countyscore
35.4
County Score
Income & Jobs 75Water Quality 60.1Weather & Climate 58.7

County Report Card

About Newton County, Georgia

Newton County Faces Livability Headwinds

Newton County holds a composite score of 35.4, trailing the national median of 50.0. This ranking suggests the county struggles to keep pace with national standards for cost and safety.

Ranking Below the Georgia Average

The county's 35.4 score is lower than the Georgia state average of 46.7. While it benefits from some suburban growth, it faces steeper challenges than many other counties in the state.

High Income Potential and Infrastructure

Newton County boasts a strong income score of 75.0, supported by a median household income of $73,732. Its water score of 60.1 also shows a stable foundation for residential utilities.

Rising Costs and Safety Concerns

The cost score of 12.7 is remarkably low, driven by a median gross rent of $1,331 that strains local budgets. A safety score of 21.7 further indicates that the county has room to improve in public security.

A Hub for Suburban Earners

Newton County is best for middle-income professionals who can leverage the $73,732 median income to offset high housing costs. It appeals to those prioritizing career growth over immediate affordability or safety metrics.

Score breakdown

Tax44.2Cost12.7Safety21.7Health34.7Schools49.5Income75Risk49.4Water60.1Weather58.7
🏛44.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠12.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼75
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡21.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤34.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧60.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.8
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

Rockdale County
Georgia
46.7
Jasper County
Georgia
47.2
Henry County
Georgia
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Butts County
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Walton County
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Morgan County
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DeKalb County
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Clayton County
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Deep Dives

Newton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Newton County

via TaxByCounty

Newton County slightly above US average

Newton County's 0.914% effective tax rate sits just above the national median, placing it in the 55th percentile across U.S. counties. The median property tax of $2,133 falls slightly below the national median of $2,690, thanks to Newton's median home value of $233,300.

Among Georgia's higher-tax counties

Newton County's effective rate of 0.914% exceeds the Georgia state average of 0.898%, ranking it in the upper-middle tier statewide. Households here pay roughly $604 more annually than the state median, reflecting stronger school funding and local services.

Newton leads the local pack

Newton County's 0.914% rate is the highest in its immediate region, surpassing Oglethorpe County (0.719%), Pickens County (0.661%), and Muscogee County (0.837%). This reflects Newton's position as a growing suburban county with higher service demands.

Higher value, higher taxes in Newton

A homeowner with a median-value property of $233,300 in Newton County pays approximately $2,133 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that amount increases to $2,276; without one, it drops to $1,678, reflecting the county's above-average effective rate.

Overassessment may justify appeal

Newton County homeowners paying at or above the median should verify their property assessment for accuracy, as overvalued homes in rapidly growing areas are common. Filing a formal challenge with the assessor's office could lower your tax obligation significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Newton County

via CostByCounty

Newton County exceeds national rent burden

Newton County's 21.7% rent-to-income ratio surpasses the national average, indicating residents spend a notably larger share of earnings on housing than typical Americans. Monthly rent of $1,331 against a $73,732 household income places affordability pressure well above the national baseline.

Higher costs than Georgia's state average

Newton County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.7% exceeds Georgia's 18.6% state average, and its $1,331 median rent significantly outpaces the state's $927 average. The county sits among Georgia's pricier housing markets, reflecting its position in the Atlanta metro sprawl.

Premium pricing for Atlanta-area proximity

Newton County's $1,331 rent and $233,300 median home value reflect its desirable location between Atlanta and regional neighbors. While higher than rural counties like Murray ($828) or Oglethorpe ($832), Newton's costs remain moderate compared to deepest metro areas like Paulding ($1,622).

One-fifth of income goes to housing

Renters in Newton County dedicate 21.7% of their $73,732 income to rent, while homeowners spend $1,288 monthly, totaling substantial housing commitments. These proportions leave residents with a tighter discretionary budget than counties with lower affordability ratios.

Newton offers metro access at a cost

Newton County's 21.7% rent-to-income ratio reflects its appeal as an Atlanta suburb—you're paying for that proximity and metro-area services. If suburban living near a major job center justifies the higher housing costs, Newton deserves a serious look; otherwise, rural alternatives offer better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Newton County

via IncomeByCounty

Newton County nearly matches national income

Newton County's median household income of $73,732 comes within $1,023 of the national median of $74,755, placing it squarely in the American middle class. This strong performance reflects Newton's growing suburban economy southeast of Atlanta.

Among Georgia's most prosperous counties

At $73,732, Newton County's median household income exceeds Georgia's state average of $60,488 by over $13,200 annually. The county ranks in Georgia's upper quarter by income, driven by its appeal to Atlanta-area commuters and growing professional workforce.

Leading income growth in the metro-Atlanta corridor

Newton County's $73,732 median income outpaces neighboring Henry County and rivals Rockdale County in the suburban southeast. It trails only the wealthier northern suburbs like Paulding ($94,557) and Oconee ($115,925), reflecting Newton's role as an accessible suburban alternative.

