countyscore
53.2
County Score
Property Tax 78.8Weather & Climate 77.5Disaster Risk 76.2

County Report Card

About Middlesex County, Virginia

Middlesex Outperforms the National Average

Middlesex County earns a composite score of 53.2, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This score indicates a higher overall quality of life than the typical American county.

A Top Performer in Virginia

The county's 53.2 score beats the Virginia state average of 50.9. It maintains a competitive edge over many neighboring rural jurisdictions in the Commonwealth.

Low Taxes and Strong Incomes

A tax score of 78.8 reflects a low effective tax rate of 0.564%, saving residents significant money. The county also excels in financial stability with an income score of 75.8 and low environmental risk at 76.2.

Water Infrastructure and Cost Pressures

The water score of 23.2 suggests significant room for infrastructure improvement compared to state peers. Additionally, a cost score of 31.4 highlights that housing affordability remains a hurdle for new residents.

A Haven for Fiscal Stability

Middlesex is ideal for professionals or retirees who prioritize low taxes and a high income-to-cost ratio. It offers a secure, low-risk environment for those seeking rural peace without financial strain.

Score breakdown

Tax78.8Cost31.4Safety59.3Health43.1Schools46.1Income75.8Risk76.2Water23.2Weather77.5
🏛78.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠31.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼75.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡59.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤43.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧23.2
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤77.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨25.5
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.1
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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Virginia
57.1
Gloucester County
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Mathews County
Virginia
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Northumberland County
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King and Queen County
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Richmond County
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James City County
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Deep Dives

Middlesex County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Middlesex County

via TaxByCounty

Middlesex taxes rank well nationally

At 0.564%, Middlesex's effective tax rate sits well below the national median, meaning homeowners here pay less as a percentage of home value than most Americans. The county's median property tax of $1,692 is 37% lower than the national median of $2,690, placing it in the lower third nationally.

One of Virginia's most affordable counties

Middlesex ranks among the lowest-taxed counties in Virginia, with an effective rate of 0.564% compared to the state average of 0.671%. Its median tax of $1,692 is 14% below Virginia's state average, offering meaningful savings for county homeowners.

Middlesex undercuts nearby Eastern Shore

Compared to neighboring Northumberland County (0.481%) and Northampton County (0.605%), Middlesex sits in the middle but still beats the state average. The three-county Eastern Shore region clusters well below state rates, making the entire area a tax-friendly destination.

The math on a typical Middlesex home

A median-valued home in Middlesex County at $299,800 generates an annual property tax of roughly $1,692. That works out to $141 per month—considerably lighter than the national typical burden.

Even low taxes deserve a closer look

Many Virginia homeowners, regardless of county, are overassessed on their property valuations and can appeal their assessments for free. It's worth checking if your home's assessed value matches its true market value—you might owe even less than Middlesex's already favorable rates.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Middlesex County

via CostByCounty

Middlesex rents align with national norms

At 17.3%, Middlesex County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the national average and well below Virginia's 18.6% state average, signaling solid affordability for renters. The median household income of $74,154 nearly matches the national median of $74,755, making housing costs here manageable compared to much of the country.

Among Virginia's most affordable counties

Middlesex ranks favorably statewide for housing affordability, with rents 6% lower than the state median of $1,140. The county's 17.3% rent-to-income ratio beats two-thirds of Virginia counties, positioning it as a relative bargain in a state where affordability pressures are rising.

The sweet spot of the Tidewater region

Middlesex's $1,071 median rent is competitive against neighboring Northumberland ($1,053) and Nelson ($950), though both offer lower monthly costs. When paired with Middlesex's strong median income of $74,154, the county delivers better overall affordability than nearby Newport News ($1,285 rent) and Norfolk ($1,246 rent).

Housing costs stay within healthy bounds

Renters spend $1,071 monthly while homeowners pay $905 for mortgages, with both housing types consuming roughly 17% of the median household income. This balanced burden means Middlesex residents keep more income for food, healthcare, and savings compared to higher-cost Virginia markets.

