countyscore
64.7
County Score
Disaster Risk 96.3Income & Jobs 91.8Health 90.2

County Report Card

About Lexington city, Virginia

Exceptional Livability on a National Scale

Lexington city boasts an impressive composite score of 64.7, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score reflects high performance across several key quality-of-life categories.

A Top Performer in Virginia

With a score of 64.7, Lexington significantly outperforms the state average of 50.9. It represents one of the strongest urban environments in the Commonwealth.

Robust Safety, Income, and Health

The city excels with a risk score of 96.3 and a health score of 90.2. It also attracts high earners, with an income score of 91.8 and a median household income of $89,598.

Tax Burdens and Data Gaps

Residents face a higher tax burden, reflected in a tax score of 48.0 and an effective rate of 0.864%. While other metrics are strong, water data is currently unavailable for this jurisdiction.

Perfect for Health-Conscious Professionals

Lexington is a premier choice for professionals who value safety, education, and health. The higher tax rate is balanced by high wages and a resilient, safe environment.

Score breakdown

Tax48Cost34Safety66.5Health90.2Schools78.5Income91.8Risk96.3WaterComing SoonWeather58.1
🏛48
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠34
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡66.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤90.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓78.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡96.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱66.5
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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Explore this county

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Counties with similar scores

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Phelps County
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Wallace County
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Lewis County
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Magoffin County
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Carbon County
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Monroe County
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Nearby counties

Rockbridge County
Virginia
53.6
Buena Vista city
Virginia
44.1
Amherst County
Virginia
58.4
Bath County
Virginia
74.4
Botetourt County
Virginia
65
Nelson County
Virginia
51.8
Lynchburg city
Virginia
36.9
Covington city
Virginia
47

Deep Dives

Lexington city across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Lexington city

via TaxByCounty

Lexington ranks among America's highest rates

Lexington's effective tax rate of 0.864% is the second-highest in Virginia and nearly triple the national median property tax burden of $2,690. Residents pay $2,378 annually on the median home—significantly above typical American households.

Virginia's second-highest tax burden

Lexington city has the second-highest effective tax rate in Virginia at 0.864%, topped only by Loudoun County at 0.882%. With median taxes of $2,378, Lexington far exceeds Virginia's $1,960 state median.

Premium pricing in the region

Lexington's 0.864% rate dramatically exceeds neighboring King William (0.627%), Louisa (0.646%), and all surrounding counties. Only Loudoun County approaches this tax burden, reflecting Lexington's status as a regional hub with higher service costs.

What $275,300 home costs yearly

On Lexington's median home value of $275,300, homeowners pay approximately $2,378 per year in property taxes—about $198 monthly. This is among the highest rates for a home of this value statewide.

Challenge high assessments aggressively

Lexington's high effective rate makes it especially important for residents to scrutinize their property assessments for errors. A successful appeal could yield hundreds in annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Lexington city

via CostByCounty

Lexington offers surprising affordability premium

Lexington city's 13.2% rent-to-income ratio is the lowest among all these counties and well below the national average, while household income of $89,598 runs 20% above the U.S. median. This college town delivers exceptional housing affordability paired with strong earning power.

Virginia's most affordable city

Lexington's 13.2% rent-to-income ratio significantly outperforms Virginia's 18.6% state average, ranking it among the state's most affordable places. This is unusual for a Virginia city, making Lexington a standout value.

Best ratio among all peer counties

Lexington's 13.2% rent-to-income ratio beats every rural neighbor in this comparison, including even lower-income Lee County. At $985 rent and $89,598 household income, Lexington delivers urban amenities with rural-county affordability.

Renters and owners both find value

Renters pay $985 monthly and homeowners pay $926 on median homes valued at $275,300, creating nearly identical affordability for both groups. With household income at $89,598, housing consumes just 13.2% of income—well below the comfortable threshold.

Lexington for urban affordability seekers

If you earn $85,000–$95,000 and want city amenities with exceptional affordability, Lexington delivers—just $985 rent and $275,300 median home values with the lowest housing burden in this entire comparison. Consider Lexington against larger Virginia cities for the best value in urban living.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Lexington city

via IncomeByCounty

Lexington earners exceed nation by 20%

Lexington city's median household income of $89,598 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $14,843, placing the community in America's upper-income tier. This 20% advantage reflects Lexington's status as a prosperous small city with strong institutional and educational employment.