Housing costs rising but manageable

Newton County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.7% approaches the affordability threshold, reflecting rising home values of $233,300 in a competitive Atlanta metro market. While housing consumes a meaningful share of household budgets, incomes remain sufficient to cover basic needs and savings.

Invest in your Newton County future

Newton County's solid middle-class incomes provide a foundation for wealth building through homeownership, retirement investing, and education. Households should explore mortgage opportunities, employer 401(k) plans, and college savings accounts to capitalize on their income advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Newton County

via CrimeByCounty

Newton County stays below national rates

Newton County's total crime rate of 2,014.2 per 100K stays below the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.8, indicating a moderate level of security.

Navigating state averages in Newton

While Newton's safety score is slightly below the state average of 97.8, its total crime rate is higher than the state average of 1,412.9. Six agencies contribute data to these local safety metrics to ensure comprehensive reporting.

Comparing Newton to its Georgia neighbors

Newton County shows a higher crime rate than nearby Paulding County, which sits at 1,310.8 per 100K. However, it remains safer than more urbanized neighbors closer to the metropolitan Atlanta area.

Analyzing violent and property crime

Violent crime in Newton County is 432.5 per 100K, which is slightly above the national average of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 1,581.7 incidents per 100K, which is notably lower than the national figure of 2,015.7.

Proactive measures for Newton residents

Securing entry points and using smart monitoring systems can help drive the local property crime rate down even further. Newton's safety depends on proactive residents and consistent reporting from its six local law enforcement agencies.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Newton County

via HealthByCounty

Newton County outperforms national averages

Newton County's 74.1-year life expectancy edges above the U.S. average of 78.9 years, though a gap remains. Only 20.3% of residents report poor or fair health, better than the national 17.8% rate, suggesting healthier lifestyle patterns or better chronic disease management.

Slightly above Georgia's health benchmarks

At 74.1 years, Newton County's life expectancy exceeds Georgia's 73.3-year state average by 0.8 years. The county ranks in the middle tier statewide, reflecting more stable health outcomes than many peers.

Competitive health metrics in metro Atlanta region

Newton County's 74.1-year life expectancy compares favorably to neighboring Henry and Rockdale counties in the metro Atlanta area. The county's 20.3% poor/fair health rate mirrors suburban peers, indicating consistent access to primary care and wellness services.

Balanced coverage with moderate provider access

Newton County's 12.9% uninsured rate sits below the state average of 15.0%, meaning most residents have healthcare coverage. With 23 primary care providers per 100,000, access is adequate though not abundant; residents typically find local care without long waits.

Maintain your coverage for long-term health

If you're among Newton County's uninsured, marketplace enrollment happens year-round with special exceptions—don't wait to explore your options. Review your current plan annually to ensure it covers preventive services and matches your family's healthcare needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Newton County

via SchoolsByCounty

Expansive Schools Serving Newton County

Newton County operates 22 public schools, including 14 elementary, 5 middle, and 3 high schools. This single-district system serves a total enrollment of 18,661 students across diverse learning environments.

Investing for Success Above State Standards

Newton County achieves a 90.0% graduation rate, outperforming the state average of 88.1%. The county spends $7,346 per pupil, nearly matching the state average, and earns a 54.3 school score that exceeds the national median.

A Concentrated District with Large Campuses

The Newton County district manages all 18,661 students, maintaining a traditional public school system with no charter schools. The district is known for massive secondary campuses, led by Newton High School with 2,472 students.

Suburban Classrooms and Rural Landscapes

The county offers a mix of 12 suburban and 10 rural schools, reflecting the area's transition from country to suburbia. Schools are relatively large, averaging 848 students per campus, which creates a bustling and social academic environment.

Find Your Place in a Growing District

Newton County offers families a variety of suburban or rural home settings near schools that consistently beat state averages. Consider the proximity to high-performing campuses like Newton County Theme School when browsing local real estate.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Newton County

via RiskByCounty

Newton County's moderate disaster risk

Newton County scores 50.64 on the composite risk scale, placing it slightly above the national median and marking it as relatively low-risk. This score moderately exceeds Georgia's state average of 39.49, indicating above-average exposure to natural hazards. Flood (61.77) and tornado (73.25) risks drive much of the county's overall profile.

Upper-middle tier among Georgia counties

Newton County ranks in the moderate-to-upper range of Georgia's 159 counties for natural disaster risk. Its composite score of 50.64 places it about 28% above the state average, making it a higher-risk area than most peers. The county's ranking reflects significant tornado and flood exposure.

Riskier than Oconee, comparable to Murray

Newton County's risk profile (50.64) closely mirrors Murray County (51.46) but significantly exceeds safer neighbors like Oconee (19.43) and Peach (22.49). The county's flood risk (61.77) stands out as notably higher than nearby Pickens County (45.26). Newton faces greater-than-average hazard exposure relative to surrounding communities.

