countyscore
71.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 93.4Property Tax 83.8Safety 76.3

County Report Card

About Floyd County, Virginia

Floyd County Surges Past National Median

With a composite score of 71.5, Floyd County ranks among the elite livability performers in the United States. It sits significantly higher than the national median score of 50.0.

Far Exceeding the Virginia Average

Floyd County’s 71.5 score dwarfs the Virginia state average of 50.9. It represents one of the highest-rated rural living environments in the Commonwealth.

Unmatched Stability and Tax Efficiency

The county shines with a Risk Score of 93.4 and a Tax Score of 83.8, reflecting low disaster vulnerability and a lean 0.521% effective tax rate. This makes it an exceptionally secure and affordable place to own property.

Water Infrastructure and Lower Income

Floyd’s primary challenge is its Water Score of 26.6, suggesting a need for better resource management. Additionally, an Income Score of 43.5 reflects a median household income of $61,401, which is lower than many neighboring areas.

A Haven for Safety and Value

Floyd County is a premier destination for retirees and remote workers who prioritize low taxes and physical safety. It offers incredible peace of mind for those who don't rely on a high-local-wage economy.

Score breakdown

Tax83.8Cost69.4Safety76.3Health68.6Schools71.2Income43.5Risk93.4Water26.6Weather69.7
🏛83.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠69.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼43.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡76.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤68.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓71.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡93.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧26.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨46
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱61.5
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

Floyd County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Floyd County

via TaxByCounty

Floyd taxes fall well below national average

Floyd County's effective rate of 0.521% sits 10% below the national median of 0.579%, placing it in the 35th percentile nationally. At $1,122 annually, median property taxes are less than half the national median of $2,690, making Floyd an affordable option by national standards.

Floyd ranks low among Virginia counties

Floyd County's 0.521% effective tax rate sits 22% below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, positioning it among the lowest-taxing counties in the commonwealth. Residents here enjoy tax bills roughly 43% lower than the state median, saving money on property assessments.

Floyd offers region's lowest tax burden

Floyd County's 0.521% rate undercuts neighboring Franklin County (0.533%) and significantly beats Fauquier County (0.770%) across the region. A homeowner with a $215,500 property pays just $1,122 in Floyd versus $1,188 in Franklin—a modest difference that adds up over time.

Floyd homeowners pay just $1,122 yearly

With a median home value of $215,500 and a 0.521% effective rate, typical Floyd homeowners pay approximately $1,122 in annual property taxes. This modest burden reflects the county's lower property values and light tax rates compared to wealthier Virginia counties.

Even low rates warrant assessment review

Floyd County's affordability doesn't mean assessments are always accurate—properties may still be overvalued relative to comparable recent sales. A formal appeal costs little and could reveal you're paying taxes on outdated valuations, potentially saving hundreds.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Floyd County

via CostByCounty

Floyd Offers Rural Affordability

Floyd County renters spend 16.1% of income on housing, below both the national benchmark and the Virginia average of 18.6%. While the median income here ($61,401) lags the national median ($74,755), exceptionally low rents of $826 monthly create genuine affordability.

Virginia's Most Affordable County

Floyd County ranks as one of Virginia's most affordable places to live, with a rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% and median monthly rent of just $826. The county's rural character and lower cost of living make it attractive for those prioritizing affordability over urban amenities.

Cheapest Rents in the Region

Floyd's $826 median rent is substantially lower than Frederick County ($1,402) and Fauquier County ($1,561), making it the region's most budget-friendly option. The trade-off is lower median incomes ($61,401 vs Fauquier's $129,495), reflecting its rural economy.

Modest Costs, Modest Incomes

Floyd renters spend just $826 monthly while homeowners pay $601, among the lowest housing costs in Virginia. At 16.1% of income dedicated to rent, Floyd provides genuine housing relief even as the county's overall wage levels remain below state averages.

Floyd Rewards Budget-Conscious Movers

If remote work or retirement allows you to maintain current income while relocating, Floyd County delivers exceptional value with $826 monthly rents. Factor in that you'd spend just 16.1% of median income on housing compared to 18.6% statewide.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Floyd County

via IncomeByCounty

Floyd earns below national average

Floyd County's median household income of $61,401 falls 18% short of the national median of $74,755. The county ranks below the national midpoint, reflecting its rural Appalachian character and limited access to high-wage employment centers.

Floyd ranks in lower third statewide

Floyd's median household income of $61,401 is 18% below Virginia's state average of $74,957, placing it among the lower-earning counties in the state. Per capita income of $36,681 trails the state average by 6%.

Floyd earns less than surrounding areas

Floyd County households earn $30,558 less annually than Fluvanna County ($91,959) and $27,202 less than Frederick County ($95,603). Despite its lower income profile, the county offers significantly lower housing costs, with homes valued at $215,500.