A stable, affordable Tidewater option

If you're relocating to Virginia's Tidewater region and seeking affordability without sacrificing income potential, Middlesex offers rents below state average and a median home value of $299,800. Compare this 17.3% rent-to-income ratio to neighboring counties—you'll find few better balance sheets in the area.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Middlesex County

via IncomeByCounty

Middlesex tracks with America

Middlesex's median household income of $74,154 sits just $600 below the national median of $74,755, placing this county squarely in the middle of American earning power. That consistency signals a stable, middle-class economy with limited extremes on either end of the income spectrum.

Slightly behind Virginia's average

At $74,154, Middlesex earns less than Virginia's average median household income of $74,957—a gap of $803 that reflects the state's stronger-than-national average. The county ranks in the middle tier of Virginia's 95 jurisdictions, neither a leader nor a laggard.

Outearning some peer counties

Middlesex edges out Montgomery County ($70,769) and Nelson County ($68,525) but trails New Kent County's exceptional $120,125 median. Among its closest regional peers, Middlesex maintains solid footing without the wealth concentration of high-income neighbors.

Housing costs are manageable here

A rent-to-income ratio of 17.3% means housing absorbs less than one-fifth of median household earnings—well below the 30% threshold planners consider sustainable. With a median home value of $299,800, Middlesex residents have room in their budgets for savings and other priorities.

Build on Middlesex's solid base

With incomes aligned to national norms and reasonable housing costs, Middlesex households are positioned to invest in retirement accounts, education, and long-term wealth building. Starting an emergency fund with 3–6 months of expenses and maximizing employer 401(k) matches are practical next steps for families here.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Middlesex County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety in Middlesex County

Middlesex County features a total crime rate of 940.6 per 100,000, less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This low incidence rate earns the county a safety score of 98.5.

Outperforming State Safety Benchmarks

The county's safety score of 98.5 exceeds the Virginia average of 97.3. Middlesex maintains a crime rate far below the state average of 1,728.8 per 100,000, according to data from two reporting agencies.

Safety Leader Among Coastal Neighbors

Middlesex ranks as one of the safer jurisdictions in its region, providing a high level of security for its residents. The county's total crime rate of 940.6 indicates a very low risk of criminal activity.

Violent Crime is Remarkably Rare

The violent crime rate is just 83.8 per 100,000, which is 77% lower than the national average. Property crime stands at 856.8 per 100,000, maintaining the county's reputation for peace and security.

Defending Your Middlesex Home

Even in very safe areas, home security systems provide valuable peace of mind. Keeping entryways well-lit and monitored helps preserve the high safety standards of the Middlesex community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Middlesex County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy lags behind national peers

Middlesex residents live an average of 73.5 years, more than 5 years shorter than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. With 17.6% of adults reporting poor or fair health, the county sits above the national median, suggesting chronic health challenges that deserve attention.

Among Virginia's healthier challenges

Middlesex ranks below the Virginia average of 75.1 years for life expectancy, a gap of 1.6 years that reflects broader health disparities in the region. The county's 11.2% uninsured rate exceeds Virginia's 7.9% state average, leaving more residents without consistent healthcare access.

Primary care access needs strengthening

Middlesex has just 37 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—roughly half the supply found in neighboring Nelson County (81 per 100K). Mental health support is relatively robust at 73 providers per 100,000, though broader primary care capacity remains the critical gap.

Healthcare access remains the daily barrier

Nearly 1 in 9 Middlesex residents (11.2%) lack health insurance, making routine preventive care less accessible for vulnerable families. The shortage of primary care providers compounds this challenge, forcing residents to travel farther for basic medical services.

Coverage options are within reach

If you're uninsured in Middlesex County, Virginia's Medicaid and federal ACA marketplace offer pathways to coverage regardless of income or employment. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to explore plans and financial assistance programs available to you today.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Middlesex County

via SchoolsByCounty

Efficient Rural Schooling on the Middle Peninsula

Middlesex County features a simple but effective school landscape with 3 public schools serving 1,244 students. This single-district system provides one dedicated building for each level of education: elementary, middle, and high.

Steady Performance with State-Level Funding

Middlesex County spends $7,787 per pupil, nearly matching the Virginia state average. The county achieves an 87.0% graduation rate, which aligns with the national average, and earns a 53.6 composite school score.

A Single Focused School District

Middlesex County Public Schools manages all 1,244 students across its three campuses. The district operates without charter schools, focusing its resources on the primary public infrastructure in the county.

