countyscore
66.8
County Score
Property Tax 87.7Schools 85.9Safety 79.3

County Report Card

About Northumberland County, Virginia

Elite National Livability Ranking

Northumberland County boasts a composite score of 66.8, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. It is among the highest-performing counties for quality of life in the country.

Outperforming the State Average

The county's 66.8 score blows past the Virginia average of 50.9. It sets a high bar for excellence in the Northern Neck region.

Top-Tier Schools and Safety

With a school score of 85.9 and a safety score of 79.3, this county provides an exceptional environment for families. Taxes are also extremely low, reflected in a score of 87.7.

Housing Costs and Water Infrastructure

The cost score of 38.7 indicates that housing is becoming more expensive as demand rises. Water quality also scores 49.3, which is average but trails the county's other elite metrics.

The Ultimate Safe Haven

Northumberland is a premier destination for families and retirees who want the 'best of everything' in a quiet setting. It is the top choice for those seeking safety, great schools, and low taxes.

2040608010087.738.779.354.585.965.26049.363Tax87.7Cost38.7Safety79.3Health54.5Schools85.9Income65.2Risk60Water49.3Weather6366.8/100
This county
National avg
5 above average

Northumberland County DNA

D+overall

How Northumberland County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Northumberland County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (87.7/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (38.7/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
87.7+35.7
Cost
38.7-9.299999999999997
Safety
79.3+24.299999999999997
Health
54.5
Schools
85.9+31.900000000000006
Income
65.2+14.200000000000003
Risk
60+13
Water
49.3-8.700000000000003
Weather
63
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Compare mortgage rates in Northumberland County

Whether buying or refinancing in Northumberland County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$333,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,053/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$333,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$42,120/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.8x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $69,500/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

124.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

Lancaster County
Virginia
57.1
Richmond County
Virginia
62.9
Middlesex County
Virginia
53.2
St. Mary's County
Maryland
52.3
Westmoreland County
Virginia
55.4
Essex County
Virginia
51.1
King and Queen County
Virginia
63.7
Mathews County
Virginia
63.4

Deep Dives

Northumberland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Northumberland County

via TaxByCounty

Northumberland: lowest taxes in America

Northumberland's effective tax rate of 0.481% ranks among the nation's absolute lowest, and its median tax of $1,602 is 40% below the national median of $2,690. The county offers homeowners some of America's most favorable property tax treatment.

Virginia's lowest-taxed county

Northumberland holds Virginia's distinction with a 0.481% effective rate, 28% below the state average of 0.671%. Its median tax of $1,602 trails the state average by 18%, making it the state's clearest choice for tax-conscious homeowners.

Northumberland wins Eastern Shore tax race

At 0.481%, Northumberland undercuts neighboring Middlesex (0.564%) and Northampton (0.605%), claiming the lowest rate across Virginia's Eastern Shore. The entire three-county region clusters near the national bottom, but Northumberland reigns supreme.

Northumberland's remarkably low tax burden

A median-valued Northumberland home at $333,100 produces an annual property tax of just $1,602. At $134 per month, this represents exceptional value—among the lowest tax burdens in the nation on homes of this value.

Even low assessments deserve review

Northumberland homeowners paying already-minimal taxes should still verify their assessments are fair and current through a free appeal. Confirming your assessed value matches market conditions ensures you're not overpaying, even by the county's modest standards.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Northumberland County

via CostByCounty

Northumberland rents track Virginia average

At 18.2%, Northumberland County's rent-to-income ratio sits just below Virginia's 18.6% state average and reflects solid affordability by national standards. The median household income of $69,500 approaches the national median of $74,755, while $1,053 monthly rent sits slightly below the state median of $1,140.

Right in Virginia's affordability sweet spot

Northumberland ranks near the state median for affordability, with an 18.2% rent-to-income ratio that matches or beats approximately half of Virginia counties. The combination of reasonable rents ($1,053) and solid incomes ($69,500) positions the county as a balanced option statewide.

The moderate-cost rural option

Northumberland's $1,053 median rent falls between cheaper Nelson ($950) and pricier Middlesex ($1,071), offering a moderate rural alternative. With a higher median home value ($333,100) than all rural peers despite moderate rent, Northumberland attracts both renters and homeowners seeking balance.

Rents and mortgages share income burden

Renters spend $1,053 monthly (18.2% of income) while homeowners pay $810 for mortgages (14% of income), showing ownership offers meaningful savings in this county. The 4.2 percentage-point gap between rent and ownership burden suggests strong incentives for buyers with adequate down payments.