Tornadoes and flooding are primary threats

Tornado risk (73.25) and flood risk (61.77) are Newton County's most pressing hazards, both substantially above state norms. Earthquake risk (62.25) presents a secondary concern, while hurricane (54.36) and wildfire (40.43) risks remain moderate. The combination of severe weather and water-related hazards requires targeted preparedness.

Prepare for tornadoes and flooding

Newton County homeowners should prioritize tornado safety by identifying a shelter area, securing windows, and keeping emergency supplies accessible. Flood insurance is crucial given the county's elevated flood risk; evaluate your property's elevation and proximity to flood zones with local authorities. Consider wind-resistant roof upgrades and regular maintenance of drainage systems to mitigate both tornado and flood impacts.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Newton County

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Southern Humid Climate

Newton County maintains an average annual temperature of 62.1°F, which sits above the national median. The county receives 50.5 inches of annual precipitation, typical for the humid South.

Tracking with State Averages

Newton is slightly cooler than the Georgia state average of 63.7°F. Its 50.5 inches of rainfall closely tracks the state average of 51.4 inches.

Standard North-Central Georgia Weather

Newton shares similar climate patterns with nearby Oconee and Oglethorpe counties. However, its 1.3 inches of annual snowfall is slightly higher than its immediate eastern neighbors.

Moderate Summers and Dustings of Snow

Summers bring 52 extreme heat days with July temperatures averaging 79.9°F. Winter is distinct but manageable, averaging 45.2°F with a light dusting of snow each year.

Cooling Systems and Winter Prep

Residents should plan for 52 days of 90-degree heat with regularly serviced air conditioning units. The modest 1.3 inches of snow means a simple shovel is usually enough for winter.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Newton County

via SoilByCounty

Mapping Newton County's Soil Profile

Specific taxonomic and pH data for Newton County is currently unrecorded in this dataset. Most Piedmont region soils are naturally acidic compared to the national 6.5 pH median. Understanding your soil's chemical identity is the first step to successful land management.

Understanding Local Texture and Workability

While sand and clay percentages are missing, the surrounding region is known for clay-heavy loams. These soils can be challenging to work when dry but offer excellent mineral wealth. Adding compost helps break up heavy textures for easier gardening.

Potential for High Nutrient Retention

Data for organic matter and water capacity is not currently available for this county. Gardeners should note the state average organic matter is 1.83% and strive to match or exceed it. Healthy soil fertility supports robust plant growth and drought resistance.

Navigating Regional Water Movement

Without specific drainage class data, residents should look for signs of pooling after rain. Proper drainage ensures that plant roots have access to oxygen and that structures remain stable. Observing your land's hydrology helps you place gardens and buildings effectively.

Gardening Success in Zone 8b

Newton County resides in Zone 8b, providing a mild climate for year-round gardening. This zone supports a vast range of plants from camellias to robust vegetable crops. Start your backyard project today to take advantage of the long growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Newton County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growth in Newton County

Newton County's lawn difficulty score of 39.8 makes it one of the easier places in Georgia to maintain turf, beating the state average of 35.8. Though it still trails the national median of 50.0, the conditions in zone 8b are relatively favorable for southern grasses. Homeowners here benefit from a climate that is slightly more forgiving than the state's more southern reaches.

Consistent Rain and Sustained Warmth

The county receives 50.5 inches of rain annually, perfectly matching the ideal lawn precipitation range of 30-50 inches. With 52 extreme heat days and 5,197 growing degree days, the environment supports a robust and active growing season. This balance helps minimize the need for supplemental irrigation during the peak of summer.

Prioritize Your Soil Health

Data on soil pH and texture is currently unavailable for Newton County, so a professional soil test should be your first step. Most of the Piedmont region features heavy clay that requires aeration to prevent compaction. Understanding your specific drainage class will help you tailor your watering schedule and avoid root rot.

Preparing for Frequent Dry Spells

The county has experienced 22 weeks of drought over the last year, with 100% of the area currently in a severe drought stage. While annual rainfall is healthy, these concentrated dry periods can quickly brown a lawn. Adopting water conservation habits, such as raising mower heights to shade the soil, is critical for survival.

Start Strong in Late March

Bermuda and Zoysia are the top recommendations for zone 8b, as they recover quickly from the drought conditions common here. Plan your seeding or sodding for late March, once the threat of the March 22 frost has passed. You have a long window for growth before the first fall frost typically arrives on November 14.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Newton County's county score?
Newton County, Georgia has a composite county score of 35.4 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 Newton County rank among counties in Georgia?
Newton County ranks #138 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 Newton County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Newton County is $2,133, with an effective tax rate of 0.91%. This earns Newton County a tax score of 44.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Newton County?
The median household income in Newton County, Georgia is $73,732 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Newton County earns an income score of 75/100 on CountyScore.
Is Newton County, Georgia a good place to live?
Newton County scores 35.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #138 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Newton 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 Newton County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.