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Georgetown County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#25 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
41.8
County Score
Property Tax 92.3Income & Jobs 58.5Weather & Climate 52.8

County Report Card

About Georgetown County, South Carolina

Georgetown Below the National Median

Georgetown County's composite score of 41.8 sits below the national median of 50.0. The score is tempered by high environmental risks common in coastal regions.

A Typical South Carolina Profile

With a 41.8 score, Georgetown is nearly aligned with the South Carolina average of 42.8. It reflects the state's broader trends of low taxes paired with environmental and safety challenges.

Exceptional Taxes and Growing Wealth

The county excels with a tax score of 92.3, driven by a low 0.426% effective rate. Household income is relatively strong at $66,734, earning an income score of 58.5.

Environmental and Safety Constraints

A low risk score of 7.5 indicates significant exposure to natural hazards. Safety also remains a concern, with the county scoring 12.2 in this critical dimension.

A Draw for Retirees and Professionals

Georgetown is a prime location for those with established wealth looking to minimize tax liabilities. It offers a coastal lifestyle for residents who can afford the insurance and precautions necessitated by its high-risk profile.

Score breakdown

Tax92.3Cost32.6Safety12.2Health43.4Schools40.8Income58.5Risk7.5Water52.7Weather52.8
🏛92.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠32.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼58.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡12.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤43.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓40.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡7.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧52.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨28
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26.5
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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Nearby counties

Williamsburg County
South Carolina
39.3
Horry County
South Carolina
39.4
Marion County
South Carolina
46.2
Berkeley County
South Carolina
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Florence County
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Charleston County
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Clarendon County
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Dillon County
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Deep Dives

Georgetown County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Georgetown County

via TaxByCounty

Georgetown has lowest rates nationwide

Georgetown's 0.426% effective property tax rate places it in the very bottom tier nationally—lower than 97% of U.S. counties—well below the median of 0.87%. At $1,117 median annual tax on homes valued at $262,300, Georgetown offers coastal living with exceptionally light taxation.

South Carolina's lightest tax load

Georgetown's 0.426% effective rate is the lowest in South Carolina, nearly 22% below the state average of 0.542%. Despite median home values of $262,300—among the highest statewide—residents pay only $1,117 in median annual property tax, the lowest in this eight-county group relative to home value.

Georgetown's unbeatable advantage

Georgetown's 0.426% rate is decisively the lowest in the region, beating the second-place Florence County (0.438%) by a meaningful margin. The county combines the region's most favorable tax rate with homes valued near the regional median, creating an exceptional value proposition.

Coastal county, minimal tax bills

A typical Georgetown County home valued at $262,300 carries an estimated annual property tax of just $1,117. With a mortgage, homeowners report paying $1,280; without, the figure is $861.

Appeal if value seems off

Georgetown's low effective rate doesn't guarantee accurate individual assessments—waterfront or specialty properties often face valuation challenges. Requesting an appeal review is wise if your assessed value doesn't align with recent comparable sales in your neighborhood.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Georgetown County

via CostByCounty

Georgetown rents run above national average

Renters in Georgetown spend 21.0% of their income on housing, slightly above South Carolina's 20.1% state average. With median rents of $1,166 and a household income of $66,734, Georgetown reflects its status as a coastal destination with premium pricing.

Upper-tier affordability in South Carolina

Georgetown ranks among South Carolina's pricier counties, with a 21.0% rent-to-income ratio and median rents of $1,166—well above the state average of $945. The county's coastal location and tourism economy drive housing premiums relative to inland peers.

Coastal premium over Pee Dee inland counties

Georgetown's $1,166 median rent substantially exceeds inland counties like Dillon ($692), Florence ($908), and Edgefield ($854). The coastal location commands a pricing premium, though it remains more affordable than Charleston metro areas like Dorchester ($1,381).

