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Iredell County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#56 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
42.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 82.3Property Tax 70.8Weather & Climate 65.9

County Report Card

About Iredell County, North Carolina

Iredell Falls Just Below National Median

Iredell County earns a composite score of 42.4, trailing the national median of 50.0. This score places the county in the bottom half of U.S. jurisdictions for overall livability metrics.

Trailing the North Carolina Average

With a 42.4 composite score, Iredell sits slightly below the North Carolina state average of 44.7. While it remains a significant regional hub, it faces stiffer competition from higher-scoring neighbors in terms of total quality of life.

High Incomes and Favorable Tax Rates

The county boasts a robust income score of 82.3, supported by a median household income of $78,678. Residents also benefit from a low effective tax rate of 0.630%, resulting in a strong tax score of 70.8.

Housing Costs and Environmental Risks

Affordability is a major hurdle, as evidenced by a cost score of 18.2 and median home values of $292,300. Additionally, the county faces vulnerabilities in safety and environmental risk, which score 23.7 and 19.2 respectively.

A Prime Choice for High Earners

Iredell County is best suited for established professionals who prioritize high income potential and low tax burdens. Those who can afford the higher housing costs will find a stable, wealthy community despite lower scores in public safety.

Score breakdown

Tax70.8Cost18.2Safety23.7Health62.1Schools35.5Income82.3Risk19.2Water64.6Weather65.9
🏛70.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠18.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼82.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡23.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓35.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡19.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧64.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨26.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱55.8
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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Rowan County
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Deep Dives

Iredell County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Iredell County

via TaxByCounty

Iredell's tax rate ranks low nationally

At 0.630%, Iredell County's effective property tax rate falls well below the national median of 0.87%, placing the county in the bottom 35% of U.S. counties by tax burden. Homeowners here pay a median of $1,843 annually—less than the national median of $2,690—despite median home values nearly matching the national average of $281,900.

Iredell sits below North Carolina average

North Carolina's average effective tax rate stands at 0.701%, and Iredell County undercuts that by about 0.07 percentage points. Among the state's 100 counties, this places Iredell in the lower-tax tier, with homeowners paying roughly 29% less in annual property taxes than the state median of $1,433.

Iredell competes with nearby counties

Compared to regional peers, Iredell's 0.630% rate sits between Lincoln County (0.594%) and Johnston County (0.688%) in the Piedmont region. Iredell homeowners pay $1,843 annually, making it competitive with neighboring counties while maintaining moderate tax levels.

What Iredell homeowners actually pay

The median Iredell home valued at $292,300 generates an annual property tax bill of $1,843. With mortgage-related assessments, some homeowners may see bills climb to $2,124, though this varies by individual property circumstances and exemptions.

Iredell homeowners can appeal taxes

Research shows many homeowners across North Carolina are overassessed, and Iredell is no exception. If you believe your home's assessed value exceeds its market value, filing an appeal with the county tax assessor's office could reduce your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Iredell County

via CostByCounty

Iredell's rent burden beats the nation

Iredell renters spend 18.0% of their income on housing, slightly below the national median of 18.6%, making it a relatively affordable market by U.S. standards. With a median household income of $78,678—above the national average of $74,755—residents here have more breathing room than most Americans when paying rent.

A bright spot among North Carolina counties

Iredell's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio ranks near the middle of North Carolina's affordability spectrum, outperforming the state average of 18.6%. This balance reflects strong median incomes paired with relatively moderate rents of $1,183 per month—just 26% above the state median.

Iredell keeps pace with surrounding areas

Iredell's median rent of $1,183 sits between more rural, affordable neighbors like Catawba County and pricier areas closer to urban centers. The county's rent-to-income ratio of 18.0% is competitive with Lincoln County (14.9%) while remaining more affordable than Lenoir County (21.8%).

Housing takes a balanced share of income

Renters in Iredell dedicate about $1,183 monthly to housing costs, while homeowners with mortgages pay $1,155—nearly equal burdens on a median income of $78,678. Together, these figures show housing claims roughly 18% of the typical household budget, leaving adequate income for other essentials.

Consider Iredell for balanced affordability

If you're weighing relocation options, Iredell offers solid income-to-housing ratios without the steep costs of metro areas—median home values of $292,300 remain accessible to households earning near $78,000 annually. Compare this stability to higher-burden counties and you'll see why Iredell attracts families seeking economic balance.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Iredell County

via IncomeByCounty

Iredell outpaces the nation on income

Iredell County's median household income of $78,678 runs $3,923 ahead of the national median of $74,755, placing it in the upper tier nationally. This 5% advantage signals strong earning power relative to American households overall.

Top-earning county in North Carolina

At $78,678, Iredell's median household income towers 29% above North Carolina's state average of $61,072, making it one of the state's most prosperous counties. Per capita income of $43,261 also exceeds the state average of $33,920 by nearly 28%.

