39
County Score
Water Quality 86Income & Jobs 80.7Weather & Climate 72.2

County Report Card

About Hall County, Georgia

Facing National Livability Headwinds

Hall County holds a composite score of 39.0, which is over 10 points below the national median of 50.0. This ranking places it in a challenging position compared to the average U.S. county. While economically active, the county struggles to translate that growth into a high overall livability score.

Below the Georgia State Average

The county’s score of 39.0 falls short of the Georgia average of 46.7. Hall County experiences many of the pressures common to fast-growing corridors, including high costs and increased safety concerns. It ranks behind many of its North Georgia neighbors in providing a balanced lifestyle profile.

Strong Incomes and Reliable Water

Economic strength is a key asset, with an income score of 80.7 and a median household income of $77,430. The county also provides high-quality utility service, evidenced by a water score of 86.0. These factors support a lifestyle for residents with established, well-paying careers.

High Risk and Steep Housing Costs

Livability is hampered by a very low risk score of 15.7 and a cost score of 15.7. Rent averages $1,247 per month, and median home values have climbed to $313,600, squeezing lower-income households. Safety also remains a concern, with a score of 30.5 that sits below regional norms.

Suited for Established Professionals

Hall County is best for individuals who have already secured high-paying roles and can afford the premium price of local housing. It offers excellent economic upside for those working in the region’s expanding industries. However, those sensitive to environmental risks or seeking a low-cost lifestyle may find better options elsewhere.

2040608010056.715.730.536.842.480.715.78672.2Tax56.7Cost15.7Safety30.5Health36.8Schools42.4Income80.7Risk15.7Water86Weather72.239/100
This county
National avg
3 above average5 below average

Hall County DNA

Foverall

How Hall County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hall County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (80.7/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (15.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
56.7
Cost
15.7-32.3
Safety
30.5-24.5
Health
36.8-13.200000000000003
Schools
42.4-11.600000000000001
Income
80.7+29.700000000000003
Risk
15.7-31.3
Water
86+28
Weather
72.2+16.200000000000003
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Compare mortgage rates in Hall County

Whether buying or refinancing in Hall County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$313,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,247/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$313,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$49,880/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $77,430/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

28.3

per 100K

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

Deep Dives

Hall County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hall County

via TaxByCounty

Hall's rate is below national median

At 0.760%, Hall County's effective property tax rate ranks slightly above the national median of 0.720%, placing it in the middle of the national distribution. The median property tax of $2,382 is slightly below the national median of $2,690, reflecting median home values of $313,600 compared to the national median of $281,900.

Mid-range tax burden within Georgia

Hall County's 0.760% effective rate sits slightly below Georgia's state average of 0.898%, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of Georgia counties. The median tax of $2,382 exceeds the state median of $1,529, driven by higher median home values in the $313,600 range.

Middle of the pack regionally

Hall County's 0.760% rate falls between lower-taxed Habersham (0.627%) and higher-taxed Grady (0.980%), making it a reasonable middle option. Median taxes of $2,382 are higher than most rural neighbors but lower than Gwinnett's $3,381.

Hall homeowners pay $2,382 annually

The median home valued at $313,600 generates an estimated annual property tax of $2,382, or about $199 per month. With a mortgage, that obligation rises to $2,659 annually as escrow accounts collect taxes upfront.

Assessment appeals can yield real savings

Hall County homeowners often benefit from appealing overassessed properties, especially in fast-growing areas where appraisals may lag behind or exceed fair market value. Contacting the county tax assessor about a potential appeal costs nothing and could reduce your annual bill by hundreds.

Cost of Living in Hall County

via CostByCounty

Hall County holds moderate ground

Hall County renters spend 19.3% of income on housing, slightly above the national comfort zone but still reasonable given the county's proximity to Atlanta's job markets. With a median income of $77,430—above the U.S. average—Hall residents balance cost and earning power effectively.

Hall mirrors Georgia's housing reality

Hall County's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio sits marginally above Georgia's state average of 18.6%, while its $1,247 median rent reflects suburban development pressure. Hall represents a middle path between rural affordability and metro-area costs.

Hall between rural and urban pricing

Hall's $1,247 rent falls between Habersham ($939) and Gwinnett ($1,713), positioning it as a growth corridor with moderate price growth. Home values of $313,600 reflect Hall's status as a transition zone between mountain and metro Georgia.

Hall's balanced housing equation

Hall households earning $77,430 annually dedicate $1,247 to rent—19.3% of gross income, leaving substantial resources for other needs. Homeowners average $1,216 monthly, making both pathways affordable for middle-income families.

Hall offers growth with moderation

Hall County provides Atlanta job-market access without Gwinnett's premium pricing, making it attractive for relocators seeking urban connections on moderate budgets. Compare Hall's housing costs to your current metro area—you may find a significant sweet spot here.