Balanced option for Tidewater movers

Northumberland County strikes an appealing middle ground: 18.2% rent-to-income ratio, $69,500 median income, and $333,100 median home value offer solid value for Tidewater relocations. If you want rural charm without the rock-bottom prices of Northampton or the urban costs of Newport News, Northumberland deserves serious consideration.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Northumberland County

via IncomeByCounty

Northumberland near national income

Northumberland County's median household income of $69,500 sits $5,255 below the national median of $74,755, placing the county in the lower-middle segment of U.S. counties. The per capita income of $47,191 is notably high, suggesting concentrated wealth among some households.

Slightly below Virginia average

At $69,500, Northumberland earns $5,457 less than Virginia's state average of $74,957, ranking it in the middle-to-lower tier of Virginia's jurisdictions. The county sits close enough to the state baseline to suggest broad economic stability.

Mid-tier in regional income rankings

Northumberland's $69,500 income ranks above Nelson ($68,525) and Newport News ($66,718) but trails Middlesex ($74,154) and New Kent ($120,125). The county occupies solid middle ground among its regional peers.

Balanced housing affordability

A rent-to-income ratio of 18.2% keeps housing costs just under one-fifth of earnings—a healthy balance point. With a median home value of $333,100, Northumberland offers more expensive housing than neighbors, but incomes support that cost structure adequately.

Build on Northumberland's stability

Northumberland's moderate incomes and reasonable housing costs position residents for steady wealth building through disciplined saving and smart investing. Set up automatic retirement contributions, explore down payment assistance for homeownership, and consider income diversification through side skills or investments.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Northumberland County

via CrimeByCounty

Northumberland is Among the Safest Nationwide

Northumberland County achieves an elite safety score of 99.2, representing incredible peace of mind for residents. Its total crime rate of 491.4 per 100,000 is about 80% lower than the national average.

Setting the Standard for Virginia Safety

Northumberland's safety score of 99.2 is significantly higher than the already-strong state average of 97.3. Its crime rate is less than one-third of the Virginia statewide average of 1,728.8 per 100,000 people.

A Regional Leader in Public Safety

With only 491.4 crimes per 100,000 residents, Northumberland is one of the safest counties in the entire region. It far outshines neighboring areas and urban centers in terms of crime prevention.

Near-Zero Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime is exceptionally rare here, occurring at a rate of just 83.3 per 100,000 residents. Property crime is also minimal at 408.1, which is a fraction of the national property crime rate of 2,015.7.

Simple Measures to Stay Safe

In such a safe environment, basic security like locking doors and windows is often enough to deter the few crimes that occur. Smart sensors can add an extra layer of protection for seasonal residents or vacation homes.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Northumberland County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Rural Schooling

Northumberland County maintains a highly centralized system with only 3 public schools—one for each primary level. A single school district serves the county's total enrollment of 1,200 students.

Exceptional Graduation Performance

The county achieves an impressive 97% graduation rate, significantly beating the state average of 89%. This success is supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $8,723, which is notably higher than the Virginia state average.

A Single Dedicated District

Northumberland County Public Schools is the sole district, ensuring unified administration for all 1,200 students. There are no charter schools, focusing resources entirely on the traditional public elementary, middle, and high schools.

A Fully Rural Educational Experience

Every school in the county is classified as rural, reflecting the area's pastoral character. Northumberland Elementary is the largest site with 541 students, while the overall average school size is 400.

Rural Living with Strong Schools

With some of the highest graduation rates in the state, Northumberland is a top choice for families prioritizing academic outcomes. Homes in this area offer a rare combination of rural privacy and verified school performance.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Northumberland County

via RiskByCounty

Northumberland maintains below-national risk levels

With a composite risk score of 39.98, Northumberland County rates as Very Low, positioning it safely below the nation's average natural disaster exposure. Your community faces less overall threat than typical American counties.

Slightly above Virginia's statewide average

At 39.98, Northumberland edges above Virginia's state average of 33.27 by about 20 percent, placing it in the state's middle-to-higher range. You experience moderate hazard exposure relative to other Virginia communities.

Mid-tier risk among regional counties

Northumberland (39.98) ranks in the middle of this county grouping—safer than Nelson (34.10) and Northampton (44.47), but more exposed than Middlesex (23.79) and New Kent (14.12). Your Northern Neck location reflects typical Tidewater vulnerability patterns.

