countyscore
43.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 93.7Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 61.2

County Report Card

About Paulding County, Georgia

Paulding County Near National Median

Paulding County scores a 43.2, which is slightly below the national median of 50.0. It remains a competitive suburban area, though it faces high cost-of-living pressures.

Competitive Within the Georgia Landscape

At 43.2, Paulding is just under the Georgia state average of 46.7. It functions as a high-income bedroom community for the Atlanta metro area, reflecting typical suburban trade-offs.

Exceptional Incomes and Utilities

An income score of 93.7 is the county's standout feature, driven by a median household income of $94,557. It also maintains excellent infrastructure with a water score of 86.0.

Housing Affordability and High Risk

The cost score of 7.7 reflects a difficult housing market where median rent hits $1,622. A risk score of 30.0 also indicates a need for better preparation against natural or environmental hazards.

Best for Metro Atlanta Professionals

Paulding County suits high-earning commuters who value modern infrastructure and strong income potential. Residents should be prepared to pay a premium for housing in exchange for these suburban benefits.

Score breakdown

Tax49.3Cost7.7Safety42Health54.7Schools49Income93.7Risk30Water86Weather61.2
🏛49.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼93.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤54.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡30
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤61.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨21.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱37.7
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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Nearby counties

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Cobb County
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Deep Dives

Paulding County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Paulding County

via TaxByCounty

Paulding County near national average

Paulding County's 0.846% effective tax rate sits in the 45th percentile nationally, roughly 5% below the national median rate of 0.898%. The median property tax of $2,444 is nearly identical to the national median of $2,690, though Paulding's median home value of $289,000 is higher than the national median of $281,900.

Slightly below Georgia average

Paulding County's 0.846% effective rate sits just below the Georgia state average of 0.898%, placing it squarely in the middle of the state's tax landscape. Households here pay roughly $915 less annually than the state median, a modest advantage.

Suburban rates for suburban growth

Paulding County's 0.846% rate sits between Muscogee County (0.837%) and Newton County (0.914%), reflecting its position as a growing suburban area. The rate undercuts Peach County (1.124%) by a significant margin to the south.

Growing homes in Paulding

A homeowner with a median-value property of $289,000 in Paulding County pays approximately $2,444 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, that amount increases to $2,567; without one, it drops to $1,885, reflecting the county's higher property values and moderate tax rate.

Assess your assessment

Paulding County's rapid growth means some properties may be reassessed above current market value; requesting a formal assessment review could identify overpayment. The county assessor's office can clarify how your property was valued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Paulding County

via CostByCounty

Paulding County exceeds national rent burden

At 20.6%, Paulding County's rent-to-income ratio trails the national average, placing housing costs as a meaningful burden on local households. Monthly rent of $1,622 against a $94,557 median income reflects the county's premium positioning as an Atlanta exurb.

Above Georgia's affordability average

Paulding County's 20.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Georgia's 18.6% state average, and its $1,622 median rent significantly outpaces the state's $927 average by 75%. The county's exurban location commands a substantial affordability premium.

Metro sprawl means steeper housing costs

Paulding County's $1,622 rent and $289,000 median home value are among the region's highest, substantially outpacing rural neighbors like Murray ($828) or Oglethorpe ($832). The county's rapid growth and Atlanta proximity drive these premium costs.

One-fifth of income dedicated to housing

Paulding renters spend 20.6% of their $94,557 income on the $1,622 monthly rent, while owners commit $1,429 monthly. These substantial housing costs leave less discretionary income than lower-cost regional alternatives, despite the county's relatively strong median income.

Paulding appeals to metro-adjacent seekers

Paulding County's 20.6% rent-to-income ratio reflects its appeal as an exurban alternative to closer Atlanta suburbs—you're trading affordability for access. If metro proximity justifies the higher costs ($1,622 rent), Paulding suits your needs; otherwise, rural counties offer substantially better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Paulding County

via IncomeByCounty

Paulding County exceeds national income standards

Paulding County's median household income of $94,557 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by 26%, placing it in the nation's upper-income tier. This strong performance reflects Paulding's success as a booming Atlanta suburb attracting middle and upper-middle class families.

Among Georgia's highest-income counties

At $94,557, Paulding County's median household income exceeds Georgia's state average of $60,488 by over $34,000 annually, ranking it in Georgia's top 10%. The county's per capita income of $36,776 further underscores broad-based prosperity across the population.

Northwest Georgia's wealthiest county

Paulding County's $94,557 median income surpasses all neighbors except Oconee County ($115,925), outpacing Pickens County ($75,293), Murray County ($67,880), and Bartow County. The county represents Atlanta's most successful suburban expansion northwest of the metro area.

Housing affordable despite rapid growth

Paulding County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.6% remains within affordability limits despite median home values of $289,000 and explosive population growth. Strong incomes allow households to manage housing costs while investing in other priorities.

