countyscore
70.2
County Score
Property Tax 97.1Safety 89.9Cost of Living 88.7

County Report Card

About Grant County, West Virginia

Grant County Ranks High Nationally

With a composite score of 70.2, Grant County performs significantly better than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balanced and high-quality rural lifestyle.

Outperforming the State Average

Grant County's score of 70.2 places it well ahead of the West Virginia state average of 62.0. It stands out as one of the more robust counties in the Potomac Highlands region.

Incredible Tax and Safety Benefits

The county features a near-perfect tax score of 97.1 due to a very low 0.331% effective tax rate. Residents also enjoy high levels of security with a safety score of 89.9 and excellent housing affordability.

Health and School Infrastructure

Challenges remain in social infrastructure, with the health score at 35.9 and school score at 47.1. These figures suggest that while the county is safe and cheap, public services have room for improvement.

Best for Thrifty Homeowners

Grant County is a sanctuary for those looking to minimize their tax bill while living in a very safe environment. It is perfect for residents who value low costs and peace of mind over urban amenities.

2040608010097.188.789.935.947.143.766.833.655Tax97.1Cost88.7Safety89.9Health35.9Schools47.1Income43.7Risk66.8Water33.6Weather5570.2/100
This county
National avg
4 above average2 below average

Grant County DNA

Coverall

How Grant County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Grant County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (97.1/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (33.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
97.1+45.099999999999994
Cost
88.7+40.7
Safety
89.9+34.900000000000006
Health
35.9-14.100000000000001
Schools
47.1
Income
43.7
Risk
66.8+19.799999999999997
Water
33.6-24.4
Weather
55
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$167,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$612/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$167,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$24,480/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $61,530/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

63.8

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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
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Nearby counties

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70.7
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56.3
Mineral County
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Deep Dives

Grant County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Grant County

via TaxByCounty

Grant County offers exceptional tax savings

Grant County's effective tax rate of 0.331% ranks among the lowest in the nation, sitting well below the national median of 0.66%. A median home valued at $167,500 generates just $555 in annual taxes—roughly one-fifth of the national median of $2,690. This county places in approximately the 5th percentile nationally, meaning 95% of American counties impose higher property tax rates.

West Virginia's most tax-friendly county option

Grant County's 0.331% effective rate is dramatically lower than West Virginia's 0.497% state average, representing a 33% savings compared to the typical West Virginia homeowner. The median property tax of $555 falls substantially below the state median of $699, despite homes valued above the state average. Grant stands as the clear tax-relief leader among all West Virginia counties analyzed here.

Lowest rate in the entire region

Grant County's 0.331% rate decisively beats all neighboring counties, including Hardy County at 0.367%, Doddridge at 0.470%, and especially Fayette at 0.662%. Even Greenbrier County at 0.470% and Hancock at 0.629% impose steeper burdens than Grant. For property owners prioritizing tax minimization, Grant County stands unmatched in its regional cluster.

Median annual property tax: $555

A homeowner with a $167,500 property in Grant County pays approximately $555 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill rises slightly to $589, while without one it drops to $517, reflecting typical loan servicing costs. Over a 30-year mortgage, this totals just $16,650 in property taxes—far below most comparable counties.

Verify assessments to lock in lowest rates

Even in Grant County's favorable tax environment, homeowners should verify their assessments remain accurate to preserve savings. If your property was reassessed upward recently or you've made improvements, the county may have raised your valuation—an appeal could restore your tax advantage. In a low-tax county, small overassessments compound over decades, making verification worthwhile.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Grant County

via CostByCounty

Grant County beats national affordability

Grant County's rent-to-income ratio of 11.9% is the lowest in this eight-county analysis and well below both state (16.9%) and national norms. With median household income at $61,530 and monthly rent just $612, Grant residents enjoy genuine affordability and fiscal breathing room.

