countyscore
55.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 97.4Water Quality 86Health 85.3

County Report Card

About Hanover County, Virginia

Outperforming the National Median

Hanover County earns a composite score of 55.4, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This score signals a higher standard of living than many peers across the United States.

A Top Performer in Virginia

With a score of 55.4, Hanover comfortably exceeds the Virginia state average of 50.9. It stands as one of the more competitive counties in the Commonwealth for quality of life.

High Incomes and Strong Health Systems

The county boasts an elite income score of 97.4, supported by a median household income of $109,504. Health outcomes also excel with a score of 85.3, alongside high-quality water infrastructure.

High Costs Limit Affordability

Housing remains a challenge here, reflected in a cost score of only 6.9. Median home values reach $372,700 and rents average $1,496, making it difficult for entry-level buyers.

The Ideal Choice for Affluent Families

Hanover is a premier destination for high-earning families who value excellent schools and superior healthcare. The low tax rate of 0.672% helps offset the premium cost of real estate.

Score breakdown

Tax66.3Cost6.9Safety42.8Health85.3Schools75.8Income97.4Risk46.5Water86Weather66.6
🏛66.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼97.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤85.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓75.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡46.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨17
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.2
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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39.1
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Deep Dives

Hanover County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hanover County

via TaxByCounty

Hanover's tax rate tracks national norms

Hanover County's effective tax rate of 0.672% sits just slightly above the national median effective rate of 0.67%, placing it squarely in the middle of the pack nationally. Residents here pay $2,506 annually in median property taxes, modestly below the national median of $2,690 despite owning homes worth considerably more—$372,700 versus $281,900 nationally.

Nearly identical to Virginia's average

Hanover's effective rate of 0.672% virtually matches Virginia's state average of 0.671%, making it a textbook example of typical Virginia taxation. However, the county's median tax bill of $2,506 runs 28% higher than the state median of $1,960, reflecting the area's higher home values.

Hanover lighter than Henrico, heavier than Henry

Compared to nearby Henrico County (0.724% rate), Hanover taxes at a lower rate, though Henrico homeowners pay only slightly more per year ($2,416 vs. $2,506). Hanover's rate significantly exceeds nearby Henry County's 0.502%, putting Hanover firmly in the moderate-to-high camp for the region.

Median Hanover home costs $2,506 yearly

A homeowner with Hanover County's median-value property of $372,700 pays approximately $2,506 in annual property taxes. This figure holds relatively steady whether the home carries a mortgage or not, with minimal variation between the two scenarios.

Challenge your assessment if overvalued

Thousands of Virginia homeowners discover their properties are overassessed during the appeal process each year. If your home's county assessment seems inflated relative to recent sales in your neighborhood, filing an appeal could lower your tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hanover County

via CostByCounty

Hanover's Housing Affordability Shines

At 16.4%, Hanover County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national benchmark of unaffordability, meaning residents spend less of their paycheck on housing than most Americans. The county's median household income of $109,504 outpaces the national median by 46%, giving residents substantially more purchasing power for both rental and owner-occupied homes.

Best in Class Across Virginia

Hanover ranks among Virginia's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 16.4% compared to the state average of 18.6%. This advantage reflects both strong local incomes and relatively moderate housing costs that have stayed in check.

The Richmond Region's Housing Sweet Spot

Hanover's median rent of $1,496 slightly exceeds neighboring Henrico County's $1,474, but Hanover residents earn significantly more—$109,504 vs. $86,397—making housing proportionally cheaper. Compared to James City County further east, Hanover offers lower rents while maintaining similar income advantages and significantly lower home prices ($372,700 vs. $419,200).

Income Covers Housing Comfortably

Hanover renters spend about $1,496 monthly on housing while earning a median of $109,504 annually, leaving ample room for other expenses. Homeowners face slightly higher monthly costs at $1,581, but median home values of $372,700 remain manageable given the county's strong income base.

Relocating to Hanover? Here's Your Edge

If you're comparing moves across Virginia, Hanover offers the rare combination of strong incomes and below-average housing costs—your dollar stretches further here than in nearby urban-adjacent counties. With a 16.4% rent-to-income ratio and $109,504 median household income, Hanover delivers genuine affordability for higher-earning households.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hanover County

via IncomeByCounty

Hanover's income outpaces the nation

Hanover County's median household income of $109,504 towers 46% above the national median of $74,755. This places Hanover among the wealthiest counties in America, reflecting its proximity to Richmond's prosperous suburbs and established professional workforce.

Top earners in Virginia

Hanover ranks among Virginia's highest-income counties, significantly exceeding the state median of $74,957 by $34,547. The county's per capita income of $51,509 also runs 31% higher than Virginia's state average of $39,155.

Outearning surrounding counties

Hanover's $109,504 median household income beats nearby Henrico County ($86,397) and James City County ($107,046), making it a premier destination for high-earning households. The county's prosperity reflects its blend of suburban communities, corporate headquarters, and educated workforce.