Iredell leads regional income rankings

Iredell's $78,678 median income outshines nearby Lincoln County ($78,490) and Johnston County ($79,838), though Johnston edges it slightly. Compared to struggling neighbors like Lenoir County ($44,795), Iredell households earn 76% more, revealing sharp regional divides.

Rents stay manageable in Iredell

With a rent-to-income ratio of 18%, Iredell County exceeds the national affordability threshold of 30%, meaning renters spend a reasonable share of earnings on housing. Median home values of $292,300 align well with local incomes, supporting sustainable homeownership.

Build on Iredell's strong foundation

Iredell's above-average incomes create prime opportunity for wealth building through diversified investments, retirement savings, and property ownership. With median home values at $292,300 and stable earning power, residents should prioritize emergency funds and long-term financial planning.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Iredell County

via CrimeByCounty

Iredell County Outperforms National Safety Benchmarks

Iredell County earns a safety score of 97.0, significantly outpacing the national average for security. Its total crime rate of 1,926.6 per 100,000 residents remains well below the national average of 2,385.5.

A Secure Choice in North Carolina

With a safety score higher than the state average of 96.8, Iredell stands as a relatively secure enclave. The county maintains a total crime rate that is lower than the statewide average of 2,050.0.

Leading Regional Safety Efforts

Compared to the state average, Iredell’s crime rate is roughly 6% lower. While it faces more activity than its most rural neighbors, it offers a more stable environment than many nearby urban centers.

Violent Crime Rates Remain Low

Property crimes account for the majority of local incidents at 1,641.8 per 100,000 people. Violent crime is rare, with a rate of 284.8 that is lower than both the state average of 330.7 and the national mark of 369.8.

Simple Steps to Boost Home Security

Residents can further improve these high safety marks by implementing basic home security measures. Simple steps like motion-sensor lighting and smart locks help deter the property crimes that make up most local reports.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Iredell County

via HealthByCounty

Living longer than most Americans

Iredell residents enjoy a life expectancy of 76.5 years, nearly two years above the U.S. average of 74.6 years. Only 16% of the county reports poor or fair health, a sign that most residents experience good health outcomes in their daily lives.

Outpacing North Carolina

At 76.5 years, Iredell's life expectancy tops the state average by 2.1 years. The county ranks among the healthier regions in North Carolina, reflecting stronger access to preventive care and lower rates of chronic disease.

Healthiest in the region

Iredell leads nearby counties with a life expectancy of 76.5 years, beating Lincoln County (76.2) and Jackson County (76.3). The county also maintains the lowest poor/fair health rate at 16% among its closest neighbors.

Good access to doctors and mental health

Only 9.9% of Iredell residents lack health insurance, better than the state average of 12.5%. The county supports 68 primary care providers and 262 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, ensuring most people can find a doctor when they need one.

Keep coverage strong

With nearly 1 in 10 Iredell residents uninsured, there's room to expand coverage. Explore your options on the Health Insurance Marketplace or contact local community health centers to find affordable plans.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Iredell County

via SchoolsByCounty

A robust network of fifty-one public schools

Iredell County supports a large educational infrastructure with 51 schools serving over 31,581 students. The system includes 23 elementary, 12 middle, and 11 high schools spread across seven distinct districts. This diverse framework provides a comprehensive foundation for families throughout the region.

High graduation rates despite lean spending

The county boasts a 90.9% graduation rate, significantly outperforming the national average of 87%. While the per-pupil expenditure of $6,004 remains below the state average of $6,969, the composite school score of 51.9 stays competitive with state benchmarks. These metrics suggest the county achieves strong academic outcomes through efficient resource management.

Iredell-Statesville leads a diverse district mix

Iredell-Statesville Schools is the largest district, managing 38 schools and over 20,721 students. Five charter schools operate in the county, representing nearly 10% of all public options. Notable institutions like Mooresville Graded School District serve nearly 6,000 students across eight dedicated schools.

Suburban and rural school settings

Education here happens in both suburban and rural locales, with Lake Norman High serving as the largest campus at 1,986 students. The average school size is 632 students, though options range from large high schools to the specialized American Renaissance School. This mix ensures families can choose between bustling campus environments and smaller, focused settings.

Finding your home near top-performing schools

With graduation rates exceeding state averages, Iredell County is a premier choice for education-focused homebuyers. Explore residential options near Lake Norman or Statesville to take advantage of these high-performing districts. School quality remains a vital factor for long-term property value in this growing region.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Iredell County

via RiskByCounty

Iredell's risk sits above the U.S. average

Iredell County scores 80.79 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the Relatively Low category but notably higher than the national average. This means residents face greater exposure to multiple natural hazards than the typical American county, driven primarily by flood and tornado threats.

