countyscore
57.4
County Score
Disaster Risk 83.5Cost of Living 75.8Property Tax 70.6

County Report Card

About Giles County, Virginia

Outperforming the National Median

Giles County earns a solid 57.4 composite score, placing it comfortably above the national median of 50.0. This performance suggests a higher quality of life than the average American county.

Leading the Virginia Average

The county's 57.4 score exceeds the Virginia state average of 50.9. It maintains a competitive edge within the Commonwealth by balancing affordability with environmental stability.

Affordability and Low Risk

Giles excels in safety from natural disasters with a risk score of 83.5 and housing affordability at 75.8. Median gross rent is an accessible $780 per month, far below many neighboring regions.

Water and School Improvements

Infrastructure remains a focus area, as evidenced by a water score of 36.9 and a school score of 41.3. These metrics indicate a need for continued investment in local utilities and educational resources.

Ideal for Budget-Conscious Nature Lovers

Giles County is a perfect fit for individuals seeking low-cost living in a geographically secure area. With median home values at $143,500, it offers a high entry-level value for young families.

Score breakdown

Tax70.6Cost75.8Safety42.1Health52.2Schools41.3Income53.7Risk83.5Water36.9Weather69
🏛70.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠75.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼53.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡83.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧36.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨39
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱68.1
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 →
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Giles County?

Many homeowners in Giles County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

Check My Assessment

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
Compare Giles County with Archuleta County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Archuleta County
Colorado
Median income: $76,524
57.4
Cass County
Illinois
Median income: $64,907
57.4
Coles County
Illinois
Median income: $56,040
57.4
Union County
Illinois
Median income: $56,420
57.4
Sullivan County
Indiana
Median income: $54,985
57.4
Ottawa County
Kansas
Median income: $76,755
57.4
Renville County
Minnesota
Median income: $69,086
57.4
Granite County
Montana
Median income: $54,646
57.4

Nearby counties

Pulaski County
Virginia
45.7
Radford city
Virginia
47.6
Mercer County
West Virginia
55.9
Monroe County
West Virginia
73
Montgomery County
Virginia
49.3
Summers County
West Virginia
60.9
Bland County
Virginia
72.8
Craig County
Virginia
61.3

Deep Dives

Giles County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Giles County

via TaxByCounty

Giles County's tax burden falls well below national average

At 0.632%, Giles County's effective property tax rate is significantly lower than the national median of 0.80%, placing it in the bottom third of U.S. counties. The median property tax bill here is just $907 annually, compared to the national median of $2,690—a difference of nearly $1,800 per year.

Among Virginia's lowest tax rates statewide

Giles County ranks in the lower half of Virginia's 95 counties and independent cities, with an effective rate of 0.632% versus the state average of 0.671%. The median tax bill of $907 trails Virginia's state median of $1,960, reflecting both lower home values and a competitive rate.

Comparable to rural Appalachian neighbors

Giles County's 0.632% rate sits between Grayson County (0.620%) and Greene County (0.637%), typical for the region's mountainous communities. At $907 in median taxes, Giles residents pay significantly less than Greene County ($2,009) but similar amounts to Grayson County ($820).

Median home costs $143,500—taxes run $907 yearly

A typical Giles County homeowner with a $143,500 property pays approximately $907 in annual property taxes. With mortgage-related assessments, the effective bill rises to $1,038, while those owning outright pay closer to $784.

You may be overassessed—consider an appeal

Many Virginia homeowners don't realize their properties are assessed above fair market value, and Giles County is no exception. Filing a property tax appeal can reduce your assessment and cut your annual bill—the process is typically straightforward and costs nothing to pursue.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Giles County

via CostByCounty

Giles beats national affordability

Giles County residents spend just 14.4% of their income on rent, well below the national average and significantly better than Virginia's state average of 18.6%. With a median household income of $64,819—about 13% below the national median of $74,755—this county punches above its weight on housing affordability.

Most affordable county in Virginia

Giles County ranks among Virginia's most affordable places to rent, with a rent-to-income ratio that outperforms 95% of state counties. The median rent of $780 per month is 32% cheaper than the state average of $1,140, making it a standout option for renters statewide.

Cheaper than mountain neighbors

Giles rents run $364 less per month than Grayson County to the north, despite similar regional character and median incomes. The affordability gap grows wider when compared to eastern Virginia counties like Gloucester and Goochland, where rents exceed $1,100.

Rent and ownership both manageable

At $780 monthly, median rent consumes just 14.4% of household income, while homeownership costs $595 monthly and takes 11% of earnings. Together, housing absorbs roughly one-quarter of a typical Giles household budget, leaving room for other necessities and savings.

