countyscore
54.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 98.3Water Quality 86Health 85.5

County Report Card

About Oconee County, Georgia

Oconee County Exceeds National Standards

Oconee County achieves a composite score of 54.7, outperforming the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high-resource environment with exceptional rankings in health and income.

Outperforming the Georgia Average

The county's 54.7 score sits comfortably above the Georgia state average of 46.7. It is frequently recognized as one of the most affluent and well-resourced counties in the state.

Elite Income and Health Scores

With an income score of 98.3 and a health score of 85.5, the county is a leader in well-being and prosperity. Household incomes average an impressive $115,925, paired with a high risk resilience score of 80.6.

The High Price of Entry

The cost score of 9.2 is the county's greatest challenge, as the median home value reaches $425,100. Residents trade affordability for quality, facing some of the highest housing prices in the region.

Perfect for High-Earning Families

Oconee County is the premier choice for affluent families seeking top-tier schools and excellent health outcomes. Those who can afford the high cost of entry will find a nearly unmatched quality of life.

Score breakdown

Tax61Cost9.2Safety35.2Health85.5Schools75.3Income98.3Risk80.6Water86Weather60.6
🏛61
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠9.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡35.2
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤85.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓75.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡80.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱45.6
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

Clarke County
Georgia
29.3
Morgan County
Georgia
55.7
Walton County
Georgia
45.8
Jackson County
Georgia
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Oglethorpe County
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Barrow County
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Greene County
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Madison County
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Deep Dives

Oconee County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Oconee County

via TaxByCounty

Oconee County's wealth brings high taxes

Oconee County's 0.719% effective tax rate falls in the bottom 35% nationally, yet the median property tax of $3,056 is 13% above the national median of $2,690. This apparent contradiction reflects Oconee's exceptional median home value of $425,100—the wealth is in the properties, not the rate.

Below-average rate, above-average bills

Oconee County's 0.719% effective rate sits well below Georgia's average of 0.898%, yet households pay $1,527 more than the state median annually. This county attracts affluent homeowners who benefit from a relatively low rate applied to high-value properties.

Affluent enclave with favorable rates

Oconee County's 0.719% rate is substantially lower than all neighboring and comparable counties, including Newton (0.914%), Pickens (0.661%), and Muscogee (0.837%). The combination of low rates and high home values makes Oconee an attractive option for wealthy buyers prioritizing quality of life.

Premium homes mean premium taxes

A homeowner with a median-value property of $425,100 in Oconee County pays approximately $3,056 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that amount increases to $3,118; without one, it drops to $2,924, reflecting the county's high-value real estate market.

High-value homes warrant careful review

Oconee County homeowners with high-value properties should request a detailed assessment review, as even small percentage errors translate to substantial annual savings. Many affluent counties see overassessment disputes resolved through formal appeals to the county assessor.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Oconee County

via CostByCounty

Oconee County: wealth meets affordability

Oconee County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the nation's most affordable, even though median rent and ownership costs are substantial. The county's elevated median household income of $115,925 means residents easily absorb housing costs that would burden lower-income households elsewhere.

Georgia's most affluent, most affordable county

Oconee County boasts Georgia's lowest rent-to-income ratio at 13.9%—beating the state average of 18.6%—and the highest median household income at $115,925. This combination of high earnings and measured housing costs creates exceptional affordability for residents.

Premium homes, premium incomes make math work

Oconee County's $1,347 rent and $425,100 median home value are the region's highest, yet its 13.9% rent-to-income ratio remains the best. The county's wealth concentration means residents shoulder similar absolute costs as neighbors but with considerably more income cushion.

High costs, higher incomes equals balance

While Oconee residents spend $1,347 on rent and $1,530 on ownership monthly—the region's steepest absolute costs—their $115,925 median income handles this easily. Just 13.9% of income goes to rent, leaving substantial room for savings and lifestyle spending.

Oconee for those seeking affluent stability

If you earn $100,000+, Oconee County's premium housing stock and 13.9% rent-to-income ratio offer luxury living without the affordability squeeze felt elsewhere. The county delivers an enviable combination of high-quality homes and household financial breathing room.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Oconee County

via IncomeByCounty

Oconee County far exceeds national wealth

Oconee County's median household income of $115,925 towers 55% above the national median of $74,755, reflecting one of Georgia's wealthiest communities. This ranks Oconee among the nation's most affluent counties, driven by educated professionals and successful entrepreneurs.

Georgia's wealthiest suburban county

Oconee County's $115,925 median household income nearly doubles Georgia's state average of $60,488, placing it in the top 1% of Georgia counties. The county's per capita income of $55,741—the highest among these eight counties—signals exceptional concentration of high earners.

Wealth far exceeds surrounding counties

Oconee County's $115,925 income dwarfs nearby Pickens County ($75,293), Newton County ($73,732), and Madison County. This reflects Oconee's transformation into an exclusive exurban enclave north of Atlanta, attracting Atlanta's professional and executive class.

