countyscore
35.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 92.5Weather & Climate 70.7Property Tax 58.9

County Report Card

About Franklin city, Virginia

Franklin City Trails the National Median

Franklin City’s composite score of 35.5 sits below the national median of 50.0. This score reflects specific challenges in local safety and health outcomes.

Ranking Below the State Average

With a score of 35.5, Franklin City currently performs below the Virginia state average of 50.9. It faces a steeper climb than many of its regional peers.

Resilience Against Natural Disasters

Franklin City’s standout feature is its Risk Score of 92.5, indicating it is very safe from natural disasters. The Income Score of 55.0 is also competitive, with a median household income of $65,125.

Concerns in Safety and Healthcare

The city’s Safety Score is quite low at 4.3, and its Health Score of 32.0 suggests limited access to wellness services. Data for the Water Score is not yet available, leaving some infrastructure questions unanswered.

A Resilient Choice for Budget Renters

Franklin City is best for individuals looking for low environmental risk and moderate incomes. Improvements in public safety and health services would significantly boost its appeal for families.

Score breakdown

Tax58.9Cost24.1Safety4.3Health32Schools43.8Income55Risk92.5WaterComing SoonWeather70.7
🏛58.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠24.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼55
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡4.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤32
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓43.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡92.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤70.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58.3
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Southampton County
Virginia
54.7
Isle of Wight County
Virginia
48.1
Suffolk city
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35.8
Hertford County
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Gates County
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Sussex County
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Surry County
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Emporia city
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41

Deep Dives

Franklin city across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 8 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Franklin city

via TaxByCounty

Franklin city taxes exceed national norm

At 0.738%, Franklin city's effective tax rate surpasses the national median of 0.579% by 27%, placing it in the 70th percentile nationally. Though median property taxes are $1,677—below the national median of $2,690—the tax rate itself is substantial relative to national benchmarks.

Franklin city ranks second-highest in state

Franklin city's 0.738% effective rate ranks second in Virginia, trailing only Fauquier County (0.770%) and well above the state average of 0.671%. This places the city among Virginia's highest-taxing jurisdictions despite lower median home values than state averages.

Franklin city taxes exceed regional averages

Franklin city's 0.738% rate significantly surpasses neighboring Franklin County (0.533%) and beats most surrounding regions in the Piedmont. This makes Franklin city one of the most tax-heavy small cities in its geographic area.

Franklin city residents pay $1,677 yearly

With a median home value of $227,200 and a 0.738% effective rate, typical Franklin city homeowners pay approximately $1,677 in annual property taxes. Despite modest home values, the high tax rate means residents shoulder a notably heavier burden than surrounding counties.

Franklin city homeowners should appeal assessments

High effective rates combined with modest property values suggest some Franklin city assessments may be elevated—especially older properties valued before recent market shifts. Requesting a reassessment review could reveal significant overpayment opportunities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Franklin city

via CostByCounty

Franklin City Nears National Norm

Franklin city renters spend 18.3% of income on housing, nearly matching the Virginia average of 18.6% and just above comfortable affordability. The median household income of $65,125 falls below the national median ($74,755), making housing more challenging on lower regional wages.

Moderate Affordability Challenge

Franklin city's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% ranks slightly better than Virginia's state average of 18.6%, though affordability pressures remain visible. The city's income levels lag state norms, intensifying the impact of housing costs on household budgets.

Similar to Regional Average

Franklin city's $995 median rent positions it between rural counties like Floyd ($826) and more expensive Northern Virginia markets. At $65,125, the median income here edges below Franklin County ($68,348) but exceeds the most rural areas.

Housing Takes Significant Share

Franklin city renters spend $995 monthly while homeowners pay $1,180, claiming 18.3% of median household income for rent. This approach of housing costs leaves less income cushion for other expenses compared to more affordable Virginia regions.

