countyscore
61.1
County Score
Water Quality 86Safety 79.7Property Tax 69.6

County Report Card

About Murray County, Georgia

Murray County Outperforms the National Median

Murray County earns a composite score of 61.1, placing it significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score puts the county in a competitive position for overall livability and resource management compared to peers across the country.

A Top Performer in Georgia

With a score of 61.1, Murray County vastly exceeds the Georgia state average of 46.7. It stands out as a regional leader in north Georgia for balancing costs and quality of life.

Outstanding Safety and Water Quality

The county excels with a water score of 86.0 and a safety score of 79.7, indicating a secure and well-serviced environment. Residents also benefit from a low effective tax rate of 0.641%, which drives a strong tax dimension score of 69.6.

Health Access Remains a Priority

The health score of 19.9 represents the county's primary challenge, suggesting a need for better medical infrastructure or access. While the risk score of 48.6 is moderate, it lags behind the county's other high-performing categories.

Ideal for Secure Rural Living

Murray County is a perfect fit for families prioritizing safety and affordability, given its median rent of just $828. The combination of high water quality and low taxes makes it a robust choice for budget-conscious households.

Score breakdown

Tax69.6Cost64.5Safety79.7Health19.9Schools61.2Income61.5Risk48.6Water86Weather67.2
🏛69.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠64.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼61.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡79.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤19.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓61.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡48.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤67.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱36.1
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

Whitfield County
Georgia
40.2
Gilmer County
Georgia
51.3
Gordon County
Georgia
43.2
Catoosa County
Georgia
47.3
Fannin County
Georgia
60.1
Polk County
Tennessee
55.2
Bradley County
Tennessee
43.5
Pickens County
Georgia
57.5

Deep Dives

Murray County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Murray County

via TaxByCounty

Murray County taxes well below national average

At 0.641%, Murray County's effective tax rate ranks in the bottom 25% nationally—meaning homeowners here pay significantly less than the typical American county. The median property tax of $1,111 is less than half the national median of $2,690, even accounting for Murray's lower median home value of $173,300.

Georgia's lowest-taxing county

Murray County has the lowest effective tax rate in Georgia at 0.641%, well below the state average of 0.898%. This means Murray homeowners pay $418 less annually in property taxes than the typical Georgia household, a meaningful difference year after year.

A tax haven in Northwest Georgia

Murray County's 0.641% rate significantly undercuts neighboring Pickens County (0.661%) and Oglethorpe County (0.804%), making it the most tax-friendly option in the region. Even compared to Muscogee County across the state at 0.837%, Murray offers households a clear tax advantage.

What $173,300 home costs in taxes

A homeowner with a median-value property in Murray County pays approximately $1,111 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that figure rises to $1,325; without one, taxes drop to $823—keeping Murray among Georgia's most affordable counties for property ownership.

Even low taxes deserve a review

Many Georgia homeowners, regardless of county, discover their properties are overassessed on county tax rolls. It's worth requesting a formal assessment review with your local assessor's office—you could reduce your tax burden even further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Murray County

via CostByCounty

Murray County beats national affordability

At 14.6%, Murray County's rent-to-income ratio significantly undercuts the national norm, meaning residents spend less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. The county's $828 monthly rent sits well below what national averages would predict for a household earning $67,880 annually.

Georgia's most affordable county housing

Murray County ranks among Georgia's best for housing affordability, with a rent-to-income ratio of 14.6% compared to the state average of 18.6%. At $828/month, median rent here runs $99 cheaper than Georgia's statewide average of $927.

Northwest Georgia's budget-friendly option

Murray County's $828 rent and $677 monthly ownership costs make it one of the most accessible counties in its region. Neighboring Oglethorpe County ($832 rent) offers similarly tight affordability, while Paulding County's $1,622 rent shows the steep climb in nearby metro-adjacent areas.

Housing takes modest slice of income

Murray County households dedicate 14.6% of income to rent, leaving 85.4% for other expenses—a healthy cushion by any measure. Homeownership is even more accessible, with a monthly cost of just $677 against the $67,880 median household income.

Consider Murray for affordable living

If housing costs are your primary concern, Murray County's combination of low rent ($828) and manageable ownership expenses ($677) makes it worth serious consideration. The county's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio means more money stays in your pocket for savings, family, and community.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Murray County

via IncomeByCounty

Murray County earns below the national average

Murray County's median household income of $67,880 falls short of the national median of $74,755, a gap of about $6,875 per year. This places the county in the lower half of U.S. counties by income, reflecting broader economic patterns in northwest Georgia's labor market.

Well above Georgia's median income

At $67,880, Murray County's median household income exceeds Georgia's state average of $60,488 by over $7,300 annually. This ranking places Murray County in the upper half of Georgia's 159 counties, signaling stronger economic health than the typical Georgia community.

Competitive with nearby mountain counties

Murray County's $67,880 median income sits between Pickens County ($75,293) to the north and Oglethorpe County ($69,784) to the south. The county holds its own in this region, though it trails the wealthier suburban counties farther south like Paulding ($94,557) and Oconee ($115,925).

