countyscore
51.1
County Score
Property Tax 87.3Weather & Climate 64.7Cost of Living 64.6

County Report Card

About Mecklenburg County, Virginia

Mecklenburg Matches National Median

Mecklenburg County earns a composite score of 51.2, aligning almost perfectly with the national median of 50.0. This indicates a balanced quality of life that mirrors the typical American experience.

Consistency with Virginia Averages

The county's score of 51.2 is nearly identical to the Virginia state average of 50.9. It represents a reliable, middle-of-the-road option for residents in the southern part of the state.

Fiscal Freedom and Affordability

Tax efficiency is the county's greatest strength, earning an 87.3 score with a 0.488% effective rate. Housing is also highly accessible, reflected in a cost score of 64.6 and median rents of $804.

Income and Service Gaps

The income score of 18.0 reflects a median household income of $51,691, trailing much of the state. Safety, health, and school scores all fall in the 36-38 range, suggesting a need for broader community development.

Best for Value-Seeking Residents

Mecklenburg is a solid choice for individuals who prioritize low taxes and affordable housing above all else. It is well-suited for those who want a predictable, low-cost lifestyle in a traditional rural setting.

Score breakdown

Tax87.3Cost64.6Safety36.7Health37.4Schools38Income18Risk45.7Water60.4Weather64.7
🏛87.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠64.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼18
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡36.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤37.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡45.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧60.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤64.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨28.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱53.7
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

Vance County
North Carolina
33.8
Halifax County
Virginia
55.6
Warren County
North Carolina
36.9
Lunenburg County
Virginia
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Granville County
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Charlotte County
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Brunswick County
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Deep Dives

Mecklenburg County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Mecklenburg County

via TaxByCounty

Mecklenburg taxes rank well below national

Mecklenburg County's effective tax rate of 0.488% places it in roughly the bottom 25% nationally for property tax burden. Although the national median annual property tax is $2,690, Mecklenburg's low rate means homeowners here pay far less as a percentage of home value.

Below average, relatively tax-friendly

Mecklenburg's 0.488% effective rate sits below Virginia's 0.671% average, making it a moderately tax-friendly jurisdiction. The county ranks in the lower third of Virginia's 95 counties and cities for property tax rates.

Competitive rates in the region

Mecklenburg's 0.488% rate is higher than Lunenburg County (0.436%) and Mathews County (0.423%), but lower than Madison County (0.594%). It offers balanced taxation compared to surrounding rural and urban areas.

Median annual tax: $826

With a median home value of $169,400 and a 0.488% effective rate, the typical Mecklenburg homeowner pays about $826 per year in property taxes—roughly $69 monthly. This represents a relatively modest tax burden.

Don't skip the assessment review

Even in lower-tax counties like Mecklenburg, overassessment happens regularly and often goes uncontested. Homeowners should request their assessment and file an appeal if the valuation seems out of line with recent market sales.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Mecklenburg County

via CostByCounty

Mecklenburg rents align with national patterns

At 18.7%, Mecklenburg County's rent-to-income ratio mirrors national norms, though the median household income of $51,691 lags the national median of $74,755 by $23,064. This means residents experience typical rent burdens on below-average earnings.

Slightly above Virginia's average burden

Mecklenburg's rent-to-income ratio of 18.7% slightly exceeds Virginia's state average of 18.6%, placing it near the state middle for affordability. Median rent of $804 undercuts the state average of $1,140, though income lags state norms.

Balanced pricing in rural cohort

Mecklenburg's $804 rent and $710 owner cost run slightly higher than Lunenburg and Martinsville but remain firmly in the rural affordability tier. The $169,400 median home value reflects modest but steady property appreciation in the region.

Mecklenburg's housing expense reality

Renters allocate 18.7% of their $51,691 income to rent, while homeowners dedicate approximately 16.5% to mortgage payments on homes valued near $169,400. Both percentages track close to national recommendations despite below-average area incomes.

Mecklenburg for rural, budget-conscious moves

If you're relocating with remote work income or seeking affordable rural living in southside Virginia, Mecklenburg offers moderate rents and accessible home prices. Ensure your income aligns with or exceeds the $51,691 median to avoid financial strain.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Mecklenburg County

via IncomeByCounty

Mecklenburg trails national income mark

Mecklenburg County's median household income of $51,691 falls 31% below the national median of $74,755. The rural south-central county reflects economic challenges facing agricultural and declining manufacturing communities.

Bottom quarter of Virginia counties

At $51,691, Mecklenburg ranks in the bottom 25% of Virginia jurisdictions, lagging the state median of $74,957 by $23,266. The county faces steeper economic headwinds than most Virginia peers.

