countyscore
44.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 86.4Water Quality 86Cost of Living 64.3

County Report Card

About Irwin County, Georgia

High Resilience in a Quiet Rural County

Irwin County earns a 44.1 composite score, positioning it slightly below the national median of 50.0. It provides a stable environment with high scores in natural disaster resilience.

Stable Performance in South Georgia

The county’s 44.1 score sits just under the Georgia state average of 46.7. It performs better than many rural neighbors by maintaining high marks in schools and environmental safety.

Safety from Disasters and Affordable Housing

A Risk Score of 86.4 and Water Score of 86.0 make this one of the most environmentally stable counties in the state. Housing is extremely accessible, with a Cost Score of 64.3 and median home values of $105,300.

Healthcare Access and Income Growth

The Health Score of 18.6 and Income Score of 22.7 highlight the economic challenges of the area. With a median income of $53,915, the county seeks to attract higher-paying industries.

Perfect for a Safe, Low-Cost Lifestyle

Irwin County is an excellent choice for those seeking peace of mind regarding natural disasters and housing costs. It is best for retirees or budget-conscious families who value a strong school system (61.2).

2040608010030.164.332.318.661.222.786.48636.1Tax30.1Cost64.3Safety32.3Health18.6Schools61.2Income22.7Risk86.4Water86Weather36.144.1/100
This county
National avg
3 above average5 below average

Irwin County DNA

Foverall

How Irwin County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Irwin County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Disaster Risk (86.4/100) but notably weak in Health (18.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
30.1-21.9
Cost
64.3+16.299999999999997
Safety
32.3-22.700000000000003
Health
18.6-31.4
Schools
61.2
Income
22.7-28.3
Risk
86.4+39.400000000000006
Water
86+28
Weather
36.1-19.9
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Think property taxes are too high in Irwin County?

Many homeowners in Irwin County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$105,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$824/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$105,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,960/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $53,915/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

21.3

per 100K

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

Ben Hill County
Georgia
37.7
Tift County
Georgia
38.2
Turner County
Georgia
54.7
Wilcox County
Georgia
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Berrien County
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Coffee County
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Telfair County
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Worth County
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Deep Dives

Irwin County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Irwin County

via TaxByCounty

Irwin County has Georgia's highest rate

Irwin County's effective tax rate of 1.115% is the highest in Georgia and well above the national median of 0.931%. Despite a modest median home value of $105,300, homeowners here pay $1,174 annually—a burden that rivals much wealthier counties.

Georgia's steepest tax rate

Irwin County's 1.115% effective rate exceeds Georgia's state average of 0.898% by 24%, ranking it number one—the steepest in the state. The median tax of $1,174 is the highest across all eight counties in this profile.

Substantially higher than peers

Irwin County's 1.115% rate towers over nearby Jeff Davis County (0.930%) and Houston County (0.856%), and even exceeds Henry County's (0.922%). This makes Irwin County a notable outlier in the region for tax burden.

Your annual property tax estimate

On a median home value of just $105,300, Irwin County residents pay approximately $1,174 yearly in taxes—a rate that presses harder on modest homeowners. Including mortgage escrow, the annual bill rises to about $1,361.

Assessment appeals matter here

Given Irwin County's exceptionally high effective rate, ensuring your property is assessed fairly is critical to controlling costs. An appeal challenging an inflated valuation can provide meaningful relief for homeowners in this high-tax jurisdiction.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Irwin County

via CostByCounty

Irwin County rents remain deeply affordable

Irwin County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.3% sits just above national affordability benchmarks, with median rent at $824 requiring modest portions of household earnings. Despite a median household income of $53,915—28% below the national average of $74,755—Irwin renters enjoy manageable housing costs.

Just above Georgia's state average affordability

Irwin County's 18.3% rent-to-income ratio slightly exceeds Georgia's state average of 18.6%, marking it as solidly middle-ground for the state. Median rent of $824 runs $103 below the state average of $927, delivering concrete monthly savings.

Rural affordability matches Hart and Heard

Irwin County's $824 median rent clusters with rural peers Hart County ($814) and Heard County ($855), all offering similar value propositions. These three rural counties create a consistent affordability band for renters seeking escape from Atlanta-area price premiums.

Irwin County's modest housing math

On median household income of $53,915, Irwin County renters spend 18.3% on $824 monthly rent, leaving $735 for other living costs. Homeowners invest $685 monthly into mortgages on homes valued at $105,300—the second-lowest home value in this analysis, reflecting rural character.