Hurricane and flood pose leading threats

Hurricane risk peaks at 86.90, reflecting Atlantic storm exposure, while flood risk stands at 68.40 from river and tidal influences. Tornado (27.19), earthquake (38.93), and wildfire (19.62) threats remain secondary but merit preparedness attention.

Hurricane and flood insurance are essential

Separate flood and hurricane insurance policies are crucial investments given Northumberland's 68.40 flood and 86.90 hurricane scores. Trim trees overhanging your property, secure roof fasteners before storm season, and verify coverage limits match current property replacement cost.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Northumberland County

via WaterByCounty

Northumberland Receives D Grade for Water Safety

Northumberland County recorded one health violation over five years, resulting in a D grade. The violation rate of 17.5 per 100,000 residents is significantly better than the state average of 126.9. Despite the low rate, the D grade suggests a lapse in federal safety requirements.

Widespread Impairment Hits 81% of Water Bodies

An alarming 81.3% of assessed water bodies in Northumberland are impaired, nearly double the state average of 46.1%. The 2022 assessment points to aquatic plants, PCBs, and low dissolved oxygen as the primary causes. This high impairment level highlights severe stress on the county's aquatic ecosystems.

Focused Biological and Nutrient Monitoring

Northumberland has 22 active monitoring sites that captured 22,344 measurements over the last five years. Key characteristics measured include physical, nutrient, and biological data like algae and phytoplankton. This focus is critical for managing the health of the county's various creeks and inlets.

No Representative Streamflow Data for the County

Northumberland County does not currently have an active USGS streamgage to monitor real-time discharge. Environmental health is instead gauged through extensive watershed assessments and biological monitoring. Local water conditions are heavily tied to the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

Address Severe Impairment in Local Waterways

The 81.3% impairment rate is a strong signal for residents to take action in protecting local waterways. Reducing nutrient runoff from lawns and farms is essential to combat low dissolved oxygen levels. Residents should also stay updated on the county's efforts to address the D grade in drinking water compliance.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Soil Quality in Northumberland County

via SoilByCounty

The Northern Neck's Acidic Base

This county has an average pH of 4.86, making it significantly more acidic than the state average of 5.23. Such low pH levels often require lime applications to make nutrients available for garden plants.

A Balanced Silt and Sand Mix

The soil composition is 52.5% sand and 33.6% silt, with a relatively low 13.9% clay. This mix provides good workability and moderate drainage for a variety of agricultural uses.

Strong Water Retention Potential

The available water capacity is 0.164 in/in, which is higher than the state average of 0.143. While organic matter at 2.11% is below the state average, the soil's ability to hold water is a major asset.

Moisture Management in the Neck

With a water capacity higher than the state average, this soil resists drought better than sandier neighbors. The 52.5% sand content ensures it doesn't stay waterlogged, facilitating healthy root growth.

Productive Zone 8a Growing

Northumberland’s climate and water-retentive soil are great for corn, soybeans, and backyard vegetables. Start your garden today to take advantage of the long 8a growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Northumberland County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in Northumberland

Northumberland County presents the most challenge in this group with a lawn score of 47.0. Homeowners in this 8a zone face tougher conditions than the national average of 50.0.

Intense Heat and Moderate Rain

The county endures 44 extreme heat days per year, well above the state average of 28. While 45.2 inches of rain falls annually, the high heat can lead to rapid evaporation, making consistent watering a necessity.

Acidity is a Major Hurdle

The soil pH is a very low 4.86, which is quite acidic for most turf varieties. With 52.5% sand and 13.9% clay, the soil requires significant lime amendments to create a hospitable environment for grass roots.

Frequent Drought Challenges

The county spent 15 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100.0% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Deep, infrequent watering is the best strategy here to encourage roots to grow deeper into the soil.

Focus on Tough, Heat-Tolerant Grass

Centipedegrass or Bermudagrass are your best bets to survive the 44 days of extreme heat in zone 8a. Since local frost dates are not available, wait until soil temperatures are consistently warm in the spring before seeding.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Northumberland County's county score?
Northumberland County, Virginia has a composite county score of 66.8 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 Northumberland County rank among counties in Virginia?
Northumberland County ranks #5 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 Northumberland County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Northumberland County is $1,602, with an effective tax rate of 0.48%. This earns Northumberland County a tax score of 87.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Northumberland County?
The median household income in Northumberland County, Virginia is $69,500 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Northumberland County earns an income score of 65.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Northumberland County, Virginia a good place to live?
Northumberland County scores 66.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Northumberland 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 Northumberland County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.