Rent consumes growing share of income

Floyd's rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% remains below the 30% affordability threshold, though it's trending upward relative to the county's moderate income levels. Rising housing costs could strain budgets without corresponding income growth.

Build savings despite modest income

Floyd residents earning $61,401 annually can prioritize emergency savings and employer retirement benefits to establish financial stability. Even small, consistent contributions to savings accounts and IRAs compound over time to build long-term security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Floyd County

via CrimeByCounty

Floyd County Ranks Among Nation's Safest

Floyd County achieves an elite safety score of 99.1, far exceeding the national baseline. Its total crime rate of 566.6 per 100,000 residents is roughly four times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This data positions the county as one of the most secure regions in the United States.

Outperforming Virginia's Strong Safety Standards

The county's total crime rate of 566.6 per 100,000 is significantly better than the Virginia state average of 1,728.8. Its 99.1 safety score also sits comfortably above the Commonwealth's already high average of 97.3. Floyd remains a standout performer for public safety within Virginia.

Regional Safety Leader in Southwest Virginia

Floyd is considerably safer than neighboring Franklin County, which sees 1,223.6 crimes per 100,000 residents. While nearby Giles County reports a rate of 1,310.5, Floyd maintains its rate at less than half those levels. Residents here enjoy a uniquely low-crime environment compared to their neighbors.

Very Low Violent Crime Risks

Violent crime is rare here, occurring at a rate of 103.0 per 100,000 compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime also stays remarkably low at 463.6, which is a fraction of the national 2,015.7 average. These numbers suggest that local crime is infrequent and mostly non-violent.

Maintaining Peace in Floyd County

Even in low-crime areas, basic security like motion-sensor lights and deadbolts provide peace of mind. Staying connected with the two local reporting agencies helps keep the community informed about local trends. Maintaining neighborly awareness is the best way to preserve this high level of safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Floyd County

via HealthByCounty

Floyd health outcomes lag national averages

Floyd County residents have a life expectancy of 76.4 years, roughly in line with the U.S. average but reflecting regional health challenges. With 15.8% reporting poor or fair health, Floyd faces slightly elevated health burden compared to national norms.

Performing modestly within Virginia

Floyd's 76.4-year life expectancy sits just above Virginia's state average of 75.1 years, placing it in the middle of the state's health rankings. The 15.8% poor/fair health rate suggests room for improvement in chronic disease prevention and health management.

Below health outcomes of regional peers

Floyd's 76.4-year life expectancy trails Fauquier County (79.0 years) and Fluvanna County (79.7 years), indicating weaker health outcomes than similar Piedmont and mountain communities. With only 32 primary care providers per 100K residents, Floyd has fewer providers than most neighboring counties.

Uninsured rate slightly above state average

At 7.6% uninsured, Floyd is marginally better than Virginia's 7.9% state average, yet still leaves over 1 in 13 residents without coverage. The county's 32 primary care providers per 100K means residents may face longer waits or travel distances for routine medical care.

Explore your health insurance options now

Floyd's 7.6% uninsured rate shows opportunity to expand coverage. Check healthcare.gov or Virginia's marketplace to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Floyd County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small Schools with Big Results

Floyd County operates five public schools, consisting of four elementary centers and one central high school. This small system serves 1,746 students under a single, unified district. This structure ensures a cohesive community experience for every student in the county.

State-Leading Graduation Rates in Floyd

Floyd County achieves an incredible 97% graduation rate, far surpassing the state average of 89%. Even with a modest per-pupil spend of $7,263, the county delivers a school score of 57.8, which is above the national median. These numbers highlight the efficiency and dedication of the local teaching staff.

Floyd County Public Schools: A Single Focus

The Floyd County Public Schools district manages every student and campus in the county. There are zero charter schools, meaning all educational resources are concentrated into the local public school system. This creates a deeply integrated and supportive environment for all families.

The Essence of Rural Education

All five schools are located in rural settings, reflecting the county's natural beauty and quiet pace of life. Floyd County High is the largest school with 701 students, while Indian Valley Elementary offers an intimate setting for just 123 children. With an average school size of 349, every student gets the individual attention they deserve.

Move to a Community Where Students Thrive

For families who want elite graduation rates without the bustle of the city, Floyd County is an ideal choice. The high school scores and rural setting offer a unique quality of life for growing families. Prioritize homes in this county to give your children a top-tier education in a peaceful, rural environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Floyd County

via RiskByCounty

Floyd County carries very low disaster risk

Floyd County's composite risk score of 6.62 places it in the very low category—well below Virginia's state average of 33.27 and among the safest counties nationwide. The county benefits from geographic and demographic factors that minimize exposure to most major hazards.

Floyd ranks among Virginia's safest areas

With a composite score of 6.62 compared to the state average of 33.27, Floyd County is one of Virginia's lowest-risk jurisdictions. The county's mountainous terrain and rural character contribute to its favorable risk profile.