Housing costs easily affordable

With a rent-to-income ratio of just 13.9%, Oconee County residents allocate minimal income to housing despite median home values reaching $425,100. High incomes provide ample capacity for luxury homeownership while maintaining substantial discretionary spending.

Build generational wealth in Oconee County

Oconee County's exceptional incomes create opportunities for sophisticated wealth strategies: diversified investment portfolios, estate planning, and private education funding. Residents should work with financial advisors on tax-efficient strategies, charitable giving, and wealth preservation for future generations.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Oconee County

via CrimeByCounty

Oconee County beats the national average

Oconee County reports a total crime rate of 1,505.5 per 100K, comfortably below the national average of 2,385.5. It earns a high safety score of 97.6, though data comes from a single reporting agency.

Oconee aligns with Georgia state norms

The county's safety score of 97.6 nearly matches the Georgia state average of 97.8. Total crime is slightly higher than the state average of 1,412.9, but still remains low compared to urban centers.

Local comparisons across county lines

Oconee’s total crime rate is higher than neighboring Oglethorpe County’s 1,195.4 per 100K. Residents should note that Oconee's data comes from one agency, so these figures represent a specific slice of local activity.

Property crime is the main concern

Property crime makes up the bulk of incidents at 1,441.2 per 100K, while violent crime is remarkably low at 64.3. This violent crime rate is less than one-fifth of the national average of 369.8.

Keep Oconee safe with home defense

Because property crime is the primary concern here, investing in home alarms and outdoor lighting is a smart move. Consistent community vigilance helps the county maintain its strong reputation for safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Oconee County

via HealthByCounty

Oconee County leads Georgia in life expectancy

At 79.8 years, Oconee County residents live more than a year longer than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. Only 12.7% report poor or fair health—among the lowest rates nationally—reflecting strong preventive care and healthy community habits.

Georgia's longest-living county

Oconee County's 79.8-year life expectancy far exceeds Georgia's 73.3-year state average, a 6.5-year gap that ranks it among the nation's healthiest counties. This distinction reflects a highly educated, affluent population with robust healthcare access and engagement.

Outpaces surrounding counties significantly

Oconee County's 79.8-year life expectancy towers over nearby Madison and Clarke counties, which average 74-76 years. The wealth and healthcare infrastructure in this Athens-area county create a health advantage that compounds across generations.

High insurance coverage enables preventive care

With only a 7.4% uninsured rate—lowest in the state—nearly all Oconee County residents have health coverage. The county boasts 114 primary care providers and 303 mental health providers per 100,000, ensuring residents access specialist care without delay.

Support community health through coverage

Even in Oconee County, ensuring everyone has coverage strengthens the whole community's health. If you're uninsured or know someone who is, marketplace enrollment is available year-round—visit healthcare.gov to compare plans.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Oconee County

via SchoolsByCounty

Oconee County's Premier Rural School System

Oconee County provides education through 11 public schools, including 7 elementary, 2 middle, and 2 high schools. The single-district system supports 8,531 students in a focused, high-performing environment.

Exceptional Graduation and School Scores

This county leads the region with a stellar 98.0% graduation rate, far surpassing the 87.0% national average. With a school score of 58.8 and per-pupil spending of $7,479, Oconee consistently ranks as a top academic performer in Georgia.

Oconee County District Sets the Bar

Managed by a single district, the system serves over 8,500 students without the use of charter schools. North Oconee High School is the largest campus in the county, hosting 1,479 students in a high-achieving setting.

The Quintessential Rural Education Experience

All 11 schools in the county are classified as rural, offering a consistent and serene learning environment for every student. The average school size is 776 students, though middle and high schools are significantly larger community hubs.

Top-Tier Schools Meet Rural Charm

Oconee County is a magnet for families who prioritize elite graduation rates and high school scores. Investing in a home here means securing access to one of the most successful public school systems in the state.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Oconee County

via RiskByCounty

Oconee County enjoys very low disaster risk

Oconee County scores 19.43 on the composite risk scale, placing it well below the national average and earning a "very low" risk rating. This score represents just half of Georgia's state average of 39.49, making Oconee one of the safer counties in the state. The county experiences below-average exposure across most natural hazard categories.

Among Georgia's lowest-risk counties

Oconee County ranks in the bottom tier—among the safest—of Georgia's 159 counties for natural disaster risk. Its composite score of 19.43 is substantially below the state average, placing it in a protected cohort. The county's geographic and demographic profile contribute to this favorable risk standing.

Safest county in its immediate region

Oconee County (19.43) is significantly safer than nearby Murray County (51.46), Newton County (50.64), and Pickens County (34.80). Even compared to the safer Peach County (22.49) and Oglethorpe County (8.11), Oconee remains among the lowest-risk areas. This favorable profile makes Oconee one of the most protected communities in north-central Georgia.

