countyscore
55.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 91.7Water Quality 86Safety 81.7

County Report Card

About Harris County, Georgia

Superior National Livability Standing

Harris County achieves a high composite score of 55.8, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score places it in the upper echelon of American counties for quality of life. It offers a rare combination of economic prosperity and environmental safety.

A Top-Ranked Georgia Community

With a score of 55.8, Harris County is a standout performer compared to the Georgia average of 46.7. It is one of the most desirable counties in the state, particularly for those seeking a high-income suburban-rural mix. Its ranking reflects a high level of investment in community safety and resident well-being.

Wealth, Safety, and Low Risk

The county boasts an elite income score of 91.7, with a median household income of $89,184. Residents also enjoy high levels of security, with a safety score of 81.7 and an environmental risk score of 79.3. Excellent water quality (86.0) and health services (70.8) further enhance its profile.

High Entry Costs and Schools

The primary barrier to entry is cost, with a score of 23.4 and a median home value of $278,700. Additionally, the school score of 37.4 is surprisingly low given the county's wealth, suggesting a potential area for local improvement. These factors may deter younger families or those looking for high-performing public districts.

Ideal for Affluent Professionals

Harris County is a top choice for high-earning individuals who prioritize personal safety and a low-risk environment. It offers an exceptionally high quality of life for those who have the income to support higher housing costs. It is best for residents who value health and safety as the cornerstones of their community.

Score breakdown

Tax46Cost23.4Safety81.7Health70.8Schools37.4Income91.7Risk79.3Water86Weather44.8
🏛46
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠23.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡81.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤70.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓37.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡79.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤44.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱26.7
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Harris County

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

See Today's Rates

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Harris County with Coosa County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Coosa County
Alabama
Median income: $57,063
55.8
Clay County
Illinois
Median income: $57,266
55.8
Lucas County
Iowa
Median income: $67,921
55.8
Mitchell County
Kansas
Median income: $58,233
55.8
Calhoun County
Mississippi
Median income: $43,942
55.8
Chickasaw County
Mississippi
Median income: $43,041
55.8
Simpson County
Mississippi
Median income: $54,111
55.8
Upton County
Texas
Median income: $52,321
55.8

Nearby counties

Muscogee County
Georgia
29.4
Talbot County
Georgia
43.7
Troup County
Georgia
26.4
Lee County
Alabama
42.1
Chambers County
Alabama
44.7
Meriwether County
Georgia
38.9
Chattahoochee County
Georgia
54.6
Russell County
Alabama
55

Deep Dives

Harris County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Harris County

via TaxByCounty

Harris's rate and taxes near national average

At 0.886%, Harris County's effective property tax rate is slightly above the national median of 0.720%, placing it in the middle tier nationally. The median property tax of $2,470 is slightly below the national median of $2,690, with median home values of $278,700 very close to the national median of $281,900.

Slightly below Georgia's state average

Harris County's 0.886% effective rate is nearly identical to Georgia's state average of 0.898%, making it representative of the statewide norm. The median tax of $2,470 exceeds the state median of $1,529 due to above-average home values, but the rate itself is perfectly typical for Georgia.

Balanced rate within the regional group

Harris County's 0.886% rate and $2,470 median tax place it squarely in the regional middle, between Habersham's 0.627% and Gwinnett's 0.978%. Home values here closely mirror the national average, making Harris an instructive case study for typical American property tax burden.

Harris homeowners pay $2,470 annually

The median home valued at $278,700 generates an estimated annual property tax of $2,470, or roughly $206 per month. With a mortgage, that obligation rises to $2,703 annually as escrow accounts prepay taxes.

Appeal if your assessment seems inflated

Harris County homeowners should periodically review their assessed values against comparable sales in the market. Contacting the county tax assessor about a potential appeal is free and could save hundreds annually if your property is overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Harris County

via CostByCounty

Harris County combines wealth and value

Harris County residents enjoy exceptional housing affordability at 12.7% of income spent on rent—among the nation's best ratios. With a median household income of $89,184, well above the U.S. average of $74,755, Harris delivers both strong earning power and manageable housing costs.

Georgia's affordability champion

Harris County ranks as one of Georgia's most affordable counties by rent-to-income ratio (12.7% vs. state average 18.6%), while its median rent of $941 hovers near the state median of $927. This combination is rare and valuable.

Harris outperforms wealthy peers

Harris's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio significantly beats Greene County (13.3%) and far surpasses Gwinnett (24.2%), despite comparable or higher incomes. Median rent of $941 is substantially lower than Hall ($1,247) and Gwinnett ($1,713).

High income, low housing burden

Harris households earning $89,184 annually spend just $941 on rent—a remarkable 12.7%—leaving over $7,000 monthly for other expenses. Homeowners pay an average of $1,399 monthly, still very manageable for this income tier.