Franklin Suits Income-Stable Relocators

Consider Franklin city if you're relocating with stable income that exceeds the local $65,125 median—your housing burden would drop significantly. Compare the 18.3% rent-to-income ratio here against your current market to evaluate potential savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Franklin city

via IncomeByCounty

Franklin falls below national income

Franklin city's median household income of $65,125 is 13% below the national median of $74,755. As an independent city in rural Southside Virginia, Franklin faces income challenges typical of post-industrial communities.

Franklin ranks among lower Virginia cities

Franklin's median household income of $65,125 falls 13% below Virginia's state average of $74,957, placing it among the lower-earning municipalities in the state. Per capita income of $31,838 trails the state average by 19%.

Franklin earns less than nearby counties

Franklin city households earn $3,223 less annually than Franklin County ($68,348) and $26,834 less than Frederick County ($95,603). Lower housing costs ($227,200 median home value) provide some offset to the income gap.

Housing affordability strains budgets

At 18.3%, Franklin's rent-to-income ratio approaches the affordability threshold of 30%, indicating that housing costs consume a larger share of household earnings than in higher-income areas. Rising rents could push more households into housing affordability stress.

Prioritize emergency funds first

Franklin residents earning $65,125 annually should focus on building a 3-6 month emergency fund before pursuing other investments. Securing stable employment and exploring skill-building opportunities can increase earning potential over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Franklin city

via CrimeByCounty

Urban Crime Trends in Franklin City

Franklin City reports a total crime rate of 3,697.9 per 100,000, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, the city maintains a safety score of 94.2, suggesting effective local law enforcement. It is important to note these figures represent a specific urban center.

Comparing City Rates to State Averages

Franklin City's crime rate of 3,697.9 per 100,000 is double the Virginia state average of 1,728.8. Its safety score of 94.2 sits just below the statewide average of 97.3. Because data comes from a single reporting agency, these statistics should be interpreted with caution.

City vs. County Crime Dynamics

The city’s crime rate is significantly higher than that of neighboring Franklin County, which reports 1,223.6 crimes per 100,000. This disparity is common between concentrated urban cities and more sprawling rural counties. Franklin City acts as a regional hub, which often increases per-capita crime figures.

Breaking Down the Crime Data

Property crime is the primary concern here, with a rate of 3,173.1 per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate is 524.8, which exceeds the national average of 369.8. Most incidents reported in the city involve property rather than person-to-person violence.

Enhanced Awareness for City Residents

City residents should consider alarm systems and well-lit entryways to deter property-related crimes. Being proactive about locking vehicles and securing valuables is essential in higher-density areas. Always report suspicious activity to the local police department to help lower regional rates.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Franklin city

via HealthByCounty

Franklin City faces significant health crisis

Franklin City's life expectancy of 66.7 years ranks among the lowest in the nation, trailing the U.S. average by over 12 years and signaling a severe public health emergency. With 23.1% of residents reporting poor or fair health, Franklin City faces health burdens far exceeding national norms.

Lowest life expectancy in Virginia

Franklin City's 66.7-year life expectancy falls dramatically below Virginia's state average of 75.1 years—a gap of 8.4 years that reflects acute socioeconomic and health infrastructure challenges. The city's 23.1% poor/fair health rate is among the worst statewide, indicating urgent public health intervention is needed.

Health crisis distinct from surrounding areas

Franklin City's 66.7-year life expectancy is drastically lower than Franklin County's 75.7 years and all surrounding Piedmont communities, indicating localized health disparities. Despite having 110 primary care providers per 100K residents—the highest in the region—outcomes remain severely compromised, suggesting barriers beyond provider availability.

High uninsured rate compounds health challenges

Franklin City's 7.2% uninsured rate is slightly below the state average, yet 23.1% of residents report poor health, suggesting insurance alone doesn't address deeper health crises. The city's abundance of primary care providers (110 per 100K) and mental health specialists (252 per 100K) hasn't translated into healthy outcomes, pointing to access barriers or systemic health challenges.