Affordable living meets small-town character

If rural Virginia appeals to you and housing costs matter, Giles County deserves your consideration—you'll find the lowest rent-to-income ratio in the state. Compare it to nearby Grayson, or explore eastern alternatives like Gloucester if you prefer proximity to urban centers while maintaining affordability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Giles County

via IncomeByCounty

Giles trails national income average

Giles County's median household income of $64,819 sits 13% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. Per capita income here is $33,792, compared to the national median, reflecting a community where individual earnings are more modest. This gap suggests residents face tighter household budgets than the typical American family.

Below-average within Virginia

Giles County ranks below Virginia's state average median household income of $74,957, lagging by about $10,000 annually per household. The county's per capita income of $33,792 also underperforms Virginia's $39,155 average, indicating lower earning potential across the board. This places Giles in Virginia's lower income quartile.

More modest earnings than nearby peers

Giles County's $64,819 median income falls short of neighboring Greene County ($85,268) and Gloucester County ($83,689), though it exceeds struggling Halifax ($49,244) and Grayson ($42,864) counties. Among its peer group, Giles represents a middle-income rural community with room to grow. The $20,000+ gap to Greene County suggests economic disparities even within the same region.

Housing costs remain manageable here

With a rent-to-income ratio of 14.4%, Giles County households dedicate just over one week's paycheck monthly to rent—well below the 30% affordability threshold. The median home value of $143,500 is accessible relative to local incomes, making homeownership realistic for many families. This affordability advantage helps offset the county's lower absolute income levels.

Build financial security with modest means

Giles County residents should prioritize building emergency savings given the county's below-average income; even three months of expenses provides crucial stability. Starting retirement contributions early—even small amounts—compounds significantly over time and offsets lower current earnings. Consider employer matches and low-cost index funds as accessible starting points for long-term wealth building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Giles County

via CrimeByCounty

Giles County Maintains Strong Safety

Giles County reports a total crime rate of 1,310.5 per 100,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 97.9 indicates a very secure environment for residents. This score reflects a community where crime is far less frequent than in the average U.S. county.

Exceeding State Safety Standards

Giles County’s safety score of 97.9 is higher than the Virginia state average of 97.3. Its total crime rate of 1,310.5 is also well below the statewide average of 1,728.8. The county remains a safe choice for those living in the Commonwealth.

Comparing Giles to Regional Neighbors

Giles County has a slightly higher crime rate than neighboring Franklin County, which sits at 1,223.6. However, it is much safer than the city of Galax, where the rate climbs to 4,082.5 per 100,000. It serves as a relatively quiet and secure area within the region.

Low Violent Crime in Giles

The violent crime rate in Giles County is just 143.6 per 100,000, less than half the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 1,166.9, which is also well below the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. Residents face a very low risk of serious crime in their daily lives.

Ensuring Continued Safety in Giles

With six reporting agencies, Giles County has a well-monitored safety network that keeps the community informed. Using basic security measures like sturdy locks and property lighting can help keep property crime rates low. Community involvement remains a key factor in the county's high safety score.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Giles County

via HealthByCounty

Giles lags on life expectancy

Residents of Giles County live an average of 72.2 years—nearly 6 years below the U.S. average of 78.0 years. The county's 17.2% poor or fair health rating matches national patterns of rural health challenges, where limited hospital capacity and provider shortages compound chronic disease burden.

Bottom quartile among Virginia counties

At 72.2 years, Giles ranks among the lowest in Virginia, where the state average is 75.1 years. This 2.9-year gap signals that residents face steeper health barriers than most other Virginians.

Grayson and Halifax face steeper odds

Among neighboring Appalachian counties, Grayson (74.6 years) and Halifax (72.1 years) show similar challenges. Giles sits in the middle of this cluster, though all three trail state and national averages significantly.

Primary care access is thin on ground

With only 48 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Giles has roughly half the provider density found in better-served counties. At 7.1% uninsured, the county sits slightly below Virginia's 7.9% average, but those with insurance often must travel significant distances for routine care.

Ensure your family has coverage

Even with rates near state average, uninsured residents face delayed care and emergency-room visits. Check your coverage options at healthcare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to find plans that fit your needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Giles County

via SchoolsByCounty

Unified Education Across Giles County Schools

Giles County operates six public schools under a single district, serving a total student population of 3,457. The system is unique for its primary schools that combine elementary and middle levels.

Steady Graduation Rates and Reliable Funding

The graduation rate matches the national average of 87.0%, though it falls slightly below the state average of 89.0%. The county invests $7,390 per pupil, maintaining a school score of 52.8.

Single District Oversight for Local Students

Giles County Public Schools manages all 3,457 students in the county with no charter schools available. The district focuses on a traditional public education model across its six campuses.

A Balance of Rural and Town Campuses

The county offers a balanced mix of three rural and three town schools, with an average size of 691 students. Narrows Elementary/Middle is the largest school with 859 students, while Narrows High is the smallest with 411.

