countyscore
60.1
County Score
Property Tax 82.6Weather & Climate 65.6Health 64.6

County Report Card

About Franklin County, Virginia

Franklin County Beats the National Median

Franklin County secures a composite score of 60.2, placing it in the top tier of counties nationwide. It comfortably exceeds the national median score of 50.0.

Stronger Performance Than State Average

The county's 60.2 score is nearly ten points higher than the Virginia state average of 50.9. This makes it a standout performer in the southwestern part of the state.

Affordability Meets Low Taxes

Franklin County excels with a Tax Score of 82.6 and a Cost Score of 60.0. With a median gross rent of just $797 and an effective tax rate of 0.533%, it is highly accessible for many budgets.

Water and Safety Opportunities

The county faces hurdles with its Water Score of 44.6 and a Safety Score of 45.1. These metrics suggest that investments in infrastructure and community policing could help raise the overall livability.

Perfect for Value-Seeking Families

Franklin County is an ideal fit for families and retirees looking for a low-tax lifestyle and affordable housing. It offers a strong balance of economic benefits and regional stability.

2040608010082.66045.164.655.562.557.344.665.6Tax82.6Cost60Safety45.1Health64.6Schools55.5Income62.5Risk57.3Water44.6Weather65.660.1/100
This county
National avg
5 above average1 below average

Franklin County DNA

Doverall

How Franklin County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Franklin County scores above average across most dimensions. It's a well-balanced county with particular strength in Property Tax (82.6/100).

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
82.6+30.599999999999994
Cost
60+12
Safety
45.1-9.899999999999999
Health
64.6+14.599999999999994
Schools
55.5
Income
62.5+11.5
Risk
57.3+10.299999999999997
Water
44.6-13.399999999999999
Weather
65.6+9.599999999999994
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$222,800

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$797/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$222,800/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$31,880/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $68,348/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

16.4

per 100K

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

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

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49.4
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Henry County
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Deep Dives

Franklin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Franklin County

via TaxByCounty

Franklin County taxes fall well below national

At 0.533%, Franklin County's effective tax rate sits 8% below the national median of 0.579%, placing it in the 40th percentile nationally. Median property taxes of $1,188 represent less than half the national median of $2,690, making this a tax-friendly jurisdiction.

Franklin County ranks among state's lowest

Franklin County's 0.533% effective rate sits 20% below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, ranking it among the commonwealth's most affordable counties for property tax burden. Annual median taxes of $1,188 are 39% below the state median, offering genuine savings.

Franklin County offers low-tax alternative

Franklin County's 0.533% rate undercuts neighboring Fluvanna County (0.651%) and dramatically beats Franklin city (0.738%) just miles away. This municipal-versus-county distinction means choosing Franklin County over the city saves hundreds annually on equivalent properties.

Franklin County residents pay $1,188 yearly

With a median home value of $222,800 and a 0.533% effective rate, typical Franklin County homeowners pay around $1,188 in annual property taxes. This modest burden reflects both lower property values and light tax policy throughout the county.

Franklin County homeowners should verify value

Even with low tax rates, properties may still be overassessed relative to recent market comparables—especially in changing markets. A reassessment appeal is a simple, no-cost first step to ensure your valuation reflects current conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Franklin County

via CostByCounty

Franklin County Excels in Affordability

Franklin County residents spend just 14.0% of income on rent—among Virginia's lowest and well below the national norm. With low rents of $797 monthly and respectable median income of $68,348, housing is genuinely affordable for working families.

Virginia's Best Housing Value

Franklin County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the state's most affordable, beating the Virginia average of 18.6% by a significant margin. This rural county delivers exceptional housing value without the isolation costs of other regions.

Cheapest in the Piedmont

Franklin County's $797 monthly rent rivals Floyd County ($826) as the region's most affordable, while median incomes ($68,348) exceed both Floyd and Galax. This combination makes Franklin County a standout value option in south-central Virginia.

Costs Barely Dent Income

Renters in Franklin County spend just $797 monthly while homeowners pay $786—incredibly low housing costs that consume only 14.0% of median income. Families here enjoy substantial financial breathing room after covering shelter needs.

Franklin County Rewards Flexibility

If you have remote work or flexible employment, Franklin County's 14.0% rent-to-income ratio and $797 monthly rents offer unbeatable value. Move here and potentially cut housing costs in half while accessing a supportive rural community.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Franklin County

via IncomeByCounty

Franklin County lags national average

Franklin County's median household income of $68,348 trails the national median of $74,755 by 8.6%. The county reflects income patterns typical of rural southern communities with limited access to high-wage employers.

Franklin County underperforms statewide

Franklin County's median household income of $68,348 falls 8.8% below Virginia's state average of $74,957, placing it in the lower half of Virginia counties. Per capita income of $38,202 is roughly at the state average of $39,155.

Franklin County ranks mid-pack regionally

Franklin County households earn $3,223 more annually than Franklin city ($65,125) but $27,255 less than Frederick County ($95,603). The county's modest income levels reflect its primarily rural character and manufacturing-based economy.

