countyscore
47.1
County Score
Cost of Living 79.7Property Tax 79Lawn Care 71.7

County Report Card

About Hawkins County, Tennessee

Performance Below National Standards

With a composite score of 47.1, Hawkins County sits just below the national median of 50.0. It offers a competitive cost profile but struggles with specific safety metrics.

Tracking Below the Tennessee Average

The county's 47.1 score trails the state average of 51.3. While it provides better schooling than some neighbors, its overall ranking is hindered by localized risks.

Strong Schools and Low Costs

A school score of 57.1 makes this county more attractive for families than many rural peers. It also excels in affordability, with a cost score of 79.7 and a median rent of $744.

Low Safety and Water Quality

Safety is a significant outlier with a score of only 1.2, suggesting high localized crime concerns. Water quality also lags, scoring 31.9, which is notably lower than most Tennessee counties.

Best for Budget-Conscious Families

Families looking for decent schools and low housing costs will find Hawkins County appealing if they can overlook safety and utility scores. It serves as a practical, affordable home base for local workers.

Score breakdown

Tax79Cost79.7Safety1.2Health28.9Schools57.1Income25.5Risk44.3Water31.9Weather71.5
🏛79
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠79.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡1.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤28.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡44.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧31.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤71.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱71.7
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 →
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Nearby counties

Hancock County
Tennessee
59.9
Greene County
Tennessee
53.3
Hamblen County
Tennessee
46.5
Lee County
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Washington County
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Scott County
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Harlan County
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Grainger County
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Deep Dives

Hawkins County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hawkins County

via TaxByCounty

Hawkins rates slightly above U.S. average

Hawkins County's effective tax rate of 0.563% modestly exceeds the national median of 0.51%, placing it in the middle range nationally. The median property tax of $940 on homes worth $166,900 represents just 35% of the national median of $2,690, reflecting property values below the U.S. norm.

Mid-range tax county in Tennessee

Hawkins County's effective rate of 0.563% sits above Tennessee's state average of 0.511% but below the highest-taxing counties. Its median annual tax of $940 is roughly 92% of the state median of $1,016, positioning it as a moderately taxed county statewide.

Hawkins taxes moderate in regional context

Hawkins County's 0.563% rate falls in the middle of the eight-county group, higher than Hardin (0.432%), Henderson (0.469%), and Henry (0.482%), but lower than Hamilton (0.669%), Hardeman (0.652%), and Haywood (0.714%). It represents a balanced tax environment for the region.

Median home costs $940 yearly

A typical Hawkins County home valued at $166,900 generates approximately $940 in annual property taxes at the 0.563% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly more ($1,009), while those owning outright pay less ($852).

Check if your assessment is fair

Hawkins County homeowners should compare their assessed values to recent sales of similar properties in their area. If your assessment appears inflated, file a cost-free appeal with the county assessor—many homeowners successfully reduce their tax burden this way.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hawkins County

via CostByCounty

Hawkins beats the national average

Hawkins County renters spend just 16.1% of income on rent, beating the national average of roughly 18% by a meaningful margin. Median household income of $55,278 is below the national median of $74,755, yet residents enjoy better housing affordability than the typical American.

Tennessee's most affordable county

Hawkins County's 16.1% rent-to-income ratio is the best in Tennessee, sitting 1.5 percentage points below the state average of 17.6%. At $744 monthly rent, the county offers genuine affordability without sacrificing economic stability.

Cheap rents paired with strong wages

Hawkins' $744 rent is lower than Henry County ($741) and Henderson County ($812), while household income ($55,278) exceeds both by meaningful margins. The county's combination of low housing costs and higher wages creates Tennessee's best affordability story.

Housing takes just one-sixth of income

Renters spend $744 monthly while homeowners pay $600—a $144 gap on a median income of $4,607. After housing, residents retain over $3,800 for food, healthcare, transport, and savings—genuinely comfortable for rural Tennessee.

Best affordability in the region

Hawkins County delivers the best housing affordability in Tennessee while maintaining competitive wages above neighboring rural counties. If you're relocating from costly metros, Hawkins offers the rare combo of low rents and incomes that actually support them.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hawkins County

via IncomeByCounty

Hawkins County income trails national median

Hawkins County's median household income of $55,278 falls 26% short of the national median of $74,755, reflecting rural economic constraints typical of East Tennessee. The county's manufacturing and agricultural base provides stable but modest incomes compared to nationally diversified economies.

Near Tennessee state average

Hawkins County earns 6% below Tennessee's state median of $58,994, making it close to the state average despite rural characteristics. Per capita income of $29,206 also approaches the state average of $31,458, suggesting consistent earning patterns across the county's population.

Regional income leader among peers

Hawkins County's $55,278 median income ranks highest among comparable rural counties in the region, exceeding Hardeman ($46,173), Henry ($48,540), and Haywood ($43,513) by $7,000–$12,000. This position reflects stronger manufacturing employment and broader economic diversification.

Housing remains affordable

A rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% is the lowest among measured counties, indicating strong housing affordability for the area. With a median home value of $166,900 and stable incomes, residents have solid opportunities to purchase homes and build equity.