Floyd is safer than all nearby counties

Floyd's 6.62 score significantly underperforms Franklin County (42.72), Fauquier (47.68), and Frederick (44.72). Only Galax (6.81) comes close to Floyd's low-risk status, making this region a relative haven within Virginia's hazard landscape.

Wildfire and hurricane are minor concerns

Even Floyd's highest risks—hurricane (53.27) and wildfire (49.36)—remain moderate and well below state averages. Flood (17.27), earthquake (28.24), and tornado (10.97) risks all register as low, offering residents substantial protection from major natural hazards.

Standard homeowners policy likely sufficient

Floyd's low overall risk means standard homeowners insurance provides solid baseline protection for most residents. However, those in forested areas should verify wildfire coverage, and any property near water should confirm flood exclusions with their insurer.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Floyd County

via WeatherByCounty

High Elevation Cools the Air

Floyd County’s 51.3°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median. This mountain plateau climate offers a refreshing break from typical Southern heat.

One of Virginia's Coolest Counties

Floyd is significantly cooler than the state average of 55.9°F. Its mountain location creates a climate profile that feels more like the Northeast than the Mid-Atlantic.

Wet and Snowy Mountains

The county receives 48.4 inches of precipitation annually, notably higher than the Virginia average. This moisture translates to 20.1 inches of snow during the long winter months.

A Rare Haven from Heat

Floyd experiences only 1 day of extreme heat over 90°F per year. Conversely, its winter average is a chilly 33.6°F, making for a robust cold season.

Focus on Winter Warmth

Invest heavily in home insulation and heating, as winters are the primary climate challenge. Air conditioning is rarely a priority given the July average of just 70.6°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Floyd County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality Highlands Soil Profile

Floyd County boasts a soil score of 46.0, well above the state average of 30.6. Its average pH of 5.40 is slightly less acidic than the state average of 5.23, though still below the national 6.5 median. This county represents some of the most robust soil characteristics in the region.

Sand-Dominant and Easily Worked

The soil is 46.5% sand, the highest sand percentage among these neighboring counties, paired with 38.6% silt and 15.0% clay. This high sand content provides excellent aeration and makes the soil exceptionally easy to work. It resists the heavy, sticky feel common in high-clay Virginia soils.

Rich Organic Matter and Water Retention

Floyd County shines with an organic matter content of 3.31%, surpassing both the state average of 2.90% and the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.167 in/in, this soil is highly fertile. It offers a nutrient-rich and moisture-stable environment for any crop.

Predicting Flow in the Blue Ridge

While specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not listed, the high sand content suggests naturally rapid drainage. This is beneficial for mountain gardening where slopes can lead to erosion if water is not managed. The rich organic matter helps stabilize this sandier structure against runoff.

Ideal Conditions for Zone 7a

Located in hardiness zone 7a, Floyd County is famous for its productive farms and gardens. The high organic matter and sand-rich texture are perfect for specialty crops like potatoes and high-quality berries. Your soil is among the best in the state, so start planting with confidence.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Floyd County

via LawnByCounty

Above Average Growing Ease in Floyd

Floyd County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 61.5, making it significantly easier to maintain a lawn here than the national average of 50.0. This Zone 7a county benefits from cooler temperatures that reduce the stress often seen in other parts of Virginia.

A Haven for Cool-Season Grass

With only 1 extreme heat day per year, Floyd avoids the scorching summer dormancy typical of the state average of 28 heat days. The 48.4 inches of annual precipitation provides a lush environment that requires less supplemental irrigation than neighboring regions.

Sandy Foundations and Low pH

The soil contains 46.5% sand and 15% clay, suggesting high drainage but a lower capacity for nutrient retention. At a pH of 5.40, the soil is acidic, so homeowners should apply lime to bring it closer to the 6.0 to 7.0 ideal for turfgrass.

Consistent Moisture Despite Recent Dryness

The county experienced 21 weeks of drought in the past year, though current conditions show 100% of the area is abnormally dry. Residents can preserve moisture by keeping grass height at 3.5 inches to shade the soil and reduce evaporation.

Timing the Floyd Growing Season

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass thrive in this mild climate with its 2,745 growing degree days. Aim to seed after April 30 once the threat of spring frost passes, or prepare for fall planting before the October 25 frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Floyd County's county score?
Floyd County, Virginia has a composite county score of 71.5 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 Floyd County rank among counties in Virginia?
Floyd County ranks #3 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 Floyd County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Floyd County is $1,122, with an effective tax rate of 0.52%. This earns Floyd County a tax score of 83.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Floyd County?
The median household income in Floyd County, Virginia is $61,401 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Floyd County earns an income score of 43.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Floyd County, Virginia a good place to live?
Floyd County scores 71.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Floyd 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 Floyd 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.