Housing costs remain manageable

At 14.0%, Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio is one of the lowest in Virginia, well below the 30% affordability threshold. Median home values of $222,800 remain attainable for most local households.

Start small with consistent savings

Franklin County residents earning $68,348 can build wealth through automatic payroll deductions into savings or retirement accounts, even at modest amounts. Combining an emergency fund with employer 401(k) matching creates a foundation for long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Franklin County

via CrimeByCounty

Franklin County Remains Safer Than Average

Franklin County's total crime rate of 1,223.6 per 100,000 is nearly half the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a strong safety score of 98.1, indicating a high level of security. Residents benefit from a environment that is substantially safer than many other U.S. counties.

Solid Standing in Virginia Safety Rankings

With a safety score of 98.1, Franklin County outperforms the Virginia state average of 97.3. Its total crime rate of 1,223.6 per 100,000 is also significantly lower than the state average of 1,728.8. The county maintains a consistent reputation for safety across the Commonwealth.

Franklin County vs. Neighboring Giles

Franklin County’s crime rate of 1,223.6 is lower than nearby Giles County, which stands at 1,310.5. However, it is higher than more rural neighbors like Floyd County, which reports a low 566.6. It occupies a middle ground of safety for the southwestern Virginia region.

A Close Look at Crime Types

Violent crime in Franklin County is low at 136.8 per 100,000, well below the national rate of 369.8. Property crime makes up the bulk of local reports at ,1086.8 per 100,000 residents. These numbers reflect a community where personal safety is generally very high.

Security Habits for Franklin Residents

To keep property crime rates low, residents are encouraged to use smart home security and outdoor lighting. Three local agencies work together to monitor and report these statistics. Community watch programs can further strengthen the county's already impressive safety score.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Franklin County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive School Network Serving Over 6,000 Students

Franklin County manages a robust network of 14 public schools, including 12 elementary schools and one high school. A single district oversees the education of 6,252 students across this extensive infrastructure.

Strong Graduation Rates Exceed State Benchmarks

The county boasts an impressive 91.0% graduation rate, exceeding the state average of 89.0% and the national 87.0% mark. While per-pupil spending of $7,552 is below the state average, the county maintains a competitive 55.2 school score.

Centralized Oversight by One Public District

Franklin County Public Schools serves as the sole district for the region, managing all 6,252 students without any charter school presence. This centralized management ensures a consistent experience from elementary through graduation.

Diverse Mix of Rural and Town Locales

The county features a mix of 11 rural schools and three town schools, with an average school size of 447 students. Franklin County High is the largest with 1,904 students, contrasting with the smaller 281-student enrollment at Windy Gap Elementary.

Establish Your Home in a Top-Performing County

Franklin County’s high graduation rates and diverse locale mix make it an attractive destination for families. Consider the proximity of your next home to these well-regarded rural and town campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Franklin County

via RiskByCounty

Franklin County faces above-average risk

Franklin County's composite risk score of 42.72 exceeds Virginia's state average of 33.27, placing it in the very low-to-relatively-low range nationally. The county's exposure to floods (62.15), hurricanes (69.21), and earthquakes (55.15) drives this elevated profile.

Franklin County ranks above state average

At 42.72 compared to Virginia's 33.27 average, Franklin County sits in the higher-risk half of the state's jurisdiction rankings. The county's geographic position in Virginia's foothills contributes to its above-average hazard exposure.

Franklin County exceeds most nearby areas

Franklin County's 42.72 score tops neighboring Floyd (6.62) and Fluvanna (13.49), though Fauquier (47.68) and Frederick (44.72) exceed it slightly. The county faces notably higher risks than the rural counties to its west.

Floods and hurricanes create compound threats

Flood risk (62.15) and hurricane risk (69.21) are Franklin County's dominant hazards, with the latter being particularly significant for an inland county, indicating exposure to tropical moisture and heavy rainfall events. Wildfire risk (38.14) and earthquake risk (55.15) present secondary concerns.

Prioritize flood and hurricane insurance

Franklin County residents should obtain separate flood insurance—excluded from standard policies—given the county's 62.15 flood score. Hurricane coverage verification and potential earthquake insurance should also be reviewed to address the county's multi-hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Franklin County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Safety Shows Significant Vulnerabilities

Franklin County holds a D grade for drinking water quality, following four health violations over the last five years. Its violation rate of 24.5 per 100,000 people is much lower than the state average, yet the frequency of incidents remains a concern. These records highlight a need for increased oversight in local water systems.

Fish Tissue Impairments Noted in Local Watersheds

The 2022 assessment shows that 53.2% of Franklin County's 171 water bodies are impaired, which is higher than the state average. Top causes of impairment include E. coli, as well as PCBs and mercury found in fish tissue. These contaminants indicate long-term environmental issues that affect more than half of the county's assessed waters.

