countyscore
43.9
County Score
Water Quality 86Cost of Living 59.7Disaster Risk 47

County Report Card

About Grady County, Georgia

Below the National Livability Median

Grady County earns a composite score of 43.9, placing it several points below the national median of 50.0. This score indicates that the county faces more developmental hurdles than the typical American county. It currently sits in the lower half of jurisdictions nationwide for overall quality of life metrics.

Trailing Georgia’s Average Performance

The county’s 43.9 score lags behind the Georgia state average of 46.7. While it maintains a competitive edge in housing costs, it ranks behind many of its neighbors in North and Central Georgia. Local leaders face a gap in closing the nearly 3-point deficit to reach the state baseline.

Exceptional Water Quality and Housing Value

Water quality is a standout feature with a score of 86.0, significantly outperforming most peers. Housing remains highly accessible, as evidenced by a cost score of 59.7 and a median monthly rent of just $789. Homebuyers find value here with a median home price of $136,500.

Healthcare Access and Low Household Incomes

Health outcomes present a significant challenge with a score of 22.5, indicating limited local medical infrastructure. Economic growth also trails the region, as seen in the income score of 23.7 and a median household income of $54,312. These figures suggest a need for expanded professional opportunities and health services.

Ideal for Budget-Conscious Rural Living

Grady County best suits individuals prioritizing low monthly expenses and reliable basic utilities over high-end amenities. It offers a quiet environment for those with remote work or retirement income who value affordable homeownership. Families may need to look to nearby hubs for specialized medical care or high-wage careers.

Score breakdown

Tax39.7Cost59.7Safety44.8Health22.5Schools46.6Income23.7Risk47Water86Weather35.5
🏛39.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠59.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼23.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡44.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡47
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤35.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨11.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.8
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

Grady County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Grady County

via TaxByCounty

Grady's tax rate sits above national average

At 0.980%, Grady County's effective property tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.720%, placing it in the higher tier nationally. The median property tax here is $1,337 annually, well below the national median of $2,690, thanks to a median home value of $136,500 versus the national median of $281,900.

Slightly above average for Georgia

Grady County's 0.980% effective rate ranks above Georgia's state average of 0.898%, making it one of the higher-taxed counties in the state. The median tax of $1,337 is below the state median of $1,529, reflecting the county's lower home values.

More expensive than surrounding counties

Grady's 0.980% rate is higher than neighboring Habersham County (0.627%) and Hancock County (0.994%), positioning it in the middle of the regional range. Local homeowners pay roughly average property taxes compared to nearby rural counties, with similar median home values in the $130,000–$210,000 range.

Grady homeowners pay roughly $1,337 annually

The median home valued at $136,500 generates an estimated annual property tax of $1,337, or about $112 per month. With a mortgage, that obligation rises to $1,492 annually as mortgage escrow accounts often collect taxes upfront.

You may be paying more than necessary

Research shows many Georgia homeowners are overassessed, meaning their homes are valued higher than fair market value for tax purposes. Consider appealing your assessment with the county tax assessor—a successful challenge could lower your annual bill by hundreds of dollars.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Grady County

via CostByCounty

Grady's affordability edges out the nation

Renters in Grady County spend just 17.4% of their income on housing, beating the national average and well below the 30% affordability threshold. With a median household income of $54,312—nearly $20,000 below the U.S. average of $74,755—Grady residents still manage better rent-to-income ratios than most Americans.

Among Georgia's most affordable counties

Grady County ranks as one of Georgia's most affordable housing markets, with a 17.4% rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average of 18.6%. Median rent of $789 is also significantly lower than Georgia's state median of $927.

Grady vs. surrounding counties

Grady's median rent of $789 compares favorably to nearby Haralson County ($884) and Habersham County ($939), making it an attractive option for renters seeking affordability in rural Georgia. Home values in Grady average $136,500, the lowest among its regional peers.

Where Grady incomes go

The typical Grady household earning $54,312 annually spends $789 on rent, leaving substantial income for other expenses. Monthly homeownership costs average $808, making Grady accessible for both renters and buyers on modest budgets.

Consider Grady for rural affordability

If you're weighing relocation costs, Grady County offers some of Georgia's lowest housing expenses without sacrificing quality of life. Compare these figures to your current housing costs—you may find significant savings waiting in rural southwest Georgia.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Grady County

via IncomeByCounty

Grady trails national income benchmark

At $54,312, Grady County's median household income falls 27% below the national median of $74,755. This gap reflects economic patterns common to rural Georgia counties competing in a service-driven national economy.

Below average for Georgia counties

Grady's median income ranks below Georgia's state average of $60,488, placing it in the lower tier of the state's 159 counties. The $6,176 gap suggests limited high-wage employment opportunities locally.