Homeownership offers meaningful savings

While renters spend 21.0% of income on housing ($1,166 monthly), homeowners pay $846—roughly 15.2% of the median household income of $66,734. The median home value of $262,300 remains accessible relative to coastal alternatives.

Georgetown appeals to coastal-seeking buyers

If you're drawn to South Carolina's coast and can manage a 21% rent-to-income ratio, Georgetown offers beach access at lower prices than Charleston metro alternatives. Median home values of $262,300 position the county as an attractive option for relocating homebuyers seeking coastal lifestyle.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Georgetown County

via IncomeByCounty

Georgetown approaches the national median

Georgetown County's median household income of $66,734 trails the national median of $74,755 by 11%, placing it close to average American household income. Per capita income of $43,928 substantially exceeds national norms, reflecting strong individual earnings despite moderate household figures. Georgetown's economy shows pockets of prosperity alongside moderate households.

Upper-middle tier in South Carolina

Georgetown ranks in the upper half of South Carolina's 46 counties with median household income 17% above the state average of $57,006. Per capita income of $43,928 far exceeds the state average of $32,382 by 36%, signaling high individual earners and affluent residents. Georgetown attracts wealth and professional-class workers to the Lowcountry.

Coastal prosperity rivals Charleston region

Georgetown's median income of $66,734 compares favorably to Horry County ($61,200) and outpaces inland counties substantially. Charleston County and Beaufort County, Georgetown's Lowcountry peers, record higher overall incomes but Georgetown stands as a strong regional economic player. Waterfront access and tourism drive Georgetown's above-average prosperity.

Housing costs rising with coastal appeal

Georgetown's rent-to-income ratio of 21.0% indicates housing absorbs just over one-fifth of household income—a manageable but increasing burden. Median home values of $262,300 reflect coastal desirability and property appreciation, requiring substantial household resources. Rising housing costs are the county's primary affordability challenge as coastal development continues.

Leverage coastal property appreciation

Georgetown's strong per capita income and appreciating real estate create excellent wealth-building conditions through property investment and long-term homeownership. Residents should explore real estate diversification, retirement savings acceleration, and education investments for children. Professional financial planning helps Georgetown's affluent individuals and families optimize wealth across generations.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Georgetown County

via CrimeByCounty

Coastal Safety Trends in Georgetown

Georgetown's total crime rate of 2,588.3 per 100K is slightly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, it maintains a solid safety score of 95.9.

Exceeding State Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 95.9 is better than the South Carolina average of 95.4. Georgetown manages to keep crime rates lower than several of its coastal peers.

Lower Crime Than State Average

Georgetown's crime rate of 2,588.3 is notably lower than the state average of 2,920.8. It offers a safer alternative to higher-density counties like Florence.

Violent and Property Crime Levels

Property crime sits at 2,063.1 per 100K, which is very close to the national average. Violent crime is 525.2, higher than the national average of 369.8 but below the state average.

Standard Precautions for Georgetown

Since property crime aligns with national averages, standard home security practices remain effective. Motion-activated lights and visible security decals help discourage opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Georgetown County

via HealthByCounty

Georgetown's health profile moderately strong

Georgetown residents live an average of 73.5 years, slightly below the U.S. average of 76.1 years but reasonably healthy for a Lowcountry county. With 17% reporting poor or fair health, the county performs better than the national median of 18%, suggesting relatively good health management. This coastal county's profile indicates stable, above-median health outcomes.

Georgetown outperforms South Carolina average

At 73.5 years, Georgetown's life expectancy exceeds South Carolina's state average of 72.5 years by 1 year. The county's poor/fair health rate of 17% sits below state norms, ranking Georgetown in the upper half of South Carolina counties. Georgetown's coastal location and economic profile support better-than-average health outcomes.

Georgetown stands among strong performers

Georgetown's 73.5-year life expectancy exceeds Edgefield County (74.5 years) but lags Dorchester (76.4 years) and Greenville (76.1 years). Primary care providers number 63 per 100K, outpacing Dillon (39) and Fairfield (44) but trailing Florence (99) and Greenwood (117). Georgetown balances moderate access with reasonable health outcomes.

