countyscore
37.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 91.3Income & Jobs 88.8Property Tax 72.2

County Report Card

About Fredericksburg city, Virginia

Fredericksburg Faces National Challenges

Fredericksburg City carries a composite score of 37.1, which falls below the national median of 50.0. High costs and safety concerns drive this lower ranking.

Trailing the Virginia Average

The city’s 37.1 score sits below the Virginia state average of 50.9. Despite its historic appeal, it struggles to match the livability scores of surrounding counties.

High Incomes and Environmental Safety

Fredericksburg boasts a Risk Score of 91.3 and an Income Score of 88.8. The median household income is a robust $85,368, and the area is very safe from natural disasters.

Cost and Safety Barriers

The city struggles with a Safety Score of 2.4 and a Cost Score of 4.2. With median rents at $1,521 and home values over $461,000, it is both expensive and faces crime-related challenges.

Suited for High-Income Urbanites

Fredericksburg is best for professionals who prioritize being close to work and transit in a disaster-resilient city. It requires a high income to comfortably navigate the local housing market.

Score breakdown

Tax72.2Cost4.2Safety2.4Health50.4Schools42.4Income88.8Risk91.3WaterComing SoonWeather59.5
🏛72.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠4.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼88.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡2.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤50.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓42.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡91.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨14
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱49.3
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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Caroline County
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Deep Dives

Fredericksburg city across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Fredericksburg city

via TaxByCounty

Fredericksburg taxes track national average

At 0.618%, Fredericksburg city's effective tax rate sits 7% above the national median of 0.579%, placing it at the 55th percentile nationally. Median property taxes of $2,853 nearly match the national median of $2,690, reflecting the city's higher home values and moderate tax policy.

Fredericksburg slightly below state average

Fredericksburg city's 0.618% effective rate sits 8% below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, positioning it as a moderate-tax jurisdiction statewide. Annual median taxes of $2,853 exceed the state median of $1,960 due to the city's higher home values, not aggressive tax policy.

Fredericksburg rates reflect urban premium

Fredericksburg city's 0.618% rate sits between neighboring Frederick County (0.509%) and Fauquier County (0.770%), but its significantly higher home values ($461,500 vs. $355,000 and $543,700) drive higher absolute tax bills. The city's tax rate is moderate; home values drive the higher total tax burden.

Fredericksburg residents pay $2,853 yearly

With a median home value of $461,500 and a 0.618% effective rate, typical Fredericksburg residents pay approximately $2,853 in annual property taxes. This tax bill reflects premium urban property values combined with a moderate tax rate.

Fredericksburg homeowners should appeal high values

Urban properties like those in Fredericksburg are often overassessed, particularly when assessed values diverge from actual market sales prices. Filing an appeal based on recent comparable sales could significantly reduce tax bills for city homeowners.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Fredericksburg city

via CostByCounty

Fredericksburg Strains Housing Budgets

Fredericksburg city renters spend 21.4% of income on housing—well above both the Virginia average (18.6%) and the national comfort zone. With a median household income of $85,368 and steep median rents of $1,521, housing affordability is a real concern for renters here.

Virginia's Least Affordable City

Fredericksburg ranks among Virginia's least affordable cities, with a rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% compared to the state average of 18.6%. The city's proximity to Richmond and Washington markets drives housing pressure on lower-income residents.

Expensive Urban Center

Fredericksburg's $1,521 median rent is comparable to Fauquier County ($1,561) but paired with lower incomes ($85,368 vs Fauquier's $129,495), creating affordability strain. The city functions as a regional urban center with corresponding cost pressures.

Housing Squeezes Household Budgets

Fredericksburg renters spend $1,521 monthly while homeowners pay $2,036, consuming 21.4% of median income on rent alone. This high burden leaves residents less financial flexibility compared to surrounding counties, approaching the threshold where housing costs become genuinely unaffordable.

Consider Fredericksburg Carefully

Fredericksburg's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio is high compared to Virginia alternatives; compare this against your current city before relocating. If you move here, prioritize the income gains—Fredericksburg's appeal lies in job access rather than housing affordability itself.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Fredericksburg city

via IncomeByCounty

Fredericksburg meets national income level

Fredericksburg's median household income of $85,368 is 14% above the national median of $74,755. As an independent city serving a broader regional market, Fredericksburg attracts professional workers and government employees.

Fredericksburg ranks above state average

Fredericksburg's median household income of $85,368 exceeds Virginia's state average of $74,957 by $10,411, placing it in the upper half of Virginia municipalities. Per capita income of $46,503 is 19% above the state average of $39,155.

Fredericksburg earns above surrounding areas

Fredericksburg households earn $20,243 more annually than Franklin city ($65,125) and $17,020 more than Franklin County ($68,348). However, higher home values ($461,500) in Fredericksburg reflect strong demand and appreciation pressures.

