countyscore
44
County Score
Health 89Income & Jobs 82.6Disaster Risk 70.8

County Report Card

About Franklin County, Vermont

Near the National Median

Franklin County sits just below the national median with a composite score of 44.0. It represents a typical New England profile of high health and moderate economic performance.

A Typical Vermont Experience

The county matches the Vermont state average of 44.6 almost exactly. It serves as a balanced representative of the state's overall quality of life.

Solid Incomes and Health

Strong income (82.6) and health (89.0) scores are the county's main drivers. The tax score of 13.4 is also better than many neighbors, thanks to an effective rate of 1.486%.

Housing and Safety Concerns

Affordability is a growing concern with a cost score of 12.7. Safety also trails at 39.6, indicating area for community improvement and crime reduction.

Balanced Middle-Class Living

Franklin is ideal for middle-class families seeking a balance of good wages and manageable taxes. It offers a solid Vermont lifestyle without the extreme prices of Chittenden County.

Score breakdown

Tax13.4Cost12.7Safety39.6Health89Schools54.6Income82.6Risk70.8Water50Weather51.6
🏛13.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠12.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼82.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡39.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤89
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡70.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧50
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱65.2
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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Nearby counties

Grand Isle County
Vermont
59
Lamoille County
Vermont
47.7
Chittenden County
Vermont
36.9
Clinton County
New York
51.9
Orleans County
Vermont
43
Washington County
Vermont
41.7
Caledonia County
Vermont
41.9
Essex County
Vermont
55.7

Deep Dives

Franklin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Franklin County

via TaxByCounty

Franklin offers Vermont's most affordable rates

At 1.486%, Franklin County's effective tax rate is the lowest in Vermont and still exceeds the national median of 1.099% by 35%, landing around the 66th percentile nationally. The median tax of $4,244 sits just below the national median of $2,690 despite a home value right at the national average.

Lowest effective rate in Vermont

Franklin County's 1.486% effective tax rate is the most favorable among Vermont's 14 counties, running 0.232 percentage points below the state average of 1.718%. The median tax of $4,244 sits comfortably below the state average of $4,648.

Beats Addison, trails Grand Isle

Franklin's 1.486% rate substantially undercuts Addison County's 1.693% and Chittenden's 1.614% to the east. Only Grand Isle County's 1.355% offers lower tax rates, making Franklin a relatively affordable option in northwestern Vermont.

Median home costs $4,244 per year in taxes

On Franklin County's median home value of $285,500, a 1.486% effective rate equals roughly $4,244 in annual property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay approximately $4,404, while those without pay around $3,878.

Assessments still warrant periodic review

Even in low-tax Franklin County, approximately one-third of homeowners may be over-assessed, leaving money on the table through excessive tax payments. Regular assessment reviews and appeals when values diverge from market sales can preserve the county's affordability advantage.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Franklin County

via CostByCounty

Solid incomes, modest housing costs

Franklin County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% sits just below Vermont's state average of 17.8%, while its median household income of $79,078 exceeds the national average of $74,755 by 5%. This positions Franklin as an above-average earner with typical Vermont-level housing burdens, offering a balanced cost-of-living profile.

Middle-ground affordability in Vermont

Franklin ranks squarely in Vermont's middle tier with a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio matching the state average and a median income of $79,078 that's solid statewide. Its median home value of $285,500 reflects middle-market pricing, making Franklin a steady choice without extreme affordability or cost pressures.

Higher income offsets slightly higher rents

Franklin's median rent of $1,164 is higher than Addison ($1,201) but lower than Chittenden ($1,590), while its median home value of $285,500 aligns with Lamoille ($285,200) and trails Addison ($333,700). With stronger incomes than most neighbors, Franklin's housing burden feels lighter despite mid-range absolute costs.

Balanced costs and wages throughout

Renters spend $1,164 monthly and homeowners $1,525 against a median household income of $79,078, consuming just 17.7% for housing. This leaves the typical Franklin family with roughly 82% of income available for other expenses—well above the financially recommended threshold.

The Vermont sweet spot for most relocators

Franklin delivers strong incomes relative to Vermont's standard without Chittenden's premium rents or Essex's wage challenges, making it ideal for families seeking balanced affordability. Compare to Addison for slightly better affordability or Chittenden for stronger career prospects before deciding.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Franklin County

via IncomeByCounty

Franklin slightly above national average

Franklin County's median household income of $79,078 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by about 6%. The county's diverse economy—combining agriculture, manufacturing, and services—supports solid middle-class earnings.

