countyscore
55.6
County Score
Property Tax 87Water Quality 86Cost of Living 76.7

County Report Card

About Halifax County, Virginia

Stronger than the Median

Halifax County posts a 55.6 composite score, placing it ahead of the national median of 50.0. It offers a higher tier of livability than many other rural counties across the country.

Above Virginia's Average Mark

The county's score of 55.6 is notably higher than the Virginia state average of 50.9. This performance is largely driven by its exceptional tax and cost profiles.

Tax and Utility Leader

Halifax boasts an impressive tax score of 87.0 and a water score of 86.0. Its effective tax rate of 0.490% and median gross rent of $769 make it one of the most affordable spots in the region.

Income and Health Opportunities

The county faces challenges in income levels with a score of 13.0 and health outcomes at 34.0. Median household incomes of $49,244 reflect a local economy that is still in development.

The Value-Seeker's Paradise

Halifax is a top choice for retirees or those on a fixed income who want to minimize taxes and maximize utility quality. It offers a very high standard of logistical living for a very low price.

Score breakdown

Tax87Cost76.7Safety44.9Health34Schools38.5Income13Risk53Water86Weather66.1
🏛87
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠76.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼13
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡44.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤34
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡53
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨32.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱52.2
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

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Deep Dives

Halifax County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Halifax County

via TaxByCounty

Halifax County offers the nation's lowest tax burden

At 0.490%, Halifax County's effective tax rate ranks among the absolute lowest in America, trailing the national median of 0.80% by a stunning 39%. The median property tax of just $729 annually is less than 27% of the national median of $2,690.

Virginia's lowest-taxing county overall

Halifax County holds the distinction of the lowest effective tax rate among all 95 Virginia counties and cities at 0.490%, paired with some of the state's most affordable home values. At $729, the median tax bill is a fraction of Virginia's $1,960 statewide median.

Lowest rate in rural Southside Virginia

Halifax County's 0.490% rate significantly undercuts all regional neighbors, including Greensville County (0.588%) and Grayson County (0.620%). On median-priced homes, Halifax residents pay roughly $200 less annually than comparable Southside properties.

Median home of $148,900 costs just $729 yearly

Halifax County homeowners with a median-valued $148,900 property pay approximately $729 in annual property taxes—among the lowest in the entire United States. Even with mortgage-related fees ($793), the total remains remarkably affordable.

File an appeal if you believe you're overassessed

Halifax County's low rates don't guarantee accurate assessments—overvaluations happen here too, and appeals are your right. Challenging your assessment costs nothing and could save you money if your property has been valued above its true market worth.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Halifax County

via CostByCounty

Halifax nearly matches state average

Halifax County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.7% nearly mirrors Virginia's state average of 18.6%, positioning it as a middling affordability choice statewide. With a median household income of $49,244—34% below the national average—residents manage modest housing costs on below-average wages.

Right-at-average affordability

Halifax County ranks close to the state median for housing affordability, with its 18.7% rent-to-income ratio essentially matching Virginia's overall average. The $769 monthly median rent is 33% below the state average, reflecting Halifax's rural character and limited wage economy.

Sweet spot among rural peers

Halifax's $769 rent runs $11 below Giles County yet exceeds Grayson's by $57, positioning it squarely in the rural affordability middle. Compared to Greensville to the west, Halifax offers $191 cheaper rent with nearly identical incomes, making it the better rural choice.

Modest costs on modest incomes

At $769 monthly, median rent takes 18.7% of Halifax's $49,244 household income, while homeownership costs $606 monthly on a median home value of $148,900. Housing consumes roughly 25% of earnings, leaving limited cushion for other needs in Halifax County budgets.

Halifax for stable, rooted residents

Halifax County offers reasonable rural affordability with stable, modest housing costs—ideal for those with secure remote work or retirement income. If you're seeking employment, income prospects here are limited; compare to Giles County (similar affordability, slightly higher wages) or Greensville (higher costs, similar wages).

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Halifax County

via IncomeByCounty

Halifax struggles below national average

Halifax County's median household income of $49,244 is 34% below the national median of $74,755, placing it among America's lowest-income counties. Per capita income of $27,115 is dramatically below national norms, indicating severe economic hardship. Halifax faces a substantial income gap with the typical American county.

Among Virginia's most economically challenged

Halifax County's median household income of $49,244 trails Virginia's state average of $74,957 by over $25,000—a devastating 34% gap. Per capita income of $27,115 is severely below Virginia's $39,155 average, reflecting very limited earning opportunities. Halifax ranks among the state's lowest-income communities.

Poorest county in struggling rural region

Halifax's $49,244 median income ranks lowest among regional peers, outpaced only by Grayson County ($42,864) in this economically challenged corner of the state. Compared to Goochland ($118,695) or Gloucester ($83,689), Halifax residents earn less than 42% as much annually. The county faces severe economic disadvantages.

