countyscore
57.5
County Score
Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 83.7Income & Jobs 77.8

County Report Card

About Pickens County, Georgia

Pickens County Surpasses National Median

Pickens County scores a 57.5, which is notably higher than the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a high-performing county with strong scores across safety and education.

A Leader Among Georgia Counties

With a 57.5 composite score, Pickens far exceeds the Georgia state average of 46.7. It is one of the more desirable counties in the state for those seeking a balance of prosperity and security.

Wealth, Schools, and Safety

The county boasts an income score of 77.8 and a school score of 70.0, reflecting a thriving community. Safety is also a major highlight, with a score of 67.4 and a low tax rate of 0.661%.

Affordability and Health Access

The cost score of 24.9 suggests that housing is becoming less affordable for the average resident. Additionally, the health score of 45.4 shows there is room to improve local medical care access.

Ideal for Mountain-Loving Professionals

Pickens County is a top choice for families and retirees looking for a safe, high-earning community in the foothills. The $75,293 median income helps residents manage the rising $1,079 median rent.

Score breakdown

Tax67.4Cost24.9Safety67.4Health45.4Schools70Income77.8Risk65.2Water86Weather83.7
🏛67.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠24.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼77.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡67.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤45.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓70
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡65.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤83.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱60.3
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

Cherokee County
Georgia
52.2
Gilmer County
Georgia
51.3
Dawson County
Georgia
56.1
Gordon County
Georgia
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Lumpkin County
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Forsyth County
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Murray County
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Fannin County
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Deep Dives

Pickens County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pickens County

via TaxByCounty

Pickens County among lowest-tax counties

Pickens County's 0.661% effective tax rate ranks in the bottom 20% nationally, roughly 26% lower than the national median rate of 0.898%. The median property tax of $1,914 falls 29% below the national median of $2,690, despite Pickens's median home value of $289,600 being close to the national median.

Second-lowest tax rate in Georgia

Pickens County's 0.661% effective rate ranks second-lowest in Georgia, trailing only Murray County at 0.641%, and sits well below the state average of 0.898%. Households here pay roughly $868 less annually than the state median, a substantial savings.

Mountain county with mountain savings

Pickens County's 0.661% rate is the second-lowest in the region, just above Murray County (0.641%) and well below Newton County (0.914%), Paulding County (0.846%), and Muscogee County (0.837%). This positions Pickens as a tax-friendly destination in North Georgia.

Low rate on higher-value homes

A homeowner with a median-value property of $289,600 in Pickens County pays approximately $1,914 annually in property taxes—a low rate applied to relatively high-value homes. With a mortgage, that amount increases to $1,980; without one, it drops to $1,790, delivering strong tax efficiency.

Verify low assessments are accurate

Pickens County's low rate makes it attractive, but homeowners should still verify their property assessment is correct, not undervalued in a way that could lead to sudden increases. Requesting an assessment review ensures your tax bill reflects fair market value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pickens County

via CostByCounty

Pickens County near national affordability baseline

At 17.2%, Pickens County's rent-to-income ratio sits slightly below the national average, indicating residents manage housing costs reasonably well compared to most Americans. Monthly rent of $1,079 against a $75,293 median income aligns closely with national affordability norms.

Slightly better than Georgia's state average

Pickens County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio slightly undercuts Georgia's 18.6% state average, and its $1,079 median rent sits above the state's $927 average by about 16%. The county occupies a comfortable position within Georgia's housing market.

Mountain region with moderate pricing

Pickens County's $1,079 rent and $289,600 median home value reflect its mountain-county appeal near Atlanta, striking a balance between rural affordability and metro accessibility. Costs exceed rural neighbors like Murray ($828) but remain below deepest exurban areas like Paulding ($1,622).

Just over 17% of income to housing

Pickens County renters spend 17.2% of their $75,293 income on rent, while owners commit $1,045 monthly, totaling moderate housing burdens. These proportions leave residents with a healthy discretionary income cushion relative to higher-cost regions.

Pickens balances mountain appeal with value

Pickens County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio and mountain location make it attractive for those seeking outdoor lifestyle without exurban price tags. The county delivers reasonable housing costs and regional access, appealing to families wanting both natural beauty and financial stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pickens County

via IncomeByCounty

Pickens County matches national income

Pickens County's median household income of $75,293 virtually matches the national median of $74,755, positioning it squarely in the American middle class. This performance reflects Pickens' appeal to Atlanta commuters seeking mountain amenities with suburban convenience.

Well above Georgia's median income

At $75,293, Pickens County's median household income exceeds Georgia's state average of $60,488 by over $14,800 annually. The county ranks in Georgia's upper quarter by income, benefiting from its scenic location and growing professional population.

Leading income growth in north Georgia

Pickens County's $75,293 median income ranks second among these eight counties, trailing only Oconee County ($115,925) and outpacing nearby Murray County ($67,880). The county's elevated per capita income of $38,359 suggests growing concentration of higher-earning residents.