Fourth-ranked among Vermont counties

Franklin ranks 4th of 14 Vermont counties, running $4,035 above the state average of $75,043. The county's per capita income of $38,447 sits slightly below the state mean, indicating less extreme income inequality.

Between Addison and Lamoille

Franklin's $79,078 median sits $9,400 below Addison County ($88,478) but $9,181 above Lamoille County ($69,897). The county's position reflects its role as a bridge between wealthier west-side communities and more modest northeast counties.

Housing costs remain reasonable

Franklin's rent-to-income ratio of 17.7% stays comfortably within the 20% affordability range, giving residents genuine housing flexibility. The median home value of $285,500 aligns well with median household income, supporting both rental and ownership pathways.

Franklin's steady income fuels saving

With median household income near $79,000, Franklin families have meaningful capacity to save and invest regularly. Establish automatic monthly transfers to a savings account, take full advantage of employer retirement matching, and consider index funds for long-term growth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Franklin County

via CrimeByCounty

Franklin County stays below national rates

Franklin County earns a safety score of 97.8, aligning it with the safest regions in the country. Its total crime rate of 1,373.2 per 100,000 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Matching Vermont’s high safety standards

Franklin County's crime rate of 1,373.2 is nearly identical to the Vermont state average of 1,397.0. Its safety score matches the state average of 97.8 exactly, reflecting typical Vermont safety levels.

Safer than Chittenden, comparable to Lamoille

Franklin County is much safer than neighboring Chittenden, where the crime rate is more than double. It maintains a consistent safety profile across its four reporting law enforcement agencies.

Property crime is the primary focus

The property crime rate of 1,127.7 is roughly half the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime occurs at a rate of 245.5 per 100,000, which is also lower than the U.S. average of 369.8.

Security tips for Franklin residents

Basic precautions like locking doors and installing motion-activated lights are effective in preventing property crimes. Staying connected with local law enforcement updates helps maintain the county’s secure atmosphere.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Franklin County

via HealthByCounty

Franklin's health slightly above average

Franklin County's 77.6-year life expectancy sits 1.5 years above the U.S. average of 76.1 years, a modest advantage. At 12.6% poor or fair health compared to the national 17.9%, Franklin shows healthier outcomes than the nation overall.

Below Vermont's health standards

Franklin's 77.6-year life expectancy falls 0.6 years short of Vermont's 78.2-year average, placing it in the lower half of state rankings. Its 12.6% poor/fair health rate aligns with statewide patterns but leaves room for improvement.

Mid-range health outcomes

Franklin's 77.6-year life expectancy ranks above Essex (77.4) and Caledonia (76.7) but well below Addison (80.7) and Chittenden (80.8). Its 12.6% poor/fair health rate places it near Bennington (12.9%), reflecting shared regional challenges.

Limited primary care, lower uninsured

Franklin has 68 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—below state capacity—but only 4.9% uninsured, better than the state average of 5.1%. Mental health access is moderate at 302 providers per 100,000, creating uneven care availability.

Secure coverage in Franklin County

Franklin's nearly 5% uninsured rate means one in twenty residents lack health protection despite access constraints. Check Vermont's marketplace to find affordable plans and identify in-county providers before you need urgent care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Franklin County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Substantial Network of Schools and Districts

Franklin County features 22 public schools across seven districts, educating a total of 8,134 students. The system includes 15 elementary schools and seven high schools, creating a clear pathway for student advancement.

Strong School Scores and Consistent Funding

Franklin's composite school score of 58.6 exceeds the state average of 56.0, reflecting a quality education environment. The county spends $11,038 per pupil and maintains an 83% graduation rate, which is higher than the state average.

Maple Run Unified Anchors the Local Community

The Maple Run Unified Union School District #57 is the largest in the county, serving 2,651 students across five schools. The entire educational landscape consists of traditional public schools, with 0% charter school participation.

Large Town Centers with Rural Surroundings

The county balances 17 rural schools with five town-based schools, resulting in a healthy average school size of 407 students. Bellows Free Academy in St. Albans is the county's largest school, enrolling 904 students.

Find Your Home Near Robust Town Schools

With school scores that outshine state averages, Franklin County is a prime destination for families. Consider looking for homes in the St. Albans area to be near the county’s largest and most active educational centers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Franklin County

via RiskByCounty

Franklin maintains well-below-average risk

Franklin County's composite risk score of 29.20 with a "Very Low" rating places it comfortably below the national average. Its position in northwestern Vermont provides natural protection against most major hazard types.

