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Hampshire County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#22 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
64.1
County Score
Property Tax 95.8Cost of Living 80Safety 78.9

County Report Card

About Hampshire County, West Virginia

Hampshire County Beats the Median

Hampshire County’s composite score of 64.0 is significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score highlights the county's appeal as an accessible and high-functioning rural community.

A Strong Contender in West Virginia

The county slightly exceeds the West Virginia state average of 62.0. Its 64.0 score suggests it is a reliable choice for residents seeking the best of the state's eastern panhandle region.

Superior Tax and Safety Ratings

Tax efficiency is a standout feature with a score of 95.8 and an effective rate of 0.364%. Safety is also a major asset, with a score of 78.9 reflecting a secure community environment.

Water and Education Concerns

The county faces hurdles in water quality (25.0) and school performance (35.8). These lower scores indicate that residents may need to look toward private solutions for utilities or supplemental education.

A Haven for Commuters and Retirees

Hampshire County is an excellent match for those working in nearby regional hubs who want a low-tax, high-safety home base. It offers a peaceful lifestyle with a very manageable cost of living.

Score breakdown

Tax95.8Cost80Safety78.9Health38.2Schools35.8Income40Risk62Water25Weather52.6
🏛95.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠80
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼40
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡78.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤38.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓35.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡62
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧25
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱62.1
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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Deep Dives

Hampshire County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hampshire County

via TaxByCounty

Hampshire's rate significantly below national median

Hampshire County's effective tax rate of 0.364% sits well below the national median of 0.66%, providing exceptional relief for property owners. The median annual property tax of $745 on a $204,600 home represents just 28% of the national median tax of $2,690. This county ranks in approximately the 10th percentile nationally—meaning 90% of American counties impose heavier property tax burdens.

Well below West Virginia average

Hampshire County's 0.364% effective rate sits substantially below West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, offering meaningful tax savings for residents. The median property tax of $745 exceeds the state median of $699 due to higher home values in the county, yet the favorable rate keeps overall burdens reasonable. Hampshire ranks among West Virginia's most tax-friendly counties overall.

Second-most affordable in the region

Hampshire's 0.364% rate trails only Grant County's 0.331%, beating Fayette's 0.662%, Hancock's 0.629%, and Doddridge's 0.470%. Hardy County at 0.367% sits just barely higher, while Greenbrier at 0.470% and Gilmer at 0.507% impose steeper burdens. Hampshire emerges as a tax-relief standout for the central West Virginia region.

Median annual property tax: $745

A homeowner with a $204,600 property in Hampshire County pays approximately $745 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill rises to $803, while without one it falls to $716, reflecting typical loan servicing adjustments. Over 30 years, this totals roughly $22,350 in property taxes—excellent value for a county with above-average home prices.

Higher home values merit careful assessment review

Hampshire County homeowners with more valuable properties should especially verify their assessments, since errors scale with property value. If your home was recently reassessed upward or you believe its valuation exceeds comparable sales, filing an appeal could recover meaningful savings. Even a 2–3% overvaluation on a $200,000+ home translates to hundreds in unnecessary annual taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hampshire County

via CostByCounty

Hampshire balances costs and income well

Hampshire County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% sits comfortably below the state average of 16.9% and reflects solid affordability despite a median household income of $60,299 below the national median. Monthly rent of $732 consumes less than 15% of earnings, leaving room for savings and stability.

Better than half of West Virginia counties

Hampshire's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the top third statewide, signaling genuine affordability relative to peer counties. The county balances moderate incomes with restrained housing costs effectively.

Highest home values, reasonable rents

Hampshire's median home value of $204,600 is the highest in this analysis, reflecting stronger property appreciation or market demand. Yet rents at $732 monthly remain competitive, and homeownership costs $619—suggesting a market with buy-side advantages over renting.

14.6% of income toward housing

Renters spend $732 monthly, representing 14.6% of Hampshire's $60,299 median income, while homeowners pay $619 monthly. This affordability gap favors buyers, making Hampshire attractive for those seeking to build equity at reasonable cost.

Strong buy-side opportunity here

Hampshire County offers West Virginia's highest home values with affordability still intact, making it ideal for buyers seeking equity growth. If your employment income is stable or growing, Hampshire's market presents genuine wealth-building potential versus renting.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hampshire County

via IncomeByCounty

Hampshire earns above state, below nation

Hampshire County's median household income of $60,299 exceeds West Virginia's state average ($54,746) by 10%, but falls $14,456 short of the national median ($74,755). Hampshire represents an above-average West Virginia performer.

Strong performer among West Virginia counties

Hampshire County ranks in the upper tier of West Virginia's income distribution at $60,299, well above the state average. The county demonstrates economic strength relative to most of its peers.

Competitive earnings in its region

Hampshire's $60,299 median household income ranks third among its neighbors, behind Grant ($61,530) and Doddridge ($61,164), but ahead of Hancock ($61,017). The county maintains strong earnings relative to lower-income peers like Gilmer, Hardy, and Greenbrier.