Among the lowest regional earners

Mecklenburg ($51,691) nearly matches Lunenburg ($54,460) as the lowest-earning community in this group, exceeding only Martinsville ($42,434). Rural south-central Virginia counties cluster at the bottom of the state's income distribution.

Affordable housing provides relief

A 18.7% rent-to-income ratio indicates solid housing affordability, and the median home value of $169,400 remains accessible. Low housing costs provide Mecklenburg households breathing room despite challenging overall income levels.

Small steps toward financial security

Mecklenburg residents benefit from affordable housing that frees income for savings and financial planning. Building an emergency fund and exploring low-cost investment options can help households gradually strengthen their economic position.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Mecklenburg County

via CrimeByCounty

Mecklenburg County Outpaces National Safety

Mecklenburg reports a total crime rate of 1,468.7 per 100,000, comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5. These figures earn the county a safety score of 97.7 out of 100.

A Stable Safety Profile in Virginia

The county's safety score of 97.7 is higher than the Virginia state average of 97.3. Six reporting agencies contribute data that shows a total crime rate lower than the state's average of 1,728.8.

Mecklenburg Compared to Nearby Counties

Mecklenburg remains a safe choice for the region, with its total crime rate staying below broader state trends. Local law enforcement data highlights a consistent level of protection across the county’s jurisdictions.

Property and Violent Crime Breakdown

Violent crime stands at 247.0 per 100,000, well under the national 369.8 average. Property crime makes up the bulk of incidents at 1,221.7 per 100,000, though this is still roughly 40% lower than national rates.

Enhancing Security in Mecklenburg

Residents are encouraged to secure their property using outdoor lighting and security cameras. These steps help deter theft, which is the most common crime reported in the county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Mecklenburg County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy notably below national norm

Mecklenburg residents live to an average of 73.0 years, nearly 7 years shorter than the U.S. average of 80 years. One in five residents reports poor or fair health, reflecting significant chronic disease burden.

Among Virginia's lowest-performing counties

Mecklenburg's 73.0-year life expectancy is 2.1 years below Virginia's 75.1-year average, ranking it among the state's most challenged health outcomes. Its 9.4% uninsured rate exceeds Virginia's 7.9% average, adding to health disparities.

Limited primary care, moderate mental health

Mecklenburg has 56 primary care providers per 100,000—better than rural Madison but far below urban Lynchburg or Manassas. With 131 mental health providers per 100K and higher uninsured rates, the county likely struggles with both access and affordability.

Health crisis amid coverage gaps

Mecklenburg's combination of low life expectancy, high poor health reports, and above-average uninsured rates reflects a compounding health crisis. Nearly 1 in 10 residents lack coverage while chronic disease management remains inadequate.

Coverage first step toward better health

With 9.4% uninsured and significant health challenges ahead, Mecklenburg residents should prioritize enrollment in affordable plans. Virginia's marketplace and Medicaid offer pathways to coverage; visit Healthcare.gov or Medicaid.virginia.gov today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Mecklenburg County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large Rural Education Network

Mecklenburg County operates 6 public schools that serve nearly 4,000 students. The infrastructure is organized under a single district featuring four elementary schools, one middle school, and one centralized high school.

Consistency Across the Graduation Track

The county maintains an 87.0% graduation rate, aligning with the national benchmark. While the per-pupil expenditure of $7,140 is below the state average, the county continues to support a 52.3 school score across its growing campuses.

Mecklenburg County Public Schools Overview

Mecklenburg County Public Schools serves 3,972 students, making it a major employer and central community hub. The district operates traditional public models with no charter schools currently in the county.

Centralized High Schools and Rural Elementary

Five of the six schools are in rural settings, with an average school size of 662 students. Mecklenburg County High is the largest facility by far with 1,163 students, while Chase City Elementary offers a smaller setting for 387 students.

Find Your Home in Southside Virginia

Mecklenburg County's consolidated school facilities are a major draw for families seeking modern infrastructure in a rural setting. Homebuyers often look toward South Hill or Clarksville to remain close to the county's primary elementary and secondary campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Mecklenburg County

via RiskByCounty

Mecklenburg faces above-average national risk

With a composite risk score of 54.33 and a Relatively Low rating, Mecklenburg County experiences higher natural disaster risk than most U.S. counties. The county's score significantly exceeds Virginia's state average of 33.27, driven particularly by elevated hurricane and flood exposure.

Upper tier risk among Virginia counties

Mecklenburg County ranks among Virginia's higher-risk communities overall, with exposure patterns more severe than most profiled counties. The county's Relatively Low rating indicates substantial hazard exposure relative to safer Virginia communities.

Significantly riskier than nearby counties

Mecklenburg's risk score of 54.33 substantially exceeds Lunenburg County (19.85), Martinsville city (9.57), and Manassas Park city (4.93). Only Lynchburg city (49.30) approaches Mecklenburg's risk profile among the profiled communities, making Mecklenburg one of the region's riskier areas.

