countyscore
64
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.4Health 96.5Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Goochland County, Virginia

An Elite National Ranking

Goochland County achieves an impressive 64.0 composite score, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. It stands as one of the top-performing counties in the United States for overall livability.

One of Virginia’s Top Tier

At 64.0, Goochland significantly outperforms the Virginia average of 50.9. It serves as a benchmark for high-wealth communities within the Commonwealth.

Exceptional Wealth and Health

The county features a nearly perfect income score of 98.4 and a health score of 96.5. Median household incomes reach $118,695, while a tax score of 85.8 highlights an attractive 0.500% effective tax rate.

A Premium Entry Price

Exclusivity comes with a cost, as seen in the very low cost score of 7.3. Median home values of $483,700 and rents of $1,567 create a high barrier to entry for many prospective residents.

Tailored for Affluent Families

Goochland is the premier choice for high-net-worth individuals who prioritize top-quality health services and safe neighborhoods. It offers an elite lifestyle for those who can navigate the high cost of local real estate.

Score breakdown

Tax85.8Cost7.3Safety60.3Health96.5Schools70.3Income98.4Risk84.5Water86Weather57.6
🏛85.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡60.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤96.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓70.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡84.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨20.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.1
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 →
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Deep Dives

Goochland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Goochland County

via TaxByCounty

Goochland County offers rare tax relief for upscale homes

At 0.500%, Goochland County's effective rate ranks among the lowest in America, falling well below the national median of 0.80%. Despite median home values of $483,700—well above the national median—residents pay $2,418 in annual taxes, just slightly more than the national median of $2,690.

Virginia's second-lowest tax rate on expensive homes

Goochland County ranks second among Virginia's 95 jurisdictions with an effective rate of only 0.500%, paired with the highest median home value in this analysis at $483,700. This combination means affluent homeowners here enjoy substantial tax relief compared to statewide averages.

Significantly cheaper than wealthy peers like Greene County

Goochland County's 0.500% rate substantially undercuts Greene County's 0.637%, despite similar neighborhood status and home values. A $483,700 home in Goochland pays $2,418 in taxes versus $3,180 across the border in Greene County—a $762 annual savings.

Median home of $483,700 costs just $2,418 yearly

Goochland County homeowners with a median-priced $483,700 property pay approximately $2,418 in annual property taxes. This remarkably low rate holds steady whether you finance ($2,426) or own free and clear ($2,404).

Even favorable rates warrant assessment review

Goochland County's low rates don't guarantee your home isn't overassessed—many wealthy homeowners overpay without realizing it. Filing an appeal costs nothing and could reduce your $2,418 bill further, ensuring your assessment reflects actual market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Goochland County

via CostByCounty

Goochland's wealth works for renters

Goochland County has the highest median household income of any county in this comparison at $118,695—59% above the national average—and a rent-to-income ratio of 15.8% that beats Virginia's state average. This combination means residents have strong earning power despite paying premium prices for housing.

Wealthy county, strong affordability

Goochland ranks in the top 10% of Virginia counties for housing affordability relative to income, with its 15.8% ratio outperforming nearly all wealthy peers. The county's $1,567 median rent reflects its upscale character and proximity to Richmond's western suburbs.

Premium prices, premium incomes

Goochland rents exceed Gloucester's by $423 monthly and Giles's by $787, but household incomes run $35,000 higher than Gloucester and $53,900 higher than Giles. This income advantage makes rent-to-income ratios more favorable despite nominal prices that rank highest in the region.

Luxury living takes steady income

At $1,567 monthly, median rent consumes 15.8% of income, while homeownership costs $1,495 and claims 15.1% of earnings. With a median home value of $483,700, Goochland residents spend roughly 30% of household income on housing—sustainable only because incomes are exceptional.

Goochland for those with premium incomes

Goochland County suits high-earning households seeking suburban Richmond's upscale living—your six-figure income will make these costs comfortable. If you prefer lower absolute prices, Giles and Gloucester offer substantial savings; if you want comparable wealth with lower costs, explore other metro-Richmond options.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Goochland County

via IncomeByCounty

Goochland ranks among nation's wealthiest

Goochland County's median household income of $118,695 is 59% above the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the nation's top income tier. Per capita income of $68,258 is exceptionally high, indicating substantial earning potential across the community. Goochland ranks among the most affluent counties in America.

Virginia's wealthiest county stands apart

Goochland County's median household income of $118,695 towers over Virginia's state average of $74,957 by a stunning $43,738—nearly 58% higher. Per capita income of $68,258 dwarfs the state average of $39,155, reflecting an exceptionally wealthy community. Goochland is unmistakably the state's premier income performer.