Housing costs pose affordability challenge

At 21.4%, Fredericksburg's rent-to-income ratio is the highest among the surveyed counties, indicating significant housing affordability stress for residents. Rising home values and rents are outpacing income growth, squeezing household budgets.

Balance housing and long-term investing

Fredericksburg residents earning $85,368 should carefully balance housing costs with wealth-building investments, especially given the 21.4% rent burden. Prioritize tax-advantaged retirement accounts and explore first-time homebuyer programs to manage housing affordability while investing for the future.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Fredericksburg city

via CrimeByCounty

Fredericksburg's Urban Safety Profile

Fredericksburg City reports a total crime rate of 4,494.3 per 100,000, which is nearly double the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this higher volume, it maintains a safety score of 92.9. As an urban center, it experiences more frequent crime than surrounding rural areas.

City Rates vs. Virginia's State Average

The city's crime rate is significantly higher than the Virginia state average of 1,728.8 per 100,000. Its safety score of 92.9 is also below the statewide average of 97.3. Because a single agency reports this data, it is important to consider the city's unique urban density.

Comparing Fredericksburg to Neighboring Counties

Fredericksburg City has a much higher crime rate than nearby Frederick County, which reports only 1,089.0 crimes per 100,000. It also sees higher activity than Giles County’s rate of 1,310.5. These differences are typical for a busy city serving as a commercial and cultural hub.

Property Crime Drives Local Statistics

Property crime is the most common issue, with a rate of 4,076.7 per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate is 417.6, which is slightly above the national average of 369.8. Residents should be most mindful of theft and property-related security.

Staying Safe in Fredericksburg

Smart home technology and community awareness are vital for protecting property in high-traffic urban areas. Locking vehicles and keeping valuables out of sight can significantly reduce opportunistic theft. Stay informed by following updates from the city's reporting agency.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Fredericksburg city

via HealthByCounty

Fredericksburg falls below national health standards

Fredericksburg City's life expectancy of 74.6 years trails the U.S. average by roughly 3 years, reflecting localized health challenges typical of urban lower-income communities. With 18.6% reporting poor or fair health, residents face elevated rates of chronic disease and poor health perception.

Below-average health rank within Virginia

Fredericksburg's 74.6-year life expectancy falls slightly below Virginia's state average of 75.1 years, placing it in the lower-middle tier of the state's health rankings. The city's 18.6% poor/fair health rate exceeds most state averages, indicating concentrated health challenges.

Worse outcomes despite exceptional provider density

Fredericksburg's 74.6-year life expectancy lags the surrounding rural counties, including Fluvanna (79.7 years) and Fauquier (79.0 years), despite having far more providers. With 176 primary care providers and 861 mental health providers per 100K residents—the highest concentrations in the region—the provider surplus hasn't translated to better population health, suggesting access barriers or systemic challenges.

Coverage gaps amid abundant healthcare resources

Fredericksburg's 8.7% uninsured rate is the highest among peer counties and exceeds Virginia's 7.9% state average, meaning nearly 1 in 11 residents lack coverage. Despite having exceptional provider availability (176 primary care, 861 mental health per 100K), residents face barriers that abundant providers alone cannot overcome.

Coverage is the first step to better health

Fredericksburg's 8.7% uninsured rate is the highest in its region. Go to healthcare.gov today to find affordable coverage and connect with the abundant healthcare resources in your city.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Fredericksburg city

via SchoolsByCounty

Suburban Education for the Fredericksburg Community

Fredericksburg City operates five public schools serving 3,762 students through a single city-wide district. The system includes two elementary schools, one middle school, and James Monroe High.

High Investment Levels Support Local Classrooms

The city invests $9,009 per pupil, which is notably higher than the state average of $7,941. While the 77.0% graduation rate trails the state average of 89.0%, the city remains committed to funding its suburban school system.

Focused Management Within Fredericksburg City Public Schools

Fredericksburg City Public Schools is the sole provider for the area's 3,762 students, and there are currently no charter schools in operation. The district focuses its resources on a consistent, suburban-style education delivery.

Suburban Campus Atmosphere Across the District

Every school in the district is located in a suburban setting, maintaining an average size of 752 students per campus. James Monroe High is the largest with 1,002 students, while the Walker-Grant Early Childhood Center is the smallest with 139.

Search for Homes Near Suburban Schools

With high per-pupil investment and a consistent suburban feel, Fredericksburg is a prime location for families valuing local school proximity. Use school performance data to guide your search for a home in this historic city.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Fredericksburg city

via RiskByCounty

Fredericksburg city enjoys very low risk

Fredericksburg city's composite risk score of 8.71 sits well below Virginia's state average of 33.27, placing it in the very low category nationally. The compact urban setting and inland position minimize exposure to most major natural hazards.

Fredericksburg ranks among Virginia's safest

With a composite score of 8.71 compared to Virginia's 33.27 average, Fredericksburg city ranks as one of the state's lowest-risk communities. The city's modest population density and geographic position provide substantial hazard protection.