Explore Real Estate Near Diverse School Settings

For families seeking a mix of rural and town environments, Giles County provides a stable and consolidated school system. Prioritizing school quality in your home search can help you find the best fit in this scenic county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Giles County

via RiskByCounty

Giles County faces very low disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 16.57, Giles County ranks well below the national average and sits in the "Very Low" risk category. This means residents face significantly fewer natural disaster threats compared to most U.S. counties.

Among Virginia's safest counties

Giles County's risk score of 16.57 is less than half the Virginia state average of 33.27, placing it among the lowest-risk counties in the commonwealth. This advantage reflects the county's geography and climate patterns.

Safer than most neighboring counties

Giles County's score of 16.57 outperforms nearby Grayson County (24.65) and Greene County (9.29), positioning it as a relatively protected area in southwestern Virginia. Only Greene County in the immediate region shows lower overall risk.

Earthquakes and floods pose greatest threats

Earthquakes (43.23) and floods (42.18) are Giles County's primary natural hazards, though both remain moderate concerns. Tornadoes (10.21) and wildfires (12.91) present minimal risk to the county.

Earthquake and flood insurance recommended

While Giles County's overall risk is low, homeowners should secure flood insurance for properties near waterways and consider earthquake coverage given the region's seismic activity. Standard homeowners policies typically exclude both hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Giles County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Summers and Snowy Winters

Giles County averages 52.6°F annually, making it cooler than the national median. It receives 40.4 inches of precipitation, which is lower than the typical Virginia county.

Well Below the State Average

Giles County is notably cooler than the state average of 55.9°F. This temperature gap is driven by its high-elevation terrain and mountain valley geography.

Less Rainy Than Other Mountain Districts

Compared to Galax city, Giles is much drier, recording about 8 inches less precipitation annually. However, it sees more snow than central Virginia, with 22.7 inches falling each year.

Seven Days of Extreme Heat

Summer heat is manageable here, with only 7 days per year reaching 90°F or higher. Winters are brisk, featuring a January average of 32.7°F and a winter-long average of 34.7°F.

Prepare for Winter Mountain Conditions

Residents should prioritize winter home weatherization to handle the 22.7 inches of annual snow. The mild July average of 71.7°F makes ceiling fans a viable alternative to heavy AC use.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Giles County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced acidity in the mountain highlands

Giles County maintains an average soil pH of 5.32, which is more alkaline than the state average of 5.23 but remains more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This pH level supports a wide variety of native Appalachian flora and forest growth.

A versatile mix of sand and silt

The soil features a balanced blend of 41.3% sand and 39.8% silt, creating a texture that is easy to cultivate. With 17.5% clay, the soil offers a good compromise between drainage speed and the ability to hold essential minerals.

Strong water capacity supports resilient crops

The organic matter content of 2.91% aligns perfectly with the state average, providing a solid foundation for fertility. Furthermore, the available water capacity of 0.154 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.143, ensuring plants have access to moisture during dry spells.

Reliable moisture retention for valley farming

Though specific drainage classifications are not listed, the high silt and clay levels indicate moderate drainage that resists rapid drying. This profile supports consistent plant growth in both agricultural fields and residential gardens across the county.

Hardiness zone 7a favors cool-season staples

In zone 7a, Giles County is ideal for growing apples, root vegetables, and leafy greens. The soil's above-average water capacity makes it an excellent choice for establishing a productive and self-sustaining backyard plot.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Giles County

via LawnByCounty

Giles County: An Easier Path to Green

Giles County earns a 68.1 lawn difficulty score, making it significantly easier to maintain than the Virginia state average of 55.4. This Zone 7a region benefits from milder conditions that favor steady growth compared to the national median of 50.0.

Mild Summers Help Turf Thrive

The county receives 40.4 inches of annual precipitation, falling perfectly within the ideal range for healthy turf. With only 7 extreme heat days per year—far below the state average of 28—cool-season grasses face much less summer stress here.

Liming for Acidic Mountain Soils

Local soil has a pH of 5.32, which is more acidic than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for most lawn types. Because it contains 41.3% sand and 17.5% clay, homeowners likely need lime applications to balance the acidity and improve nutrient uptake.

Deep Watering Protects Against Dry Spells

The area spent 23 weeks in drought over the past year, and 71.6% of the county currently experiences abnormally dry conditions. Residents should prioritize deep, infrequent watering to encourage resilient root systems during these dry stretches.

Optimal Seasons for Fescue and Bluegrass

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass thrive in this 7a climate, especially when seeded after the last spring frost on April 27. Leverage the 3034 growing degree days to establish strong roots before the first frost arrives in mid-October.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Giles County's county score?
Giles County, Virginia has a composite county score of 57.4 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 Giles County rank among counties in Virginia?
Giles County ranks #34 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 Giles County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Giles County is $907, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Giles County a tax score of 70.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Giles County?
The median household income in Giles County, Virginia is $64,819 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Giles County earns an income score of 53.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Giles County, Virginia a good place to live?
Giles County scores 57.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #34 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Giles 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 Giles 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.