Dramatically outpaces every nearby county

Goochland's $118,695 median income exceeds neighboring Gloucester County ($83,689) by $35,000 and Greene County ($85,268) by $33,000, creating a stark wealth gap. Compared to struggling rural neighbors, the differential is even more dramatic: Grayson County's $42,864 is less than 36% of Goochland's income. Goochland is fundamentally wealthier than all surrounding counties.

High incomes support premium housing

Despite a rent-to-income ratio of 15.8%, Goochland's median home value of $483,700 reflects a truly affluent housing market accessible primarily to top earners. The high absolute incomes make even expensive housing manageable relative to earnings. This is a community of significant wealth concentration.

Optimize wealth with sophisticated strategies

Goochland's highest earners should prioritize comprehensive tax strategies, including maxing retirement contributions, charitable giving, and investment diversification. With six-figure household incomes, there's substantial capacity for real estate investment, private equity, and alternative assets. Consulting a fee-only financial advisor is prudent at this income level to structure wealth efficiently.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Goochland County

via CrimeByCounty

Goochland County ranks among nation's safest

Goochland boasts an impressive safety score of 98.6 out of 100. Its total crime rate of 915.5 per 100,000 residents is roughly 60% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These numbers reflect a remarkably quiet and secure residential environment.

Outperforming the Virginia state average

With a safety score of 98.6, Goochland exceeds the Virginia state average of 97.3. The county's total crime rate is nearly half of the statewide average of 1,728.8 per 100,000. This top-tier ranking makes Goochland a standout for safety within the Commonwealth.

The safest choice among neighboring counties

Goochland’s crime rate of 915.5 is notably lower than Gloucester’s 1,067.6 and Greene’s 1,206.9. It even edges out Grayson County, which sits at 957.3 per 100,000 residents. The data shows Goochland is one of the most secure counties in the surrounding geographic area.

Violent crime remains extremely rare

The violent crime rate in Goochland is just 96.4 per 100,000, which is dramatically lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime stands at 819.1 per 100,000, representing the bulk of law enforcement activity. These metrics indicate a very low risk of person-to-person crime for residents.

Focus on property protection

While crime is rare, property-related incidents are the primary focus of local law enforcement. Implementing simple habits like locking vehicles and installing perimeter cameras provides additional peace of mind. Consistent communication with the county's two reporting agencies helps maintain this high safety standard.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Goochland County

via HealthByCounty

Goochland leads health outcomes

At 80.2 years, Goochland County residents enjoy some of the longest life expectancy in the nation—more than 2 years above the U.S. average of 78.0 years. With only 12.3% reporting poor or fair health, the county demonstrates how strong healthcare access and economic stability fuel better outcomes.

Virginia's healthiest county profile

Goochland's 80.2-year life expectancy ranks among Virginia's very best, substantially above the state average of 75.1 years. This 5.1-year advantage reflects sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and preventive services.

Clear advantage over surrounding counties

Goochland's 80.2-year life expectancy far exceeds neighboring Giles (72.2) and Greensville (71.4), a gap driven largely by provider density and income. With 71 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Goochland has invested deeply in accessible medical infrastructure.

Nearly universal coverage, abundant providers

Just 3.9% of residents lack health insurance—the lowest rate among these eight counties and well below Virginia's 7.9% average. With 71 primary care providers and 118 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Goochland residents find expert care nearby.

Maintain your health advantage

With nearly everyone covered, Goochland shows what universal access looks like. If you're among the uninsured 3.9%, visit healthcare.gov to secure protection for your family's health and finances.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Goochland County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Performing Infrastructure in Goochland County

Goochland County operates five public schools that serve 2,642 students under a single district. The system consists of three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.

Leading the Region in Graduation and Investment

Goochland boasts a standout 93.0% graduation rate, well above the national 87.0% average. The county also invests more than the state average, spending $8,056 per pupil to maintain a high school score of 57.4.

Top-Tier Oversight Within a Single District

Goochland County Public Schools manages all 2,642 students, and like its neighbors, it operates without charter schools. This dedicated district management contributes to some of the highest academic metrics in the area.

A Consistent Rural School Environment

All five schools are situated in rural locales, creating a unified and tranquil learning environment. Goochland High is the largest school with 890 students, while Byrd Elementary is the smallest with 320.

Settle Near Top-Performing Rural Schools

Families searching for top-tier academic performance in a rural setting will find Goochland County hard to beat. Consider how proximity to these high-performing schools can add long-term value to your real estate investment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Goochland County

via RiskByCounty

Goochland County ranks among safest

With a composite risk score of 15.52, Goochland County achieves "Very Low" risk status and sits well below the national average. This inland central Virginia location provides natural protection from most major hazards.