Deep rural affordability meets tight budgets

Irwin County delivers affordable rents at $824 monthly, ideal for households earning below-state-average incomes of $53,915. Compare this to Jeff Davis County's $674 rent to evaluate whether proximity to services justifies Irwin's modest premium.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Irwin County

via IncomeByCounty

Irwin County significantly below average

Irwin County's median household income of $53,915 lags the national median of $74,755 by 28%. Households earn roughly $20,840 less annually than typical American families.

Lower-income Georgia county

Irwin County ranks below the Georgia state median of $60,488, placing it in the lower-income tier of the state's 159 counties. Per capita income of $27,128 also falls below the state average of $31,115.

Among the poorest in the region

Irwin County's $53,915 income ranks among the lowest in this eight-county group, surpassing only Jeff Davis County ($40,879). It trails wealthier neighbors Jackson County ($85,012) and Henry County ($81,612) by more than $30,000.

Affordable housing provides relief

Irwin County's 18.3% rent-to-income ratio keeps housing costs manageable despite lower median income. The modest median home value of $105,300 makes homeownership accessible, though families must carefully budget to cover other living expenses.

Start small with available resources

Even with lower income, Irwin County residents can build wealth through employer retirement plans, small savings goals, and financial literacy. Low housing costs free up money for emergency savings—the critical first step toward financial stability and long-term prosperity.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Irwin County

via CrimeByCounty

Irwin County remains safer than national average

Irwin County has a total crime rate of 1,591.6 per 100,000, well under the national mark of 2,385.5. It earns a solid safety score of 97.5.

Near the middle of Georgia safety scores

The county's safety score of 97.5 is nearly identical to the Georgia state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 1,591.6 is slightly above the state average of 1,412.9.

Safety levels similar to Hart County

Irwin County’s total crime rate of 1,591.6 is very close to Hart County’s 1,612.4. It is considerably safer than Houston County, which reports a rate of 2,643.2.

Violence accounts for 21% of local crime

Violent crime sits at 337.3 per 100,000, while property crime is much higher at 1,254.3. Residents primarily need to guard against theft and burglary in this area.

Simple steps protect Irwin County homes

Securing windows and adding outdoor lighting can effectively lower the risk of property crime. Consistent security habits help maintain the county's overall safety profile.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Irwin County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Schooling for Rural Students

Irwin County maintains a compact system of just three schools, one for each level of education. This single district serves 1,622 students from elementary through graduation.

Exceptional Graduation and Solid Scores

The county boasts a 92.0% graduation rate, well above the state average of 88.1%. With a school score of 56.0, the county outperforms the state average despite the rural setting.

Centralized Learning in One District

The Irwin County district manages all local students through three traditional schools. Irwin County Elementary is the largest campus, housing 753 students in one primary education hub.

True Rural Education Experience

All educational facilities are classified as rural, offering a consistent community feel as students progress together. The average school size of 541 students ensures that teachers and families remain closely connected throughout the K-12 journey.

High Success in a Rural Lifestyle

If you are looking for a community where every student is known, Irwin County is an excellent choice. The high graduation rates make this rural area a smart target for families purchasing a home.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Irwin County

via RiskByCounty

Irwin County: America's Safest Profile

Irwin County's composite risk score of 13.64 places it among the nation's lowest-risk counties, far below any national average. This "Very Low" rating reflects exceptional protection from most major natural disaster hazards.

One of Georgia's Safest Counties

Irwin County's 13.64 composite score sits well below Georgia's 39.49 state average, making it one of the safest places in the state. Few Georgia counties match this level of natural disaster resilience.

Protected Compared to Regional Peers

Irwin County (13.64) significantly outperforms Houston County (70.48) to its north and maintains lower risk than Jeff Davis County (28.21) nearby. The county's geographic isolation contributes to its favorable risk profile.

Hurricane Risk the Primary Concern

Hurricane exposure (78.14) stands out as Irwin County's single notable hazard, though all other risks remain well below critical levels. Flood risk is exceptionally low at just 7.79, providing strong protection for most properties.

Standard Coverage Generally Adequate

Irwin County's very low composite risk means standard homeowners insurance covers most scenarios effectively. Focus coverage verification on hurricane/windstorm riders given that specific exposure, and maintain regular roof inspections.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Irwin County

via WaterByCounty

Irwin County Maintains Pristine Compliance Record

Irwin County earns a Grade A with zero drinking water health violations recorded over the last five years. This perfect record outshines the Georgia average violation rate of 152.5 per 100,000 people. Residents can rely on a high standard of safety for their tap water.