Extensive Monitoring Data Tracks Countywide Health

With 48 monitoring sites and a massive 32,836 measurements over five years, the county has one of the most robust data sets in the region. Scientists focus on physical, nutrient, and microbiological characteristics to gauge water quality. This high volume of data allows for very precise tracking of watershed health.

Smith River Discharge Well Below Normal

The Smith River near Philpott is currently discharging 87 cfs, just 31% of its long-term mean of 286 cfs. This gauge monitors a 215 square mile area and reflects significantly dry conditions in the southern part of the county. Lower river levels can reduce the dilution of pollutants like the mercury and PCBs noted in watershed reports.

Check Fish Advisories and Consider Filtration

Residents should follow local health department advisories regarding fish consumption due to mercury and PCB levels in over half of local water bodies. The county's D grade for drinking water suggests that tap water users should remain vigilant about system alerts and consider home testing. Conservation is also recommended as the Smith River flows at roughly one-third of its typical volume.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Franklin County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild and Moist Piedmont Climate

Franklin County's 56.1°F annual average temperature is slightly warmer than the national median. It enjoys a balanced climate between the mountains and the coastal plains.

Aligned with the Virginia Average

The county’s average temperature sits just above the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. This makes Franklin a very typical representation of Virginia's climate.

Leading the State in Rainfall

Franklin receives 49.2 inches of annual precipitation, well above the state average of 45.7 inches. This makes it one of the wetter counties in the Piedmont region.

Moderate Extremes Throughout the Year

Summer brings 26 days of heat over 90°F, while winter delivers 12.6 inches of snow. July averages a warm 75.7°F, but nighttime cooling is common.

Prepare for Rainy Seasons

Sturdy roofing and proper drainage are essential to handle the 49.2 inches of annual rain. Moderate snow and heat mean residents need a flexible HVAC system for all seasons.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Franklin County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Piedmont Acidity and Structure

Franklin County's soil score of 30.3 is almost identical to the Virginia state average of 30.6. The average pH of 5.20 is also very close to the state average of 5.23, though it remains significantly more acidic than the national 6.5 median. Taxonomic data is not provided, but these metrics reflect a classic Piedmont profile.

High Sand Content for Better Drainage

This county features 48.3% sand, which is the highest sand percentage in this regional group. Combined with 36.0% silt and 15.7% clay, this creates a gritty texture that is very easy to cultivate. The low clay percentage ensures that the soil does not become overly waterlogged or difficult to break up.

Solid Performance for Local Farming

Organic matter is 2.43%, which sits comfortably above the national average of 2.0% but below the state average of 2.90%. The available water capacity of 0.144 in/in is slightly higher than the state average of 0.143 in/in. These numbers indicate a stable foundation for both pastures and diverse home gardens.

Managing Water in Sandy Ground

Official drainage and hydrologic group data are not available for Franklin County. The high sand content suggests that water moves through the profile relatively quickly, which helps prevent root rot but may require more frequent watering. Local gardeners should prioritize organic mulches to slow down evaporation.

A Zone 7b Growing Season

In hardiness zone 7b, Franklin County gardeners enjoy a long growing season that favors heat-loving crops like corn and beans. The sand-heavy soil is excellent for root crops that need space to expand without resistance. It is a great time to start a garden and enjoy the high workability of your local earth.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Franklin County

via LawnByCounty

Reliable Growing Conditions in Franklin

Franklin County holds a lawn difficulty score of 53.5, placing it just below the Virginia state average of 55.4. Situated in Hardiness Zone 7b, the county offers a long growing season that is generally friendly to local gardeners.

Optimal Rainfall and Steady Warmth

Annual precipitation of 49.2 inches is slightly above the state average, providing a strong foundation for lawn health. With 26 extreme heat days and 3,754 growing degree days, the environment is well-suited for a variety of grass types.

Sandy Loam and Acidic pH

The soil pH of 5.20 is quite acidic, which may stunt grass growth without the addition of garden lime. The soil's 48.3% sand content ensures good drainage, while the 15.7% clay helps provide just enough structure to hold some moisture.

Facing Recent Severe Dryness

About 17.7% of the county currently experiences severe drought, and the region spent 24 weeks in drought over the last year. It is important to avoid mowing during peak heat hours to prevent further stress on drought-stricken turf.

Seeding for a Long Season

The transition zone climate of Zone 7b favors Tall Fescue or Zoysia, which can handle the 3,754 growing degree days. Plan your primary seeding after the last frost on April 20 or in early September to take advantage of the fall growing window.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Franklin County's county score?
Franklin County, Virginia has a composite county score of 60.1 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 Franklin County rank among counties in Virginia?
Franklin County ranks #20 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 County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Franklin County is $1,188, with an effective tax rate of 0.53%. This earns Franklin County a tax score of 82.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Franklin County?
The median household income in Franklin County, Virginia is $68,348 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Franklin County earns an income score of 62.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Franklin County, Virginia a good place to live?
Franklin County scores 60.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #20 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Franklin 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 Franklin County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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