Strong income supports local costs

A rent-to-income ratio of 16.4% shows Hanover households spend a manageable share of income on housing, well below the 30% threshold for affordability. With median home values at $372,700 and strong household incomes, residents have solid purchasing power for homeownership.

Build on Hanover's prosperity

With median household incomes exceeding $109,000, Hanover residents are positioned to invest beyond basic expenses—consider diversifying into retirement accounts, real estate, and market investments. Working with a financial advisor can help maximize wealth-building strategies suited to the county's affluent demographic.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hanover County

via CrimeByCounty

Hanover County remains a safe community

Hanover reports a total crime rate of 1,293.1 per 100,000, well below the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns a safety score of 98.0 out of 100. This indicates a high level of security for families and businesses in the area.

Strong performance in the state

Hanover’s safety score of 98.0 sits above the Virginia state average of 97.3. While its total crime rate of 1,293.1 is higher than some rural peers, it is still much lower than the state average of 1,728.8. The county maintains a reputation for safety despite its proximity to urban centers.

Comparing Hanover with its neighbors

Hanover has a higher crime rate than Goochland (915.5) and Gloucester (1,067.6). However, it is significantly safer than Hampton city, which has a rate of 3,246.0. It occupies a middle ground in terms of safety among these Virginia counties.

Analyzing the crime statistics

Violent crime in Hanover stands at 235.3 per 100,000, which is slightly above the state average of 229.7. Property crime remains the larger concern at 1,057.8 per 100,000 residents. Most incidents involve theft or property disputes, though violent crime rates are higher than some adjacent rural areas.

Vigilance and home safety tips

With over 1,000 property crimes per 100,000 residents, home security systems are a worthwhile investment. Residents should ensure that packages are not left unattended and that home perimeters are well-lit. Three reporting agencies work to keep Hanover residents safe through active patrolling.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hanover County

via HealthByCounty

Hanover lives longer than America

At 77.9 years, Hanover County residents live nearly 2.5 years longer than the U.S. average of 75.5 years. Only 14.4% report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 17%, signaling a healthier population overall.

Hanover ranks among Virginia's healthiest

Hanover's 77.9-year life expectancy outpaces Virginia's state average of 75.1 years by 2.8 years, placing it in the healthier tier of the commonwealth's counties. The 14.4% poor/fair health rate also beats the state trend.

Healthier than nearby Henrico County

Hanover's 77.9-year life expectancy exceeds neighboring Henrico County's 77.2 years and Isle of Wight's 76.8 years. Hanover's 5.6% uninsured rate is the lowest among these three Richmond-area neighbors.

Primary care available, mental health stronger

Hanover has 73 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and a robust 228 mental health providers per 100,000, making behavioral health care notably accessible. Only 5.6% of residents lack health insurance, among Virginia's better rates.

Keep coverage strong in Hanover

With 5.6% uninsured, Hanover is doing well—but that still means roughly 6,000 residents may lack coverage. Explore healthcare.gov or Virginia's Medicaid expansion to ensure you and your family stay protected.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hanover County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Premier Suburban-Rural School District

Hanover County manages 25 public schools that serve 17,066 students within a single high-performing district. The system is well-distributed with 15 elementary schools, four middle schools, and four high schools. This infrastructure supports a large student body across a diverse geographic landscape.

Leading Results Through Strong Investment

The county delivers an outstanding 95.0% graduation rate, far exceeding the national average of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure of $8,035 is higher than the state average, reflecting a community commitment to educational funding. This investment translates to a school score of 58.4, significantly outpacing the state average.

A Unified Legacy of Academic Excellence

Hanover County Public Schools is the sole provider of education for the area's 17,066 students across 25 campuses. The county does not utilize charter schools, focusing resources on its established traditional public school model. This unity allows for shared resources and high standards across all four secondary zones.

From Suburban Centers to Rural Classrooms

The county features an almost even split between 13 rural schools and 12 suburban schools, offering distinct learning environments. Schools are generally larger, with an average enrollment of 742 students. Atlee High leads the county with 1,526 students, while middle schools like Chickahominy also host large populations of over 1,100.

Investing in Your Family's Future

Hanover County’s high graduation rates and strong school scores make it a top destination for home buyers in the Richmond region. Whether you prefer a suburban neighborhood or a rural homestead, you can find a high-quality local school nearby. Education is a cornerstone of the Hanover lifestyle and a primary driver for local real estate value.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hanover County

via RiskByCounty

Hanover's Risk Sits Above the National Average

With a composite risk score of 53.50, Hanover ranks as relatively low but exceeds the national baseline for natural disaster exposure. This means the county faces measurable hazard threats that warrant preparation, though at a more moderate level than high-risk areas across the country.

Above Average Risk for Virginia

Hanover's score of 53.50 significantly outpaces Virginia's state average of 33.27, placing it in the upper tier of risk among Virginia counties. The county's exposure is driven by multiple hazard types rather than a single dominant threat.

