countyscore
46.5
County Score
Property Tax 90Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 75.3

County Report Card

About Hamblen County, Tennessee

Searching for National Parity

Hamblen County records a 46.5 composite score, placing it below the national median of 50.0. This indicates specific areas of need relative to the average American county.

Trailing the State Average

The county’s score of 46.5 lags behind the Tennessee state average of 51.3. It faces stiff competition for residents compared to higher-scoring neighboring counties.

Strong Infrastructure and Low Taxes

A tax score of 90.0 is a major asset, supported by a competitive 0.457% effective tax rate. Additionally, the water quality score of 86.0 ensures a high standard of utility reliability.

Safety and Wage Concerns

Public safety is a notable concern with a score of 9.0, the lowest in its profile. The income score of 20.3 also reflects a median household income of $52,794, trailing many state peers.

Utility-Driven Growth Potential

Hamblen appeals to residents looking for low taxes and solid water infrastructure in a transitioning area. It is best for those who value utility reliability and a lower cost of living.

Score breakdown

Tax90Cost59.2Safety9Health22.1Schools53.8Income20.3Risk52.9Water86Weather75.3
🏛90
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠59.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼20.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤22.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓53.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡52.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤75.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨28.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.8
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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Nearby counties

Grainger County
Tennessee
60.6
Jefferson County
Tennessee
53.8
Cocke County
Tennessee
43.9
Hancock County
Tennessee
59.9
Greene County
Tennessee
53.3
Hawkins County
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47.1
Claiborne County
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64.5
Sevier County
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46.8

Deep Dives

Hamblen County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hamblen County

via TaxByCounty

Hamblen taxes well below national average

Hamblen County's effective tax rate of 0.457% sits below Tennessee's state average of 0.511% and well below the national median of 0.76%. The median annual property tax of $863 represents just 32% of the national median of $2,690.

Hamblen in Tennessee's lower-tax group

At 0.457%, Hamblen County's effective tax rate places it in Tennessee's bottom 45% for tax burden among the state's 95 counties. The median annual bill of $863 is roughly $150 below the state median of $1,016.

Hamblen competitive in eight-county region

Hamblen's 0.457% rate sits just above Greene (0.431%) and Giles (0.467%), offering moderate tax relief in the region. The county provides favorable tax positioning compared to high-tax Gibson and Franklin.

What your Hamblen home costs in taxes

On the county median home value of $188,800, the annual property tax bill totals approximately $863. With a mortgage, you'll pay about $925; owning outright brings the bill to roughly $778.

Challenge assessments to cut taxes further

Many Hamblen County homeowners overpay property taxes due to inflated assessments that don't match current market values. Tennessee allows property tax appeals every two years, providing a direct path to potential savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hamblen County

via CostByCounty

Hamblen County Exceeds National Housing Burden

Hamblen County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio significantly exceeds the national average, placing renters in a tighter financial position than typical American households. With a median household income of $52,794 and $838 monthly rent, housing demands a notably larger income share.

Hamblen County Among Less Affordable Areas

At 19.1%, Hamblen County's rent-to-income ratio substantially exceeds Tennessee's 17.6% state average, ranking among the state's less affordable counties. Renters pay only $22 less than the state median rent, but earn well below state median income, creating disproportionate housing pressure.

Highest Rent Burden in This Region

Hamblen County's 19.1% rent-to-income ratio is the highest among comparable counties, with its $838 rent second-highest only to Franklin County's $863. This combination of high rent and lower median income ($52,794) creates the region's most strained affordability.

Hamblen County Housing Cost Reality

Hamblen County renters dedicate 19.1% of their $52,794 median income to $838 monthly housing, squeezing other budget categories significantly. Homeowners similarly face 17.6% of income going to $731 monthly costs, reflecting challenging affordability across both renter and owner households.

Hamblen County Requires Strong Income Planning

If relocating to Hamblen County, ensure your personal income exceeds the $52,794 county median—housing affordability here depends critically on earning power. Compare its $838 rent and $188,800 median home values against more affordable rural alternatives before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hamblen County

via IncomeByCounty

Hamblen County below national average

Hamblen County's median household income of $52,794 falls $21,961 short of the national median of $74,755—a 29% gap. The county ranks in the lower-income tier nationally, typical of smaller rural and industrial communities across the Southeast.

Below Tennessee's state median

At $52,794, Hamblen County trails Tennessee's state average of $58,994 by $6,200, placing it among the lower-income counties statewide. The county reflects broader regional struggles with wage stagnation and declining industrial employment.

Modest standing in peer group

Hamblen County's $52,794 exceeds Grundy County ($45,573) and Fentress County ($50,865) but lags Franklin and Giles counties ($61,000+) by roughly $8,000-$9,000. The county occupies the lower-middle position within this regional cohort.