Modest income compared to nearby peers

Grady's $54,312 median sits between Haralson County ($65,016) and Hancock County ($33,182), indicating it occupies a middle ground among neighboring rural counties. Nearby Habersham County ($65,622) shows how proximity doesn't guarantee income parity.

Housing costs remain manageable

Grady's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio—below the national healthy threshold of 30%—suggests housing remains affordable for renters earning the median. A median home value of $136,500 is within reach for households earning the county average.

Start building financial stability now

Grady County households earning the median income should prioritize establishing emergency savings and exploring employer retirement plans to bridge the income gap with state averages. Even modest contributions to tax-advantaged accounts compound significantly over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Grady County

via CrimeByCounty

Grady County's Low Crime Outlook

Grady County maintains an impressive 98.1 safety score, reflecting a very secure environment for residents. Its total crime rate of 1,227.2 per 100,000 people sits well below the national average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding Georgia's Safety Standards

With a safety score of 98.1, Grady County outperforms the Georgia state average of 97.8. This high standing indicates that the county remains one of the more secure regions in the state.

Safe Comparison to Neighbors

Grady County's crime rate of 1,227.2 per 100,000 residents is lower than neighbor Hall County. It balances rural accessibility with a strong, consistent commitment to public safety.

Violent vs Property Crime

Property crime accounts for most local incidents at 1,058.5 per 100,000, while violent crime remains low at 168.7. Residents are roughly twice as safe from violent crime here compared to the national average of 369.8.

Proactive Home Security

Maintaining a safe community starts with personal awareness and modern home security systems. Simple measures like smart doorbells and motion lighting help preserve the county's high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Grady County

via HealthByCounty

Grady's life expectancy edges above national average

At 74.2 years, Grady County residents live slightly longer than the U.S. average of 73.5 years, a small but meaningful advantage. However, 23.5% of adults report poor or fair health—a sign that extra years don't always mean healthier ones.

Grady ranks mid-tier in Georgia health outcomes

Grady County's 74.2-year life expectancy outpaces Georgia's state average of 73.3 years by nearly a year, placing it in the stronger half of Georgia's 159 counties. Still, the county's 23.5% poor/fair health rate suggests room for improvement in chronic disease management.

Grady outperforms some neighbors on longevity

Grady's 74.2-year life expectancy tops Hancock County (70.7 years) and Haralson County (71.2 years) by significant margins, though it trails healthier neighbors like Harris County (78.8 years). The 2.5-year gap between Grady and Harris reflects differences in healthcare access and community health infrastructure.

Provider shortage leaves gaps in primary care

With 46 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Grady has adequate basic care capacity, but the 17.7% uninsured rate means nearly 1 in 6 residents struggle to afford preventive visits. Mental health providers are even scarcer at 35 per 100,000, making behavioral health support harder to access.

Check your health insurance options today

If you're among Grady's 17.7% uninsured, marketplace plans, Medicaid expansion, or employer coverage may be within reach. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local health department to explore options that fit your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Grady County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Network in Grady County

Grady County maintains a streamlined educational infrastructure with seven public schools serving 4,405 students. The system includes five elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, all managed by a single unified district. This layout ensures a consistent academic path for families from preschool through graduation.

High Graduation Rates Outpace State Averages

Grady County achieves an impressive 90.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 88.1%. Despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $7,136, the county maintains a school score of 53.8. These results suggest a high return on investment for the local community's educational funding.

Charter Options at Cairo High School

The Grady County district manages the entire local student population, with Cairo High School serving as its flagship institution for 1,274 students. Notably, the county incorporates charter options into its public system, with Cairo High operating as a charter school. This unique structure represents over 14% of the county's total school inventory.

A Mix of Town and Rural Learning

Education in Grady County takes place across four town-based schools and three rural campuses. The average school size is 629 students, ranging from the large Cairo High School to Shiver Elementary with 478 students. This balance offers families a choice between community-centered town schools and quieter rural environments.

Find Your Home Near Grady Schools

With graduation rates exceeding state benchmarks, Grady County is an attractive destination for families prioritizing academic success. Explore local listings to find a home near top-performing schools like Eastside Elementary. School quality remains a primary driver for property values in this growing Georgia community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Grady County

via RiskByCounty

Grady's Risk: Above Average Nationally

Grady County scores 52.99 on the composite risk index, placing it well above the national average and marking it as relatively low-risk overall. This score reflects exposure to multiple hazard types, with hurricane risk being particularly elevated at 88.07—significantly higher than most U.S. counties.

Mid-Tier Risk Within Georgia

Grady ranks in the middle range of Georgia counties for overall risk, scoring 52.99 compared to the state average of 39.49. The county's risk profile is shaped primarily by hurricane vulnerability and tornado exposure, both well above state norms.

