countyscore
54.7
County Score
Weather & Climate 81.8Property Tax 73.6Lawn Care 66.7

County Report Card

About Northampton County, Virginia

A Strong National Standing

Northampton County holds a composite score of 54.7, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. This Eastern Shore community offers a high quality of life.

Exceeding Virginia's Average Score

The county's score of 54.7 is well above the Virginia state average of 50.9. It proves that rural coastal living can be highly competitive within the Commonwealth.

Affordable Living and Low Taxes

A cost score of 54.6 and low taxes at 73.6 make this one of the more affordable coastal areas. The school score of 59.1 also shows a solid investment in local education.

Income and Health Access

The county struggles with economic opportunities, earning a low income score of 27.5. Health access also trails other metrics with a score of 40.3, requiring residents to travel for specialized care.

Ideal for Coastal Families

Northampton is a fantastic fit for young families or retirees seeking affordable seaside living and good schools. It is perfect for those not dependent on high-paying local corporate jobs.

Score breakdown

Tax73.6Cost54.6Safety51.5Health40.3Schools59.1Income27.5Risk55.6Water49.7Weather81.8
🏛73.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠54.6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡51.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤40.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓59.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡55.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧49.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤81.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱66.7
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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Deep Dives

Northampton County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Northampton County

via TaxByCounty

Northampton offers moderate national standing

Northampton County's effective tax rate of 0.605% sits below the national median, with a median tax of $1,689 that's 37% lower than the national median of $2,690. The county ranks comfortably in the lower-tax half of American jurisdictions.

Northampton stays below Virginia's average

At 0.605%, Northampton's effective rate trails Virginia's state average of 0.671%, ranking it in the state's lower-tax tier. Its median tax of $1,689 is 14% below the state average of $1,960, offering solid savings for county residents.

Northampton fits the Eastern Shore pattern

Northampton's 0.605% rate sits between neighboring Middlesex (0.564%) and Northumberland (0.481%), all three forming Virginia's tax-friendliest region. The Eastern Shore's low rates reflect rural character and limited municipal services compared to urban centers.

Typical Northampton County property tax bill

A median-valued Northampton home at $279,100 generates an annual property tax of roughly $1,689. At $141 per month, this represents a below-average burden reflecting the county's rural Eastern Shore location.

Verify your Northampton assessment

Even in lower-tax Northampton, homeowners should confirm their assessed values are current and accurate by requesting a free appeal if they believe their assessment is high. Properties that haven't sold recently may be overvalued on the county's books.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Northampton County

via CostByCounty

Northampton delivers America's cheapest rents

Northampton County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio sits well below both Virginia's 18.6% state average and national norms, powered by the lowest median rent in our sample at just $780. With a median household income of $55,933, Northampton offers exceptional housing affordability for lower-income households.

Virginia's most affordable rental haven

Northampton ranks at the absolute top of Virginia's affordability charts with median rent of $780—nearly $360 below the state median of $1,140—and a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio in the state's best quartile. This rural county outpaces all peers for pure rent affordability.

The region's rental bargain basement

Northampton's $780 median rent is dramatically lower than every peer in our sample: $190 cheaper than Nelson ($950), $273 cheaper than Northumberland ($1,053), and $505 cheaper than Middlesex ($1,071). Even adjusted for lower incomes ($55,933 vs state average), Northampton delivers unmatched value.

Housing costs remain remarkably lean

Renters spend just $780 monthly (16.7% of a $55,933 income) on rent, while homeowners pay $895 for mortgages at 19.3% of income—both notably low percentages. This lean housing burden gives Northampton residents more dollars for healthcare, transportation, and other essentials.

Unbeatable affordability for rural seekers

Northampton County offers Virginia's most compelling affordability story: $780 median rent on a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio, with a median home value of $279,100 and minimal housing cost burden. If you're relocating on a tight budget and can embrace rural life on Virginia's Eastern Shore, Northampton is unmatched.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Northampton County

via IncomeByCounty

Northampton significantly trails nation

Northampton County's median household income of $55,933 falls $18,822 short of the national median of $74,755—placing it in the bottom quartile of American counties. The per capita income of $38,934 suggests a workforce heavily concentrated in lower-wage sectors.

Virginia's lowest-income county here

At $55,933, Northampton's median household income runs $19,024 below Virginia's state average of $74,957, ranking it among the state's most economically challenged jurisdictions. The income gap reflects rural isolation and limited job diversity.

