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Hardy County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#43 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
56.3
County Score
Property Tax 95.7Cost of Living 73.1Lawn Care 58.8

County Report Card

About Hardy County, West Virginia

Hardy County Above National Median

Hardy County earns a composite score of 56.3, outperforming the national median of 50.0. While it faces some specific local challenges, its fundamental scores remain solid.

Below the West Virginia Average

The county’s score of 56.3 is slightly lower than the West Virginia state average of 62.0. Residents benefit from certain strengths, but other areas in the state offer higher overall composite ratings.

Elite Tax Efficiency and Affordable Housing

The tax score of 95.7 is exceptional, supported by a low 0.367% effective tax rate. Housing remains affordable with a cost score of 73.1, making it an attractive destination for property owners.

Significant Water and Income Gaps

Water quality is a major concern with a very low score of 3.4. Economic factors also weigh on the profile, with an income score of 13.1 and a health score of 31.2.

Suits Those Seeking Low Taxes

Hardy County is a primary choice for anyone focused on minimizing their tax burden and housing costs. It is a good fit for residents who are comfortable managing their own utility solutions in a rural setting.

Score breakdown

Tax95.7Cost73.1Safety48Health31.2Schools56Income13.1Risk57.6Water3.4Weather54.1
🏛95.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠73.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼13.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡48
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤31.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡57.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧3.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤54.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58.8
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

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Grant County
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Deep Dives

Hardy County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hardy County

via TaxByCounty

Hardy's rate well below national median

Hardy County's effective tax rate of 0.367% sits substantially below the national median of 0.66%, offering excellent tax relief for property owners. The median annual property tax of $586 on a $159,700 home represents just 22% of the national median tax of $2,690. This county ranks in approximately the 8th percentile nationally—placing homeowners in a highly favorable position compared to 92% of U.S. counties.

Significantly below West Virginia average

Hardy County's 0.367% effective rate sits well below West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, marking it as one of the state's most tax-friendly options. The median property tax of $586 falls notably below the state median of $699, reflecting the county's favorable rate structure. Hardy stands among West Virginia's genuine tax-relief destinations for property owners.

Second-lowest rate after Grant County

Hardy's 0.367% rate trails only Grant County's 0.331%, beating all other neighbors including Hampshire County at 0.364% by just a few basis points. Doddridge at 0.470%, Greenbrier at 0.470%, and Gilmer at 0.507% all impose steeper burdens, while Fayette at 0.662% and Hancock at 0.629% are substantially more expensive. Hardy ranks as a top-tier tax-relief county in the region.

Median annual property tax: $586

A homeowner with a $159,700 property in Hardy County pays approximately $586 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, the bill rises to $675, while without one it drops to $544, reflecting typical loan servicing adjustments. Over 30 years, this totals roughly $17,580 in property taxes—exceptional value for the county.

Protect your tax advantage with regular reviews

Hardy County residents enjoy one of West Virginia's lowest tax rates, making assessment verification especially important to preserve this advantage. If your property was recently reassessed upward or you suspect overvaluation, filing an appeal could protect your savings. In a tax-friendly county, small overassessments erode your competitive advantage—a quick review ensures your bills remain as low as possible.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hardy County

via CostByCounty

Hardy's housing burden rivals worst peers

Hardy County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.0% exceeds the state average (16.9%) and reflects severe national disadvantage, with median household income of just $49,302 paired against $820 monthly rents. One in five dollars earned vanishes to housing, constraining discretionary spending significantly.

Third-worst affordability statewide

Hardy's 20.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks alongside Gilmer and Greenbrier as the state's most challenging housing markets among these peers. The county's low income and relatively high rents combine into a genuine affordability crisis.

High rents squeeze low incomes

Hardy's $820 monthly rent is the second-highest in this analysis, while its $49,302 median income ranks among the lowest. Homeownership costs $562 monthly with a $159,700 median home value, creating buying barriers for typical households despite relatively affordable mortgages.

20% of income devoted to rent

Renters spend $820 monthly, consuming 20.0% of Hardy's $49,302 median income, while homeowners pay $562. This leaves renters with $200+ less monthly flexibility than homeowners, intensifying pressure on households already strapped by regional income constraints.

Affordability challenges require planning

Hardy's combination of high rents and low incomes makes relocation risky without confirmed wage growth or remote income sources. If considering Hardy, prioritize income stability and compare aggressively against neighboring Grant County's superior affordability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hardy County

via IncomeByCounty

Hardy households earn well below national median

Hardy County's median household income of $49,302 lags the national median ($74,755) by $25,453, or 34%. This substantial gap reflects Hardy's position among the nation's lower-income counties.

Among West Virginia's lowest earners

Hardy County ranks near the bottom of West Virginia's income distribution at $49,302, trailing the state average ($54,746) by $5,444. Only Gilmer County reports a lower median household income statewide.

Lowest median household income in region

Hardy's $49,302 median household income is the lowest among all its neighboring counties, falling behind even Gilmer ($50,991). All other regional peers—Doddridge, Grant, Hampshire, Hancock, Greenbrier, and Fayette—report higher household earnings.