West Virginia's most affordable county

Grant's 11.9% rent-to-income ratio leads all peer counties and ranks among the state's best. The combination of solid local income and low rents creates a rare housing-affordability advantage in West Virginia.

Lowest rents, strong income stability

Grant's $612 monthly rent undercuts every peer county, and its $61,530 median income ranks among the region's highest. Homeownership costs $613 monthly with a median home value of $167,500, offering good value for buyers in a county with proven income strength.

Just 11.9% of income to housing

Renters pay only $612 monthly—just 11.9% of typical household income—while homeowners spend $613, creating parity and flexibility. This leaves Grant households $200+ monthly compared to higher-burden peers, enabling savings and investment.

Top choice for housing affordability

Grant County delivers West Virginia's best housing-to-income balance, making it ideal for cost-conscious relocators seeking stability. Compare job prospects here against peer counties—Grant's affordability advantage justifies the comparison.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Grant County

via IncomeByCounty

Grant earns above state, still below nation

Grant County's median household income of $61,530 outperforms West Virginia's state average ($54,746) by 12.3%, but remains $13,225 below the national median ($74,755). Grant ranks in the stronger half of West Virginia counties.

Among West Virginia's top earners

Grant County claims one of the highest median household incomes in West Virginia at $61,530, placing it solidly in the upper tier. This positions Grant as an economic leader within its state.

Leads the regional income rankings

Grant's $61,530 median household income edges out nearby Doddridge ($61,164) and Hampshire ($60,299), making it the top earner in its cluster. The county significantly outpaces lower-income neighbors like Gilmer ($50,991) and Hardy ($49,302).

Excellent housing affordability here

Grant County boasts the lowest rent-to-income ratio in its region at 11.9%, well below the 30% affordability threshold. Median home values of $167,500 remain accessible for households earning $61,530, leaving substantial room in budgets for other priorities.

Strong position for wealth building

With above-state earnings, low housing costs, and a favorable rent-to-income ratio, Grant County residents have real capacity to invest and save. Use this financial advantage to fund education, retirement accounts, and long-term wealth strategies that amplify your $61,530 household income.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Grant County

via CrimeByCounty

Grant County is One of America's Safest

Grant County features a total crime rate of just 208.4 per 100K, dwarfing the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a near-perfect safety score of 99.7 out of 100. This makes it a premier destination for those prioritizing public safety and security.

Outshining the West Virginia Average

Grant County's safety score of 99.7 is well above the state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 208.4 is less than a quarter of the West Virginia average of 949.0. Five dedicated reporting agencies work to keep these numbers consistently low.

Surpassing Hampshire and Hardy Counties

Grant County is significantly safer than Hampshire County (502.7 per 100K) and Hardy County (1,165.0 per 100K). It maintains a reputation as a regional stronghold of safety. Few neighboring counties can match its extremely low crime metrics.

Low Rates Across All Crime Categories

Violent crime sits at 117.8 per 100K, while property crime is even lower at 90.6. Both figures are tiny fractions of national averages, where property crime typically exceeds 2,015.7. Residents live in an environment where crime is statistically very unlikely.

Preserving a Safe Community

With a property crime rate of only 90.6, Grant County is exceptionally secure. Simple measures like locking doors and getting to know your neighbors help sustain this peaceful atmosphere. Vigilance remains the best tool to keep these record-low numbers in place.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Grant County

via SchoolsByCounty

Grant County's Five-School Network

Grant County manages five public schools serving a total of 1,615 students. The landscape includes two elementary schools, one high school, and two specialized facilities. All institutions are organized under a single county-wide district.

Steady Rates with Efficient Spending

The county maintains a 92.0% graduation rate, roughly in line with the West Virginia state average of 92.8% and above the national 87.0%. Spending is lean at $6,564 per pupil, which is lower than both the state and national averages. Despite the lower funding, the county's school score of 53.6 remains competitive within the state.