Third-safest county in Vermont

Franklin County ranks third from the bottom statewide with a score of 29.20, well below Vermont's average of 36.44. Only Essex County (3.21) and Grand Isle County (1.91) register lower overall risk.

Comparable safety to Addison County

Franklin County's risk profile aligns closely with Addison County (26.78), positioning both as relatively safe communities in western Vermont. The county's modest flood risk (52.10) reflects its distance from major river systems.

Earthquakes and hurricanes lead concerns

Franklin County's primary hazard exposures come from earthquake risk (60.05) and hurricane risk (59.12), both moderately elevated for the region. Flood risk (52.10) presents a secondary but manageable concern along river valleys.

Standard coverage with flood consideration

Franklin County residents should maintain comprehensive homeowners insurance with particular attention to wind and hail coverage. Those in mapped flood zones or near river valleys should consider NFIP flood insurance as a prudent addition.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Franklin County

via WeatherByCounty

A Chilly Northern Border

Franklin County’s 44.5°F average temperature is approximately 10 degrees below the national median. Its position on the Canadian border ensures a true northern weather pattern.

Slightly Above State Average

The county ranks 4th warmest in this group, sitting 0.9 degrees above the Vermont state average. It benefits from the moderating effects of the northern Champlain Valley.

Milder Than the High Peaks

At 44.5°F, Franklin is significantly warmer than Lamoille’s 41.0°F. However, it remains cooler than the 47.0°F seen in Chittenden County to the south.

Consistent Snow and Moderate Heat

Franklin sees 81.6 inches of snow annually with January averages of 16.9°F. Summers are pleasant, featuring a July average of 69.3°F and 5 days of extreme heat.

Prepare for Variable Winters

With nearly 40 inches of annual precipitation, residents need reliable drainage and snow removal. Winter tires are a must for the 20.2°F average winter temperatures.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Franklin County

via SoilByCounty

Moderate Acidity for Diverse Farming

Franklin’s pH of 5.35 is acidic relative to the 6.5 national median but remains higher than the state average of 4.86. This moderate acidity is generally manageable for the county's famous dairy and crop farms.

Well-Aerated and Sandy Silt

Sand makes up nearly half the soil at 48.8%, paired with 32.2% silt and 9.1% clay. This distribution creates a workable, well-aerated soil that is less prone to the heavy compaction of pure clay.

Solid Nutrient Potential

At 10.24% organic matter, the soil is well above the national 2.0% average but under the state benchmark of 29.01%. The water capacity of 0.166 in/in is lower than the Vermont average, requiring some soil amendments for moisture.

Efficient Water Management

The high sand content facilitates efficient water movement through the ground, even without detailed drainage class data. This is a practical benefit for both large-scale agriculture and residential gardening projects.

Staple Crops Thrive in Zone 5a

Zone 5a allows for a variety of crops, including corn and beans which are regional staples. Despite a soil score of 54.0, the high sand content makes this land easy to work and improve with compost.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Franklin County

via LawnByCounty

Solid Growing Scores in the North

Franklin County earns a lawn difficulty score of 65.2, significantly higher than the state average of 51.4. Residents in this 5a zone find it relatively easy to maintain a healthy lawn compared to most Americans.

Consistent Rain and Moderate Warmth

The county receives 39.7 inches of rain, which is perfectly aligned with the needs of cool-season grasses. With 2240 growing degree days, there is sufficient warmth to support vigorous growth throughout the summer.

Sandy Loam Challenges

A soil pH of 5.35 indicates a need for lime to reach the preferred 6.0-7.0 range. The 48.8% sand content provides excellent drainage, reducing the risk of root rot during heavy Vermont rainstorms.

Low Current Drought Risk

Only 4.7% of the county is currently abnormally dry, a much better status than many other Vermont counties. Despite 17 weeks of drought last year, the current moisture levels are largely favorable for lawn health.

Optimal Planting Windows

Hardy mixtures of Kentucky Bluegrass and Ryegrass are ideal for Franklin’s climate. Aim to seed or sod after the May 14 frost date to ensure the best chance for root establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Franklin County's county score?
Franklin County, Vermont has a composite county score of 44 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 Vermont?
Franklin County ranks #6 among all counties in Vermont 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, Vermont?
The median annual property tax in Franklin County is $4,244, with an effective tax rate of 1.49%. This earns Franklin County a tax score of 13.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Franklin County?
The median household income in Franklin County, Vermont is $79,078 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Franklin County earns an income score of 82.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Franklin County, Vermont a good place to live?
Franklin County scores 44/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in Vermont. 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.

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.