Rising housing costs test affordability

Pickens County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% reflects manageable housing costs, though median home values of $289,600 command significant household resources. Strong incomes support homeownership but leave less discretionary income than lower-cost mountain counties.

Invest for the future in Pickens County

Pickens County's solid incomes and scenic appeal create opportunities for wealth building through real estate appreciation and long-term investing. Residents should explore homeownership, retirement account optimization, and education savings to build generational wealth in this growing community.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pickens County

via CrimeByCounty

Pickens County offers exceptional safety

Pickens County is exceptionally safe, with a total crime rate of 762.6 per 100K compared to the national average of 2,385.5. It carries an impressive safety score of 98.8.

Pickens leads the state in safety

Pickens far exceeds the Georgia state safety average score of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 762.6 per 100K is nearly half the state average of 1,412.9, according to data from three agencies.

A secure choice among neighbors

The county is safer than nearby Newton County but slightly less so than Murray County, which has a rate of 484.3. Local reporting confirms its status as one of the lower-crime areas in the region.

Violent crime is rare in Pickens

Violent crime is rare at 131.6 per 100K, significantly lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also very low at 631.0, which is roughly one-third of the national rate.

Preserve the peace in Pickens

To maintain these low crime rates, Pickens residents should stay proactive with home security and neighborhood awareness. The high safety score of 98.8 makes it a standout for peace of mind.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pickens County

via HealthByCounty

Pickens County approaches national health standards

At 75.1 years, Pickens County residents live about 3.8 years less than the U.S. average of 78.9 years. With only 16.0% reporting poor or fair health, the county performs better than national averages, suggesting solid chronic disease management.

Above Georgia's average health outcomes

Pickens County's 75.1-year life expectancy exceeds Georgia's 73.3-year state average by 1.8 years, placing it solidly in the upper-middle tier. The county's health profile mirrors many successful Georgia communities.

Comparable to surrounding North Georgia

Pickens County's 75.1-year life expectancy aligns with nearby Cherokee and Forsyth counties in the North Georgia region. Mountain communities here benefit from similar healthcare infrastructure and demographic patterns.

Moderate coverage with adequate providers

Pickens County's 15.9% uninsured rate sits slightly above the state average, affecting access for some families. With 44 primary care providers per 100,000, the county offers decent local care options; residents typically find routine care without excessive travel.

Strengthen health security with coverage

If you're uninsured or underinsured in Pickens County, exploring marketplace plans ensures access to local primary care and preventive services. Visit healthcare.gov or contact a community health center for enrollment assistance and plan comparisons.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pickens County

via SchoolsByCounty

Pickens County's Focused School Network

Pickens County provides public education through 6 schools, serving a total of 4,124 students. The infrastructure is streamlined into three elementary schools, two middle schools, and one high school under a single district.

High Investment and Strong Results

The county spends $7,772 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the state average of $7,405. This investment pays off with a 94.0% graduation rate and a school score of 57.3, both comfortably exceeding state and national benchmarks.

Pickens County District Excellence

Operating as a single district, Pickens County manages over 4,000 students without any charter options. The system is anchored by Pickens County High School, which serves 1,259 students in the area's largest secondary program.

A Blend of Rural and Town Lifestyles

Most of the county's schools are set in rural locales, though one campus serves the local town center. The average school size is 687 students, providing a medium-sized environment that feels both community-oriented and well-resourced.

Invest in a Home Near High-Value Schools

Pickens County is an ideal spot for those seeking high per-pupil investment and exceptional graduation rates. Look for properties in Jasper and the surrounding rural areas to benefit from this top-performing Georgia district.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pickens County

via RiskByCounty

Pickens County faces low disaster risk

Pickens County scores 34.80 on the composite risk scale, placing it near the national median and earning a "very low" risk rating. This score is below Georgia's state average of 39.49, indicating slightly better-than-average protection from natural hazards. The county experiences moderate, well-distributed hazard exposure.

Lower-middle tier among Georgia counties

Pickens County ranks in the lower-middle range of Georgia's 159 counties for natural disaster risk. Its composite score of 34.80 sits slightly below the state average, placing it in a protected cohort. The county's geographic position in north Georgia contributes to this favorable standing.

Safer than some neighbors, riskier than others

Pickens County (34.80) is safer than nearby Murray (51.46), Newton (50.64), and Paulding (69.97) counties, but riskier than Oconee (19.43), Oglethorpe (8.11), and Peach (22.49). Its risk profile places it in the moderate-to-low range for the region. The county represents a balanced risk environment compared to surrounding communities.

Wildfire and tornado are primary concerns

Wildfire risk (59.83) and tornado risk (62.44) are Pickens County's most notable hazards, both moderately above state averages. Flood risk (45.26) and earthquake risk (59.03) present secondary concerns, while hurricane risk (41.26) remains below state norms. The county faces moderate exposure to mountain-region weather phenomena.