A moderate hazard profile for North Carolina

Iredell ranks above the state average of 66.72, positioning it in the upper-middle tier of North Carolina counties for overall natural disaster risk. The county's 80.79 score reflects above-average flood and tornado exposure relative to its peers across the state.

Iredell faces similar risks to nearby Lincoln

Iredell's composite score of 80.79 is closely aligned with Lincoln County (73.76), though Iredell carries noticeably higher flood risk at 86.64 versus Lincoln's 83.24. Both counties share elevated tornado risk, making them part of a cohesive regional hazard pattern in the Piedmont.

Floods and tornadoes dominate Iredell's hazards

Flood risk scores highest at 86.64, followed by tornado risk at 85.88—both well above the state average—making these dual threats the primary concern for residents. Earthquake risk registers at 79.77, while wildfire remains the lowest threat at 43.26, offering some regional relief in that category.

Prioritize flood and wind coverage now

Given Iredell's elevated flood and tornado exposure, comprehensive homeowners insurance that includes flood coverage and wind damage protection is essential. Review your policy's limits and deductibles annually, and consider bundling coverage to reduce premiums while maximizing protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Iredell County

via WeatherByCounty

A temperate Piedmont climate profile

Iredell’s 57.4°F annual average temperature sits slightly above the national median. This region experiences four distinct seasons typical of the American Southeast.

Cooler than the North Carolina average

At 57.4°F, Iredell is nearly two degrees cooler than the state average of 59.3°F. Its 47.2 inches of annual rain also falls short of the statewide 51.5-inch mark.

More snow than the coastal plains

The county receives 4.3 inches of snow annually, which is higher than most counties to the east. This matches the trend for the northern Piedmont region as it approaches the foothills.

Hot July peaks and chilly winters

Summer features 33 days above 90°F, while January temperatures average a brisk 37.6°F. The winter average stays just below 40°F, leading to more frequent frost than southern neighbors.

Prepare for a true four-season year

Residents need a full range of gear, from summer cooling solutions to winter coats for the 4.3 inches of snow. Plan for moderate watering in the garden since rainfall is lower than the state average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Iredell County

via SoilByCounty

Moderately Acidic Piedmont Soil

Iredell soils show an average pH of 5.61, which is higher than the North Carolina average of 5.14 but below the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is currently limited, this acidic profile reflects the mineral-rich history of the region.

A Balanced Sandy-Clay Mix

The soil contains 57.8% sand and 19.1% clay, creating a texture that is easy to work while maintaining structural integrity. This combination allows for decent drainage without the extreme leaching found in coastal areas.

Lower Organic Matter but Average Capacity

Organic matter sits at 1.44%, trailing both the state average of 5.12% and the national 2.0% benchmark. However, the available water capacity of 0.135 in/in matches the state average, ensuring plants stay hydrated during dry periods.

Practical Management for Heavy Rainfall

Official drainage class and hydrologic data are not available for this specific dataset. Gardeners should monitor local runoff patterns, as the 19.1% clay content can sometimes lead to surface compaction after heavy rains.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8a

Zone 8a supports a long growing season for heat-tolerant crops like peppers and sweet potatoes. Adding compost will help compensate for low organic matter and kickstart a productive backyard garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Iredell County

via LawnByCounty

Iredell's Favorable Growing Environment

Iredell County earns a 55.8 difficulty score, making it easier to maintain a lawn here than the national average of 50.0. Located in hardiness zone 8a, the area offers a more hospitable climate for turf than the North Carolina state average of 40.8.

Balanced Rain and Managed Heat

Annual precipitation of 47.2 inches falls within the ideal range, while 33 extreme heat days keep Iredell below the state average of 38. With 4,103 growing degree days, the climate supports a robust season without the overwhelming heat found further east.

Amending Sandy, Acidic Soils

The local soil pH of 5.61 is acidic and requires lime to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most grasses. A high sand content of 57.8% ensures drainage but may require more frequent nutrient applications to keep the lawn healthy.

Navigating Severe Drought Conditions

Current data shows 100% of the county in severe drought, following 24 weeks of drought over the past year. Homeowners should focus on deep watering and maintaining a higher mowing height to protect the soil from moisture loss.

Best Grasses for Iredell's 8a Zone

Warm-season varieties like Bermuda or Zoysia are excellent choices once the last frost passes around April 16. Start your seeding or sodding in late spring to take advantage of the warming soil and long growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Iredell County's county score?
Iredell County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 42.4 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 Iredell County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Iredell County ranks #56 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 Iredell County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Iredell County is $1,843, with an effective tax rate of 0.63%. This earns Iredell County a tax score of 70.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Iredell County?
The median household income in Iredell County, North Carolina is $78,678 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Iredell County earns an income score of 82.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Iredell County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Iredell County scores 42.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #56 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Iredell 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 Iredell 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.