countyscore

Hyde County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#5 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
61.1
County Score
Safety 97.5Schools 88Water Quality 86

County Report Card

About Hyde County, North Carolina

Outperforming the National Median

Hyde County boasts an impressive composite score of 61.1, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score puts Hyde in the top tier of counties for livability nationwide.

Leading North Carolina in Livability

With a score of 61.1, Hyde County significantly outperforms the North Carolina average of 44.7. It stands out as a high-performing outlier in the state's coastal region.

Elite Safety and Education Scores

Hyde County excels with a near-perfect safety score of 97.5 and a school score of 88.0. Residents also benefit from a high water quality score of 86.0 and a favorable tax score of 71.0.

Low Income and High Rents

The county faces an income score of only 9.9, reflecting a median household income of $47,338. While home values are low at $119,600, median gross rent is surprisingly high at $1,237 per month.

Best for Families and Safety

Hyde County is a top choice for families prioritizing safety and excellent schools over high-wage employment. It offers a unique combination of small-town security and high-quality public services.

204060801007132.297.532889.933.68669.7Tax71Cost32.2Safety97.5Health32Schools88Income9.9Risk33.6Water86Weather69.761.1/100
This county
National avg
5 above average4 below average

Hyde County DNA

Doverall

How Hyde County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hyde County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (97.5/100) but notably weak in Income (9.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
71+19
Cost
32.2-15.799999999999997
Safety
97.5+42.5
Health
32-18
Schools
88+34
Income
9.9-41.1
Risk
33.6-13.399999999999999
Water
86+28
Weather
69.7+13.700000000000003
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$119,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,237/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$119,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$49,480/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $47,338/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

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Compare Hyde County with Copper River Census Area →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Tyrrell County
North Carolina
55
Washington County
North Carolina
33.3
Pamlico County
North Carolina
52.6
Dare County
North Carolina
51.3
Beaufort County
North Carolina
50.3
Perquimans County
North Carolina
46.1
Carteret County
North Carolina
44.1
Chowan County
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48.1

Deep Dives

Hyde County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hyde County

via TaxByCounty

Hyde County offers the lowest taxes overall

Hyde County's 0.630% effective rate ranks in the 20th percentile nationally, sitting 10% below the US median of 0.703%. Residents pay just $753 annually on a median home valued at $119,600—the lowest absolute tax bill in this eight-county sample, reflecting both low rates and modest home values.

Hyde among NC's most tax-friendly

At 0.630%, Hyde ranks in the lower quartile of North Carolina's 100 counties, sitting 10% below the state average of 0.701%. The coastal county offers tax advantages compared to most NC communities.

Hyde lowest in eastern North Carolina

Hyde's 0.630% rate undercuts even Henderson's 0.524% when measuring absolute regional standing, though it's slightly higher than Henderson's rate. Among eastern counties, Hyde stands apart—significantly lower than Halifax (1.135%) and Hertford (0.975%).

Hyde County annual property tax

The median Hyde home, valued at $119,600, generates approximately $753 in annual property taxes—the lowest bill in this comparison. Mortgaged homes typically see escrow-adjusted taxes around $619.

Review assessments regardless of rate

Even in low-tax counties, individual overassessment occurs when appraisals don't reflect accurate market values or property condition. Hyde homeowners should request their assessment be reviewed against recent comparable sales to ensure fairness.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hyde County

via CostByCounty

Hyde faces America's worst affordability

Hyde County's 31.4% rent-to-income ratio is catastrophic—renters spend nearly one-third of their income on housing at $1,237/month from a median income of just $47,338. This is among the worst housing affordability crises in the nation.

NC's unaffordable outlier

Hyde's 31.4% rent-to-income ratio more than doubles North Carolina's state average of 18.6%, making it an extreme outlier across 100 counties. At $1,237/month, median rent towers $299 above the state median of $938.

Rents spike without income support

Hyde's $1,237 rent is the highest among all eight counties despite having one of the lowest median incomes ($47,338). This collision—premium coastal pricing meeting poverty-level incomes—creates the region's worst affordability math.

Rents devour one-third of income

Renters spend $1,237/month—31.4% of income—while homeowners pay $833/month, revealing a staggering $404 monthly gap. Hyde's $119,600 median home value suggests homeownership as the only viable housing path for long-term residents.

Hyde: relocation requires substantial income

Hyde County's 31.4% rent-to-income ratio is a national crisis—do not relocate as a renter unless your income is double the county median or higher. The county's isolated Outer Banks location and limited job market mean this affordability gap won't resolve without exterior income.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hyde County

via IncomeByCounty

Hyde faces America's income gap

Hyde County's median household income of $47,338 trails the national median of $74,755 by over $27,000, placing it among the lowest-earning counties in America. The county faces severe economic challenges that constrain household wealth-building and limit overall regional development.