Maximize wealth in Paulding County

Paulding County's strong incomes and affordable housing create excellent conditions for wealth building through homeownership, retirement planning, and education investment. Residents should prioritize maximizing employer retirement benefits, exploring investment opportunities, and planning for long-term financial goals.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Paulding County

via CrimeByCounty

Paulding County is a safety standout

Paulding County reports a total crime rate of 1,310.8 per 100K, which is nearly half the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a high safety score of 97.9 based on reports from five agencies.

Paulding beats the state average

Paulding’s safety score is slightly higher than the Georgia average of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 1,310.8 per 100K also beats the state average of 1,412.9, showing strong performance across the county.

Safer than many surrounding counties

Paulding is significantly safer than Newton County, which has a higher total crime rate of 2,014.2 per 100K. The five local agencies provide a comprehensive and transparent look at the county's safety profile.

Property crime remains well below average

Property crime is very low at 940.0 per 100K, well below the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is 370.8 per 100K, making it almost identical to the national average of 369.8.

Keep Paulding's crime rates low

Since property crime rates are low, continuing to use simple deterrents like motion-sensor lights can maintain this positive trend. Paulding remains a strong example of community safety in the region.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Paulding County

via HealthByCounty

Paulding County exceeds U.S. life expectancy

At 76.9 years, Paulding County residents live about 2 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years, though the gap is narrower than many Georgia counties. Only 17.8% report poor or fair health, below the national average and indicating solid community health management.

Well above Georgia's state average

Paulding County's 76.9-year life expectancy exceeds Georgia's 73.3-year state average by 3.6 years, placing it in the upper tier statewide. The county consistently ranks among Georgia's healthier regions, particularly in the Atlanta metro area.

Thriving suburban health outcomes

Paulding County's 76.9-year life expectancy aligns with nearby Cobb and Douglas counties in the Atlanta suburbs, all showing strong health indicators. Suburban infrastructure and access drive better preventive care and disease management across this region.

Good coverage with growing provider base

Paulding County's 11.4% uninsured rate sits well below the state average of 15.0%, ensuring most families have healthcare coverage. With 14 primary care providers per 100,000, access is moderate; residents can find local care, though wait times may vary.

Keep your family's coverage strong

Paulding County's strong health outcomes reflect high insurance rates—if you're among the uninsured, marketplace plans offer affordable options. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator to review plans and ensure your coverage supports preventive and routine care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Paulding County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Large Suburban Powerhouse in Paulding

Paulding County manages a massive educational network of 33 public schools serving 31,518 students. The landscape features 19 elementary, 9 middle, and 5 high schools, all organized within a single district.

Surpassing State Standards for Graduation

Paulding County maintains a 91.0% graduation rate, which is higher than the state's 88.1% average. While spending $7,061 per pupil is slightly below state averages, the county achieves a solid school score of 54.2.

Paulding County's Unified District

The Paulding County school district oversees more than 31,000 students across its 33 campuses. The district is characterized by very large secondary schools, notably North Paulding High, which enrolls nearly 3,000 students.

Suburban Excellence with a Rural Mix

The majority of the 33 schools are located in suburban settings, though 11 rural campuses remain. Paulding features the largest average school size in the region at 955 students, creating a vibrant, high-energy educational environment.

Move Near Paulding's Growing Suburbs

With its high graduation rates and modern facilities, Paulding County is a top pick for suburban homebuyers. Research homes in the northern suburbs to take advantage of the county's largest and most popular school districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Paulding County

via RiskByCounty

Paulding County faces elevated disaster risk

Paulding County scores 69.97 on the composite risk scale, placing it well above the national average and earning a "relatively low" risk rating. This score substantially exceeds Georgia's state average of 39.49, indicating above-typical exposure to natural hazards. Tornado (88.93) and flood (73.86) risks are the primary drivers.

Higher-risk tier in Georgia

Paulding County ranks in the upper-middle tier of Georgia's 159 counties for natural disaster risk. Its composite score of 69.97 is 77% above the state average, placing it in a notably higher-risk cohort. The county's tornado and flood exposure are the primary factors in this elevated ranking.

Significantly riskier than nearby communities

Paulding County (69.97) faces substantially higher risk than neighbors Pickens (34.80), Oconee (19.43), and Oglethorpe (8.11). Its tornado risk of 88.93 ranks among Georgia's highest, and flood risk (73.86) far exceeds surrounding areas. The county presents a notably more hazardous environment than most nearby communities.

Tornadoes and flooding dominate threat profile

Tornado risk (88.93) is Paulding County's most acute hazard, ranking among the state's highest and demanding serious preparedness attention. Flood risk (73.86) is the secondary major concern, while wildfire (65.27) and earthquake (67.11) risks remain elevated. The county faces compound exposure to multiple severe weather threats.