Uninsured rate near state baseline

Georgetown's uninsured rate of 11.8% sits just above the state average of 11.6%, meaning most residents carry coverage. With 63 primary care providers per 100K, access is adequate though not exceptional, and mental health providers number 96 per 100K. Insurance coverage enables residents to use available providers for preventive and chronic care.

Maintain coverage in Georgetown

Georgetown's uninsured rate is near state average; those without plans should visit healthcare.gov to secure coverage during enrollment. With 63 primary care providers available, insurance connects you to routine checkups and disease management. Regular access to care through your plan helps prevent costly complications.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Georgetown County

via SchoolsByCounty

Unified Schooling in Coastal Georgetown

Georgetown County hosts 19 public schools serving 8,429 students under a single consolidated district. The layout includes 10 elementary schools, five middle schools, and four high schools. This streamlined structure allows for consistent resource allocation across the coastal and inland communities.

High Graduation Rates Along the Coast

Georgetown County achieves an 88.0% graduation rate, surpassing both the state average of 84.2% and the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil spending of $7,161 aligns almost perfectly with the South Carolina state average. These results, combined with a school score of 52.8, indicate a highly efficient and successful public education system.

One District, Many Opportunities

The Georgetown 01 district oversees all 19 public schools in the county, ensuring all 8,429 students follow a unified curriculum. The county includes one charter school, which provides a unique alternative within the public system. Major institutions like Georgetown High and Waccamaw High serve as the primary academic anchors.

Small-Town Feel with Coastal Flair

Schools in the county are split between 11 rural and eight town settings, with an average enrollment of 444 students. Georgetown High is the largest campus with 940 students, while many elementary schools remain quite small. This creates a familiar, small-town atmosphere where students and teachers often know each other by name.

Settling Near Georgetown’s Top Schools

With graduation rates exceeding national benchmarks, Georgetown County is an attractive target for education-minded homebuyers. Neighborhoods near Waccamaw High are particularly sought after for their blend of coastal living and academic success. Explore our current listings to find a home that puts your family near these high-performing schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Georgetown County

via RiskByCounty

Georgetown faces among highest state risks

Georgetown County scores 92.49 on the composite risk scale, far exceeding both the national average and South Carolina's state average of 70.75. This relatively moderate rating reflects the county's coastal geography and exposure to multiple overlapping hazard zones.

Georgetown ranks in the state's top tier

With a composite score of 92.49, Georgetown ranks among South Carolina's highest-risk counties, with only a few urban and coastal peers registering comparable exposure levels. The county's position on the Atlantic coast and its low-lying terrain create exceptional vulnerability.

Coastal position amplifies Georgetown's risk

Georgetown's 92.49 score closely mirrors Dorchester County (93.70) and nearly matches Greenville County (93.96), placing it in South Carolina's most hazard-exposed tier. Inland counties like Greenwood (72.74) and Fairfield (40.81) face dramatically lower composite risks.

Hurricanes and flooding top Georgetown threats

Hurricane risk reaches 98.29—the highest in this county profile set—while flood risk scores 86.40 due to tidal and riverine exposure. Wildfire risk at 91.35 and earthquake risk at 91.41 compound the threat picture, making Georgetown one of South Carolina's most exposed counties.

Comprehensive coverage is absolutely critical

Georgetown residents must obtain flood insurance and windstorm policies without delay, as neither is included in standard homeowners coverage. With hurricane risk at 98.29 and flood risk at 86.40, uninsured property in Georgetown faces near-certain exposure to major losses.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Georgetown County

via WeatherByCounty

A mild maritime climate

Georgetown County's 64.0°F average annual temperature is significantly higher than the national median. Ocean breezes help moderate the extremes found in more continental locations.

Wetter than the state average

The county receives 53.8 inches of annual rain, far exceeding the South Carolina average of 48.9 inches. Its 64.0°F temperature is also 1.2 degrees warmer than the state mean.