Strong earner among Virginia's cities

Lexington's median household income of $89,598 exceeds Virginia's state average of $74,957 by nearly $15,000. The city ranks among Virginia's most prosperous communities, driven by Washington and Lee University and VMI military college employment.

Competitive with wealthier eastern counties

Lexington's $89,598 median household income trails only King George County ($110,517) among the eastern Virginia region analyzed, exceeding King William ($85,212), King and Queen ($72,851), and Lancaster ($67,169). The city represents a robust economic center for its region.

Excellent housing affordability for earners

At 13.2%, Lexington's rent-to-income ratio is the lowest of any county analyzed, indicating exceptional housing affordability. With median home values at $275,300 and strong incomes, Lexington households enjoy comfortable housing costs that leave substantial room for savings and investment.

Leverage affordability for aggressive investing

Lexington residents benefit from the nation's best rent-to-income ratio at 13.2%, freeing up substantial income for wealth building. With extra cashflow from affordable housing, households should maximize retirement contributions and establish diverse investment portfolios targeting 15-20% of gross income.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Lexington city

via CrimeByCounty

Lexington City Boasts Elite Safety

Lexington reports a total crime rate of 789.5 per 100,000 residents, which is roughly one-third of the national average. This performance earns the city a high safety score of 98.8. While only one agency reports data here, the numbers suggest an exceptionally safe urban environment.

Ranking High Among Virginia Cities

Lexington's safety score of 98.8 exceeds the state average of 97.3. The city's crime rate of 789.5 is significantly lower than Virginia's average total crime rate of 1,728.8. It stands out as one of the most secure small cities in the Commonwealth.

Comparing Lexington to Urban Neighbors

Lexington is much safer than Lynchburg, which faces a significantly higher crime rate of 2,840.9 per 100,000. It also outperforms nearby Louisa County's rate of 1,060.2. This city offers a level of security that is rare for urban centers in the region.

Minimal Violent Crime in the City

Violent crime in Lexington is remarkably low at 108.9 per 100,000, far below the national average of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 680.6 incidents per 100,000, which is also well below the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. These stats point to a very low-risk profile for residents.

Smart Security for Urban Living

Even in a safe city like Lexington, property crimes are the most common incident reported. Installing a home security system and locking doors can deter most opportunistic crimes. Community awareness remains the best defense against localized theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Lexington city

via HealthByCounty

Exceptional longevity above nation

Lexington's 78.7-year life expectancy surpasses the U.S. average of 78.2 years, with just 14.5% of residents reporting poor or fair health. The city demonstrates among the strongest health outcomes in the region.

Virginia's healthiest community

Lexington's 78.7-year life expectancy ranks 3.6 years above Virginia's 75.1-year state average, making it one of Virginia's healthiest places to live. The city's health profile stands distinctly above peer communities statewide.

Dramatically healthier outcomes

Lexington's 14.5% poor/fair health rate significantly outperforms all neighboring counties, including King George (15.8%) and King William (17.6%). The city's health trajectory reflects exceptional community health management.

Exceptional mental health infrastructure

Lexington provides 850 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—far exceeding any other community in the region, likely reflecting the presence of Washington & Lee University and institutional resources. An uninsured rate of just 4.0%—the lowest in the dataset—ensures nearly all residents access care.

Maintain your excellent coverage

With only 4% uninsured, Lexington's residents enjoy strong health security—well above state and regional averages. Review your coverage annually at Healthcare.gov to ensure your plan continues to meet your needs in this health-conscious community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Lexington city

via SchoolsByCounty

A Concentrated Educational Network in Lexington

Lexington city maintains a focused educational infrastructure consisting of 4 total schools, including two elementary and two middle schools. One school district serves a total enrollment of 1,439 students within the city limits.

Investing in Classrooms Despite Lower Scores

The city invests $9,086 per pupil, which exceeds the Virginia state average of $7,941 but falls short of the $13,000 national benchmark. While the composite school score of 25.5 currently trails the state average of 54.8, local funding remains a priority for the community.

Focusing on Lexington City Public Schools

Lexington City Public Schools is the primary district, managing 2 schools with a combined enrollment of 485 students. The area currently offers no charter school options, keeping the focus entirely on traditional public education.

Small-Town Schooling in an Urban Setting

Every school in the city is classified as a Town locale, fostering a close-knit community feel with an average school size of 360 students. Maury River Middle is the largest facility with 502 students, while Lylburn Downing Middle offers a more intimate environment with just 161 students.