Affordable housing relative to earnings

With a rent-to-income ratio of just 14.6%, Murray County residents spend a modest portion of household earnings on housing costs—well below the national affordability threshold of 30%. The median home value of $173,300 remains accessible to households earning the county median, supporting economic stability.

Build financial security in Murray County

Murray County's affordable cost of living creates an opportunity to direct income toward savings and investments. Starting an emergency fund, contributing to retirement accounts, or exploring homeownership can help households leverage their earnings into long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Murray County

via CrimeByCounty

Murray County sets a high safety bar

Murray County's total crime rate of 484.3 per 100K is nearly five times lower than the national average of 2,385.5. It boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.2 out of 100, indicating a very secure environment for residents.

Murray outperforms the Georgia state average

With a safety score of 99.2, Murray County ranks significantly higher than the Georgia average score of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 484.3 per 100K sits well below the state average of 1,412.9.

A regional leader in public safety

Nearby counties like Pickens show higher crime rates at 762.6 per 100K, making Murray a regional leader in safety. The three reporting agencies in the county maintain a property crime rate that is drastically lower than state levels.

Property and violent crime remains low

Property crimes account for 344.5 incidents per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 139.8. These figures are both less than half of their respective national averages, highlighting the county's relative peace.

Maintain Murray's high safety standards

Even in highly safe areas like Murray County, maintaining home security helps keep property crime rates at their current low levels. Use the safety score of 99.2 as a foundation for continued community vigilance and neighborly support.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Murray County

via HealthByCounty

Murray County's life expectancy lags nationwide

At 72.5 years, Murray County residents live nearly 6 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. One in five residents report poor or fair health, compared to the national rate of 17.8%, signaling deeper health challenges across the community.

Below Georgia's average in life expectancy

Murray County's 72.5-year life expectancy falls 0.8 years short of Georgia's 73.3-year state average. The county ranks in the lower tier for health outcomes within Georgia, reflecting limited access to preventive care and specialists.

Neighboring counties show better health trends

Murray County's 72.5-year life expectancy trails nearby Gilmer County and other North Georgia neighbors. Surrounding counties generally report lower rates of poor/fair health and better provider availability, indicating that regional disparities affect day-to-day care access.

Healthcare access remains a critical barrier

Nearly 1 in 5 Murray County residents lack health insurance at 18.2%, above Georgia's 15.0% state average. With only 15 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, families often travel outside the county for routine checkups and specialty care.

Explore health coverage options today

If you're uninsured or underinsured, now is the time to explore marketplace plans and Medicaid eligibility. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local health department navigator to find coverage that fits your family's needs and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Murray County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale System Serving Murray County

Murray County manages its education through a single district that oversees 11 public schools. The infrastructure includes six elementary schools, two middle schools, and three high schools serving a total of 6,903 students.

High Graduation Rates with Efficient Spending

The county boasts an impressive 96.0% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the national average of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure of $6,688 sits below the state average of $7,405, the district maintains a school score of 56.0, which is higher than the state median.

Murray County District Leads the Way

The Murray County district operates all 11 schools in the region, focusing on a traditional public education model with no charter schools currently available. This centralized management provides a unified educational experience for the nearly 7,000 students enrolled.

Suburban Focus and Moderately Sized Schools

Most students attend one of the seven suburban schools, though four rural campuses provide a different atmosphere for local families. School sizes average 628 students, ranging from smaller elementary schools to the 1,102-student Murray County High School.

Locate Your Next Home Near Strong Schools

With graduation rates nearing 100%, Murray County is an attractive destination for families prioritizing academic success. Explore homes in Chatsworth or the surrounding suburbs to find a residence near these high-performing campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Murray County

via RiskByCounty

Murray County's moderate disaster risk

Murray County scores 51.46 on the composite risk scale, placing it above the national median and marking it as relatively low-risk overall. This score reflects exposure to multiple hazard types, though several risks fall below Georgia's state average of 39.49. The county's profile shows particular vulnerability to earthquake and tornado hazards.

Middle of the pack in Georgia

Murray County ranks in the moderate tier among Georgia's 159 counties for natural disaster risk. Its composite score of 51.46 exceeds the state average by 30%, making it a higher-risk area than most of its state neighbors. This ranking reflects significant exposure across multiple hazard types.

Riskier than Oconee, safer than Paulding

Murray County sits between nearby Oconee County (19.43) and Paulding County (69.97) in overall risk profile. Compared to adjacent counties, Murray faces notably higher tornado risk (77.74) and earthquake risk (79.74), which are the primary drivers of its overall exposure. Neighbors like Pickens County (34.80) present a lower-risk alternative in the region.