Harris offers the best housing value

If you're relocating to Georgia and prioritizing housing affordability alongside strong income potential, Harris County delivers an exceptional combination. Compare these numbers to your current market—you may find the rare sweet spot of affordability, prosperity, and community.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Harris County

via IncomeByCounty

Harris achieves strong income milestone

Harris County's median household income of $89,184 outpaces the national median of $74,755 by 19%, positioning it among the nation's higher-earning counties. The county's per capita income of $42,883 reflects diverse, well-compensated employment.

Highest income in this eight-county group

Harris's median income of $89,184 significantly exceeds Georgia's state average of $60,488 by $28,696, placing it among the state's most affluent counties. Only a small percentage of Georgia counties match this prosperity level.

Wealthiest in regional comparison

Harris County's $89,184 edges out Greene ($84,530) and Gwinnett ($84,823), making it the highest earner among all eight profiled counties. The county has established itself as a wealth destination in west-central Georgia.

Excellent income-to-housing ratio

Harris's 12.7% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among profiled counties, indicating exceptional affordability despite median home values of $278,700. High earners retain substantial discretionary income after housing costs.

Aggressive wealth-building opportunity

Harris County's highest median income and lowest housing burden create ideal conditions for maxing retirement contributions, college savings plans, and taxable investments. Households should work with financial advisors on tax optimization and diversified portfolio strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Harris County

via CrimeByCounty

Harris County: Exceptionally Safe

Harris County boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.3, making it one of the safest counties in the nation. Its total crime rate of 438.2 per 100,000 is roughly five times lower than the national average.

Leader in State Safety

With a safety score of 99.3, Harris County far exceeds the Georgia state average of 97.8. Six reporting agencies collaborate to keep the community incredibly secure for all residents.

The Gold Standard for Safety

Harris County’s crime rate of 438.2 is significantly lower than Haralson or even the very safe Habersham County. It represents the gold standard for public safety in the entire region.

Rare Violent Crime Numbers

Violent crime is nearly non-existent here at just 17.2 per 100,000 residents. Property crime is also remarkably low at 421.0, which is just a fraction of the national property crime rate.

Preserving Your Community Safety

Even with such elite safety ratings, maintaining home security is a wise habit to preserve this environment. Basic precautions ensure that Harris County remains a benchmark for safety in Georgia.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Harris County

via HealthByCounty

Harris leads the nation in health outcomes

Harris County residents live to 78.8 years—5.3 years longer than the U.S. average of 73.5 years and 5.5 years above Georgia's state average. At just 16.1% reporting poor or fair health, Harris achieves elite health status rivaling the nation's healthiest counties.

Harris ranks among Georgia's elite health counties

With a 78.8-year life expectancy, Harris County ranks in Georgia's top tier, nearly 5.5 years above the state average and second only to Gwinnett (79.3 years). The 16.1% poor/fair health rate reflects strong community health and preventive care engagement.

Harris dominates regional health benchmarks decisively

Harris's 78.8-year life expectancy exceeds every other comparison county except Gwinnett (79.3 years), topping Hancock (70.7 years) by 8.1 years. This advantage stems from high insurance coverage, strong economic conditions, and accessible healthcare infrastructure.

Nearly universal coverage enables preventive care

Harris County's 9% uninsured rate—among the nation's lowest—means nine of ten residents can access preventive and specialty care without financial barriers. With 28 primary care and 36 mental health providers per 100,000, care is readily available to the insured majority.

Maintain Harris County's health advantage

Harris County's health success depends on sustained coverage for all residents; if you lack insurance, marketplace plans and Medicaid ensure continuity of care. Visit healthcare.gov to review your options and renew coverage during open enrollment.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Harris County

via SchoolsByCounty

Unified and Rural Education in Harris

Harris County operates seven public schools for a student population of 5,645. The infrastructure is well-distributed, featuring four elementary schools, two middle schools, and one large high school. Every campus in the county is managed by the unified Harris County school district.

Strong Outcomes on an Efficient Budget

Harris County achieves an 89.0% graduation rate, which sits comfortably above both the state and national averages. The district maintains this success with an efficient per-pupil expenditure of $6,698, lower than the Georgia average of $7,405. The resulting school score of 52.3 demonstrates a healthy and effective educational system.

Harris County District's Central Role

The Harris County district manages the entire local student body with no charter schools in operation. Harris County High School is the largest campus, serving 1,703 students in a central location. Creekside School and Harris County Carver Middle School serve as the primary hubs for intermediate students.

The Authentic Rural School Experience

Every single school in Harris County is classified as rural, offering a consistent environment across the district. The average school size is 806 students, making these campuses larger on average than those in neighboring rural counties. This scale allows for robust programs while maintaining the charm of a country setting.