The Grant County School District

Grant County Schools oversees the education of all 1,615 students in the region. There are no charter schools available, meaning the traditional public district manages 100% of the county's education. The largest hubs are the Petersburg schools, which anchor the district's enrollment.

Blending Town and Rural Settings

The county's schools are split between three town locations and two rural areas. Average school size is 404 students, though the Petersburg campuses are significantly larger, with both the elementary and high schools serving over 600 students each. In contrast, the Union Educational Complex serves just 186 students, offering a more intimate learning environment.

Housing Options Near Grant County Schools

Whether you prefer a town home in Petersburg or a rural retreat, Grant County schools are accessible from across the region. A graduation rate that meets state standards makes this a stable choice for growing families. Check out local listings to find a home near these community-focused schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Grant County

via RiskByCounty

Grant County faces moderate disaster risk

Grant County's composite risk score of 33.17 and Very Low rating indicate below-average natural disaster exposure compared to the nation. However, the county sits noticeably below West Virginia's state average of 49.21.

Low-risk county in eastern West Virginia

Grant County's score of 33.17 places it in the lower-risk category statewide, approximately one-third below the West Virginia average of 49.21. The county benefits from an eastern mountain location that moderates many hazard types.

Higher risk than Gilmer, lower than Hardy

Grant's score of 33.17 exceeds Gilmer County's exceptionally low 11.45 but falls below Hardy County (42.46) and Hampshire County (38.01). The county's wildfire (51.46) and flood risks (57.86) are elevated relative to its closest neighbors.

Flood, wildfire, and hurricane top concerns

Grant County faces significant flood risk (57.86) and wildfire exposure (51.46), with hurricane impact also notable at 64.58. Tornado and earthquake risks are comparatively low at 14.69 and 28.56 respectively.

Flood and wildfire insurance protections matter

Grant County residents should prioritize flood insurance given the 57.86 risk score, particularly in stream valleys and floodplains. Homeowners should also ensure adequate property coverage and maintain defensible space around structures due to wildfire risk of 51.46.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Grant County

via WaterByCounty

Grant County Below State Violation Average

Grant County carries a drinking water grade of F, based on six health violations recorded over the last five years. However, its violation rate of 51.7 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the West Virginia average of 173.7. While violations occur, the system's performance remains better than many peer counties in the state.

Full Compliance with Watershed Standards

The 2022 federal assessment cycle found that 0.0% of the 11 assessed water bodies in Grant County are impaired. This performance aligns with the statewide average, indicating that local streams currently meet Clean Water Act requirements. These findings support the continued use of local waters for fishing and other regulated activities.

Extensive Data on Inorganics and Metals

Monitoring activity in Grant County is robust, with 6,502 measurements taken across 31 sites over the last five years. Scientists prioritize testing for inorganics, metals, and nutrients, providing a clear chemical profile of the South Branch Potomac basin. This data-rich environment allows for early detection of potential industrial or agricultural runoff.

South Branch Potomac Running Below Average

The South Branch Potomac River near Petersburg currently shows a discharge of 230 cfs. This represents 31% of the long-term mean flow of 746 cfs for this time of year. Reduced flows often lead to higher water temperatures, which can impact local cold-water fish populations.

Proactive Testing for Private Supplies

Given the history of drinking water violations, residents may benefit from using a NSF-certified filter to manage potential contaminants. Because streamflow is currently one-third of its normal volume, monitor for changes in water clarity or odor. High monitoring density in the area means public data is often available to help residents understand their local sub-watershed health.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Grant County

via WeatherByCounty

A cooler climate with heavy winter impact

Grant County averages 50.8°F annually, making it notably cooler than the national median. Its position creates a unique microclimate that produces significantly more snow than most of the United States.

One of West Virginia's winter leaders

Grant County is cooler than the state average of 52.8°F, but its true distinction is the 117.8 inches of annual snowfall. This is more than double the state average, defining the county's winter identity.