High Impairment Rates Threaten Local Waterways

A significant 71.4% of the 14 assessed water bodies in Irwin County fail to meet federal standards, well above the state average of 48.4%. The 2022 ATTAINS cycle identifies dissolved oxygen, fecal coliform, and mercury in fish tissue as the primary culprits. This suggests that while treated water is safe, the raw environment is heavily impacted.

Targeted Monitoring Tracks Metals and Nutrients

Three monitoring sites have recorded 743 measurements in the county over the last five years. Data collection focuses on physical traits, nutrients, and metals. This focused monitoring is essential given the mercury impairments noted in local fish tissue.

Alapaha River Experiencing Severe Low Flow

The Alapaha River near Irwinville is flowing at just 29 cfs, a mere 10% of its long-term mean. This extreme low flow is concerning for a river draining a 430-square-mile area. Such low discharge significantly concentrates pollutants and stresses aquatic habitats.

Caution Advised for Fishing and Recreation

Due to high mercury levels in fish tissue and 71.4% watershed impairment, residents should strictly follow local fishing advisories. The extreme low flow of the Alapaha River, at 10% of normal, makes the water more susceptible to contamination. Protecting your water means advocating for better management of the heavily impaired local basins.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Soil Quality in Irwin County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Plain Soils with Acidic Profiles

Irwin County data is limited, but the local soil generally mirrors the state’s average pH of 5.26. This baseline is more acidic than the national median of 6.5, which is typical for the southern Georgia region. Acid-loving plants like azaleas often find these conditions very favorable.

Managing Sandy Coastal Soil Textures

Specific percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not provided in this record. In this part of the state, soils are often sandy, which allows for fast drainage but may require more frequent watering. Testing your own soil can reveal whether you need to add clay or organic matter.

Boosting Nutrients in South Georgia

While local organic matter levels aren't listed, the Georgia state average is 1.83%. Farmers in Irwin County often use careful nutrient management to get the most out of their land. Regular applications of organic mulch can help improve soil fertility and water retention over time.

Planning for Water in Flat Terrain

Detailed hydrologic and drainage data is currently unavailable for the county. Because much of the local land is relatively flat, managing surface water is essential for successful agriculture. Observe your property during the wet season to identify the best spots for planting.

Endless Growing in Hardiness Zone 9a

Irwin County is located in hardiness zone 9a, offering one of the longest growing seasons in the state. This heat is ideal for watermelons, okra, and peanuts, which thrive in the warm Georgia sun. The mild winters mean you can keep a garden productive almost all year round.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Irwin County

via LawnByCounty

Subtropical Success in Zone 9a

Irwin County sits in Hardiness Zone 9a, placing it in a subtropical niche that is unique within Georgia. While a specific difficulty score is unavailable, the southern location suggests high heat and a very long growing season. Lawns here must be exceptionally heat-tolerant to survive the coastal plain summers.

A Climate Designed for Warm-Season Turf

Local climate metrics are limited, but regional data indicates high humidity and frequent summer storms. These conditions are perfect for rapid turf growth but also increase the risk of fungal diseases. Keeping your lawn thinned and well-aerated is critical to maintaining airflow in this environment.

Coastal Plain Soils Require Testing

Soil data for this county is not currently available in the dataset, but local knowledge points to sandy compositions typical of South Georgia. Sandy soils often struggle to hold nutrients and moisture compared to the clay found further north. Frequent, light fertilization is often more effective than single heavy applications.

Severe Drought Challenges South Georgia

The entire county is currently experiencing Severe Drought (D2+) and has faced 28 weeks of drought over the past year. This persistent dry state makes irrigation essential for lawn survival. Focus on watering in the pre-dawn hours to minimize water loss to evaporation during the day.

The Right Grass for the Deep South

St. Augustine and Bermudagrass are the best bets for the warm, humid conditions of Zone 9a. Because frosts are rare and late, you have a wide window for planting, though early spring remains the peak time. Start early to ensure your lawn is fully established before the peak drought months arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Irwin County's county score?
Irwin County, Georgia has a composite county score of 44.1 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 Irwin County rank among counties in Georgia?
Irwin County ranks #103 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 Irwin County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Irwin County is $1,174, with an effective tax rate of 1.11%. This earns Irwin County a tax score of 30.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Irwin County?
The median household income in Irwin County, Georgia is $53,915 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Irwin County earns an income score of 22.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Irwin County, Georgia a good place to live?
Irwin County scores 44.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #103 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Irwin 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 Irwin 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.