countyscore
51.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 87.2Property Tax 69.7Cost of Living 59.8

County Report Card

About Heard County, Georgia

Solid Performance Against National Benchmarks

Heard County carries a composite score of 51.1, edging out the national median score of 50.0. This places the county in a competitive position relative to rural communities across the United States.

Outpacing the Georgia Average

The county’s 51.1 score sits well above the Georgia state average of 46.7. It serves as a resilient and cost-effective option within the state's western corridor.

Natural Resilience and Tax Value

The county excels in disaster resilience with a Risk Score of 87.2, one of the highest in the region. Residents also benefit from a strong Tax Score of 69.7 and a modest effective tax rate of 0.640%.

Closing the Healthcare and Utility Gaps

A Health Score of 21.3 suggests limited local medical access, which remains a primary area for improvement. Similarly, the Water Score of 13.7 highlights challenges in utility infrastructure.

Best for Self-Sufficient Families

Heard County is a great match for families who value safety and low environmental risk. It appeals to those who prefer a quiet, low-tax environment and don't mind traveling for specialized healthcare.

2040608010069.759.855.721.342.547.987.213.756.1Tax69.7Cost59.8Safety55.7Health21.3Schools42.5Income47.9Risk87.2Water13.7Weather56.151.1/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Heard County DNA

Foverall

How Heard County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Heard County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (87.2/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (13.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
69.7+17.700000000000003
Cost
59.8+11.799999999999997
Safety
55.7
Health
21.3-28.7
Schools
42.5-11.5
Income
47.9
Risk
87.2+40.2
Water
13.7-44.3
Weather
56.1
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Compare mortgage rates in Heard County

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$161,000

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$855/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$161,000/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$34,200/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.6x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $62,907/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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
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Nearby counties

Troup County
Georgia
26.4
Randolph County
Alabama
56.9
Coweta County
Georgia
41.6
Carroll County
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42
Chambers County
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Meriwether County
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Haralson County
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Douglas County
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Deep Dives

Heard County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Heard County

via TaxByCounty

Heard County keeps taxes remarkably low

Heard County's effective tax rate of 0.640% is less than one-fourth the national median property tax burden of $2,690. At $1,030 annually on a median home value of $161,000, Heard County residents enjoy some of the nation's most affordable property taxation.

Third-lowest taxes in Georgia

Heard County's 0.640% effective rate ranks it among Georgia's most tax-friendly counties, well below the state average of 0.898%. The county's median tax of $1,030 is 33% lower than Georgia's statewide median of $1,529.

Hart County edges slightly lower in region

Heard County's 0.640% rate barely trails Hart County's 0.539% nearby. Both counties significantly undercut Houston County (0.856%) and the broader regional average, making this corridor exceptionally tax-friendly.

Your annual property tax estimate

On a median home value of $161,000, Heard County homeowners pay approximately $1,030 yearly in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,262 when escrow is factored in.

Appeal if your value has dropped

Heard County's low overall burden doesn't guarantee accurate individual assessments. If your home has lost value or your assessment seems out of line with recent sales, filing an appeal with the county assessor could provide additional tax relief.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Heard County

via CostByCounty

Heard County beats national affordability test

Heard County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.3% outperforms the national standard, meaning renters here carry lighter housing burdens than most Americans. At $855 monthly, median rent remains well below what the national median household income of $74,755 would suggest is affordable.

Georgia's most affordable renting county

Heard County's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Georgia's lowest, beating the state average of 18.6% by a clear margin. This rural county delivers one of the state's best rental values while maintaining a median household income of $62,907.

Modest rent edge over Hart County

Heard County's $855 median rent runs $41 higher than Hart County's $814, yet both maintain nearly identical rent-to-income ratios around 16-17%. Moving between these neighboring rural counties offers minimal rental cost difference despite their comparable affordability profiles.

Heard County's housing math

With median household income at $62,907, Heard County renters dedicate 16.3% of earnings to $855 monthly rent, preserving $863 for remaining expenses. Homeowners invest $696 monthly into mortgages on $161,000 homes—substantially cheaper than comparable properties in Atlanta-area counties.

Unbeaten value for rural renters

Heard County offers Georgia's tightest rent-to-income ratio at 16.3%, making it ideal for renters prioritizing affordability over urban amenities. Weigh this against nearby Henry County's 22.6% ratio to see how much location matters in Georgia's housing market.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Heard County

via IncomeByCounty

Heard County lags national income

Heard County's median household income of $62,907 falls 16% short of the national median of $74,755. Families earn approximately $11,850 less annually than the typical American household.