Discover Homes Near Lexington Schools

If you value a small-town educational environment where every student is known by name, Lexington offers unique opportunities. Explore local real estate to find a home that puts your family within walking distance of these community-centered schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Lexington city

via RiskByCounty

Lexington: Exceptionally Safe City

Lexington City's composite risk score of 3.72 and Very Low rating represent some of the lowest disaster risk in the nation. Your city faces minimal cumulative natural hazard threats compared to virtually all U.S. communities.

Virginia's Safest Community

At 3.72, Lexington City sits far below Virginia's state average of 33.27, making it the commonwealth's lowest-risk jurisdiction. This exceptional score reflects minimal exposure across nearly all natural hazard categories.

Safer Than All Surrounding Counties

Lexington's 3.72 score is dramatically lower than neighboring Rockbridge County and all adjacent Virginia counties in this analysis. Your city ranks as the safest location in its region.

Earthquake Risk Tops Minimal Threats

Lexington City's only notable hazard exposure is earthquake risk at 46.18, likely driven by regional seismic activity patterns. Flooding (13.10), hurricanes (58.03), and tornadoes (9.54) all remain minimal concerns; wildfire risk is nearly negligible at 2.32.

Basic Coverage Sufficient Here

Your city's exceptional safety profile means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection for most residents. Consider earthquake coverage if you own an older home, but your overall natural disaster risk remains among the nation's lowest.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Lexington city

via WeatherByCounty

A Classic Temperate Middle-Atlantic Climate

Lexington city maintains an annual average temperature of 54.9°F, which sits just above the national median. This climate type offers a balanced four-season experience typical of the American humid subtropical zone.

Slightly Cooler Than the Virginia Average

The city's 54.9°F average is exactly one degree cooler than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. This positioning places it among the state's more moderate inland climates, avoiding the coastal warmth found further east.

Stable Temperatures Amidst Mountain Neighbors

Lexington is slightly cooler than Lynchburg city, which averages 55.2°F. While both cities share similar Valley geography, Lexington receives nearly identical annual precipitation at 42.9 inches compared to the regional norm.

Cold Winters Meet Thirty Heat Days

Winters are crisp with a January average of 34.2°F and 13.5 inches of annual snowfall. Summers bring a July average of 75.3°F, though residents should expect 31 days per year where temperatures exceed 90°F.

Prepare for Ice and Summer Humidity

Homeowners should prioritize efficient HVAC systems to manage the month-long stretch of extreme heat. Since the city receives over a foot of snow annually, keeping winter clearing supplies on hand is essential for local travel.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Lawn Care in Lexington city

via LawnByCounty

Lexington's Strong Growing Potential

Lexington City earns a difficulty score of 66.5, making it significantly easier to maintain a lawn here than the national average. This score puts the city well above the Virginia state average of 55.4. Residents enjoy a climate that supports healthy turf with relatively moderate effort.

Balanced Weather for Healthy Turf

The city sees 42.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is well within the ideal range for cool-season grasses. With 31 extreme heat days, the summer temperature stress is very close to the state average. This balance means your lawn stays active through 3,613 growing degree days each year.

Local Soil Testing Recommended

Official soil composition and pH data are not currently available for Lexington city. Given the regional geography, soils can vary between limestone-based sweetness and typical Virginia acidity. A simple soil test from a local extension office is the best way to start your lawn care journey.

Navigating Significant Dry Periods

Lexington has endured 28 weeks of drought over the past year, and 100% of the area is currently abnormally dry. This persistent dryness means you should prioritize water conservation and drought-tolerant grass varieties. Using rain barrels can be a great way to supplement your lawn's needs during these long dry spells.

Spring and Fall Planting Windows

The local frost dates of April 23 and October 23 define your primary growing windows. Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue are excellent choices for this climate and can be seeded successfully during these periods. Start early to ensure your grass is established before the 28 weeks of potential drought return.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lexington city's county score?
Lexington city, Virginia has a composite county score of 64.7 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 Lexington city rank among counties in Virginia?
Lexington city ranks #8 among all counties in Virginia 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 Lexington city, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Lexington city is $2,378, with an effective tax rate of 0.86%. This earns Lexington city a tax score of 48/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Lexington city?
The median household income in Lexington city, Virginia is $89,598 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Lexington city earns an income score of 91.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Lexington city, Virginia a good place to live?
Lexington city scores 64.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #8 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Lexington city 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 Lexington city with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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