Build a Life in Harris County

Families looking for a rural lifestyle without sacrificing academic quality often find Harris County to be a perfect match. The high school graduation rate is a primary draw for homebuyers looking to relocate to the Columbus area suburbs. Explore available land and homes within this top-rated rural school district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Harris County

via RiskByCounty

Harris County: Lowest Risk in Group

Harris County scores just 20.77 on the composite risk index, placing it in the very low-risk category and well below the national average. The county demonstrates minimal exposure across all major natural disaster hazards.

Second-Safest in Georgia

Harris ranks among Georgia's lowest-risk counties with a score of 20.77, exceeded only by Hancock (11.86) and far below the state average of 39.49. The county represents one of Georgia's safest natural disaster environments.

Safest in Immediate Region

Harris's score of 20.77 is lower than all nearby counties except Hancock (11.86), significantly safer than Haralson (27.61), Greene (37.25), and far below Grady (52.99). It anchors the region's safest corner.

Hurricane Risk Highest, Still Modest

Harris's most elevated hazard is hurricane risk at 64.71, still well below state and national norms for that threat. Tornado and flood risks are both below 40, creating a truly low-hazard county profile.

Basic Insurance Covers Harris Homes

Harris County's exceptionally low composite risk means standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection without specialized add-ons. Maintain annual policy reviews as a responsible practice, but expensive disaster coverage is not necessary here.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Harris County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm and humid western Georgia

Harris County averages 64.3°F annually, placing it above both the national median and the state average. This region is characterized by long, humid summers.

Slightly warmer than state average

The annual temperature is 0.6°F higher than the Georgia average of 63.7°F. It reflects the typical warmth of the state's lower Piedmont region.

Consistent rainfall for the region

At 53.2 inches, the county's precipitation is slightly higher than the state average of 51.4 inches. It shares a similar rainfall profile with its neighboring counties.

Frequent heat and mild winters

Summers are long, featuring 74 days where temperatures reach 90°F or higher. Winters are mild with a December to February average of 48.4°F.

Focus on extreme heat prep

Reliable air conditioning is a necessity for the 74 annual days of extreme heat. Outdoor activities are best planned during the mild 46.5°F January average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Harris County

via SoilByCounty

Exploring Harris County Earth

The taxonomic order and pH levels for Harris County are not currently recorded in this dataset. Most of the region sits on acidic bedrock, meaning your soil is likely below the national 6.5 pH median. Knowing your soil's identity is the first step toward a thriving landscape.

The Foundation of Your Plot

Data on sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently missing for this area. Harris County's varied topography suggests you might find different textures from the hills to the valleys. Feel the soil between your fingers to see if it is gritty, silky, or sticky.

Maximizing Natural Fertility

Measurements for organic matter and water capacity are not available in the current county records. Regardless of the numbers, adding organic amendments is a proven way to improve soil health and crop yields. Healthy soil is the engine that drives a successful harvest.

Hydrology and Soil Drainage

Dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not currently listed for Harris County. Observation is your best tool—watch for areas where water pools or where the ground dries out too quickly. Proper drainage is essential for preventing root diseases in your garden.

Endless Summers in Zone 8b

Harris County is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, providing a warm and hospitable climate for gardeners. You can grow everything from camellias to tomatoes with great success here. Grab a shovel and start exploring what your local earth can do for you.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Harris County

via LawnByCounty

Harris County Lawns Face Significant Hurdles

With a difficulty score of 26.7, Harris County is one of the more challenging places in Georgia to grow a lawn. This score is significantly lower than both the state average of 35.8 and the national median of 50.0.

High Heat Days Stress Local Turf

The county records 74 extreme heat days per year, well above the Georgia average of 65. While the 53.2 inches of rainfall is healthy, the high heat increases the water demand for any lawn in the area.

Acidic Soil Requires Regular Monitoring

Although specific soil metrics are unavailable for the county, regional trends suggest acidic conditions. Maintaining a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is critical, so residents should prioritize professional soil testing.

Extreme Drought Conditions Present Today

Currently, 100.0% of the county is under severe drought, following 26 weeks of dry conditions this past year. Adding organic matter to your soil can help it retain moisture for longer periods between waterings.

Start Your Lawn in Late March

The last spring frost in Harris County typically occurs on March 21. For this Zone 8b climate, drought-resistant varieties like Centipede or Bermuda are the most reliable choices for a green yard.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Harris County's county score?
Harris County, Georgia has a composite county score of 55.8 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 Harris County rank among counties in Georgia?
Harris County ranks #26 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 Harris County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Harris County is $2,470, with an effective tax rate of 0.89%. This earns Harris County a tax score of 46/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Harris County?
The median household income in Harris County, Georgia is $89,184 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Harris County earns an income score of 91.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Harris County, Georgia a good place to live?
Harris County scores 55.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #26 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Harris 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 Harris 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.