Above-average for Georgia

Heard County outperforms the Georgia state median of $60,488, ranking in the top third of Georgia's 159 counties. Per capita income of $32,800 exceeds the state average of $31,115, indicating stronger individual earning power.

Among the wealthier neighbors

Heard County's $62,907 income ranks second-highest among nearby counties, behind Jackson County ($85,012) and ahead of Hart County ($57,241). It maintains a solid position above lower-income Irwin County ($53,915) and Jeff Davis County ($40,879).

Excellent housing affordability

Heard County's 16.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the best in the region, well below the 30% affordability threshold. The median home value of $161,000 makes homeownership achievable for most households without overextending finances.

Prime opportunity for wealth building

With strong income-to-housing ratio, Heard County residents have room to invest in retirement accounts, college savings, or taxable investment accounts. Consider meeting with a financial advisor to develop a personalized plan that maximizes the county's affordability advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Heard County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional safety levels in Heard County

Heard County enjoys a total crime rate of 1,009.6 per 100,000, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This contributes to an impressive safety score of 98.4.

Outperforming the Georgia state average

With a safety score of 98.4, Heard County is safer than the Georgia state average of 97.8. Its crime rate is also much lower than the statewide average of 1,412.9 per 100,000.

Consistent safety across the local region

Heard County’s crime rate of 1,009.6 mirrors other safe areas like Jackson County (1,032.1). It remains one of the more secure jurisdictions among its regional peers.

Violent crime remains remarkably rare

The violent crime rate is just 78.3 per 100,000, far below the property crime rate of 931.3. Local safety efforts successfully keep violent incidents at a minimum.

Maintain safety with simple home measures

Despite low crime rates, basic property security remains important to deter opportunity thefts. Ensuring entry points are locked and join a neighborhood watch to keep numbers low.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Heard County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Public Education in a Rural Setting

Heard County operates six public schools serving a total enrollment of 2,195 students. The infrastructure includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools within a single district.

Consistent Performance and Solid Investment

The county meets the national graduation rate average of 87.0%. Educators benefit from per-pupil expenditure of $7,496, which is higher than the Georgia state average of $7,405.

Traditional Rural District Management

The Heard County School District manages all local campuses, with no charter schools currently available. Heard Elementary School is the largest campus in the system, enrolling 710 students.

Intimate Classrooms in a Rural Landscape

All six schools are located in rural locales, creating a close-knit educational feel with an average size of only 366 students. While the primary schools are larger, Ephesus Elementary offers a very small-scale experience with just 160 students.

Finding Your Place in a Close-Knit District

For those seeking a rural lifestyle without sacrificing educational investment, Heard County offers a dedicated single-district system. Explore residential options near these small-scale schools for a personalized learning environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Heard County

via RiskByCounty

Heard County: Among America's Safest

Heard County's composite risk score of 12.82 ranks it among the nation's lowest-risk counties, far below the national average. This "Very Low" rating means residents face minimal overall exposure to major natural disasters.

Georgia's Lowest-Risk County

Heard County's 12.82 composite score is dramatically lower than Georgia's 39.49 state average—one of the safest places in the state. Few Georgia counties match Heard's exceptional natural disaster protection.

Safest in Its Region by Far

Heard County significantly outperforms neighboring Henry County (79.36) and Houston County (70.48), which face much higher overall disaster risk. This makes Heard an outlier of safety in its immediate area.

Wildfire and Tornado Warrant Attention

Wildfire (51.59) and tornado (51.75) risks represent Heard's primary hazard concerns, though both remain below critical thresholds. Flood risk (22.30) is minimal, providing significant protection for homes and property.

Standard Homeowners Insurance Sufficient

Heard County's low composite risk means a standard homeowners policy covers most scenarios, though wildfire and tornado endorsements should be verified. Ensure your policy includes wind and hail coverage, common in tornado-prone regions.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Heard County

via WaterByCounty

Drinking Water Compliance Trails State Averages

Heard County receives a Grade F with 20 health violations recorded over the past five years. The county's violation rate of 218.1 per 100,000 people significantly outpaces the Georgia average of 152.5. This data reflects persistent difficulties in meeting federal health-based standards.