Virginia's lowest-risk counties

Goochland County's score of 15.52 is less than half Virginia's state average of 33.27, making it one of the commonwealth's safest counties for natural disasters. Geography and distance from coast and mountains create this advantage.

Safest in the central Virginia region

Goochland County's 15.52 score beats all nearby counties including Giles County (16.57) and Grayson County (24.65), establishing it as the region's lowest-risk location. Inland piedmont geography favors disaster resilience.

Earthquakes and hurricanes top risk list

Earthquake risk (71.50) and hurricane risk (60.16) rank highest for Goochland County, though these remain moderate concerns at the county level. Flood (28.72), tornado (24.81), and wildfire (9.48) risks all remain well below state averages.

Earthquake coverage and flood awareness key

Goochland County homeowners should evaluate earthquake insurance for protection against seismic events and maintain flood insurance for properties in mapped risk zones. Standard policies exclude both hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Goochland County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Mid-Atlantic Climate in Goochland

Goochland County averages 56.1°F annually, which aligns closely with national climate medians. The area receives a steady 44.9 inches of precipitation throughout the year.

Matching the Virginia State Average

Goochland’s 56.1°F average is nearly identical to the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. Its precipitation levels also mirror the state norm, falling just short of the 45.7-inch average.

Warm Summers Similar to the Capital

Goochland experiences 40 days of extreme heat, a figure very similar to its urban neighbor Fredericksburg. It sees a modest 10.2 inches of snow, much less than the mountain counties to the west.

Forty Days of Sizzling Heat

Summers are long and hot, with a July average of 76.3°F and frequent spikes above 90°F. Winters are mild by comparison, staying above freezing on average during the coldest months.

Focus on Summer Heat Protection

With 40 extreme heat days, high-capacity cooling systems and shaded outdoor spaces are critical for comfort. Winter needs are less intense, as snowfall is infrequent and averages about 10 inches.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Goochland County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Piedmont acidity across the county

Goochland County soils show an average pH of 5.29, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.23. However, it still falls well below the national median of 6.5, indicating a need for soil amendments in many agricultural applications.

Sand-heavy mix with moderate clay

The soil consists of 57.8% sand and 16.4% clay, providing a texture that balances workability with some structural stability. This mix is generally well-suited for a variety of building and farming activities in the Piedmont region.

Lower organic matter requires active management

The organic matter content is just 1.46%, roughly half of the Virginia average of 2.90%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.138 in/in remains close to the state average, suggesting the soil can still hold moisture effectively.

Functional drainage for diverse land use

While specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the 57.8% sand content ensures that water does not sit on the surface for long. This characteristic makes the land generally favorable for both residential construction and diverse crop rotations.

Establish your garden in zone 7a

Goochland's zone 7a climate is perfect for tomatoes, squash, and beans once the soil acidity is addressed. Incorporating compost will help boost the low organic matter and turn this land into a flourishing garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Goochland County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating High Heat and Acidity

Goochland County features a lawn difficulty score of 53.1, sitting just below the Virginia average of 55.4. This Zone 7a region requires more active management than the national median due to fluctuating summer temperatures and soil acidity.

Fourty Days of Intense Heat

Lawns here endure 40 extreme heat days annually, significantly higher than the state average of 28 days. This intense heat, combined with 44.9 inches of rain, creates a demanding environment where irrigation timing is critical for survival.

Amending Sandy and Acidic Ground

With a 57.8% sand content, Goochland's soil provides decent drainage but struggles with a very acidic 5.29 pH. Homeowners must amend the ground with organic matter and lime to counteract these conditions and support root development.

Mowing High During Dry Seasons

The county has weathered 27 weeks of drought in the past year, and the entire area is currently under abnormally dry conditions. Residents should maintain a higher mowing height to shade the soil and reduce water evaporation during these droughts.

Seed for Success in April

Heat-tolerant tall fescue is the gold standard for this area, ideally seeded between the mid-April and late October frost dates. Leveraging the 3864 growing degree days ensures that new turf has plenty of time to mature before winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Goochland County's county score?
Goochland County, Virginia has a composite county score of 64 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 Goochland County rank among counties in Virginia?
Goochland County ranks #10 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 Goochland County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Goochland County is $2,418, with an effective tax rate of 0.50%. This earns Goochland County a tax score of 85.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Goochland County?
The median household income in Goochland County, Virginia is $118,695 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Goochland County earns an income score of 98.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Goochland County, Virginia a good place to live?
Goochland County scores 64/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Goochland 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 Goochland County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.