Secure your health insurance today

Franklin City needs every resident covered and engaged in care. Visit healthcare.gov to review options and ensure you have the coverage needed to address health challenges in your community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Franklin city

via SchoolsByCounty

A Compact Education System in Franklin City

Franklin City operates a focused education system consisting of three public schools under a single district. This compact infrastructure serves 1,023 total students with one elementary, one middle, and one high school.

Graduation Rates Match the National Average

The city matches the national graduation rate of 87.0%, though it trails the Virginia state average of 89.0%. Investment stands at $7,575 per pupil, keeping the local school score at 53.2 compared to the state average of 54.8.

Single District Management for All Students

Franklin City Public Schools manages all three schools in the area, providing a streamlined educational path for its 1,023 students. The district currently operates without any charter school alternatives.

Small-Town Schools with a Close-Knit Feel

All three schools are classified as being in a town locale, creating a unified educational feel across the city. S.P. Morton Elementary is the largest campus with 481 students, while Joseph P. King Jr. Middle is the smallest with 164.

Relocate Near Centralized Town Schools

For those prioritizing a close-knit town school environment, Franklin City offers an accessible and consolidated district. Exploring residential options near these centrally located schools can simplify the daily commute for local families.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Franklin city

via RiskByCounty

Franklin city has very low disaster risk

Franklin city's composite risk score of 7.54 places it firmly in the very low category—only one-fifth of Virginia's state average of 33.27. The small city's urban footprint and hazard geography combine to create one of the state's safer communities.

Franklin city ranks among Virginia's safest

With a composite score of 7.54 compared to the state average of 33.27, Franklin city is one of the state's lowest-risk jurisdictions. The city's compact size and inland position provide substantial protection from multiple hazard categories.

Franklin city is slightly lower-risk than neighbors

Franklin city's 7.54 score matches Fredericksburg city (8.71) and sits below Fluvanna (13.49) and Franklin County (42.72). The two cities benefit from similar urban characteristics that reduce composite hazard exposure.

Hurricane risk dominates the threat profile

Franklin city's one notable vulnerability is hurricane risk (78.85)—among the highest in Virginia—despite its inland location, reflecting exposure to tropical moisture and remnant systems. Earthquake (36.55) and tornado (19.91) risks remain low, while flood (16.60) and wildfire (2.07) are minimal.

Hurricane preparedness takes priority here

Franklin city residents should focus hurricane preparation efforts—ensuring insurance covers wind damage and verifying policy limits before storm season. Given the city's exceptionally low flood and wildfire risks, standard homeowners coverage is generally sufficient for other hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Lawn Care in Franklin city

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growth in Franklin City

Franklin City earns a lawn difficulty score of 58.3, outperforming both the national median and the Virginia state average. While specific hardiness zone data is unavailable, the local climate supports healthy, vibrant turf for urban residents.

Warm Summers and Plentiful Rain

The city receives 49.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is nearly 4 inches more than the state average. This extra water helps mitigate the impact of the 37 extreme heat days that occur during the warm Virginia summers.

Essential Soil Testing Needed

Specific data on soil pH and texture is currently limited for this city area. Homeowners should perform a professional soil test to determine the exact needs for lime and fertilizer before starting a new lawn project.

Short Drought Cycles

The city saw only 10 weeks of drought in the past year, though the entire area is currently classified as abnormally dry. Using smart irrigation controllers can help manage water use effectively during these dry intervals.

Choosing the Right Grass

Given the warm temperatures and 37 heat days, warm-season grasses like Bermuda or St. Augustine are excellent candidates for this city climate. Consult with a local nursery to time your planting, as specific frost dates are not recorded for this urban center.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Franklin city's county score?
Franklin city, Virginia has a composite county score of 35.5 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 Franklin city rank among counties in Virginia?
Franklin city ranks #124 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 Franklin city, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Franklin city is $1,677, with an effective tax rate of 0.74%. This earns Franklin city a tax score of 58.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Franklin city?
The median household income in Franklin city, Virginia is $65,125 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Franklin city earns an income score of 55/100 on CountyScore.
Is Franklin city, Virginia a good place to live?
Franklin city scores 35.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #124 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Franklin city 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 Franklin city 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.