Hurricane and flood risks are substantial

Mecklenburg County's highest individual risks come from hurricane (85.27) and flood (56.58), both well above state averages and reflecting the county's southern Virginia location. Tornado risk (33.84) and earthquake risk (65.01) also exceed many peers, creating a multi-hazard environment.

Comprehensive coverage essential for Mecklenburg

Mecklenburg County residents must maintain robust homeowners insurance with specific hurricane and flood provisions, given the county's elevated exposure to both hazards. Flood insurance is particularly critical—standard policies exclude flood damage, making separate flood coverage essential through NFIP or private insurers.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Mecklenburg County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer than the national median

Mecklenburg County maintains an annual average temperature of 59.5°F, placing it well above the typical national median. The climate is characterized by significant warmth and ample precipitation, totaling 45.4 inches annually.

A hot spot in the Commonwealth

The county's 59.5°F average is nearly four degrees warmer than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. It ranks among the warmer southern-tier counties in the state.

Topping local neighbor temperatures

Mecklenburg is warmer than its northern neighbor, Nottoway County, which averages 57.6°F. This regional heat is driven by its southern position along the North Carolina border.

Long summers and mild winters

Summer temperatures average 77.7°F with 51 days of extreme heat reaching 90°F or higher. Winters are gentle, averaging 41.3°F with only 4.3 inches of annual snowfall.

Prepare for significant summer heat

High-efficiency HVAC systems are essential to handle the 51 days of extreme heat each year. Residents can keep light winter gear on hand, as heavy snow is rare in this region.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Mecklenburg County

via SoilByCounty

Moderately Acidic Southern Soil

Mecklenburg County soil averages a pH of 5.67, which is notably less acidic than the state average of 5.23. While still below the national median of 6.5, it provides a more hospitable environment for many common crops.

Sand and Silt Foundation

The soil composition is 45.1% sand and 36.3% silt, providing a versatile texture for both farming and gardening. The 18.6% clay content is high enough to offer better nutrient retention than sandier coastal counties.

Low Organic Matter, High Resilience

Organic matter is relatively low at 1.27%, which is less than half the Virginia state average. However, the soil compensates with an available water capacity of 0.146 in/in, which is slightly better than the state norm.

Consistent Moisture Management

The balance of silt and sand suggests moderate drainage characteristics without the risk of heavy waterlogging. This makes the land suitable for diverse uses, from large-scale agriculture to residential building projects.

Productive Seasons in Zone 7b

Located in Hardiness Zone 7b, Mecklenburg is a prime location for cotton, tobacco, and summer vegetables. Boost your garden's success by incorporating compost to improve the currently low organic matter levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Mecklenburg County

via LawnByCounty

Balancing Heat in Mecklenburg

Mecklenburg County has a lawn difficulty score of 53.7, sitting slightly below the Virginia average of 55.4. Located in Hardiness Zone 7b, it experiences a classic Southern Virginia climate. Lawn success here depends heavily on managing the intense summer heat.

Virginia's Hot Spot for Grass

Mecklenburg endures 51 extreme heat days per year, nearly double the state average of 28. While its 45.4 inches of rain is typical, the 4,630 growing degree days show just how much thermal energy plants receive. This heat makes summer dormancy common for cool-season grasses like fescue.

Moderate Acidity and Clay Balance

The soil pH is 5.67, which is slightly acidic but manageable with routine liming. The mix of 45.1% sand and 18.6% clay offers a decent balance of drainage and water retention. Regular aeration is recommended to prevent the clay from compacting under the intense summer sun.

Widespread Severe Drought

The county is currently facing a crisis with 96.5% of the area in severe drought. This follows 17 weeks of drought conditions over the last year, compounded by those 51 high-heat days. During these times, avoid fertilizing, as it can burn a lawn that is already struggling for water.

Ideal for Warm-Season Turf

The growing season is long, starting April 5 and ending November 1. Given the 51 heat days, Bermuda or Zoysia grass are often more successful than cool-season varieties. If you choose Fescue, make sure to seed heavily in early October once the summer heat finally breaks.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mecklenburg County's county score?
Mecklenburg County, Virginia 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 Mecklenburg County rank among counties in Virginia?
Mecklenburg County ranks #77 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 Mecklenburg County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Mecklenburg County is $826, with an effective tax rate of 0.49%. This earns Mecklenburg County a tax score of 87.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Mecklenburg County?
The median household income in Mecklenburg County, Virginia is $51,691 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Mecklenburg County earns an income score of 18/100 on CountyScore.
Is Mecklenburg County, Virginia a good place to live?
Mecklenburg County scores 51.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #77 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Mecklenburg 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 Mecklenburg County 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.