Hyde ranks among state's poorest

At $47,338, Hyde County's median household income is 23% below North Carolina's state average of $61,072, landing it in the very bottom tier of the state's counties. The per capita income of just $22,370 is the lowest among all profiled counties, indicating extreme income concentration and limited economic opportunity.

Hyde most challenged in region

Hyde's $47,338 median household income ranks lowest or near-lowest among all eight profiled counties, alongside Halifax and Hertford in a struggling low-income tier. The county faces the most acute economic challenges, requiring intensive workforce development and external economic stimulus to improve household earning capacity.

Rent crisis signals broader strain

At a concerning 31.4% of income, Hyde County's rent-to-income ratio far exceeds the recommended 20% threshold, indicating severe housing affordability stress. Combined with the lowest per capita income in the region, households here face acute budget pressures that make saving nearly impossible without additional income or dramatic cost reduction.

Seek outside support and patience

Hyde County households should explore local assistance programs for utilities, food, and housing before attempting personal wealth-building investments. Once basic needs are stabilized, even $10–$20 monthly to a savings account provides foundation; families should also prioritize employer retirement matches where available, as long-term compounding offers eventual relief from current constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hyde County

via CrimeByCounty

Perfect Safety Score with Limited Reporting

Hyde County holds a safety score of 100.0, the highest possible rating. However, with a reported crime rate of 0.0 per 100,000, this data likely reflects incomplete reporting rather than a total absence of crime. This score should be interpreted with caution as it comes from a single reporting agency.

Hyde County Leads State Rankings

On paper, Hyde County is the safest in the state, far exceeding the North Carolina safety average of 96.8. While the reported crime rate is 0.0, the state average sits at 2,050.0 per 100,000. This drastic difference highlights how limited data can skew safety comparisons across the state.

Reporting Gaps Mask Regional Comparisons

Due to incomplete data, Hyde County appears much safer than Hoke County, which reports a crime rate of 2298.0. It also officially reports less crime than nearby Hertford County's rate of 1470.0. In reality, the lack of reported incidents makes it difficult to draw accurate comparisons with its neighbors.

Understanding the Reporting Limitations

The violent and property crime rates both stand at 0.0 per 100,000 for the 2022 data year. Because these numbers rely on only one reporting agency, they do not provide a full picture of local safety. Residents should remain aware that these figures represent a lack of data rather than a lack of crime.

Stay Vigilant Despite the Data

While official reports show no crime, practicing standard safety habits is always recommended. Ensuring your home is well-lit and your locks are functional are basic steps that provide security regardless of reported statistics. Rely on your local community knowledge and stay alert to your surroundings.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Hyde County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Learning in a Coastal Setting

Hyde County operates 3 public schools for just 475 students, making it one of the smallest systems in the state. The county utilizes a unique model with two K-12 'other' schools and one high school.

Exceptional Graduation Rates and Investment

Hyde County leads the region with a 95.0% graduation rate and a high school score of 63.4. This success is backed by a significant per-pupil expenditure of $10,356, which is nearly $3,400 more than the state average.

Direct Support Through Hyde County Schools

Hyde County Schools is the single district managing all local students with no charter schools present. This small scale allows for highly personalized attention across its three public facilities.

Deeply Rural and Intimate Schooling

Every school in the county is located in a rural setting, with an average school size of only 238 students. Mattamuskeet School is the largest campus, but it still feels private with only 317 students enrolled.

Elite Graduation Rates in a Quiet Setting

With a 95% graduation rate, Hyde County offers some of the best academic outcomes in the state. Explore local real estate to find a home in this peaceful, high-performing coastal district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hyde County

via RiskByCounty

Hyde County faces near-average national risk

Hyde's composite score of 66.44 sits right at the national median, earning a Relatively Low rating. This Outer Banks location experiences typical American-level disaster exposure, though with distinct coastal hazards.

Very close to North Carolina's state average

At 66.44, Hyde ranks almost exactly at the state average of 66.72, placing it squarely in the middle of North Carolina's risk distribution. The county experiences balanced exposure to multiple regional hazard types.

Similar profile to other Outer Banks counties

Hyde (66.44) aligns closely with Dare and Beaufort counties in overall risk, reflecting shared coastal Outer Banks geography. Slight differences in hurricane and flood scores reflect varying barrier island and inlet exposure.

Hurricanes and flooding dominate coastal threats

Hyde faces hurricane risk of 94.58 and flood risk of 84.40—both exceptionally high due to low elevation and barrier island exposure. Wildfire risk (74.71) reflects vegetation vulnerability, while tornado and earthquake risks remain minimal at 21.72 and 19.02 respectively.

Coastal hurricane and flood insurance essential

With hurricane risk at 94.58 and flood risk at 84.40, comprehensive coastal coverage is non-negotiable; secure both separate flood insurance and robust wind/water damage coverage. Elevation, storm-resistant construction, and regular maintenance provide critical supplemental protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Hyde County

via WaterByCounty

Hyde County Achieves Perfect Compliance Record

Hyde County earns an A grade with zero health violations over the last five years. This perfect record stands in contrast to the state average of 31.7 violations per 100,000 people.