Maximize Hawkins County opportunity

With better-than-average regional incomes and affordability, Hawkins County residents are well-positioned to direct 10–15% of income toward retirement accounts or investment accounts. Consider consulting free financial counseling services to develop a long-term wealth-building strategy that leverages the county's economic stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hawkins County

via CrimeByCounty

Hawkins County Faces High Crime Rates

Hawkins County records a total crime rate of 6,025.5 per 100K, which is more than double the national average of 2,385.5. This high volume of incidents results in a safety score of 90.5.

Significantly Higher Than State Average

The county's crime rate is more than triple the Tennessee average of 1,785.6 per 100K. This discrepancy places Hawkins well below the state's average safety score of 97.2.

Regional Outlier in Public Safety

Hawkins County's crime rate of 6,025.5 is vastly higher than neighboring Hancock at 1,590.9. Six reporting agencies work to address this high density of reported incidents compared to surrounding areas.

Property and Violent Crimes Are Elevated

Property crime is exceptionally high at 5,085.2 per 100K, nearly 2.5 times the national average. Violent crime is also significant at 940.3 per 100K, nearly triple the U.S. benchmark of 369.8.

Prioritize Robust Home Security

Given the high rates of property crime, professional home monitoring and reinforced entry points are critical. Motion sensors and community watch programs can help residents stay proactive in this challenging environment.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hawkins County

via HealthByCounty

Hawkins County below U.S. health averages

At 71.5 years, Hawkins County's life expectancy falls 4.9 years short of the U.S. average of 76.4 years. With 21.1% of residents reporting poor or fair health, the county tracks close to national disease burden rates.

Below Tennessee's average health outcomes

Hawkins County's 71.5-year life expectancy lags the Tennessee state average of 72.4 years by 0.9 years, placing it in the bottom half of state counties. Its 21.1% poor/fair health rate mirrors statewide burden but signals ongoing chronic disease challenges.

Mid-range health in its peer group

Hawkins County's 71.5-year life expectancy is middling among the eight counties, outpacing Hancock, Hardeman, and Hardin but trailing Hamilton and Henry. Its 21.1% poor/fair health rate aligns closely with Henderson (23.8%) and Henry (23.6%), suggesting similar underlying health patterns.

Limited mental health infrastructure

Hawkins County has 31 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and critically low mental health provider capacity at just 26 per 100,000—among the lowest statewide. An 11.2% uninsured rate means coverage gaps compound these provider shortages, limiting access to behavioral health support.

Insurance matters in tight provider markets

With just 26 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Hawkins County residents face acute behavioral health gaps, made worse by 11.2% lacking insurance. Enroll at healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to access coverage and ensure you're connected to available mental health services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hawkins County

via SchoolsByCounty

Broad Educational Reach in Hawkins

Hawkins County is home to 20 public schools and 7,431 students, making it one of the larger systems in the region. The infrastructure is diverse, featuring 11 elementary, 4 middle, and 3 high schools. Two separate districts work to provide comprehensive coverage across the county's varied geography.

Exceptional Graduation Performance

Hawkins County stands out with a 96% graduation rate, which is significantly higher than both state and national averages. The county's school score of 55.2 reflects a commitment to quality that exceeds the national median of 50.0. Spending remains efficient at $6,319 per pupil, slightly above the Tennessee state average.

Two Distinct School Districts

The county is served by the Hawkins County district and the smaller Rogersville district. Hawkins County is the primary provider with 18 schools and 6,304 students, while Rogersville focuses on a single campus of 624 students. There are currently no charter schools in the county, maintaining a traditional public school focus.

Diverse Landscapes from Town to Country

The school mix is highly varied, featuring rural, suburban, and town settings, with one school even located in a city locale. Average school size is 391 students, but high schools like Cherokee and Volunteer are much larger, each hosting over 1,000 students. This variety ensures that families can find both small-town and larger campus environments.

Quality Schools Near Your Next Home

With a graduation rate nearing 100%, Hawkins County is a premier destination for families focused on education. Whether you prefer the suburban feel of Kingsport or the historic charm of Rogersville, excellent schools are nearby. Explore the housing market here to find a property that supports your children's academic success.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hawkins County

via RiskByCounty

Hawkins County slightly above national average

Hawkins County scores 55.76 on the composite risk index, earning a "Relatively Low" rating and sitting just barely above Tennessee's average of 52.45. Flooding poses the highest risk at 64.66, followed by moderate earthquake exposure (74.20), while tornadoes (49.90) and hurricanes (38.21) remain secondary concerns. This balanced risk profile places Hawkins in the middle range of American counties.

Mid-range risk for Tennessee

Hawkins County ranks in the middle tier of Tennessee counties, with a 55.76 composite score nearly matching the state average of 52.45. Its flood risk of 64.66 is among the state's higher ratings, reflecting the county's topography and proximity to waterways. Tornado and wildfire risks remain below state averages, making flooding and earthquakes Hawkins's distinctive hazards.