Housing costs place significant burden

Hardy's 20.0% rent-to-income ratio approaches affordability limits, signaling tight household budgets for median earners. Median home values of $159,700 exceed the county's income levels, suggesting wealth concentration among existing homeowners and barriers to housing access for others.

Focus on financial education and stability

Hardy County residents facing median income of $49,302 should prioritize building emergency savings and accessing free or low-cost financial counseling services. Explore workforce development programs, employer retirement benefits, and community resources that support long-term financial security in the face of income challenges.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hardy County

via CrimeByCounty

Hardy County Safer than National Average

Hardy County's total crime rate of 1,165.0 per 100K is roughly half the national average of 2,385.5. It earns a safety score of 98.2 out of 100, indicating a generally secure community. Five reporting agencies manage the county's public safety efforts.

Slightly Below the State Safety Mark

The county's safety score of 98.2 is just below the West Virginia average of 98.5. Its total crime rate of 1,165.0 exceeds the state average of 949.0 per 100K. Law enforcement continues to target these areas to bring the county in line with state trends.

Higher Crime Rates than Rural Neighbors

Hardy County has a higher crime rate than Hampshire County (502.7) and Grant County (208.4). While it is safe by national standards, it faces more challenges than its immediate neighbors. This makes regional cooperation on safety initiatives a high priority.

Violent Crime Approaches National Levels

Hardy's violent crime rate is 350.9 per 100K, which is close to the national average of 369.8 and above the state average of 213.9. Property crime is higher at 814.1 per 100K. These numbers suggest a need for increased focus on both personal and property safety.

Take Proactive Steps for Home Safety

With property crime at 814.1 per 100K, home security systems and proper lighting are vital. Residents should stay vigilant and report suspicious activity to help lower local crime rates. Personal awareness remains a key factor in improving Hardy County's safety profile.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hardy County

via HealthByCounty

Hardy faces significant national gaps

Hardy County's 72.7-year life expectancy lags the U.S. average of 76.1 years by 3.4 years, reflecting rural health challenges across Appalachia. At 26.6%, Hardy's poor/fair health rate is among the highest, indicating elevated chronic disease burden in the county.

Slightly above state average

Hardy's 72.7-year life expectancy edges just 0.5 years above the West Virginia average of 72.2 years, placing it near state median. However, the 26.6% poor/fair health rate exceeds state norms, suggesting higher-than-average chronic disease despite modest life expectancy gains.

Regional health challenges persist

Hardy's 72.7-year life expectancy ranks above only Fayette (69.8 years) and Greenbrier (71.4 years) in the region, trailing all other neighbors significantly. The 26.6% poor/fair health rate is the worst among all surveyed counties, signaling concentrated health challenges in Hardy.

Provider scarcity limits care access

Hardy has just 14 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the lowest in the region—creating significant barriers to routine and preventive care. With an 8% uninsured rate above state average and minimal primary care availability, residents face compounded access challenges for basic health services.

Coverage is essential in Hardy County

With the fewest primary care providers and above-average uninsured rates, having insurance in Hardy County is critical for accessing available care. Check healthcare.gov immediately to explore Medicaid, ACA plans, and local health program options that can connect you to resources.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hardy County

via SchoolsByCounty

Hardy County's Local Education Map

Hardy County manages six public schools that serve a total of 2,194 students. This infrastructure consists of three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools. A single school district provides oversight for the entire county.

Top-Tier Graduation Rates on a Budget

Hardy County boasts an exceptional 97.0% graduation rate, which is among the highest in the state and well above the national 87.0% mark. This performance is achieved with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,045, the lowest among its neighbors. The county's school score is 55.1, placing it just below the state average of 56.7.

Hardy County Schools Spotlight

The Hardy County Schools district manages all 2,194 students across its six locations. Currently, 0% of the county's schools are charters, meaning all public education is delivered through the traditional district system. Moorefield High serves as the largest campus with 499 students.

A Rural Landscape with Strong Hubs

Five of the county's six schools are in rural locales, with one located in a town setting. The average school size is 366 students, providing a mid-sized environment where students aren't lost in the crowd. From Moorefield High (499 students) to East Hardy High (313 students), the campuses offer a consistent, community-centric feel.

Find Your Home in a High-Performing District

With a graduation rate of 97.0%, Hardy County offers one of the best academic success records in the region. Families moving here can find homes in beautiful rural settings while knowing their children are in a high-achieving system. Explore the local real estate market near Moorefield today.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hardy County

via RiskByCounty

Hardy faces moderate-low disaster risk

Hardy County's composite risk score of 42.46 and Very Low rating place it modestly below the national average for natural disaster exposure. The score sits below West Virginia's state average of 49.21, reflecting regional resilience.

Low-risk county in eastern highlands

Hardy County's score of 42.46 ranks it below the West Virginia average of 49.21, placing it in the lower-risk category statewide. The county's high-elevation mountain terrain provides some protection from certain hazard types.