Outpacing neighbors in winter accumulation

While neighboring Hardy County receives only 21.4 inches of snow, Grant County is buried under nearly 118 inches. This massive disparity occurs despite the counties sharing similar summer high temperatures.

Mild summers met by extreme winter snow

July averages a comfortable 71.5°F, though 16 days still top 90°F. Winter is the dominant season, defined by a January average of 29.6°F and persistent, heavy snowfalls.

Winter readiness is a year-round requirement

Residents must invest in high-capacity snow removal equipment to handle the 117.8 inches of annual snowfall. Structural reinforcement for roof snow loads and cold-weather insulation are critical for local homes.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Grant County

via SoilByCounty

Eastern Panhandle Highlands

Specific pH and taxonomic data for Grant County are currently not available in this dataset. However, the county is situated in a region where the state average pH is 5.25, reflecting typical Appalachian acidity. These soils are historically shaped by the rugged geology of the Potomac Highlands.

Diverse Appalachian Textures

While local textural percentages are limited, the county's varied terrain includes both valley floors and mountain ridges. This diversity often results in a wide range of drainage capabilities across the county. Residents generally rely on regional benchmarks to estimate the balance of sand and clay in their soil.

Strong Regional Potential

Grant County sits in a state where organic matter averages a high 21.03%, far exceeding the national average of 2.0%. While local AWC data is restricted, the state's average capacity of 0.142 in/in suggests a baseline of decent moisture retention. These conditions are typically well-suited for forestry and grazing land.

High Elevation Hydrology

The county's hydrology is defined by its steep slopes and the headwaters of the Potomac River. Without specific hydrologic group data, land use is often determined by the slope and the proximity to drainage basins. Managing water runoff is a primary concern for local land development and agriculture.

Cool Climate Hardiness in 6a

Located in Zone 6a, Grant County experiences slightly colder winters than its western neighbors. This climate is ideal for apples, stone fruits, and cool-weather root vegetables. The crisp mountain air and regional soil fertility offer a unique environment for dedicated gardeners.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Grant County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging conditions for Grant County lawns

With a lawn difficulty score of 55.7, Grant County is more challenging for turf care than the West Virginia average of 66.5. This Zone 6a county sits closer to the national median, meaning homeowners must be more proactive with maintenance. Success here requires a closer eye on weather patterns and soil health.

Shorter seasons and higher heat

Grant County experiences 16 extreme heat days, nearly matching the state average, but has a lower heat-accumulation of 2,874 growing degree days. The 46.5 inches of precipitation is near the state average, providing adequate natural watering for much of the year. However, the shorter growing window in Zone 6a requires more precise timing for fertilization and mowing.

Understanding your local soil

Specific soil data for pH and texture are unavailable for this county, making a professional soil test a vital first step. Because Grant County scores lower on the difficulty scale, local soils may require more amendments to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 pH range. Focus on organic matter additions to help the ground handle the local heat and frost cycles.

Monitoring ongoing dry conditions

Drought is a significant concern here, with 100% of the county currently classified as abnormally dry (D0). Grant County has spent 39 weeks in drought over the last year, which is substantially higher than many neighboring counties. Installing rain barrels or efficient irrigation systems is essential to protect your investment during these frequent dry stretches.

Working with a tighter growing window

Because the last spring frost typically occurs late on May 13, wait for warmer soil before seeding. The first fall frost arrives on October 20, so cool-season grasses like turf-type tall fescue must be established early in the autumn. Despite the challenges, selecting hardy, drought-tolerant seed varieties will help your lawn thrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grant County's county score?
Grant County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 70.2 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 Grant County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Grant County ranks #8 among all counties in West 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 Grant County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Grant County is $555, with an effective tax rate of 0.33%. This earns Grant County a tax score of 97.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Grant County?
The median household income in Grant County, West Virginia is $61,530 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Grant County earns an income score of 43.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Grant County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Grant County scores 70.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #8 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Grant 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 Grant County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.