Moderate risk in a mixed region

Hawkins County's 55.76 score sits well above Hancock County's exceptional 11.93 but below Hardin County's 70.71, placing it firmly in the regional middle. Its 64.66 flood risk is notably higher than most neighbors, reflecting its water-rich geography. While tornado risks remain lower than Hardin or Henry counties, Hawkins's flood exposure distinguishes it from safer peers like Hancock.

Floods and earthquakes merit attention

Flooding is your primary concern at 64.66, particularly for properties near rivers, creeks, or low-lying areas that can experience significant water damage during heavy rains or spring snowmelt. Earthquakes score 74.20, indicating moderate seismic risk; while major events are infrequent, moderate tremors occur regularly and can damage older structures. Tornadoes remain a secondary spring threat but less severe than in neighboring counties.

Prioritize flood and earthquake coverage

Flood insurance is essential in Hawkins County—either through your standard policy rider or the National Flood Insurance Program—given your 64.66 flood risk score. Add earthquake coverage to your homeowners policy to protect against seismic damage, and ensure windstorm riders cover tornado risk. Annual policy reviews before spring storm season keep your coverage aligned with your property's vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hawkins County

via WeatherByCounty

A mild Appalachian climate

Hawkins County's annual average temperature of 56.3°F is closer to the national median than its West Tennessee counterparts. This mountain-influenced climate is more temperate, avoiding the extreme heat found further south.

Cooler than the state average

While the state average is 58.1°F, Hawkins County stays cooler at 56.3°F. It also receives 48.8 inches of rain, which is significantly drier than the Tennessee average of 55.9 inches.

Temperate compared to the west

Hawkins County is roughly 5 degrees cooler on average than counties like Hardin in West Tennessee. Its July average of 75.2°F provides a much milder summer experience than the Tennessee Valley.

Cold winters and snowy peaks

Winters bring a January average of 35.4°F and 6.3 inches of annual snowfall, which is high for the state. Summers are comfortable with only 18 days of extreme heat exceeding 90°F.

Prepare for winter weather

Homeowners should ensure proper insulation and snow removal tools are ready for the 6-inch annual snowfall. The mild summers mean lower cooling costs compared to the rest of Tennessee.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hawkins County

via SoilByCounty

Awaiting Detailed Soil Classification

Specific data on taxonomic order and pH levels for Hawkins County is not currently available in the digital survey. Most regional soils tend toward acidity, mirroring the state average of 5.35.

Texture Data Currently Unmapped

The specific balance of sand, silt, and clay remains unrecorded for this area. Local landscapes in East Tennessee often feature diverse mixtures of silt and clay typical of mountain valleys.

Regional Benchmarks for Growth

While local organic matter figures are missing, the state average of 2.44% provides a target for local growers. Adding organic material is the best way to improve fertility and water retention on your property.

Infiltration Data Not Specified

There is no current data for dominant drainage classes or hydrologic groups in this county. Careful observation of local slopes and river proximity is the best way to judge land suitability for building.

Four Seasons of Gardening in Zone 7b

Hawkins County enjoys the long growing season of zone 7b, which is ideal for everything from snap beans to sunflowers. Don't let the lack of data stop you; start a garden and learn your soil by hand.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hawkins County

via LawnByCounty

Hawkins County: A Lawn Care Haven

Hawkins County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 71.7, making it the easiest county in this group for maintaining a yard. This score is well above the national median and the state average of 48.0. Residents in Zone 7b benefit from a climate that is naturally conducive to lush, green spaces.

Mild Summers and Balanced Precipitation

The county enjoys a balanced 48.8 inches of annual rain, falling perfectly within the ideal range for turf health. With only 18 extreme heat days—half the state average—grass in Hawkins County avoids the scorching stress found further south. The growing season kicks off after April 14, supported by 3,883 growing degree days.

Personal Testing for Soil Success

Detailed soil data for Hawkins County is currently unavailable in the central database. Because soil quality can vary widely in Tennessee, homeowners should conduct a local test to check for the common regional trend of acidity. Knowing your specific pH and drainage class will help you maintain the county's high standard for lawn ease.

Resilient Landscapes with Low Drought Stress

The county has only faced 9 weeks of drought over the past year, showing much higher stability than other parts of the state. While 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry, the lack of severe drought history is a positive sign for long-term lawn health. Supplemental watering is only needed during occasional dry windows.

Fall Seeding for the Best Results

Zone 7b in Hawkins County is perfect for tall fescue, which thrives in the moderate 75.2°F July summers. The best window for seeding is in the early fall, well before the first frost on October 24. This allows the grass to establish deep roots during the gentle autumn months.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawkins County's county score?
Hawkins County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 47.1 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 Hawkins County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Hawkins County ranks #65 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 Hawkins County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Hawkins County is $940, with an effective tax rate of 0.56%. This earns Hawkins County a tax score of 79/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hawkins County?
The median household income in Hawkins County, Tennessee is $55,278 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hawkins County earns an income score of 25.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hawkins County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Hawkins County scores 47.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #65 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Hawkins 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 Hawkins County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.