Hurricane exposure is the relative outlier

While Oconee County enjoys very low overall risk, hurricane exposure (58.61) is its most notable hazard category, though still moderate relative to other Georgia counties. Flood risk (34.99) and earthquake risk (56.68) present secondary concerns. Tornado risk (40.49) and wildfire risk (25.89) remain well-controlled.

Standard coverage meets most needs

Oconee County's low-risk profile means standard homeowners insurance typically provides adequate protection for most residents. Focus on routine maintenance—clearing gutters, trimming trees, and securing outdoor items—to prepare for the county's minimal weather threats. Review your policy annually and maintain an emergency kit as general best practice, even in this lower-risk environment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Oconee County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild and Moderate in Oconee

Oconee County’s average annual temperature of 61.6°F reflects a mild, humid subtropical climate. This is notably warmer than the national median but moderate for the state of Georgia.

Slightly Cooler Than State Norms

The county ranks slightly cooler than the Georgia state average of 63.7°F. It also receives 49.5 inches of precipitation, which is two inches below the state average.

Dryer Winters and Stable Temps

Oconee mirrors the temperature profile of neighbor Oglethorpe but records no annual snowfall. This makes it slightly drier and less snow-prone than northern Georgia counties.

Warm Summers and Snowless Winters

The county experiences 52 days of extreme heat annually, with summer temperatures averaging 78.0°F. Winters are mild with a 45.2°F average and no recorded snow accumulation.

Focus on Home Energy Efficiency

With 52 days reaching 90°F, homeowners should focus on energy-efficient cooling and attic insulation. Winter gear can remain light as snow is not a factor in local planning.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Oconee County

via SoilByCounty

The Mystery of Oconee's Soil Taxonomic Data

Specific data on Oconee County's pH and taxonomic order is currently missing from this set. Like much of the Georgia Piedmont, the soil likely leans acidic compared to the national 6.5 median. A quick home soil test can reveal your yard's specific chemical balance.

Managing Soil Texture in the Piedmont

Sand, silt, and clay data for Oconee are not currently specified in the database. Regionally, the soil is often a mix of red clay and loamy sand, which requires careful timing for tilling. Organic amendments are the best way to improve workability and drainage in this area.

Aiming for Peak Growing Conditions

We lack specific organic matter and water capacity figures for Oconee County. The state average organic matter of 1.83% is a good target for local growers to keep in mind. Improving your soil's health will lead to higher yields and more resilient plants.

Planning for Proper Land Drainage

While official drainage classes are unlisted here, the rolling hills of Oconee usually dictate water flow. Good drainage is vital for avoiding soil compaction and promoting healthy root systems. Local observation will help you determine the best spots for heavy structures.

A Gardeners Paradise in Zone 8a

Oconee County is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a, which is perfect for diverse ornamental and food crops. You can grow everything from peaches and pecans to lush summer vegetables. Get outside and enjoy the benefits of gardening in this mild climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Oconee County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions in Oconee

Oconee County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 45.6, placing it well ahead of the Georgia average of 35.8 and near the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the most hospitable counties in the state for lawn care. Its location in zone 8a provides a stable environment for those looking to maintain a high-quality turf.

Ideal Rainfall for Healthy Turf

At 49.5 inches of annual precipitation, Oconee sits right at the top end of the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawn health. The county experiences 52 days of extreme heat and 5,031 growing degree days, providing ample warmth without the overwhelming intensity found further south. This climate profile supports consistent growth throughout the spring and summer months.

Analyze Your Dirt Before Planting

Specific soil data is missing for Oconee County, making it crucial for gardeners to perform their own assessments. Given the local geography, you likely face clay-heavy soil that can benefit from compost amendments to improve drainage. A simple pH test will reveal if you need lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 range that grass prefers.

Managing Severe Seasonal Droughts

While Oconee had fewer drought weeks (17) than many neighbors last year, 100% of the county is currently in a severe drought. You must remain vigilant even during years with high total rainfall. Practice smart irrigation by watering only when the grass shows signs of wilt to build up natural drought tolerance.

The Spring Growing Window

Zone 8a is perfect for warm-season grasses like Bermuda or Zoysia, which can handle the 52 days of summer heat. Start your lawn projects after the last spring frost on March 27 for the best results. The season remains active until early November, giving your grass plenty of time to establish deep roots.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oconee County's county score?
Oconee County, Georgia 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 Oconee County rank among counties in Georgia?
Oconee County ranks #35 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 Oconee County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Oconee County is $3,056, with an effective tax rate of 0.72%. This earns Oconee County a tax score of 61/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Oconee County?
The median household income in Oconee County, Georgia is $115,925 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Oconee County earns an income score of 98.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Oconee County, Georgia a good place to live?
Oconee County scores 54.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #35 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Oconee 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 Oconee 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.