High humidity and coastal rain

Georgetown is notably wetter than many neighbors, with 53.8 inches of rain annually. The ocean influence keeps it warmer than inland counties, averaging 64.0°F year-round.

Moderate heat and mild winters

There are 51 days of extreme heat annually, which is fewer than inland areas due to coastal cooling. Winter is pleasant with a 48.4°F average, and snowfall data remains unavailable for this seaside region.

Gear up for heavy rain

With 53.8 inches of annual precipitation, high-quality rain gear and home moisture control are vital. Residents enjoy fewer 90-degree days than inland neighbors, but humidity remains a constant factor.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Georgetown County

via SoilByCounty

Top-Tier Coastal Soil Quality

Georgetown County earns a high soil score of 28.0, beating the state average of 20.6 by a wide margin. Its pH of 5.10 is lower than the state average, requiring lime for most traditional vegetable gardening.

Sandy Texture with Hidden Depth

The soil is 71.3% sand and 10.3% clay, yet it behaves differently than typical beach sand. This sand-heavy mix is common in the Lowcountry, providing an open structure for root systems to expand.

Rich Organic Powerhouse

At 4.33%, the organic matter content is the highest in the region and more than double the national average. This fertility helps offset a lower available water capacity of 0.103 in/in.

Poorly Drained Coastal Flats

Despite the sand content, the soil is classified as poorly drained, likely due to a high water table or flat terrain. This requires gardeners to use raised beds or improved drainage systems for many plant types.

Lush Growth in Zone 8b

The combination of high organic matter and a warm 8b climate makes Georgetown excellent for hydrangeas and ferns. Capitalize on that rich natural fertility by starting a coastal-style kitchen garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Georgetown County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Humidity and Lawn Care Difficulty

Georgetown County’s lawn difficulty score of 26.5 reflects the challenges of coastal gardening in Hardiness Zone 8b. It is significantly harder to maintain turf here than the South Carolina average of 35.1. Excess moisture and soil drainage issues are the primary hurdles for local homeowners.

Heavy Precipitation and High Growth Activity

With 53.8 inches of annual rain, Georgetown is wetter than the state average and the ideal 50-inch lawn threshold. Despite having fewer extreme heat days (51) than the state average, the 5650 growing degree days ensure a very long season. Managing fungal diseases is a top priority when high rainfall meets coastal humidity.

Managing Poorly Drained Sandy Basins

Unlike most sandy regions, Georgetown’s 71.3% sand soil is often poorly drained, which can lead to standing water and root rot. The pH of 5.10 is acidic and requires significant correction to reach the ideal lawn range. Homeowners should focus on aerating the soil to improve oxygen flow to the roots in these heavy conditions.

Severe Drought Risks in a Wet Climate

Despite high annual rainfall, 99.0% of the county is currently in severe drought, part of a 26-week drought cycle. This extreme shift from wet to dry creates massive stress for lawns with 10.3% clay. Watering should be done in the early morning to ensure maximum absorption before the sun gets too high.

Coastal Turf Recommendations for Georgetown

St. Augustine grass is well-suited for Georgetown because it handles the humidity and occasional poor drainage better than other types. The long growing season begins after the March 23 frost and extends until November 18. Be sure to check your soil pH before planting to ensure your new turf can actually access nutrients.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Georgetown County's county score?
Georgetown County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 41.8 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 Georgetown County rank among counties in South Carolina?
Georgetown County ranks #25 among all counties in South Carolina 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 Georgetown County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Georgetown County is $1,117, with an effective tax rate of 0.43%. This earns Georgetown County a tax score of 92.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Georgetown County?
The median household income in Georgetown County, South Carolina is $66,734 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Georgetown County earns an income score of 58.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Georgetown County, South Carolina a good place to live?
Georgetown County scores 41.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #25 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate Georgetown 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 Georgetown 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.