Economically distinct from peers

Northampton's $55,933 income significantly trails all neighboring counties—Northumberland ($69,500), Nelson ($68,525), and all others in this comparison by $12,000 or more. The county faces unique economic pressures within its region.

Housing remains relatively affordable

Northampton's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% keeps housing costs under one-fifth of earnings, among the lowest in this group despite low overall incomes. A median home value of $279,100 is surprisingly stable, offering some affordability advantage.

Opportunity in affordable housing market

While Northampton faces the lowest median incomes, its affordable housing market creates an unusual advantage for building home equity and long-term wealth. Prioritize first-time homebuyer programs, leverage low home values for rental investment, and explore remote work opportunities to boost household earnings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Northampton County

via CrimeByCounty

Northampton County Exceeds National Safety

Northampton County maintains a high safety score of 98.3, outperforming the majority of American communities. Its crime rate of 1,088.1 per 100,000 is less than half the national average of 2,385.5.

A High Rank in Virginia

With a safety score of 98.3, Northampton exceeds the Virginia average of 97.3. The county's total crime rate is 37% lower than the state's average of 1,728.8 per 100,000 residents.

Safe Haven on the Eastern Shore

Northampton’s total crime rate of 1,088.1 makes it one of the safer regions in the state. It provides a more secure environment compared to the more urban counties across the Chesapeake Bay.

Violent Crime Remains Below Average

Violent crime in Northampton is low at 222.6 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 865.5. Both figures are well below national benchmarks, making it a very low-risk area for residents.

Reinforcing Security in Northampton

Residents can keep Northampton safe by using smart doorbells and floodlight cameras to monitor property. These simple steps, combined with a tight-knit community, help maintain the county's excellent safety record.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Northampton County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy and health urgently need improvement

Northampton residents live an average of 73.3 years, more than 5.6 years below the U.S. average of 78.9 years. At 19.5%, the county's poor/fair health rate is the highest in this profile, reflecting severe chronic disease and health challenges.

Second-lowest life expectancy in Virginia

Northampton's 73.3-year life expectancy matches Norfolk's and falls 1.8 years below Virginia's 75.1-year average, a critical gap. Its 9.9% uninsured rate exceeds the state average of 7.9%, meaning coverage barriers compound existing health disparities.

Strongest primary care, weakest mental health

Northampton County has 108 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in this profile—yet only 125 mental health providers per 100,000. The abundance of primary care capacity has not translated to improved life expectancy, suggesting gaps in treatment adherence, affordability, or behavioral health support.

Despite provider access, health crisis persists

Nearly 1 in 10 Northampton residents (9.9%) lack health insurance, and the county's abundant primary care providers have failed to reverse its poor health trajectory. The mismatch between provider supply and dismal health outcomes suggests residents face poverty, chronic disease, and limited trust in the healthcare system.

Coverage and community support both matter

If you're uninsured in Northampton County, visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE to explore Virginia Medicaid and marketplace options. Connect with local health centers and community organizations that address social determinants—housing, food, mental health—not just medical care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Northampton County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small-Scale Coastal Education

Northampton County operates just 6 public schools across two districts, serving a total enrollment of 1,359 students. The landscape consists of 2 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 1 high school, alongside two alternative facilities.

High Graduation Rates on the Coast

The county boasts a 92% graduation rate, outperforming both the state average of 89% and the national average of 87%. However, per-pupil spending stands at $7,473, which is lower than the state's $7,941 average.

Northampton County Public Schools

Northampton County Public Schools manages five of the six facilities and serves the entire student population of 1,359. No charter schools are available in the county, emphasizing a traditional public school structure.

Rural Roots and Close-Knit Classrooms

All six schools in the county are situated in rural locales, offering students a quiet and focused environment. Northampton High is the largest school in the system with 433 students, contributing to a small average school size of 340.

Settling in Rural Northampton

Families seeking a peaceful coastal lifestyle often look near Occohannock or Kiptopeke Elementary for their community feel. The high graduation rates make this county an attractive choice for education-focused homebuyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Northampton County

via RiskByCounty

Northampton carries above-average national risk

With a composite risk score of 44.47, Northampton County rates as Relatively Low nationally but exceeds most U.S. counties in overall natural disaster exposure. Your county experiences meaningfully elevated hazard levels compared to American averages.