Mid-range risk in eastern mountain region

Hardy's score of 42.46 sits between Gilmer County (11.45) and Greenbrier County (75.76), occupying the middle ground for southeastern West Virginia. The county faces higher hurricane exposure (72.67) than most neighboring counties.

Hurricane, flood, and wildfire threats notable

Hardy County residents face substantial hurricane risk (72.67), significant flood exposure (65.30), and elevated wildfire danger (57.03). Earthquake and tornado risks are lower, at 33.08 and 16.35 respectively.

Comprehensive coverage addresses multiple hazards

Hardy's flood risk score of 65.30 makes flood insurance essential, particularly in stream valleys and lower-lying areas. The 72.67 hurricane risk score means homeowners should ensure adequate wind/storm coverage and maintain property resilience against sustained winds.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hardy County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler averages with a dry profile

Hardy County averages 51.8°F annually, sitting just below the national median. It is one of the drier regions in the Eastern United States with only 36.3 inches of annual precipitation.

West Virginia's driest county landscape

Hardy County receives 36.3 inches of rain, the lowest among this group and far below the state average of 47.0 inches. Its annual temperature of 51.8°F is also slightly cooler than the state norm.

Shielded from the heavy mountain snow

While neighboring Grant County is hammered by 117.8 inches of snow, Hardy receives a modest 21.4 inches. This rain-shadow effect makes it a unique dry corridor compared to its western neighbors.

Warm summers and light winter snow

Residents experience 21 days of 90°F heat during summers where July averages 72.4°F. Winter is comparatively mild for the region, with only 21.4 inches of snow and a 30.7°F January average.

Prioritize water conservation and summer cooling

With only 36.3 inches of rain, water storage and conservation are more important here than in wetter counties. Cooling systems must be ready for three weeks of extreme summer heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hardy County

via SoilByCounty

Eastern Valley Soil Identity

Specific pH data for Hardy County is currently unavailable, though it typically aligns with the West Virginia state average of 5.25. The county's soil is shaped by its location in the Ridge and Valley province of the Appalachians. This results in a landscape that is both rugged and agriculturally significant.

Mixed Textures of the Panhandle

Detailed percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not part of the current local dataset for Hardy County. However, the region is known for its shale-inflected soils which provide unique drainage characteristics compared to the state's clay-heavy western counties. Growers here often manage land that transitions quickly from valley floor to rocky ridge.

Potential for High Yields

The county benefits from a regional organic matter average of 21.03%, far exceeding the national average of 2.0%. While local AWC data is restricted, the state baseline of 0.142 in/in suggests that these soils can sustain a variety of agricultural uses. Hardy County remains a leader in the state for poultry and crop production despite the data gaps.

River-Driven Hydrology

The Potomac and Cacapon rivers drive the hydrology of this county, creating fertile but complex drainage patterns. Without specific hydrologic group data, residents focus on the well-drained nature of the valley soils for large-scale farming. Water management is a critical component of the county's robust agricultural economy.

Productive Seasons in Zone 6b

Hardy County's Zone 6b climate is ideal for many commercial crops and intensive home gardening. The combination of river valley warmth and regional fertility makes it one of the state's most productive corners. Whether planting a small garden or managing acres, the local climate provides a strong start.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hardy County

via LawnByCounty

Managing the dry side of the state

Hardy County has a lawn difficulty score of 58.8, making it more challenging than the state average of 66.5. This Zone 6b county is impacted by lower rainfall and higher heat than many of its neighbors. Success here depends on careful water management and choosing the right grass varieties for a drier climate.

Lower precipitation and higher heat days

Hardy County receives only 36.3 inches of rain annually, which is much lower than the state average of 46.8 inches. Combined with 21 extreme heat days—higher than the state average of 17—lawns here face a tougher path to staying green. The 3,026 growing degree days provide plenty of energy for growth, but water is the limiting factor.

Focusing on soil health in Hardy

Specific soil data for pH and texture is unavailable for Hardy County, so a professional soil test is highly recommended. Because the county is drier, adding organic matter is crucial for increasing the soil's water-holding capacity. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 to ensure your lawn can maximize the nutrients it does receive.

Dealing with frequent drought conditions

Drought is a significant hurdle here, with 100% of the county currently in abnormally dry (D0) conditions. Hardy County spent 39 weeks in drought over the last year, highlighting the need for drought-resistant landscaping practices. Mulching clippings and raising mower heights can help your soil retain its limited moisture.

Choosing the right grass for Hardy

With the last spring frost on May 3 and the first fall frost on October 12, the growing season is somewhat compressed. Tall fescue is the best choice for this area due to its deep root system and ability to survive the 21 extreme heat days. Establishing your lawn in the early fall will give it the best chance to survive the next dry summer.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hardy County's county score?
Hardy County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 56.3 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 Hardy County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Hardy County ranks #43 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 Hardy County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Hardy County is $586, with an effective tax rate of 0.37%. This earns Hardy County a tax score of 95.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hardy County?
The median household income in Hardy County, West Virginia is $49,302 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hardy County earns an income score of 13.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hardy County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Hardy County scores 56.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #43 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Hardy 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 Hardy 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.