Contaminants Impact Over Half of Local Watersheds

According to 2022 data, 54.1% of the county's 37 assessed water bodies are impaired, failing to meet Clean Water Act standards. Fecal coliform and PCBs in fish tissue are among the primary causes of these failures. This impairment rate is higher than the Georgia state average of 48.4%.

Dense Monitoring Network Captures Thousands of Records

The county hosts 11 monitoring sites that have generated 12,319 water-quality measurements in the last five years. Data collection focuses on physical, nutrient, and inorganic characteristics. This extensive footprint helps track major and non-metal constituents across the local water system.

Chattahoochee River Flow Well Below Typical Levels

The USGS gauge at the Chattahoochee River at Franklin reports a discharge of 1,480 cfs. This is only 34% of the long-term mean, indicating significantly drier-than-normal conditions. Low flows can increase the concentration of existing pollutants in the river system.

Monitor River Conditions and Fish Consumption

The presence of PCBs in fish tissue suggests residents should follow local consumption advisories for caught fish. With streamflow at just 34% of normal, pollutants like fecal coliform may be more concentrated. Consider water testing if you rely on private wells near the impaired Chattahoochee stretches.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Soil Quality in Heard County

via SoilByCounty

A Classic Georgia Acidic Soil Profile

Specific taxonomic data for Heard County is limited, but the region typically mirrors the Georgia state average pH of 5.26. This is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5. Local growers should expect to manage soil acidity to support a wide variety of plant life.

Adapting to the Local Piedmont Texture

While specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently unavailable, this region is known for its characteristic Georgia red clay. Homeowners should conduct a simple texture test to determine their specific mix of grit and clay. Understanding this balance is the first step toward improving soil workability.

Building Fertility in the Deep South

Specific organic matter and water capacity data are sparse for this county, but the state organic matter average is 1.83%. Improving soil health through cover crops and mulching is a proven strategy for this area. These practices help boost the soil's natural ability to support vigorous plant growth.

Navigating Regional Drainage Patterns

County-specific hydrologic groups are not listed, making site-specific observation crucial for any project. Most surrounding areas feature well-draining soils that handle the state's heavy rainfall well. Observing how water moves across your property after a storm will guide your gardening and building plans.

Abundant Growth in Hardiness Zone 8a

Heard County sits in hardiness zone 8a, which is ideal for southern favorites like blueberries and camellias. The warm climate offers a long growing season that spans most of the year. Even with limited data, the region provides an excellent environment for anyone looking to start a garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Heard County

via LawnByCounty

Managing a Classic Georgia Landscape

While specific difficulty scores are unavailable for Heard County, its location in Hardiness Zone 8a defines its growing potential. Local lawns face the typical heat and humidity of the Piedmont region. Success here depends on adapting to local moisture shifts and seasonal transitions.

Regional Climate Drives Your Schedule

Specific local temperature and precipitation data are limited for this area, but regional trends suggest typical Georgia humidity and rainfall near 51 inches. Homeowners should monitor local weather stations to adjust their irrigation and mowing frequency. Consistent monitoring is key to preventing fungal issues in this humid environment.

Know Your Ground Before You Plant

Soil characteristics for Heard County are not currently recorded in this specific dataset. Most Georgia Piedmont soils are clay-heavy and slightly acidic, so a professional soil test is your first step. Testing reveals exactly how much lime or phosphorus your lawn requires to thrive.

Resilience Through Extended Dry Spells

Heard County has endured 25 weeks of drought over the past year, with nearly the entire area currently classified as Abnormally Dry. Only 1% of the county is currently in Severe Drought, giving it a slight edge over its eastern neighbors. Focus on mulching clippings back into the lawn to retain soil moisture during these dry periods.

Warm-Season Varieties Rule the Yard

Centipedegrass and St. Augustine are excellent choices for the warm summers of Zone 8a. These varieties provide a dense carpet that naturally crowds out weeds. Prepare your site in early spring to take full advantage of the long southern growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Heard County's county score?
Heard County, Georgia has a composite county score of 51.1 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 Heard County rank among counties in Georgia?
Heard County ranks #56 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 Heard County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Heard County is $1,030, with an effective tax rate of 0.64%. This earns Heard County a tax score of 69.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Heard County?
The median household income in Heard County, Georgia is $62,907 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Heard County earns an income score of 47.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Heard County, Georgia a good place to live?
Heard County scores 51.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #56 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Heard 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 Heard County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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