Prepare for wildfire and tornado threats

Pickens County residents should prioritize wildfire preparedness by creating defensible space around their homes, clearing roof gutters, and maintaining adequate water access. Tornado safety planning—including shelter identification and emergency supplies—is also important given moderate tornado risk. Standard homeowners insurance typically suffices, but verify coverage for wind and wildfire damage aligns with your property's exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pickens County

via WeatherByCounty

A Mild Climate Above the National Median

Pickens County maintains an annual average temperature of 58.3°F, which sits notably higher than the national median. This climate reflects a temperate transition zone, avoiding the harshest northern winters while remaining cooler than the Deep South average.

Cooler Than the Georgia Average

While Georgia averages 63.7°F across the state, Pickens County remains significantly cooler at 58.3°F. It ranks as one of the state's more refreshed regions, benefiting from its higher elevation compared to the humid coastal plains.

Wet and Refreshing North Georgia Weather

The county receives 58.6 inches of annual precipitation, which is over 7 inches more than the Georgia state average. This surplus of rain keeps the local landscape lush compared to drier neighbors to the south.

Mild Summers and Occasional Winter Snow

Summer heat is manageable here with only 12 days reaching 90°F or higher. Winters are distinct but moderate, averaging 2.5 inches of snowfall and a January average temperature of 39.3°F.

Plan for Rain and Moderate Winters

Residents should invest in high-quality rain gear given the high 58.6-inch annual precipitation. HVAC systems don't work as hard here in summer, but basic winterization is necessary for the few snowy days.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pickens County

via SoilByCounty

Discovering Pickens County's Soil Order

Specific pH and taxonomic data for Pickens County is not currently present in the dataset. Like most of northern Georgia, the soil likely requires some adjustment to reach the 6.5 national median pH. Understanding your soil's chemistry is vital for mountain gardening.

The Complex Textures of the Uplands

We do not have specific sand, silt, and clay percentages for this county at this time. The upland environment often features rocky or heavy clay textures that require careful management. Incorporating compost can significantly improve the workability of these rugged soils.

Building Fertile Soil in the Mountains

Organic matter and water capacity data are currently unlisted for Pickens County. Local growers can use the state average organic matter of 1.83% as a guide for their own soil health goals. Increasing organic content is the best way to help mountain soils retain nutrients.

Managing Runoff in Hilly Terrain

Because drainage classes are not recorded here, residents should monitor how quickly their land dries after rain. Effective drainage is key to preventing erosion and maintaining healthy landscapes in sloped areas. Understanding your local hydrology is essential for any building project.

Abundant Growth in Zone 8a

Pickens County is situated in Zone 8a, offering a beautiful climate for both gardens and forests. This zone is perfect for growing cool-weather crops and many varieties of flowering shrubs. Start your garden today to enjoy the unique beauty of North Georgia.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pickens County

via LawnByCounty

A Lawn Lover's Paradise

Pickens County is a standout with a lawn difficulty score of 60.3, far exceeding both the state average of 35.8 and the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the easiest places in the region to maintain a beautiful yard. Its zone 8a climate offers a rare balance of conditions that turfgrass truly loves.

Mild Summers and Ample Rain

With only 12 extreme heat days per year, Pickens County escapes the brutal summer stress that plagues the rest of Georgia. It receives a generous 58.6 inches of rain annually, providing a natural irrigation system that far exceeds the state average. This cooler, wetter climate means less time fighting heat wilt and more time enjoying a green lawn.

Check Your High-Elevation Soil

While specific soil data for Pickens is currently unavailable, the county's topography suggests a need for careful drainage management. The high annual rainfall can lead to erosion or nutrient leaching in sloped yards common to the area. A soil test will help you determine if your mountain soil needs any pH corrections or organic amendments.

The State's Best Drought Outlook

Pickens County had only 13 weeks in drought over the last year, the lowest among its neighbors. However, 100% of the county is currently facing a severe dry spell, reminding homeowners to stay prepared. Even in this favorable climate, installing a rain barrel can help you bridge the gap during these rare dry periods.

Optimal Growing Starts in April

The mild 12 days of heat make Pickens a unique Georgia location where some cool-season grasses might survive alongside hardy warm-season types like Zoysia. Wait until the last frost passes around March 31 to begin your spring planting. You have until early November to build a strong root system before the winter dormancy begins.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pickens County's county score?
Pickens County, Georgia has a composite county score of 57.5 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 Pickens County rank among counties in Georgia?
Pickens County ranks #19 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 Pickens County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Pickens County is $1,914, with an effective tax rate of 0.66%. This earns Pickens County a tax score of 67.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pickens County?
The median household income in Pickens County, Georgia is $75,293 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pickens County earns an income score of 77.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pickens County, Georgia a good place to live?
Pickens County scores 57.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #19 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Pickens 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 Pickens 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.