Riskier Than Most Nearby Counties

Hanover faces notably higher risk than Harrisonburg (26.59) and Hopewell (17.24) to the south and west, but carries less exposure than Henrico County (83.40) just to the east. Among central Virginia counties, Hanover occupies a middle-to-upper position in the risk spectrum.

Earthquakes and Hurricanes Top Your Threats

Earthquake risk dominates at 83.78—among the highest in the state—while hurricane exposure stands at 74.89, reflecting Hanover's position on the Atlantic seaboard. Flooding also poses significant concern at 61.55, particularly in low-lying areas near the James River and its tributaries.

Secure Earthquake and Flood Coverage Now

Standard homeowners policies exclude earthquake and flood damage, yet both threaten Hanover properties substantially. Obtain separate earthquake and flood insurance today to close these critical coverage gaps before the next major event.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hanover County

via WeatherByCounty

Hanover Stays Warmer Than the National Median

Hanover’s average annual temperature of 57.8°F sits several degrees above the national median. This temperate climate is typical of the humid Mid-Atlantic region.

Temperatures Edge Above the Virginia State Average

The county is 1.9 degrees warmer than the Virginia average of 55.9°F. It matches the state precipitation average closely, receiving 45.6 inches annually.

Hanover is Cooler Than Its Southern Neighbors

Hanover is slightly cooler than neighboring Henrico County, which averages 58.3°F. It remains significantly warmer than mountainous counties in western Virginia.

Hot Summers and Manageable Winter Snow

Residents face 34 extreme heat days each year with a July average of 77.8°F. Winter brings a modest 14.7 inches of snow and a January average of 37.3°F.

Prioritize Cooling Systems and Occasional Snow Gear

Homeowners should maintain efficient HVAC systems to handle the month-long stretch of 90-degree days. Keep a snow shovel ready for the 14.7 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hanover County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic profiles in Hanover County

Hanover County soils show an acidic profile with a pH of 5.21, falling well below the national median of 6.5. This measurement tracks closely with the Virginia state average of 5.23. Understanding this acidity is the first step in managing local land for agriculture or gardening.

High sand content defines the texture

The soil is dominated by sand at 64.3%, balanced by 22.2% silt and 13.5% clay. This high sand content ensures excellent workability but suggests that nutrients may leach away more quickly than in heavier soils. It is a light soil that is easy to till but requires consistent monitoring.

Boosting fertility through amendments

Organic matter levels sit at 1.60%, which is significantly lower than the state average of 2.90%. With an available water capacity of 0.125 in/in, these soils require regular organic amendments to reach their full potential. Improving these levels will help plants survive dry Virginia summers.

Managing fast-moving water

The 64.3% sand composition points toward rapid internal drainage across much of the county. This makes the land suitable for many structures, though it may dry out quickly during the growing season. Farmers and builders alike benefit from the predictable way water moves through these sandy layers.

Abundant harvests in zone 7b

Hardiness zone 7b supports a wide variety of crops including tomatoes, peppers, and various berries. Adding compost helps this sandy soil retain moisture and fuels a productive home garden. With the right care, Hanover's soil provides a solid foundation for a beautiful landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hanover County

via LawnByCounty

Balanced Lawn Care in Hanover County

Hanover County earns a lawn difficulty score of 51.2, placing it slightly above the national median of 50.0 but below the Virginia state average of 55.4. Hardiness Zone 7b provides a versatile environment where many turf types can thrive if managed correctly. You face a moderate challenge that requires more attention than easier regions in the state.

Moderate Rain and High Heat

With 45.6 inches of annual precipitation, you fall right in the sweet spot for ideal lawn growth. However, 34 extreme heat days per year and 4248 growing degree days mean your grass works hard during the peak of summer. Expect to adjust your mowing height upward in July to protect the soil from the sun.

Managing Sandy, Acidic Soils

The soil here is highly acidic with a pH of 5.21, well below the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range for turf. Because your soil contains 64.3% sand, it drains quickly but may struggle to hold onto nutrients. Regular lime applications are essential to balance the chemistry and keep your grass roots healthy.

Navigating Persistent Dry Spells

Hanover has spent 23 weeks in drought over the past year, and currently, 100% of the county is abnormally dry. Focus on deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to maximize absorption and minimize evaporation. This strategy helps build the deep root systems necessary to survive these frequent dry periods.

Seeding for Success in Zone 7b

Tall fescue and warm-season grasses like Bermuda perform well in this climate. Plan your seeding for late summer or early fall after the final heat waves but before the first frost on October 31. This timing gives new roots enough growing degree days to establish before the winter dormancy begins.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hanover County's county score?
Hanover County, Virginia has a composite county score of 55.4 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 Hanover County rank among counties in Virginia?
Hanover County ranks #48 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 Hanover County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Hanover County is $2,506, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns Hanover County a tax score of 66.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hanover County?
The median household income in Hanover County, Virginia is $109,504 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hanover County earns an income score of 97.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hanover County, Virginia a good place to live?
Hanover County scores 55.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #48 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Hanover 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 Hanover 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.