Housing costs consume critical resources

Halifax's rent-to-income ratio of 18.7% means nearly one-fifth of household income goes to housing—a significant burden on already-tight budgets. Median home value of $148,900 is difficult to achieve for average earners, limiting wealth-building through homeownership. Housing affordability is a pressing concern for many families.

Seek assistance and build foundations

Halifax residents should connect with local nonprofits and government agencies offering financial assistance and free counseling to navigate economic challenges. Building even modest emergency savings is critical before any investment activity. Explore low-cost ways to develop financial literacy and maximize whatever resources are available.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Halifax County

via CrimeByCounty

Halifax County remains safer than average

Halifax reports a total crime rate of 1,226.0 per 100,000, which is roughly half the national average of 2,385.5. This translates to a strong safety score of 98.1 out of 100. Residents enjoy a public safety environment that significantly exceeds the national benchmark.

Halifax holds its own in Virginia

With a safety score of 98.1, Halifax exceeds the state average of 97.3. The county's total crime rate is also lower than the Virginia average of 1,728.8 per 100,000. These figures demonstrate that Halifax is a reliable choice for safety within the state.

Regional safety comparisons for Halifax

Halifax's crime rate of 1,226.0 is nearly identical to Greene County's 1,206.9. It is slightly higher than Grayson County's 957.3 but remains much lower than the rates seen in larger cities like Hampton. Local statistics show a consistent and manageable level of law enforcement activity.

Breaking down the crime statistics

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 191.1 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 1,034.9. The violent crime rate is comfortably below the national average of 369.8. This indicates that the majority of police calls involve theft or property disputes rather than violent incidents.

Prioritize property security at home

Since property crime is the primary issue, securing outdoor equipment and using alarm systems can deter potential thieves. Four reporting agencies work together to keep the county safe and informed. Staying active in neighborhood watch programs can further improve local security outcomes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Halifax County

via HealthByCounty

Halifax's health gap is stark

At 72.1 years, Halifax County residents live 5.9 years below the U.S. average of 78.0 years. With 22.1% reporting poor or fair health, the county reflects a pattern of limited healthcare access and high disease prevalence common to distressed rural areas.

Among Virginia's lowest-ranked counties

Halifax's 72.1-year life expectancy falls 3 years below Virginia's 75.1-year average, placing it in the state's bottom tier. This sustained deficit signals chronic underinvestment in primary and preventive care.

Shares crisis with Grayson and Greensville

Halifax (72.1 years) sits in a cluster with Grayson (74.6) and Greensville (71.4), all facing similar provider shortages and economic stress. Together, these three counties represent a regional health emergency requiring coordinated intervention.

Limited doctors, high uninsured burden

Halifax has only 39 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and an 8.8% uninsured rate—among the highest in this group. Uninsured residents and those dependent on distant providers often defer care until conditions worsen.

Coverage opens doors to care

With nearly 1 in 11 residents uninsured and few providers nearby, coverage becomes your lifeline to timely treatment. Call 1-800-MEDICARE or check healthcare.gov to find plans that help you reach available care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Halifax County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Rural and Town Network

Halifax County operates 11 public schools that serve a total enrollment of 4,620 students. The infrastructure includes seven elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, providing comprehensive coverage across the region. All schools are managed under a single district, ensuring administrative consistency.

Meeting Benchmarks with Targeted Investment

The county's 87.0% graduation rate aligns exactly with the national average, though it trails the Virginia state average of 89.0%. Spending is lean at $7,191 per pupil, which is approximately $750 less than the state average and significantly below the national average. The overall school score of 52.4 reflects a system working toward statewide performance parity.

Consolidated Management for Halifax Students

Halifax County Public Schools oversees all 11 campuses and the entire 4,620 student body. The county features zero charter schools, keeping its educational focus entirely on traditional public offerings. This single-district model simplifies the transition for students as they move from the seven elementary schools into the secondary system.

Balanced Rural and Town Learning Hubs

The county offers a diverse locale mix with six rural schools and five town-based schools. While the average school size is 462 students, Halifax County High acts as a massive central hub with 1,397 students. In contrast, Sinai Elementary provides a much smaller, intimate environment with only 220 students.

Finding Your Community in Halifax County

For families seeking a school system that reflects both rural and town living, Halifax County offers a unique variety of locations. The consistency of a single district makes home buying easier as students remain within the same system throughout their education. High school size and elementary school intimacy are key factors to consider when choosing a neighborhood here.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Halifax County

via RiskByCounty

Halifax County faces elevated disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 47.01, Halifax County ranks in the "Relatively Low" category and notably exceeds the national average. This southern Virginia county experiences substantially higher hazard exposure than most of the commonwealth.