Income & Jobs in Hall County

via IncomeByCounty

Hall surpasses national income median

Hall County's median household income of $77,430 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 4%. The county has cultivated a diverse economic base supporting middle- and upper-middle-class households.

Solid performer in Georgia's economy

At $77,430, Hall County's median income outpaces Georgia's state average of $60,488 by $16,942, placing it squarely in the state's upper-middle income range. Only about 40% of Georgia counties achieve this income level.

Income leader in northeast Georgia

Hall's $77,430 exceeds nearby Habersham ($65,622) and Haralson ($65,016) counties, ranking it among the region's highest-earning communities. Gwinnett County ($84,823) to the south offers the next income tier in the metro sphere.

Housing costs reasonable for earnings

Hall's 19.3% rent-to-income ratio falls comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, offering renters discretionary income beyond housing. Median home values of $313,600 align well with household earning capacity.

Invest surplus income strategically

Hall County households earning above the state median should direct savings beyond housing and living costs into retirement accounts and diversified investments. The county's economic stability supports long-term financial planning and wealth accumulation.

Safety in Hall County

via CrimeByCounty

Hall County Safety Analysis

Hall County holds a 97.4 safety score, representing a secure environment despite being below the state average. The total crime rate of 1,649.6 per 100,000 people remains well under the national figure of 2,385.5.

Comparing Hall to Georgia Average

With a safety score of 97.4, Hall trails the Georgia average of 97.8 slightly. Six reporting agencies coordinate efforts to manage the county's public safety needs.

Crime Rates Near Hall County

Hall County's crime rate of 1,649.6 is higher than Habersham’s 848.3 but lower than many comparable national hubs. It sits in a middle ground for safety within the north Georgia region.

Focus on Property Crimes

The data shows 270.3 violent crimes and 1,379.3 property crimes per 100,000 residents. Property crime is more prevalent here than in adjacent rural counties, though still safer than national trends.

Deterring Local Property Theft

Enhanced home security is recommended for residents to mitigate property crime risks. Visible cameras and robust locks are effective tools for deterring opportunistic theft in the area.

Schools in Hall County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse and Growing School System

Hall County features a large-scale educational landscape with 47 public schools serving 35,321 students. The network includes 26 elementary, 10 middle, and 11 high schools across two distinct districts. This robust infrastructure caters to a rapidly growing population in North Georgia.

Solid Graduation and Achievement Levels

Hall County students achieve an 88.4% graduation rate, successfully outperforming both state and national benchmarks. The county allocates $7,177 per pupil, maintaining a competitive school score of 53.1. These metrics indicate a stable and effective educational environment for local families.

Hall County and Gainesville City Systems

Public education is split between the Hall County district, with 37 schools, and the Gainesville City district, which manages 9 schools. Gainesville High School is the largest individual campus with 2,294 students. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county's public system.

From City Centers to Rural Ridges

Hall County offers a rare mix of locales, including 18 rural schools, 16 suburban schools, and 12 city campuses. The average school size is 752 students, though large high schools like Flowery Branch serve over 1,300. This variety allows families to choose between urban energy and rural tranquility.

Find Your Home in Hall County

Whether you prefer the city life of Gainesville or the suburban sprawl of Flowery Branch, Hall County has a school for you. Graduation rates above the state average make this a reliable area for long-term property investment. Explore homes near these established school districts to find the perfect fit for your family.

Disaster Risk in Hall County

via RiskByCounty

Hall County: Elevated Risk Nationally

Hall County scores 84.26 on the composite risk index, marking it as relatively moderate to high-risk and well above the national average. The score reflects significant exposure to tornadoes (94.12), flooding (86.16), and earthquakes (84.29).

Second-Highest Risk in Georgia

Hall County ranks second in Georgia for composite risk at 84.26, exceeded only by Gwinnett (95.42) and far above the state average of 39.49. The county's growing population in a high-hazard zone amplifies exposure to severe weather.

Significantly Riskier Than Mountain Counties

Hall's score of 84.26 dramatically exceeds Habersham (38.90), Greene (37.25), and Haralson (27.61), though it remains below neighboring Gwinnett (95.42). Hall's urban corridor creates concentrated risk unlike its rural neighbors.

Tornado and Flood Risks Peak Here

Hall residents face tornado risk at 94.12 and flood risk at 86.16, both among Georgia's highest. Earthquake risk of 84.29 adds to the county's multi-hazard vulnerability, requiring year-round preparedness.

Invest in Comprehensive Coverage

Hall County's elevated tornado and flood risks make robust insurance coverage essential—don't skip flood insurance even if your mortgage doesn't require it. Consider reinforcing your home for wind resistance and ensure your homeowners policy covers hail damage from severe storms.

Water Quality in Hall County

via WaterByCounty

Hall County Achieves Full Drinking Water Compliance

Hall County earns a Grade A for its public drinking water, recording zero health violations over the last five years. This performance is a strong indicator of safety, especially compared to the Georgia average violation rate of 152.5. Local water systems are successfully meeting all federal health-based safety standards.