Fredericksburg matches Franklin city's safety

Fredericksburg city's 8.71 score closely aligns with Franklin city (7.54) and far exceeds nearby Fauquier (47.68) and Frederick counties (44.72). The two cities share similar low-risk profiles despite their geographic separation.

Earthquake and hurricane pose modest concerns

Fredericksburg's highest risks are earthquake (57.47) and hurricane (57.86)—both elevated despite the city's low composite score. Flood risk (20.58) and tornado risk (21.02) remain moderate, while wildfire risk (1.75) is negligible in this urban setting.

Standard coverage handles most scenarios

Fredericksburg residents' primary concern should be the moderate earthquake and hurricane risks, suggesting consideration of supplemental coverage for these hazards. Flood insurance is optional given the city's 20.58 score, though properties near the Rappahannock River should verify their specific flood zone status.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Fredericksburg city

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Mid-Atlantic Climate in Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg averages 56.8°F annually, making it warmer than the typical American city. The area receives 43.4 inches of precipitation, balancing frequent sunshine with regular rainfall.

Exceeding the Virginia Average Temperature

At 56.8°F, the city stays roughly one degree warmer than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. This heat is particularly evident during the peak of summer.

Hotter and Drier Than the Mountains

Fredericksburg is significantly warmer than western counties like Frederick, averaging nearly 4°F higher annually. It also sees far less snow, recording just 11.3 inches compared to the 25.1 inches found in the Shenandoah Valley.

Intense Summer Heat Waves

The city endures 41 days of extreme heat above 90°F each year, making for a sweltering July average of 78.1°F. Winters are relatively mild, with a December-to-February average of 37.6°F.

Prioritize Cooling and Hydration

High-efficiency air conditioning is a necessity here to combat over 40 days of extreme summer heat. Winter preparations can be more modest, as the city averages less than a foot of snow per year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Fredericksburg city

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Entisols defined by young profiles

Fredericksburg's soil primarily consists of Entisols, which are young soils showing little development. With an average pH of 5.18, these soils are significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and fall slightly below the Virginia average of 5.23.

Sandy textures dominate the city landscape

The soil composition is 61.4% sand, which makes the ground easy to work and till. This high sand content, paired with just 11.6% clay, suggests that the soil is light but may struggle to hold onto nutrients over time.

Lower organic matter impacts growing potential

Organic matter sits at 1.53%, which is well below the state average of 2.90%. The available water capacity of 0.114 in/in is also lower than the state benchmark, requiring gardeners to focus on building soil health through composting.

Quick drainage through sandy city soils

While specific drainage classes are not recorded in this data, the 61.4% sand profile typically ensures water moves quickly through the earth. This helps prevent standing water but means the soil can dry out rapidly during hot Virginia summers.

Zone 7b supports acid-loving perennials

Gardeners in Fredericksburg's hardiness zone 7b can succeed with blueberries and azaleas that thrive in acidic conditions. Adding organic mulch will help compensate for the lower water capacity and support a productive home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Fredericksburg city

via LawnByCounty

The Challenge of Fredericksburg Lawns

Fredericksburg city has a lawn difficulty score of 49.3, making it slightly more difficult than the national average. As a Zone 7b area, the city presents more challenges for growers than the typical Virginia county, which averages a score of 55.4.

High Heat and Long Seasons

With 41 extreme heat days, the city is significantly hotter than the state average of 28. These high temperatures, paired with 4,097 growing degree days, mean lawns grow rapidly but require intense maintenance and frequent watering to survive the summer.

High Sand and Low Acidity

The soil is remarkably sandy at 61.4%, which leads to very fast drainage and potential nutrient leaching. With an acidic pH of 5.18, local lawns need both lime and frequent organic fertilization to thrive in this porous environment.

Navigating Abnormally Dry Conditions

The city spent 29 weeks in drought over the last year, and the entire area is currently experiencing abnormally dry conditions. Residents should avoid over-fertilizing during dry spells, as this can burn grass that is already struggling for water.

Warm-Season Turf Preferred

Due to the 41 days of heat, warm-season grasses like Bermuda are often more successful here than cool-season varieties. Start seeding or sodding after the last frost on April 6, allowing plenty of time for establishment before the November 1 fall frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Fredericksburg city's county score?
Fredericksburg city, Virginia has a composite county score of 37.1 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 Fredericksburg city rank among counties in Virginia?
Fredericksburg city ranks #117 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 Fredericksburg city, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Fredericksburg city is $2,853, with an effective tax rate of 0.62%. This earns Fredericksburg city a tax score of 72.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Fredericksburg city?
The median household income in Fredericksburg city, Virginia is $85,368 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Fredericksburg city earns an income score of 88.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Fredericksburg city, Virginia a good place to live?
Fredericksburg city scores 37.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #117 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg city 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.