Virginia's highest-risk county in group

Halifax County's score of 47.01 is 41% higher than Virginia's state average of 33.27, placing it among the state's riskier counties. Proximity to the coast and exposure to multiple storm systems drive this elevation.

Significantly riskier than nearby Greensville

Halifax County's 47.01 score far exceeds Greensville County (17.78), reflecting greater coastal hurricane influence and broader storm vulnerability. The roughly 30-point gap represents one of Virginia's most dramatic county-level differences.

Hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes compound

Hurricane risk (78.56), earthquake risk (63.26), and tornado risk (34.26) form Halifax County's hazard trinity, each substantially above state averages. Flood risk (54.36) also exceeds most Virginia counties, while wildfire risk (25.54) remains comparatively low.

Multi-hazard insurance essential

Halifax County homeowners must prioritize flood insurance, especially near mapped floodplains vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical systems. Additionally, earthquake coverage and a robust emergency preparedness plan address the county's compound disaster exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Halifax County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm Southern Border Climate

Halifax County averages 58.5°F annually, making it significantly warmer than the national median. It receives 46.4 inches of precipitation, providing a humid environment for the region.

One of Virginia's Warmer Counties

Halifax exceeds the Virginia state average of 55.9°F by more than two degrees. It also surpasses the state's average precipitation level of 45.7 inches.

Hotter and Less Snowy Than Neighbors

Halifax is warmer than Goochland and Fredericksburg, and its 5.5 inches of snow is among the lowest for inland Virginia. It records 40 days of extreme heat, matching the highest levels in the region.

Long Summers and Very Mild Winters

July averages a warm 78.7°F, contributing to a summer-long average of 76.7°F. Winters are the mildest in the set, with a December-February average of 40.4°F and very little snow.

Plan for Sustained Summer Heat

Outdoor workers and residents should plan for 40 days of extreme heat each year. Given the low 5.5-inch snowfall, winter gear is less critical than robust cooling and dehumidification.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Halifax County

via SoilByCounty

Milder acidity in Southside Virginia

Halifax County soils have an average pH of 5.64, which is notably less acidic than the Virginia state average of 5.23. While still below the national median of 6.5, this higher pH makes it more hospitable for a wider range of traditional crops.

Evenly distributed sand and silt mix

The soil composition is 49.4% sand and 34.6% silt, creating a versatile medium for agriculture. With 16.0% clay, the soil has enough body to retain nutrients without becoming overly heavy or difficult to plow.

High water capacity offsets low organic matter

While organic matter is low at 1.48%, the soil excels in moisture retention with an available water capacity of 0.152 in/in. This exceeds the state average and helps protect crops during the warmer periods of the growing season.

Reliable hydrology for productive fields

The soil’s ability to hold more water than the state average is a significant asset for local farmers. This characteristic, combined with a 49.4% sand content, provides a stable environment for roots to access both air and moisture.

Diverse opportunities in hardiness zone 7b

Halifax's long growing season and favorable water capacity are perfect for tobacco, grains, and large vegetable gardens. Start your planting early to take full advantage of this county's resilient soil profile.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Halifax County

via LawnByCounty

Tackling Tough Turf in Halifax

Halifax County earns a 52.2 lawn difficulty score, placing it near the national average but slightly behind the rest of Virginia. This Zone 7b area deals with high heat and recent severe moisture deficits that test the resilience of any lawn.

High Heat vs. Steady Rain

With 40 extreme heat days and 46.4 inches of rain, the climate is a tug-of-war between moisture and heat stress. The high count of 4377 growing degree days ensures a long season for grass growth, provided there is enough water.

Working with Balanced Soil Textures

The soil pH of 5.64 is closer to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range than many neighbors, though it still requires some buffering. The mix of 16.0% clay and 49.4% sand provides a balanced foundation that responds well to standard aeration and seeding.

Managing Severe Countywide Drought

Halifax is currently facing a 100% severe drought coverage, following 25 weeks of drought over the past year. Strict water conservation, such as watering only in the early morning, is vital to keeping turf alive under these extreme conditions.

Seed Between the Frost Dates

Transition-zone grasses like tall fescue are recommended, as they can withstand both the winter frost and the 40 days of summer heat. Aim to seed after the last frost on April 10 or before the first frost on October 30.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Halifax County's county score?
Halifax County, Virginia has a composite county score of 55.6 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 Halifax County rank among counties in Virginia?
Halifax County ranks #45 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 Halifax County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Halifax County is $729, with an effective tax rate of 0.49%. This earns Halifax County a tax score of 87/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Halifax County?
The median household income in Halifax County, Virginia is $49,244 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Halifax County earns an income score of 13/100 on CountyScore.
Is Halifax County, Virginia a good place to live?
Halifax County scores 55.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #45 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Halifax 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 Halifax 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.