Housing strain pressures budgets

Hamblen County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.1% is the second-highest in this group, indicating housing costs significantly stress household budgets. Median home values of $188,800 require substantial commitment from median-income families, leaving limited capacity for other priorities.

Focus on debt reduction first

Hamblen County residents facing tight housing costs should prioritize debt reduction and building modest emergency savings before investing. Once housing is manageable, even small regular contributions to retirement accounts can accumulate meaningful wealth over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hamblen County

via CrimeByCounty

Hamblen County exceeds national crime stats

Hamblen County's total crime rate of 2,885.5 per 100,000 is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This gives the county a safety score of 95.4.

Struggling against Tennessee state averages

The total crime rate of 2,885.5 is much higher than the Tennessee average of 1,785.6. The county's safety score of 95.4 is also lower than the state average of 97.2.

Regional crime comparisons for Hamblen

Hamblen County is less safe than neighboring Grainger County, which reports a remarkably low rate of 1,014.9. Public safety is managed by four reporting agencies in the county.

Elevated property and violent crime

Violent crime at 545.5 is significantly higher than the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also high at 2,340.0, compared to the U.S. benchmark of 2,015.7.

Focus on neighborhood awareness

High property crime rates suggest that residents should use advanced home monitoring and reinforced locks. Collaborative neighborhood watch efforts are effective tools for increasing local safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hamblen County

via HealthByCounty

Hamblen slightly below national average

Hamblen County's life expectancy of 71.1 years trails the U.S. average of 76 years by 4.9 years, though the county maintains better-than-average self-reported health. The poor or fair health rate of 21.8% is the lowest among the eight counties profiled, suggesting relatively good population wellness.

Close to Tennessee's health average

At 71.1 years, Hamblen County's life expectancy is 1.3 years below Tennessee's average of 72.4 years, placing it slightly below the state median. The uninsured rate of 13.3% exceeds Tennessee's 11.9% average, indicating coverage gaps despite the county's strong self-reported health.

Exceptional mental health infrastructure

Hamblen County boasts 225 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—nearly four times the state average and the highest density among these eight counties. Its 57 primary care providers per 100,000 tie Franklin County for the highest primary care density in the region.

Outstanding provider access despite uninsured gap

Hamblen County offers extraordinary healthcare infrastructure with 57 primary care providers and 225 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, creating exceptional access for insured residents. However, 13.3% of residents remain uninsured, the second-highest rate in this group, meaning thousands cannot fully leverage these resources.

Bridge the coverage gap

Hamblen County's remarkable provider network is underutilized by its 13.3% uninsured population—if you lack coverage, healthcare.gov and local health systems can enroll you today. With such strong resources available, no resident should go without the coverage that opens access to them.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hamblen County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Thriving Urban and Suburban School System

Hamblen County manages a large population of 10,289 students across 18 public schools. The infrastructure includes 11 elementary schools, four middle schools, and two major high schools. This high-capacity system is designed to serve a growing and diverse student body.

Leading Academic Excellence and Graduation Success

The county achieves a 95.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national 87.0% average. With a school score of 54.6 and per-pupil spending of $6,268, Hamblen County is a regional leader in education quality. These metrics indicate a school system that effectively prepares a large student population for future success.

One District Driving Large-Scale Results

The Hamblen County district oversees all 18 schools and 10,289 students. No charter schools operate in the county, with the traditional district managing all public education needs. This includes one alternative school to ensure every student has a path toward graduation.

City-Focused Learning with Substantial Peer Groups

The majority of schools are located in city settings, featuring an average enrollment of 572 students. Morristown East High and Morristown West High are the largest, each hosting over 1,500 students. This environment offers students a wide range of extracurriculars and a diverse, energetic social atmosphere.

Find a Home in a Top-Rated City District

Hamblen County is ideal for families seeking city amenities paired with excellent public schools. Homes near Morristown offer proximity to high-performing secondary schools that graduate 95% of their students. Search for your next home in a district that combines urban opportunity with academic excellence.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hamblen County

via RiskByCounty

Hamblen County's risk near national average

Hamblen County's composite risk score of 47.11 places it in the Relatively Low category, near the national average for many counties. The county faces moderate exposure to earthquakes, floods, and tornadoes that warrant thoughtful preparedness planning.

Below Tennessee's average risk profile

Hamblen County's 47.11 score sits below Tennessee's state average of 52.45, positioning it as a safer-than-average county within the state. Its earthquake risk (85.94) ranks high, but flood and tornado risks remain moderate, creating a balanced overall hazard profile.

Safer than Greene, comparable to Cocke

Hamblen County's 47.11 score falls below Greene County (56.30) to the north and provides moderate protection relative to other East Tennessee counties. Its risk level reflects a typical Northeast Tennessee community facing seismic and water-related hazards alongside seasonal tornado exposure.

