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Grafton County, New Hampshire — County Report Card

NH

#3 in New Hampshire

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
44.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 87.8Health 87.7Schools 79.6

County Report Card

About Grafton County, New Hampshire

Grafton Below the National Median

Grafton County scores a 44.5 on the composite index, trailing the national median of 50.0. While lower than the national midpoint, it remains a strong regional contender.

A Top Three Contender in NH

The county ranks 3rd among the 8 New Hampshire counties provided. It outperforms the state average composite score of 43.1 by a clear margin.

Top-Tier Health and Education

Grafton excels in health with a score of 87.7 and schools at 79.6. These scores are backed by a high income score of 87.8 and a median household income of $84,021.

Tax Burden and Housing Costs

Low scores in tax (4.3) and cost (10.9) reflect the financial pressure on residents. An effective tax rate of 1.884% and median rents of $1,292 can strain family budgets.

Ideal for Academic and Healthcare Families

Grafton County is a perfect match for those who value excellent public services and healthcare. It is particularly suited for professional families who can afford the higher local tax rates.

Score breakdown

Tax4.3Cost10.9Safety45.7Health87.7Schools79.6Income87.8Risk18.2Water27.4Weather50.3
🏛4.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠10.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼87.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡45.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤87.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓79.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡18.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧27.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨66.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.3
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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Nearby counties

Orange County
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53.3
Carroll County
New Hampshire
49
Belknap County
New Hampshire
38.3
Caledonia County
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Washington County
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Merrimack County
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Deep Dives

Grafton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Grafton County

via TaxByCounty

Grafton's rate aligns near national levels

Grafton County's effective tax rate of 1.884% ranks in the 70th percentile nationally, above the nation's median of 0.81%. The median tax bill of $5,624 far exceeds the national median of $2,690, reflecting both higher rates and home values.

Middle ground for New Hampshire taxes

Grafton County's 1.884% rate sits slightly above the state average of 1.852%, placing it sixth among 10 counties. Its median tax of $5,624 falls near the state median of $5,680, representing a fairly typical burden for the state.

Western tier balances rate and values

Grafton outpaces Carroll County's 1.056% but trails Coos County's 2.070% to the north and Cheshire County's 2.320% to the south. The county occupies a moderate position within the western region's tax landscape.

On a $299,000 home: over $5,600

The typical Grafton County home valued at $298,500 carries an estimated annual tax of $5,624. With a mortgage, that reaches $5,791; without one, $5,384.

Assessments merit periodic review

Grafton County homeowners should periodically review their assessed values against comparable sales in their towns, as overassessment is common. A successful appeal could reduce your tax burden by hundreds of dollars annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Grafton County

via CostByCounty

Grafton's rental costs strain household budgets

Grafton County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% represents some of the highest affordability stress in New Hampshire and exceeds the national sustainable benchmark. Despite a solid median income of $84,021—12% above the national average—the $1,292/month median rent consumes a larger share of earnings than most peers.

Grafton among the state's least affordable

Grafton County's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks second-worst in New Hampshire, surpassed only by Hillsborough County. This places Grafton households under greater housing cost pressure than most other counties statewide.

Pricier rents, comparable incomes to Belknap

Grafton's $1,292/month rent exceeds Belknap's $1,184 by $108, while incomes are nearly identical ($84,021 vs. $87,983). Grafton's higher rents create measurable affordability disadvantage; Belknap and Carroll counties offer better rental value in the region.

Rents and mortgages demand significant income share

Renters spend $1,292/month and homeowners $1,457/month, reflecting robust mountain-region demand for housing. Combined with a median income of $84,021, housing costs consume roughly 18% of household earnings, limiting flexibility for savings and emergencies.

Grafton rewards those who can afford it

Grafton County's scenic beauty and outdoor recreation justify higher housing costs for many relocators, but budget-conscious movers should compare with Belknap or Carroll counties. If affordability is your threshold, consider that Grafton's 18.4% rent-to-income ratio approaches financial stress for median-income households.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Grafton County

via IncomeByCounty

Grafton earns 12% above national median

Grafton County's median household income of $84,021 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by approximately $9,266. This solid upper-middle-income position reflects a diverse, stable regional economy.

Fifth statewide, slightly below state average

Grafton ranks fifth among New Hampshire's ten counties with a median household income of $84,021, falling short of the state average of $86,521 by $2,500. The per capita income of $49,835, however, exceeds the state average of $47,027, indicating broad-based earning across households.

Outearned by Belknap, ahead of Cheshire

Grafton households earn nearly $3,000 more than Belknap County ($87,983 vs. $84,021) when adjusted, and roughly $3,000 more than Cheshire County ($81,001). The county's strong per capita income suggests multiple earners and income diversity.

Housing costs at 18%, slightly elevated

Grafton's rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% is among the state's highest, reflecting rising home values in desirable areas like the White Mountains. The median home value of $298,500 requires careful budgeting but remains attainable for median households.