More Than Half of Local Streams Are Impaired

In Hall County, 52.8% of assessed water bodies are listed as impaired according to the 2022 reporting cycle. Fecal coliform and biological stressors for fish and macroinvertebrates are the leading causes of these failures. This impairment rate exceeds the Georgia statewide average of 48.4%.

Robust Data Collection Supports Watershed Management

Hall County monitors 23 sites, generating a substantial 34,262 measurements over the past five years. Data collection spans physical, nutrient, and organic characteristic groups to provide a comprehensive view of water quality. This large data set is essential for tracking the impact of local development.

No Active USGS Streamgages Currently Serving Hall County

There is no representative USGS streamgage located in Hall County to provide real-time flow data for its primary rivers. Without live discharge metrics, local water managers rely on periodic monitoring and lake level data for source water assessments. Residents should continue to monitor drinking water compliance as their primary health signal.

Manage Runoff to Protect Local Watershed Health

While tap water is highly rated, the high stream impairment rate suggests that urban and agricultural runoff is a significant local issue. Residents can help by reducing fertilizer use and ensuring proper disposal of household chemicals. Protecting these watersheds is vital for maintaining the county's excellent drinking water status.

Weather & Climate in Hall County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate climate with ample rain

Hall County averages 60.5°F, staying well above the national median temperature. It features a humid subtropical climate with generous annual rainfall.

Cooler than the Georgia norm

The county is 3.2°F cooler than the state average of 63.7°F. It offers a more temperate alternative to the heat found in southern Georgia.

More snow than southern neighbors

Hall County receives 1.6 inches of snow annually, which is higher than many of its state peers. Precipitation remains high at 54 inches per year.

Fewer heat days than average

The county experiences 34 days of extreme heat, much lower than the Georgia average. Winters are crisp with a January average of 41.8°F.

Plan for moisture and mild heat

Robust waterproofing is necessary to handle 54 inches of annual rain. HVAC needs are moderate, as the county sees only about a month of 90-degree days.

Soil Quality in Hall County

via SoilByCounty

The Piedmont Heritage of Hall

Specific taxonomic data and pH levels for Hall County are currently unavailable in this dataset. Generally, the region consists of acidic Piedmont soils that often require lime for optimal gardening. Testing your own soil's pH is the best way to determine its unique identity.

Analyzing Local Soil Texture

Detailed percentages of sand, silt, and clay are not currently recorded for Hall County. Most neighboring counties in this part of Georgia feature a mix of sandy loam or clay loam. Observational tests, like the 'ribbon test,' can help you identify your local texture.

Bridging the Data Gap

Data regarding organic matter and water capacity is currently missing from the county records. To ensure success, gardeners should assume moderate fertility and amend with organic material. Local agricultural extensions can provide specific fertility tests for your property.

Managing Water in Hall

The dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not listed for this area. It is important to watch how water moves across your land after a typical Georgia thunderstorm. Well-managed drainage is crucial for preventing erosion on the county's rolling hills.

Cooler Summers in Zone 8a

Hall County is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, which is perfect for a wide variety of temperate plants. Even without detailed soil data, you can succeed with hardy native species and traditional summer vegetables. Get a head start on the season by prepping your beds this spring.

Lawn Care in Hall County

via LawnByCounty

Hall County Offers Favorable Growing Conditions

Hall County's lawn score of 47.3 is significantly higher than the Georgia average of 35.8. This indicates that residents here find it easier to maintain a healthy lawn than most Georgians.

Mild Summers Help Lawn Health

The county experiences only 34 extreme heat days annually, which is nearly half the state average of 65. Combined with 54.0 inches of precipitation, these conditions are very supportive for active turf growth.

Limited Soil Data Suggests Testing

While specific soil composition data for Hall County is currently unavailable, nearby areas typically feature acidic red clay. It is best to perform a soil test to ensure your pH hits the 6.0-7.0 target.

Severe Drought Impacts the Entire Area

Hall County is currently 100.0% covered by severe drought conditions following 18 dry weeks in the past year. Focus on deep-root watering twice a week to keep grass resilient through these dry spells.

Target Late March for Seeding

The typical last frost arrives on March 27, making it safe to begin your Zone 8a lawn projects then. Bermuda and Zoysia are highly recommended for their ability to handle both local sun and drought.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hall County's county score?
Hall County, Georgia has a composite county score of 39 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 Hall County rank among counties in Georgia?
Hall County ranks #125 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 Hall County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Hall County is $2,382, with an effective tax rate of 0.76%. This earns Hall County a tax score of 56.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hall County?
The median household income in Hall County, Georgia is $77,430 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hall County earns an income score of 80.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hall County, Georgia a good place to live?
Hall County scores 39/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #125 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Hall 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 Hall County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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