A Small-School Feel in a Rural Setting

All students in the county attend schools in rural locales, with an average school size of 415. Middlesex Elementary is the largest campus with 611 students, while St. Clare Walker Middle provides a smaller community of 287 students.

Join a Community That Values Education

For families considering the Middle Peninsula, Middlesex County offers a stable and well-funded educational environment. Looking for homes near Middlesex High ensures you are part of a system that mirrors state-level investment and community pride.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Middlesex County

via RiskByCounty

Middlesex sits well below national risk

With a composite risk score of 23.79, Middlesex County ranks as Very Low nationally—well below the nation's average exposure to natural disasters. Your county faces significantly less overall threat than most American communities.

Safer than most Virginia counties

Middlesex's score of 23.79 places it comfortably below Virginia's state average of 33.27. You're among the lower-risk counties in your state when it comes to natural disaster exposure.

Neighborhood risk comparison

Middlesex's 23.79 score edges out New Kent County (14.12) as safer, but outperforms nearby Nelson County (34.10) and Northumberland County (39.98). Your risk profile aligns with the region's most protected areas.

Hurricane threat dominates your profile

Hurricane risk scores highest at 85.52, reflecting coastal exposure to Atlantic storms—though moderate elevation limits overall danger. Flood risk (58.00) comes second, with earthquake and wildfire threats remaining minimal at 36.86 and 31.42 respectively.

Prioritize flood and hurricane coverage

Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flood or hurricane damage, making separate policies essential for your county's leading hazards. Review coverage annually before Atlantic storm season and ensure your property meets current building codes for wind resistance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Soil Quality in Middlesex County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Plain Acidity

Middlesex County has an average pH of 5.03, making it one of the more acidic regions in the state. This level is well below the national median of 6.5 and reflects the county's coastal mineralogy.

Light and Sandy Soil Texture

The soil is 52.2% sand and only 12.0% clay, resulting in a very light texture that is easy to till. This mix allows for excellent aeration, though it requires careful management to prevent nutrient leaching.

Solid Organic Matter Foundation

Organic matter reaches 2.82%, nearly matching the Virginia state average of 2.90%. The available water capacity is slightly lower than the state average at 0.130 in/in, so consistent watering is key during dry spells.

Rapidly Permeable Soils

While drainage class data is missing, the high sand content ensures that water moves through the profile very quickly. This keeps the soil warm in the spring and prevents water from pooling around sensitive root systems.

Warm Seasons in Zone 8a

Middlesex County sits in Hardiness Zone 8a, offering a long growing window for heat-loving crops. The soil’s organic content provides a great base for a thriving home vegetable garden or a coastal landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Middlesex County

via LawnByCounty

Average Growing Conditions in Middlesex

Middlesex County scores a 51.1 for lawn difficulty, placing it just above the national average of 50.0. While it is more challenging than the Virginia state average of 55.4, the 8a hardiness zone supports a variety of warm-season grasses.

High Rainfall Defines the Local Climate

The county receives 51.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is higher than the state average of 46.0 inches. With only 16 extreme heat days per year, your primary challenge is managing moisture rather than battling scorched turf.

Sandy Soil Requires Acid Management

The soil here is 52.2% sand and carries a very acidic pH of 5.03, well below the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. You will likely need regular lime applications to neutralize the acidity and help your grass absorb nutrients efficiently.

Steady Moisture Despite Abnormal Dryness

Middlesex has experienced 10 weeks of drought over the past year, and the entire county is currently classified as abnormally dry. Focus on deep watering during these dry spells to help roots reach past the sandy surface layers.

Warm-Season Varieties Thrive Here

Bermudagrass and St. Augustine are excellent choices for the 8a climate in Middlesex. Plan your seeding for late spring once soil temperatures consistently rise, as local frost data is limited but warming trends are reliable.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Middlesex County's county score?
Middlesex County, Virginia has a composite county score of 53.2 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 Middlesex County rank among counties in Virginia?
Middlesex County ranks #65 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 Middlesex County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Middlesex County is $1,692, with an effective tax rate of 0.56%. This earns Middlesex County a tax score of 78.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Middlesex County?
The median household income in Middlesex County, Virginia is $74,154 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Middlesex County earns an income score of 75.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Middlesex County, Virginia a good place to live?
Middlesex County scores 53.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #65 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Middlesex 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 Middlesex 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.