Invest in education and real estate

Grafton's strong per capita income and diverse earning base support household investment in professional development and property appreciation. Real estate ownership offers both stability and long-term wealth accumulation in this economically resilient region.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Grafton County

via CrimeByCounty

Grafton County Among Nation's Safest Areas

Grafton County is exceptionally safe with a score of 98.1 out of 100. Its crime rate of 1216.5 per 100K is roughly half of the national average of 2,385.5.

Exceeding New Hampshire's Safety Benchmark

The county ranks slightly above the state average for safety and matches New Hampshire's reputation for low crime. Its total crime rate of 1216.5 is just below the state average of 1242.4.

Grafton County vs. Regional Neighbors

Grafton is notably safer than Belknap County, which has a much higher crime rate of 1843.1. It remains consistent with other northern neighbors like Coos County at 1218.6.

Property Crime Focus in Grafton

The data shows 116.7 violent crimes and 1099.8 property crimes per 100K residents. These figures indicate that nearly all criminal activity in the area involves property rather than personal violence.

Tech-Savvy Security for Grafton Homes

Protecting your home in Grafton means staying aware of property security trends. Using smart home technology and joining local neighborhood watch groups can help preserve this high standard.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Grafton County

via HealthByCounty

Grafton leads nation in longevity

Grafton County residents enjoy a life expectancy of 80.1 years, 1.3 years above the U.S. average of 78.8 years, placing the county among the healthiest in the nation. Only 12.7% report fair or poor health, closely matching the national average and indicating strong population health outcomes.

New Hampshire's healthiest county

Grafton County's 80.1-year life expectancy is 1.8 years above New Hampshire's state average of 78.3 years, making it the healthiest county in the state. This premium performance reflects excellent healthcare access, strong prevention programs, and a health-conscious population.

Leader among eight-county region

Grafton County's 80.1 years edges out Rockingham County (80.5) by just 0.4 years, but both dominate the region and are 6.2 years ahead of struggling Coos County. Grafton's exceptional life expectancy demonstrates what sustained investment in healthcare and community wellness can achieve.

Elite healthcare provider network

Grafton County leads all eight counties with 189 primary care providers per 100K—nearly quadruple Belknap County's 48—ensuring robust preventive care access. The county also leads in mental health support at 600 providers per 100K, with an uninsured rate of 7.0% just slightly above the state average of 6.7%.

Maintain Grafton's health advantage

Grafton County's exceptional health outcomes depend on keeping residents covered and connected to care. Even the 7% of uninsured residents should explore marketplace plans to ensure continuity of preventive services that sustain the county's national leadership.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Grafton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Extensive School System

Grafton County manages 52 public schools across a high count of 32 different school districts. This system serves 10,204 students with a layout that includes 28 elementary, 11 middle, and 13 high schools. The high number of districts reflects a strong local commitment to independent school governance.

Top-Tier Results and High Educational Investment

Grafton County is an academic leader with a 91.3% graduation rate, far exceeding the state's 87.2% average. This success is fueled by a generous $14,898 per-pupil expenditure, the highest among the counties surveyed. These investments result in an impressive composite school score of 71.3.

Major Districts and Diverse School Choices

The Lebanon School District and Newfound Area School District are the largest, serving over 2,700 students combined. Four charter schools provide additional options, making up nearly 8% of the county's total school inventory. The Dresden School District also gains attention for hosting the popular Hanover High School.

A Landscape of Rural Excellence

Schooling here is overwhelmingly rural, with 42 of the 52 schools situated in quiet, countryside settings. Despite the rural nature, schools like Hanover High and Plymouth Regional High serve over 600 students each. The average school size is a manageable 200 students, offering a balance of resources and individual attention.

Invest in a Home Near Premier Schools

Grafton County is a top choice for families seeking the highest levels of academic performance and school funding in New Hampshire. Towns like Hanover and Lebanon are renowned for their educational quality, which consistently drives local real estate demand. Start your home search here to give your children a competitive edge.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Grafton County

via RiskByCounty

Grafton County Exceeds National Risk

Grafton County's composite risk score of 81.77 significantly exceeds the national average of 69.89, placing it in the "Relatively Moderate" category. This mountain county faces notably higher natural disaster exposure than most American counties.

Highest-Risk County in New Hampshire

Grafton County ranks third-riskiest among New Hampshire's eight counties with a composite score of 81.77, substantially above the state average of 69.89. Only Hillsborough and Rockingham counties exceed Grafton's overall disaster risk.

Significantly Riskier Than Coos County

Grafton's 81.77 score towers over neighboring Coos County (72.77) and Belknap County (57.38) across the state. Its exceptional flood risk of 90.08 and elevated earthquake risk of 69.62 set it apart among northern counties.

Floods and Earthquakes Are Major Threats

Grafton County leads the state in flood risk at 90.08, driven by its mountainous terrain and major river systems including the Connecticut River. Earthquake risk of 69.62 reflects the county's proximity to tectonic activity, while wildfire and tornado risks remain moderate.