Riskier Than Rural Neighbors

Grady's composite risk of 52.99 significantly exceeds nearby rural counties like Hancock (11.86) and Harris (20.77), though it remains lower than urbanized Gwinnett (95.42). Among adjacent counties, Grady faces notably higher hurricane and tornado risks.

Hurricane and Tornado Threats Dominate

Grady residents face exceptional hurricane risk at 88.07, plus tornado exposure at 76.08—both among Georgia's highest hazard scores. Wildfire risk is also notable at 62.72, requiring year-round preparedness for severe weather and fire season threats.

Prioritize Wind and Flood Coverage Now

Grady's elevated hurricane and tornado risks make wind and hail damage a real threat to homes and property. Review your homeowners insurance immediately to ensure adequate coverage for wind damage, and consider flood insurance given the county's 40.71 flood risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Grady County

via WeatherByCounty

A Deep South humid subtropical climate

Grady County maintains a warm 66.5°F average annual temperature, which is significantly higher than the national median. The region's humid subtropical climate ensures long, warm seasons.

Warmer than the Georgia average

The county's average temperature sits 2.8°F above the Georgia state average of 63.7°F. It is consistently one of the warmer regions in the state.

Lower precipitation than state peers

Grady County receives 50.9 inches of annual precipitation, slightly trailing the state average of 51.4 inches. It remains consistently warmer than its neighbors to the north.

Intense summer heat and snowless winters

Summers are intense with 78 extreme heat days reaching 90°F or more. Winters are very mild with a 51.9°F average and zero recorded snowfall.

Prepare for nearly 80 heat days

Residents should prioritize high-efficiency HVAC systems to manage 78 days of extreme heat. Outdoor activities are best scheduled for the mild 49.7°F January period.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Grady County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Sands in Grady County

The soil here maintains an average pH of 5.27, which is notably more acidic than the national median of 6.5. While taxonomic data is currently limited, the acidity matches the broader South Georgia profile. You will likely need lime to balance this soil for most traditional garden crops.

A Dominant Sandy Foundation

Grady's soil is 80.0% sand, leaving just 11.6% silt and 8.3% clay. This high sand content ensures the ground is easy to till and work by hand. However, this mix offers very little natural nutrient retention, requiring frequent fertilization.

Managing Low Water Retention

With organic matter at 1.30%, the county falls below the state average of 1.83%. The available water capacity is also low at 0.095 in/in, compared to the Georgia average of 0.114. Gardeners should focus on heavy mulching to keep moisture in the root zone.

Fast Drainage for Coastal Plains

While specific drainage class and hydrologic group data are not listed, the 80% sand content suggests very rapid water movement. This minimizes the risk of root rot but increases the need for consistent irrigation. Building soil structure is key to slowing down the water cycle here.

Warm-Season Success in Zone 9a

Grady County sits in the warm USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, allowing for long growing seasons. This soil and climate combo is ideal for pecans, blueberries, and heat-tolerant citrus. Start your garden early in the spring to take full advantage of the southern Georgia sun.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Grady County

via LawnByCounty

Grady County Lawns Face Tough Growing Conditions

Grady County's lawn difficulty score is 25.8, making it much harder to maintain than the national median of 50.0. This Zone 9a region presents significant challenges compared to the Georgia state average of 35.8.

Extreme Heat Defines the Mowing Season

Local lawns face 78 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly higher than the state average of 65. While the 50.9 inches of annual rain is typical for Georgia, the 6,342 growing degree days demand a constant maintenance and mowing schedule.

Sandy Soil Requires Constant Nutrient Management

The local soil is highly sandy at 80.0%, which leads to rapid drainage and potential nutrient loss. With a pH of 5.27, homeowners must add lime to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for healthy turf.

Severe Drought Grips the Entire County

Drought is a persistent threat, with 100.0% of the county currently experiencing severe conditions. Lawns have endured 29 weeks of drought over the past year, making deep, infrequent watering essential for root survival.

Warm-Season Grasses Thrive in Zone 9a

St. Augustine and Bermuda grass are excellent choices for this warm climate. To avoid damage, ensure your seeding or sodding occurs after the last spring frost on March 11.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grady County's county score?
Grady County, Georgia has a composite county score of 43.9 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 Grady County rank among counties in Georgia?
Grady County ranks #104 among all counties in Georgia 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 Grady County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Grady County is $1,337, with an effective tax rate of 0.98%. This earns Grady County a tax score of 39.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Grady County?
The median household income in Grady County, Georgia is $54,312 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Grady County earns an income score of 23.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Grady County, Georgia a good place to live?
Grady County scores 43.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #104 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Grady 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 Grady 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.