Tornado and flood preparedness is critical

Paulding County residents must prioritize tornado safety: identify a reinforced shelter area, practice drills, and maintain emergency supplies including a NOAA weather radio. Flood insurance is essential given the county's significant flood risk; understand your property's elevation and proximity to flood zones. Consider impact-resistant windows and a roof designed to resist high winds, given the county's tornado exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Paulding County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Temperatures and High Rainfall

Paulding County averages 61.2°F annually, sitting comfortably above the national median temperature. It is a relatively wet county, receiving 53.4 inches of precipitation each year.

Cooler and Wetter Than Average

Paulding is cooler and wetter than the average Georgia county. Its 53.4 inches of rain exceeds the state average of 51.4 inches, while its temperature remains below the state mean.

The Snowiest of Local Neighbors

With 3.8 inches of annual snowfall, Paulding is significantly snowier than its southern and eastern neighbors. This makes it one of the more winter-active counties in the Atlanta metropolitan fringe.

Mild Summers and Distinct Winters

The county sees 55 extreme heat days, but its summer average of 77.9°F is milder than many Georgia peers. Winter brings a 43.9°F average and a rare necessity for snow removal.

Prepare for Snow and Rain

Homeowners should invest in well-insulated homes to manage the 3.8 inches of snow and 55 days of high heat. Proper drainage is key to handling the county’s above-average annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Paulding County

via SoilByCounty

Paulding's Sandy Loam Identity

Paulding County soils are primarily Ultisols with a sandy loam texture that is very common in the region. The average pH is 5.42, which is more acidic than the national 6.5 median but typical for Georgia. This soil profile defines the landscape and dictates local farming practices.

Light Texture for Easy Farming

With a composition of 60.2% sand, 23.5% silt, and 15.6% clay, the soil is relatively light and easy to till. The high sand content prevents the ground from becoming too heavy or sticky when wet. This makes it an ideal environment for roots to expand and grow deep.

Exceptional Moisture Storage Potential

Organic matter sits at 1.29%, trailing the Georgia state average of 1.83%. Despite this, the available water capacity is a robust 0.140 in/in, far exceeding the state benchmark of 0.114. This soil is excellent at storing the water your plants need to survive summer heat.

Moderate Infiltration for Easy Planning

The county's soil is well drained and categorized in hydrologic group B. This group features moderate infiltration rates, making the land predictable for drainage and construction. It is generally a forgiving environment for both home gardeners and commercial builders.

Start Your Zone 8a Garden

Zone 8a offers a long, productive growing season with a mild winter transition. You can grow a wide variety of crops here, from tomatoes to fruit trees and ornamentals. Use the county's superior water capacity to grow a lush, vibrant landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Paulding County

via LawnByCounty

Suburban Greenery in Paulding

Paulding County scores 37.7 on the lawn difficulty scale, placing it slightly above the Georgia average of 35.8. While better than many state neighbors, it remains more challenging than the national average score of 50.0. Homeowners in this zone 8a county must navigate acidic soils and significant drought windows.

High Rainfall and Heat Stress

Paulding receives 53.4 inches of rain annually, which exceeds the state average and can sometimes lead to overly saturated roots. The county also faces 55 extreme heat days and 4,990 growing degree days, fueling rapid summer growth. This climate requires a careful balance of drainage management and heat-tolerance planning.

Amending the Sandy Loam

The soil here is a well-drained sandy loam with a pH of 5.42, which is too acidic for optimal turf health. With 60.2% sand content, nutrients can leach away quickly, requiring a consistent fertilization strategy. Lime is necessary to bring the pH closer to the 6.0-7.0 ideal to unlock soil nutrients for your grass.

Adapting to Severe Drought

Despite high annual rainfall, Paulding spent 22 weeks in drought last year and is currently 100% under severe drought conditions. In sandy loam, water drains fast, making your lawn more vulnerable during these periods. Use organic mulch or specialized fertilizers to help your soil hold onto moisture longer during the summer months.

Spring Planting for Best Results

Bermuda grass is a standout choice for Paulding, as it loves the sandy loam texture and can survive the heat. The safest time to start is after the last spring frost on April 2. Ensure your lawn is well-rooted by early November to withstand the transition into the winter dormant season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paulding County's county score?
Paulding County, Georgia has a composite county score of 43.2 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 Paulding County rank among counties in Georgia?
Paulding County ranks #114 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 Paulding County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Paulding County is $2,444, with an effective tax rate of 0.85%. This earns Paulding County a tax score of 49.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Paulding County?
The median household income in Paulding County, Georgia is $94,557 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Paulding County earns an income score of 93.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Paulding County, Georgia a good place to live?
Paulding County scores 43.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #114 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Paulding 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 Paulding 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.