Essential: Flood and Earthquake Coverage

Grafton County residents must secure comprehensive flood insurance and earthquake coverage given flood risk of 90.08 and earthquake risk of 69.62—among the state's highest. Standard homeowners policies exclude both hazards, making separate policies critical.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Grafton County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Temps and Low Moisture

Grafton County averages 44.2°F annually, which is well below the national median. It experiences a classic northern climate with sharp winters and moderate humidity.

Cooler Than the State Median

The county sits about 1.2 degrees below the New Hampshire state average of 45.4°F. This cooler profile is driven by the mountainous terrain found throughout the region.

The Drier Side of the State

Grafton is notably drier than its neighbors, receiving only 42.8 inches of precipitation compared to the 46.4-inch state average. It shares a similar temperature profile with Carroll County.

Vigorous Winters and Gentle Summers

Snowfall is a major factor here, averaging 74.2 inches per year. While winter averages are a cold 21.3°F, summers are pleasant with only 6 days of extreme heat.

Plan for Cold and Snow

With January averages of 18.3°F, reliable thermal protection for homes and vehicles is critical. Summer cooling is less urgent, as the average temperature from June to August is a mild 66.0°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Grafton County

via SoilByCounty

Balanced Acidity in the River Valley

Grafton County features a soil pH of 4.67, which is more alkaline than the New Hampshire average of 4.24. While still below the national median of 6.5, it offers a more hospitable environment for many crops. This slight advantage helps the county maintain a strong soil score of 66.7.

Loamy Sand with Minimal Clay

The soil contains 36.3% sand and 25.2% silt, but only 4.0% clay. This composition means the soil is highly workable and allows for deep root penetration. It strikes a great balance between structural stability and ease of cultivation.

Superior Water Retention and Organic Richness

Grafton's organic matter reaches 36.41%, well above the state average of 32.63%. Its available water capacity of 0.239 in/in is among the highest in the region. These metrics indicate a very fertile landscape capable of sustaining high-yield gardens.

High Performance Water Storage

The 0.239 available water capacity suggests excellent drought resistance for local crops. While the specific drainage class isn't listed, the low clay content prevents the soil from becoming heavy and waterlogged. This makes it an ideal choice for both intensive farming and residential landscaping.

Success in Hardiness Zone 5a

Zone 5a provides a classic New England growing environment for hardy perennials and shrubs. You can expect fantastic results with leafy greens, brassicas, and berries in this high-fertility soil. The high water capacity means you can spend less time watering and more time harvesting.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Grafton County

via LawnByCounty

Grafton's Moderate Lawn Maintenance Challenge

Grafton County scores a 47.3 on the lawn difficulty scale, placing it just below the New Hampshire state average and the national median. Situated in USDA Hardiness Zone 5a, local lawn care requires a balanced approach to handle cold winters and moderate summer growth. It is a middle-of-the-road environment that rewards consistent maintenance without being overly punishing.

Drier Conditions and Cool Summer Breezes

With 42.8 inches of annual precipitation, Grafton is slightly drier than its neighbors but still within the ideal range for turf. The county sees only 6 days of extreme heat and 2,054 growing degree days, which prevents heat-related dormancy. The frost-free window runs from May 15 to September 28, requiring a focused approach to spring and fall projects.

Mitigating Acidic and Sandy Soil Profiles

Grafton County soil is quite acidic with a pH of 4.67, significantly lower than the 6.0 range preferred by most turfgrasses. The soil composition is 36.3% sand and only 4.0% clay, leading to fast drainage but poor nutrient retention. Regular lime applications and top-dressing with compost are essential strategies to improve the soil's ability to support a thick lawn.

Water Conservation During Drought Windows

The county has spent 33 weeks in drought over the past year, and nearly 28% of the area currently faces severe drought conditions. Because of the high sand content in the soil, lawns will show signs of drought stress quickly without supplemental irrigation. Focus your watering on the early morning to minimize fungal growth while ensuring the roots get deep hydration.

Choosing the Right Grass for the Granite State

A mix of perennial ryegrass and fine fescue is ideal for this region's acidic, sandy soil and Zone 5a climate. Aim to seed as soon as the ground warms after the May 15 frost or in the late summer before the September frost arrival. Consistent soil testing and pH adjustments will be your best tools for achieving a green, healthy lawn here.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grafton County's county score?
Grafton County, New Hampshire has a composite county score of 44.5 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 Grafton County rank among counties in New Hampshire?
Grafton County ranks #3 among all counties in New Hampshire 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 Grafton County, New Hampshire?
The median annual property tax in Grafton County is $5,624, with an effective tax rate of 1.88%. This earns Grafton County a tax score of 4.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Grafton County?
The median household income in Grafton County, New Hampshire is $84,021 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Grafton County earns an income score of 87.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Grafton County, New Hampshire a good place to live?
Grafton County scores 44.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #3 in New Hampshire. The best way to evaluate Grafton 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 Grafton 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.