Earthquakes and tornadoes pose greatest threat

Earthquake risk (79.74) and tornado risk (77.74) dominate Murray County's hazard profile, both well above state norms. While flood, wildfire, and hurricane risks remain moderate, the combination of seismic and severe weather threats requires serious preparedness planning. Residents in this region experience higher-than-average exposure to sudden, violent natural events.

Prioritize earthquake and tornado coverage

Given Murray County's elevated earthquake and tornado risks, homeowners should verify their policies cover both perils—standard policies often exclude earthquakes. Consider reinforcing your home's structural integrity, securing heavy furniture, and maintaining an emergency kit with at least two weeks of supplies. Consult a local insurance agent about bundling earthquake riders and confirming adequate tornado coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Murray County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate and Exceptionally Wet

Murray County’s annual average of 60.0°F is warmer than the national median but cooler than much of the Deep South. The region receives a high 57.5 inches of precipitation annually.

Cooler and Wetter Than Most

The county is significantly cooler than the Georgia state average of 63.7°F. It also records 57.5 inches of rain, which is over six inches more than the state average.

High Rainfall Near the Highlands

Murray is wetter than many of its neighbors, exceeding the state’s 51.4-inch precipitation baseline by a wide margin. Its summer average of 77.1°F makes it a cooler refuge compared to southern Georgia.

Moderate Heat and Brisk Winters

The county experiences 48 extreme heat days annually, with July temperatures averaging a moderate 78.5°F. Winters are noticeably crisper than the state average, dropping to a 42.6°F mean.

Managing High Annual Rainfall

Frequent rain requires robust roofing and landscape drainage to handle 57.5 inches of annual precipitation. Residents should prepare for 48 days of 90-degree heat while enjoying milder summer nights than southern peers.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Murray County

via SoilByCounty

Awaiting Local Soil Taxonomic Data

Comprehensive soil survey data for Murray County is currently unavailable in the national database. While we lack a specific pH reading, most northern Georgia soils trend toward acidity compared to the 6.5 national median. Local testing is the best way to determine your specific soil identity.

Regional Texture and Drainage Patterns

While specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are not recorded here, the region generally features varied textures. These mountain-fringe soils often require organic amendments to improve workability. Knowing your specific texture helps determine how much water your garden will hold.

Evaluating Soil Growth Potential

Data for organic matter and water capacity remains unlisted for this county. For context, the state average organic matter is 1.83%, a benchmark Murray County residents can aim for through composting. High organic matter is essential for nutrient retention and plant health.

Managing Water in Mountain Terrain

Because drainage classes are not currently mapped for this county, landowners should observe how water moves after heavy rains. Proper drainage is critical for preventing root rot and ensuring stable building foundations. Local geography suggests a mix of rapid runoff and valley catchment.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8a

Murray County sits in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, supporting a wide variety of temperate plants. This zone is ideal for growing blueberries, azaleas, and hardy vegetables like kale and peppers. Grab a shovel and start your gardening journey today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Murray County

via LawnByCounty

Tougher Growing in Murray County

Murray County earns a lawn difficulty score of 36.1, which is slightly higher than the Georgia average of 35.8 but falls well below the national median of 50.0. Located in hardiness zone 8a, homeowners here face significant environmental hurdles compared to most U.S. gardeners. Achieving a lush carpet of green requires more localized expertise and effort in this region.

Abundant Rain and Moderate Heat

With 57.5 inches of annual precipitation, Murray County receives more rainfall than the state average of 51.3 inches and sits well above the ideal range of 30-50 inches. Residents manage 48 extreme heat days per year and 4,714 growing degree days, creating a long and vigorous growing season. This combination of moisture and warmth leads to rapid grass growth but increases the risk of fungal diseases.

Local Soil Testing is Essential

Specific soil composition data is currently unavailable for Murray County, making on-site testing vital for lawn success. Without data on pH and drainage, we recommend checking for the red clay or rocky textures common to Northern Georgia. Local extension offices can help determine if you need lime to balance acidity or organic matter to improve structure.

Navigating Persistent Drought Challenges

Despite high annual rainfall, Murray County spent 26 weeks in drought over the past year, with 100% of the area currently facing severe conditions. This volatility means lawns must be resilient to survive long stretches without moisture. Focus on deep, infrequent watering early in the morning to encourage deep root systems that can withstand these dry spells.

Plan for an April Start

Bermuda and Zoysia are excellent choices for zone 8a, offering the best resilience against local heat and drought cycles. The last spring frost typically arrives around April 2, marking the ideal time to begin seeding or laying sod. Aim to have your lawn established before the first frost on November 1 to ensure winter survival.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Murray County's county score?
Murray County, Georgia has a composite county score of 61.1 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 Murray County rank among counties in Georgia?
Murray County ranks #7 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 Murray County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Murray County is $1,111, with an effective tax rate of 0.64%. This earns Murray County a tax score of 69.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Murray County?
The median household income in Murray County, Georgia is $67,880 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Murray County earns an income score of 61.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Murray County, Georgia a good place to live?
Murray County scores 61.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #7 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Murray 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 Murray 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.