water systems demonstrate high reliability and safety.

Elbert Watersheds Perform Better than Average

Among 30 assessed water bodies, 40.0% are listed as impaired in the 2022 ATTAINS reporting cycle. This is notably lower than the state's average impairment rate of 48.4%. Top causes for failure include fecal coliform, poor fish bioassessments, and pH imbalances.

Robust Monitoring Network in Elbert County

Elbert County benefits from a dense monitoring footprint of 17 sites with 11,456 measurements taken over five years. Frequent testing covers physical traits, nutrients, and inorganic metals. This high volume of data ensures that local officials have the information needed to protect water resources.

Broad River Experiencing Reduced Streamflow

The Broad River near Bell is currently flowing at 534 cfs, which represents 32% of its long-term average. This reduction in flow can stress aquatic life and concentrate pollutants like fecal coliform. The Broad River remains a primary gauge for the county's hydrologic health.

Safeguarding Elbert County's Water Future

Residents can enjoy safe drinking water, but should remain vigilant about local river health. Since pH and bacteria are known issues in 40% of assessed waters, proper septic maintenance and responsible agricultural practices are key. Monitor Broad River levels, as low flow increases the impact of local runoff.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Elbert County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler Georgia Profile

Elbert County averages 60.2°F annually, which is much closer to the national median than most of Georgia. Its location provides a more temperate version of the humid subtropical climate.

Among the State's Coolest Counties

At 60.2°F, Elbert is significantly cooler than the state average of 63.7°F. It averages 49.4 inches of rain, keeping it just under the state average of 51.4 inches.

Milder Than Piedmont Neighbors

Elbert is cooler than DeKalb County (61.5°F) and experiences far fewer extreme heat days than Fayette. It receives 0.4 inches of snow, more than many of its southern counterparts.

Defined Winters and Gentle Summers

The county only sees 36 days of extreme heat above 90°F, far fewer than the state norm. Winters are cooler than much of Georgia, with a January average of 41.7°F and occasional snow.

Prepare for All Four Seasons

Residents should keep a winter coat for the 43.3°F winter average and a snow shovel for occasional dustings. Lower summer temperatures mean reduced cooling costs compared to the rest of the state.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Elbert County

via SoilByCounty

The Piedmont Granite Legacy

Elbert County sits in hardiness zone 8a, marking a shift toward cooler winters compared to the coast. While specific soil order and pH data are unavailable, the region's 'Granite Capital' nickname suggests a mineral-rich foundation. Most soils in this part of the state are naturally acidic and clay-heavy.

Hidden Textures of the Upcountry

Local data for sand and clay percentages is currently missing from the record. Typically, Piedmont counties like Elbert feature higher clay content than the coastal plain, which improves nutrient retention. You should expect soil that is more difficult to work when wet but holds its structure well.

Rich Potential in North Georgia

Specific organic matter and water capacity figures are not recorded for Elbert County. The state average organic matter is 1.83%, a benchmark that local gardens can exceed with proper mulching. Enhancing the organic content will improve the soil's ability to support vigorous plant growth.

Natural Drainage Patterns

There is no current data for the dominant drainage class or hydrologic group in this county. The rolling hills of the region usually facilitate natural water runoff, but heavy clays can lead to localized pooling. Checking for high clay layers is vital before beginning any construction or drainage projects.

Garden Success in Zone 8a

Zone 8a is ideal for classic Georgia crops like peaches, tomatoes, and leafy greens. The slightly cooler winters provide the chill hours necessary for many fruit varieties to thrive. Start your growing season early and enjoy the bounty of this historic agricultural region.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Elbert County

via LawnByCounty

A Fair Fighting Chance for Elbert Lawns

Elbert County is one of the easier places in Georgia to grow a lawn, with a score of 49.1. This is significantly better than the state average of 35.8 and nearly matches the national median of 50.0. In Hardiness Zone 8a, your climate offers a more balanced environment for several grass varieties.

Moderate Heat and Consistent Growth

With only 36 extreme heat days—far fewer than the state average of 65—your lawn faces less thermal stress. You get 49.4 inches of rain annually and 4,682 growing degree days, providing a solid foundation for healthy turf development. This moderate climate allows for a more predictable mowing and watering schedule.

Determine Your Yard's Unique Profile

Specific soil metrics are not currently available for Elbert County, so a local soil test is highly recommended. Understanding your specific pH and drainage class will help you maintain your county's relatively high lawn score. Most Georgia soils in this region benefit from occasional aeration to combat compaction.

Managing Water During Severe Dry Spells

Despite your favorable climate, 100% of the county is currently in severe drought (D2+). You have endured 22 weeks of drought over the past year, making smart irrigation a priority. Adjusting your mower to a higher setting during these dry periods helps shade the soil and reduce water loss.

Strategic Planting for Zone 8a

Tall Fescue or Bermuda grass are excellent choices for Elbert County’s 8a climate. With the last spring frost typically hitting around April 6th, aim to start your lawn projects shortly after to maximize the growing season. Your first frost usually arrives October 30th, giving you a generous window for establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Elbert County's county score?
Elbert County, Georgia has a composite county score of 46.8 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 Elbert County rank among counties in Georgia?
Elbert County ranks #79 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 Elbert County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Elbert County is $1,126, with an effective tax rate of 0.98%. This earns Elbert County a tax score of 39.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Elbert County?
The median household income in Elbert County, Georgia is $49,727 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Elbert County earns an income score of 13.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Elbert County, Georgia a good place to live?
Elbert County scores 46.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #79 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Elbert 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 Elbert County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.