Earthquakes dominate hazard landscape

Earthquake risk peaks at 85.94, making seismic activity Hamblen County's most significant natural hazard concern tied to the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone. Flood risk (54.61) ranks second, reflecting the county's terrain and susceptibility to heavy rainfall and stream overflow during wet seasons.

Earthquake and flood coverage essential

Homeowners should prioritize adding earthquake coverage to their policies and verify flood insurance is in place, especially for properties near waterways. Given Hamblen County's moderate composite risk and high earthquake vulnerability, comprehensive coverage addressing seismic and water-related hazards provides critical protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hamblen County

via WeatherByCounty

Standard Mid-Latitude Climate

Hamblen County averages 57.8°F annually, which is warmer than the national median. It receives 47.8 inches of precipitation, staying below the typical Tennessee rainfall levels.

Mirroring the Tennessee State Average

The county's average temperature sits just below the state average of 58.1°F. It represents the typical transition zone between the mountains and the central basin.

Warmer than Neighboring Greene

Hamblen is more than a degree warmer on average than Greene County. It also sees more winter accumulation, with 9.5 inches of snow compared to Greene's 7.7 inches.

Snowy Winters and Hot July

Hamblen experiences nearly 10 inches of snow annually, making it one of the snowier non-mountain counties. Extreme heat is still a factor, with 19 days per year reaching at least 90°F.

Prepare for Ice and Snow

Ensure your vehicle is equipped for nearly 10 inches of annual snow and potential ice. Since precipitation is lower than the state average, drought-resistant landscaping may be beneficial for the 75.2°F summers.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hamblen County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Tennessee Acidity and Texture

Hamblen County's soil profile shows a pH of 5.32, which aligns closely with the Tennessee state average of 5.35. This remains much more acidic than the national median of 6.5, suggesting most local soils need lime for traditional gardening. While specific taxonomic orders are not listed here, the chemical profile is very representative of the region.

Heavy Silt and Clay Mix

The soil composition is 45.7% silt and 24.2% clay, with sand making up the remaining 27.0%. This creates a dense texture that is excellent at holding onto nutrients but can be difficult to work when it is too dry or too wet. Managing this soil requires patience to avoid damaging the structure through improper tilling.

Improving Organic Matter for Resilience

Organic matter content is 1.50%, falling below the state average of 2.44% and the national 2.0% benchmark. The available water capacity is 0.161 in/in, slightly trailing the state average of 0.171. Consistent use of cover crops or organic mulch can help improve these numbers and protect your plants from drying out.

Understanding Local Soil Scores

Hamblen County has a soil score of 28.6, which is lower than the state average of 38.5. While specific drainage and hydrologic group data are not available, this score suggests some limitations for intensive agriculture or construction. Local land managers should conduct site-specific tests to understand how water moves through their property.

Bountiful Planting in Zone 7b

Hamblen County's Zone 7b climate is perfect for growing a wide variety of vegetables, from summer squash to autumn brassicas. With its temperate weather and decent silt content, the land is ready for productive gardening with a little organic enrichment. Start your growing journey this spring by focusing on soil health.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hamblen County

via LawnByCounty

Hamblen County's Strong Lawn Potential

Hamblen County earns a score of 60.8, making it one of the easiest places in Tennessee to keep a healthy lawn. This score is significantly better than the state average of 48.0 and the national average of 50.0.

Ideal Rainfall and Moderate Temps

The county receives 47.8 inches of rain annually, which is almost perfect for the ideal 30-50 inch lawn requirement. With only 19 extreme heat days, lawns stay greener longer than in the hotter, western parts of the state.

Managing Clay-Rich Soil Base

The local soil contains 24.2% clay and 27.0% sand, creating a dense foundation that holds nutrients well. The pH of 5.32 is slightly acidic, so testing and liming are recommended to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 threshold.

Short Drought Windows in Hamblen

Hamblen County experienced only 8 weeks of drought over the past year, which is lower than the state trend. While 100% of the county is currently abnormally dry, the moderate climate helps the turf recover quickly.

Seeding for Success in Zone 7b

Tall fescue and Zoysia perform exceptionally well here, benefiting from the 4,224 growing degree days. Plan your seeding window between the last frost on April 10 and the first fall frost on November 4.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamblen County's county score?
Hamblen County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 46.5 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 Hamblen County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Hamblen County ranks #70 among all counties in Tennessee 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 Hamblen County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Hamblen County is $863, with an effective tax rate of 0.46%. This earns Hamblen County a tax score of 90/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hamblen County?
The median household income in Hamblen County, Tennessee is $52,794 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hamblen County earns an income score of 20.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hamblen County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Hamblen County scores 46.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #70 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Hamblen 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 Hamblen 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.