Housing costs manageable for median earners

Hampshire's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, indicating healthy housing cost burden. However, median home values of $204,600 are the highest in the region, suggesting wealth concentration among homeowners.

Leverage strong position for investing

Hampshire residents earning $60,299 with manageable housing costs are well-positioned to invest in education, entrepreneurship, and retirement security. Work with a financial advisor to diversify savings and build wealth beyond homeownership in this economically stable county.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hampshire County

via CrimeByCounty

Hampshire County Maintains High Safety Marks

Hampshire County features a total crime rate of 502.7 per 100K, far lower than the national average of 2,385.5. With a safety score of 99.2 out of 100, it ranks as a very safe place to live. Six reporting agencies provide comprehensive coverage for the area.

Exceeding West Virginia Safety Standards

Hampshire's safety score of 99.2 is significantly higher than the West Virginia state average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 502.7 is nearly half the state average of 949.0 per 100K. The county consistently demonstrates strong performance in crime prevention.

Safer than Neighboring Hardy County

Hampshire County is more than twice as safe as neighboring Hardy County, which has a crime rate of 1,165.0. However, it is not quite as secure as Grant County’s low rate of 208.4. It remains a top choice for safety in the Potomac Highlands.

Crime Rates Remain Low Across Categories

The violent crime rate is 128.9 per 100K, well below the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also low at 373.8 per 100K, compared to the national average of 2,015.7. These low numbers mean crime is a rare occurrence for most residents.

Stay Vigilant to Keep Crime Low

Hampshire County residents can maintain their high safety levels by securing outbuildings and vehicles. Although the property crime rate is low at 373.8, prevention is the best defense. Simple home security habits help preserve this community's quiet character.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hampshire County

via HealthByCounty

Hampshire approaches national health standards

Hampshire County's 74.5-year life expectancy comes within 1.6 years of the U.S. average of 76.1 years, an achievement rare among rural West Virginia counties. With 25.1% reporting poor or fair health, the county sits near national baselines for self-reported health status.

Exceeding state averages clearly

At 74.5 years, Hampshire's life expectancy surpasses the West Virginia average of 72.2 years by 2.3 years, ranking it among the state's stronger-performing counties. The 25.1% poor/fair health rate aligns with county medians, reflecting stable chronic disease burden.

Strong health standing regionally

Hampshire's 74.5-year life expectancy ranks above Fayette (69.8 years) and Greenbrier (71.4 years), matching Grant County and trailing only Doddridge (76.8 years) and Gilmer (75.2 years). The county's solid health profile places it among the region's healthier communities.

Limited primary care, strong mental health

Hampshire has only 26 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—well below county averages—creating potential access barriers for routine care. However, 97 mental health providers per 100,000 and an 8.2% uninsured rate suggest reasonable coverage and mental health support availability across the county.

Cover yourself before care is needed

Hampshire's primary care capacity is limited, making insurance coverage even more critical for accessing preventive visits and specialists. Get covered today at healthcare.gov to ensure you can reach available providers without financial stress when health needs arise.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hampshire County

via SchoolsByCounty

Rural Education Across Nine Schools

Hampshire County supports nine public schools serving a total enrollment of 2,861 students. The landscape consists of five elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school, and one specialized facility. The county is unique for hosting two distinct school districts.

Graduation Rates and Per-Pupil Spending

The county's graduation rate currently sits at 86.0%, which is below the state average of 92.8% and slightly under the national 87.0% benchmark. Spending is recorded at $7,189 per pupil, trailing the state average of $7,773 and the national average of $13,000. These metrics contribute to an overall school score of 51.8.

A Shared District Landscape

The majority of students are served by Hampshire County Schools, which enrolls 2,801 students across eight schools. The county also hosts the specialized WV Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, which serves 60 students. There are no charter schools currently operating in the county.

An Entirely Rural School Experience

All nine schools in Hampshire County are located in rural areas, fostering a deep connection to the local countryside. The average school size is 318 students, with Hampshire Senior High being the largest at 818 students. Smaller primary schools, like Capon Bridge Elementary, offer a more intimate setting for early learners.

Relocate to a Scenic, Rural School District

If you are looking for a purely rural lifestyle for your children, Hampshire County’s schools offer a consistent experience. School performance and localized special education options make this a noteworthy area for families. Start your home search today to enjoy the natural beauty and community spirit of the region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hampshire County

via RiskByCounty

Hampshire faces moderate-low disaster risk

Hampshire County's composite risk score of 38.01 and Very Low rating place it below the national average, with managed natural disaster exposure. The score sits notably below West Virginia's state average of 49.21.

Below-average risk in eastern panhandle

Hampshire County's score of 38.01 ranks it in the lower-risk tier statewide, roughly 23% below West Virginia's average of 49.21. The county's eastern mountain location provides some protection from major hazards.

Similar risk profile to Hardy County

Hampshire's score of 38.01 closely resembles Hardy County (42.46) and Grant County (33.17), placing it in a regional cluster of moderate-low-risk counties. The county faces higher hurricane exposure (65.67) than its immediate neighbors.