Watershed Health Meets All Federal Standards

In the 2022 ATTAINS cycle, Hyde County reported 0.0% impairment across its assessed water bodies. All monitored segments currently fulfill the requirements of the Clean Water Act.

Microbiological Monitoring Protects Local Residents

Ten monitoring sites have logged 968 measurements recently, with a heavy focus on microbiological and pesticide data. These records help maintain the county's excellent water safety profile.

Live Streamflow Monitoring Not Currently Available

There is no representative USGS streamgage data currently available for Hyde County. Residents can instead rely on the county's excellent A-grade drinking water compliance record.

Maintain High Standards via Runoff Prevention

To protect its perfect A grade and clean watersheds, Hyde County residents should practice good septic maintenance and prevent chemical runoff. The focus on microbiological monitoring suggests staying alert to local health advisories.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hyde County

via WeatherByCounty

A warm, wet coastal outlier

Hyde County’s annual average of 62.1°F is much warmer than the national median. Its position on the Pamlico Sound creates a maritime climate that keeps temperatures high year-round.

One of North Carolina’s warmest counties

Hyde exceeds the state average temperature of 59.3°F by nearly three degrees. It also receives 55.3 inches of annual rain, making it significantly wetter than the North Carolina average of 51.5 inches.

The wettest stretch of the coast

Comparing rainfall, Hyde’s 55.3 inches outpaces many inland neighbors. It sees very little snow, averaging just 1.7 inches, which is far below the averages found in the Piedmont.

Sweltering summers and stable maritime winters

July averages a warm 80.2°F, but the water's influence limits extreme heat to 30 days per year. Winter is exceptionally mild, with temperatures averaging 45.6°F from December to February.

Design for rain and coastal humidity

Invest in high-quality rain gear and moisture control for your home to handle the 55-inch annual rainfall. Snow shovels aren't needed here, but dehumidifiers are essential during the muggy summer months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hyde County

via SoilByCounty

High-Performing Coastal Peat Soils

Hyde County boasts a soil score of 51.8, nearly double the state average of 29.4. Its pH of 5.24 is slightly higher than the state average of 5.14, though it remains well below the national median of 6.5. These soils are unique coastal assets, often characterized by deep organic layers.

Sand and Silt Over Clay

The soil consists of 57.4% sand, 23.3% silt, and just 8.0% clay. This very low clay content is offset by a massive amount of organic material, creating a spongy rather than gritty feel. This mix allows for easy root penetration and prevents the soil from hardening like brick in the sun.

Off-the-Charts Organic Matter

Hyde County features an extraordinary 17.15% organic matter, dwarfing the state average of 5.12%. This leads to a high available water capacity of 0.158 in/in, the highest in this group. This soil is naturally 'fat' with nutrients and can sustain intense plant growth with minimal assistance.

High Water Table Challenges

Despite the high sand content, the massive organic matter levels and low elevation make this soil act like a sponge. Drainage can be slow in these low-lying areas, and the soil stays moist much longer than inland sandhills. Builders must be cautious of the high water table and potential for soil subsidence.

Abundance in Zone 8b

In the mild Zone 8b climate, Hyde is a powerhouse for corn, soybeans, and large-scale vegetable production. The rich organic soil also supports lush ornamental gardens and diverse native wetlands. Dig into some of the state's most fertile earth and watch your garden explode with life.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hyde County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Complexity in Zone 8b

Hyde County scores a 34.9 on the lawn difficulty index, reflecting the challenges of a coastal 8b environment. While the winters are mild, the long growing season and soil composition make a perfect lawn hard to achieve.

Wet Climate and Extended Growth

With 55.3 inches of rain annually, Hyde is the wettest county in this group, which helps mitigate the 5,171 growing degree days. The moderate 30 days of extreme heat are tempered by coastal breezes, but the humidity can increase disease pressure.

Sandy Loam Requires Nutrients

The soil pH of 5.24 is low for turf, and the 57.4% sand content means moisture moves through the profile quickly. Because clay is low at only 8.0%, adding organic compost is vital for improving the soil's ability to hold onto water.

A Healthier Outlook on Drought

Hyde spent 27 weeks in drought last year, but currently only 2.3% of the county faces severe drought conditions. This makes it a regional outlier, allowing for more flexible watering schedules than many of its inland neighbors.

The Longest Season in the State

St. Augustine grass is a premier choice for this coastal 8b zone due to its salt and shade tolerance. With the last frost as early as March 18 and the first not until November 25, you have a massive window for establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hyde County's county score?
Hyde County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 61.1 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 Hyde County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Hyde County ranks #5 among all counties in North Carolina 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 Hyde County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Hyde County is $753, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Hyde County a tax score of 71/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hyde County?
The median household income in Hyde County, North Carolina is $47,338 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hyde County earns an income score of 9.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hyde County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Hyde County scores 61.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Hyde 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 Hyde County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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