Above average for Virginia overall

At 44.47, Northampton's score tops Virginia's state average of 33.27 by about 33 percent, placing it in the state's higher-risk tier. You face considerably more natural disaster exposure than typical Virginia communities.

Elevated risk among rural Virginia counties

Northampton (44.47) ranks third-highest among these eight counties, exceeding Nelson (34.10) and Northumberland (39.98) but trailing Newport News and Norfolk. Your Eastern Shore location creates particular hurricane vulnerability compared to inland peers.

Hurricane threat dominates coastal exposure

Hurricane risk surges to 89.49—among Virginia's highest—reflecting your position on the Atlantic-facing Eastern Shore peninsula. Flood risk follows at 57.20, while earthquake (32.25), wildfire (29.80), and tornado (22.65) threats remain relatively modest.

Hurricane and flood insurance are critical

Northampton's 89.49 hurricane score makes comprehensive wind and flood coverage non-negotiable for protecting your property. Install storm shutters, reinforce roof connections, ensure flood insurance covers current property value, and maintain an updated hurricane preparation plan reviewed annually.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Northampton County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate maritime climate on the shore

Northampton County averages 58.9°F annually, which is warmer than the national median. Its location on the Eastern Shore ensures a steady 44.5 inches of precipitation.

Warmer than the state average

At 58.9°F, the county is warmer than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. The surrounding waters help moderate the temperature throughout the year.

Cooler than the Norfolk mainland

Despite being coastal, Northampton is cooler than Norfolk city, which averages 61.0°F. Atlantic breezes limit the extreme heat found in urban Tidewater centers.

Moderate heat and mild winters

The county only sees 16 days of extreme heat above 90°F, much lower than inland counties. Winter averages remain above freezing at 41.3°F.

Dress for a breezy coast

Residents enjoy fewer extreme heat days, but maritime winds require versatile layering. While snowfall data is limited, winter temperatures rarely necessitate heavy arctic gear.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Northampton County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy Shores and Acidic Profiles

Northampton County features a pH of 5.65, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5. This score is slightly more alkaline than the Virginia state average of 5.23, reflecting its coastal location.

Dominated by Coastal Sands

The soil is a staggering 77.3% sand, with only 7.1% clay and 15.6% silt. This high sand content ensures rapid drainage but makes it difficult for the soil to retain nutrients.

Low Capacity for Water

Organic matter sits at 1.75%, trailing the state average of 2.90%. The available water capacity is just 0.082 in/in, which is significantly lower than the state average of 0.143, indicating a high need for irrigation.

Rapid Drainage on the Coast

The 77.3% sand composition suggests very high permeability and excellent drainage for farming. However, this means water moves through the profile quickly, requiring careful management of runoff and fertilizers.

The Sweet Potato Capital

The sandy soils and Zone 8a climate are perfect for crops like sweet potatoes and peppers. Add organic matter to boost your soil's 1.75% baseline and watch your garden thrive.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Northampton County

via LawnByCounty

Northampton Boasts Excellent Lawn Scores

At 66.7, Northampton County has one of the highest lawn scores in the state. This 8a zone offers a superior environment for growing a beautiful lawn compared to the national average of 50.0.

Temperate Coastal Climate

The county experiences only 16 extreme heat days, far below the state average of 28. Combined with 44.5 inches of rain, these conditions are nearly ideal for maintaining turf without the stress of constant scorching heat.

Extremely Sandy Soil Conditions

The soil is 77.3% sand, which provides excellent drainage but requires frequent, light watering and fertilization. The pH of 5.65 is relatively healthy, though a little lime can help reach the 6.0-7.0 ideal range.

Drought Resilience in Sandy Soil

Northampton has seen 10 weeks of drought in the past year and is currently abnormally dry. Because sand drains so quickly, you must be vigilant with irrigation during these dry periods to prevent root desiccation.

Maximize the Long Growing Window

Bermudagrass is highly recommended for these sandy, coastal conditions. Your primary growing season is long, starting after the March 28 frost and continuing until the first fall frost on November 20.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Northampton County's county score?
Northampton County, Virginia has a composite county score of 54.7 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 Northampton County rank among counties in Virginia?
Northampton County ranks #53 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 Northampton County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Northampton County is $1,689, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Northampton County a tax score of 73.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Northampton County?
The median household income in Northampton County, Virginia is $55,933 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Northampton County earns an income score of 27.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Northampton County, Virginia a good place to live?
Northampton County scores 54.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #53 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Northampton 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 Northampton 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.