Floods and hurricanes pose primary threats

Hampshire County residents face substantial flood risk (62.82) and notable hurricane exposure (65.67), making these the county's leading hazard concerns. Wildfire danger is also elevated at 54.93, while tornado risk remains relatively low at 20.04.

Prioritize flood and wind coverage

Hampshire's flood risk score of 62.82 makes flood insurance critical for property protection, especially near stream corridors and low-lying areas. The 65.67 hurricane risk score means homeowners should ensure adequate wind coverage and roof maintenance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hampshire County

via WeatherByCounty

Balanced temperatures with lower national rainfall

Hampshire County's annual average of 52.6°F mirrors the national temperate baseline. However, its 38.2 inches of annual precipitation is lower than many other Mid-Atlantic regions.

A dry outlier in a wet state

Hampshire matches the state average temperature of 52.8°F almost perfectly. The major difference is moisture; the county receives nearly 9 inches less rain than the West Virginia average of 47 inches.

Wetter than Hardy but drier than most

Hampshire is part of a dry pocket in the Potomac Highlands, receiving 38.2 inches of rain compared to Gilmer's 48.5 inches. It experiences 28 extreme heat days, significantly more than its neighbors to the south.

Hot summer peaks and moderate winters

July averages a warm 73.8°F with 28 days hitting 90°F or higher. Winters are manageable with 29.1 inches of snow and a December-February average of 32.8°F.

Prepare for heat and dry spells

Robust cooling systems are necessary to handle the 28 days of extreme summer heat. Gardeners should plan for lower rainfall by using drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hampshire County

via SoilByCounty

Oldest County Soil Foundations

Hampshire County's specific pH and taxonomic data are currently limited in the central database. As the state's oldest county, its soils typically reflect the weathered, mature landscapes of the Eastern Panhandle. It shares a regional context with a state average pH of 5.25.

Valley and Ridge Textures

Precise sand, silt, and clay percentages are unavailable, but the county is known for its productive valley soils. These areas often feature a mix of alluvial deposits that provide better workability than the surrounding mountain ridges. Local growers typically adjust their practices based on the specific elevation of their land.

Legacy of Regional Growth

While local organic matter data is restricted, the county benefits from the high state average of 21.03%. The state average available water capacity of 0.142 in/in serves as a benchmark for this region's ability to support its famous orchards. This fertile heritage has supported Hampshire's agriculture for centuries.

Watershed Drainage Class

The county's hydrology is centered around the South Branch of the Potomac River, which dictates drainage patterns in the lowlands. Without specific hydrologic group data, farmers rely on the natural drainage provided by the area's limestone and shale underpinnings. Proper site selection is key to avoiding seasonal flooding in lower elevations.

Warmer Growing in Zone 7a

Hampshire County enjoys a milder climate in Zone 7a, allowing for a longer growing season than most of West Virginia. This extra warmth is perfect for peaches, grapes, and extended harvests of warm-season vegetables. Take advantage of the mild winters to explore a wider variety of perennial crops.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hampshire County

via LawnByCounty

Warmer conditions in Hampshire County

Hampshire County has a lawn difficulty score of 62.1, placing it just below the West Virginia state average. As a Zone 7a region, it offers a slightly warmer environment than much of the state, requiring different management strategies. Homeowners should prepare for more active heat management than their neighbors in cooler zones.

High heat and lower rainfall

This county faces 28 extreme heat days per year, well above the state average of 17. With only 38.2 inches of annual precipitation, lawns here receive less natural water than the 46.8-inch state average. The 3,258 growing degree days mean grass grows quickly, but the combination of heat and lower rain increases the risk of summer dormancy.

Testing for success in Zone 7a

Specific soil metrics are not available for Hampshire County, making local soil testing essential for success. Given the high number of heat days, look for soil textures that can retain moisture during the peak of summer. Adding compost or topsoil can help mitigate the effects of the 28 annual days over 90°F.

Managing persistent dry spells

Drought is a major factor here, with 100% of the county currently under abnormally dry (D0) conditions. Hampshire County endured 39 weeks of drought in the past year, making it one of the more water-stressed areas in the state. Consistent irrigation and water conservation techniques are mandatory to keep a lawn green during these frequent dry periods.

Best varieties for the heat

The growing window starts after April 26 and lasts until October 18, providing a long season for root development. In Zone 7a, consider heat-tolerant fescues that can handle the 28 days of high temperatures. Proper seeding in the fall will allow your lawn to establish the deep root systems needed for the following summer's heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hampshire County's county score?
Hampshire County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 64.1 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 Hampshire County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Hampshire County ranks #22 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 Hampshire County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Hampshire County is $745, with an effective tax rate of 0.36%. This earns Hampshire County a tax score of 95.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hampshire County?
The median household income in Hampshire County, West Virginia is $60,299 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hampshire County earns an income score of 40/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hampshire County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Hampshire County scores 64.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Hampshire 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 Hampshire 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.