countyscore
45.7
County Score
Weather & Climate 70.3Property Tax 69.3Lawn Care 67.6

County Report Card

About Pulaski County, Virginia

Pulaski Nears National Median Performance

Pulaski County earns a composite score of 45.7, sitting just below the national median of 50.0. It offers a livability profile that is competitive with many rural and mid-sized counties nationwide.

Below the Virginia State Average

At 45.7, Pulaski trails the Virginia state average of 50.9. While it provides certain localized advantages, it falls behind the state's high-performing urban and suburban corridors.

Affordable Living and Low Taxes

Pulaski shines in affordability with a cost score of 53.8 and a tax score of 69.3. A median home value of $182,500 makes it one of the more accessible markets in the region.

Safety and Infrastructure Concerns

The county struggles with a safety score of 6.6 and a water quality score of 16.4. These areas represent the most significant opportunities for public investment and improvement.

A Value Pick for Budget-Conscious Residents

Pulaski is an excellent fit for individuals who prioritize homeownership and low tax burdens. It suits those who are comfortable with a rural setting and are looking for maximum purchasing power.

2040608010069.353.86.657.751.441.454.116.470.3Tax69.3Cost53.8Safety6.6Health57.7Schools51.4Income41.4Risk54.1Water16.4Weather70.345.7/100
This county
National avg
2 above average2 below average

Pulaski County DNA

Foverall

How Pulaski County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Pulaski County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (69.3/100) but notably weak in Safety (6.6/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
69.3+17.299999999999997
Cost
53.8
Safety
6.6-48.4
Health
57.7
Schools
51.4
Income
41.4-9.600000000000001
Risk
54.1
Water
16.4-41.6
Weather
70.3+14.299999999999997
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$182,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$815/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$182,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,600/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $60,767/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

35.5

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

Radford city
Virginia
47.6
Montgomery County
Virginia
49.3
Floyd County
Virginia
71.5
Giles County
Virginia
57.4
Wythe County
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Carroll County
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Bland County
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Mercer County
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Deep Dives

Pulaski County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Pulaski County

via TaxByCounty

Pulaski's tax rate beats the national average

Pulaski County's effective rate of 0.644% sits below the national median of 0.85%, making it a relatively affordable jurisdiction nationally. The median property tax of $1,176 is 56% lower than the national median of $2,690, reflecting Pulaski's modest median home value of $182,500.

Pulaski ranks slightly above Virginia's average

At 0.644%, Pulaski's effective rate is just slightly below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, placing it squarely in the middle of Virginia's tax landscape. The median annual bill of $1,176 runs notably below the state median of $1,960 due to lower property values.

Pulaski competes well against regional counties

Pulaski's 0.644% rate edges out Radford (0.703%) and sits favorably compared to Prince George (0.782%) and Prince William (0.981%). Among rural and small-town Virginia counties, Pulaski offers solid tax competitiveness.

Pulaski's modest annual property tax

On a median home valued at $182,500, Pulaski residents pay approximately $1,176 per year in property taxes. That's just $98 monthly, positioning Pulaski as one of Virginia's more affordable places to own property from a tax perspective.

Assessment challenges benefit Pulaski homeowners

Even in lower-value markets like Pulaski, properties are sometimes assessed above fair market value. A free reassessment appeal can verify your valuation is accurate or potentially lower your annual tax obligation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pulaski County

via CostByCounty

Pulaski delivers genuine affordability

Pulaski County achieves a rent-to-income ratio of just 16.1%, well below the comfortable 20–25% threshold, with median rent of only $815—the lowest among all eight counties. Though median household income of $60,767 trails the national median by $13,988, Pulaski's low rents more than compensate.

Best-in-class Virginia affordability

Pulaski's rent-to-income ratio of 16.1% beats Virginia's state average of 18.6% by a meaningful margin, and its median rent of $815 is 29% cheaper than the state average. Pulaski ranks among Virginia's most affordable counties overall.

Rivals Prince Edward for lowest rents

Pulaski's median rent of $815 edges out Prince Edward's $898 by just $83 monthly, making both counties exceptional values. Both offer sub-$900 rents, though Pulaski's slightly lower rent-to-income ratio (16.1% vs 19.6%) gives it a marginal edge.

Rents and mortgages align affordably

Renters in Pulaski pay $815 monthly while homeowners face $841—remarkably similar costs—on a median home value of $182,500. With median household income at $60,767 annually ($5,064 monthly), housing consumes just 16% of income, leaving room for emergencies and savings.

Pulaski: Affordability meets stability

If you're relocating on a modest budget, Pulaski County offers the region's lowest rents ($815) and best affordability ratios (16.1%) without compromise. Remote workers and retirees with incomes above $50,000 will find genuine financial breathing room here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pulaski County

via IncomeByCounty

Pulaski slightly below national income baseline

Pulaski County's median household income of $60,767 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 19%, reflecting a modest-income rural economy. The gap reflects Pulaski's historical manufacturing base and limited diversification into higher-wage sectors.

Pulaski ranks below Virginia average

Pulaski's $60,767 median household income falls short of Virginia's state average of $74,957 by $14,190, placing it in the lower-middle income tier. The county faces the economic pressures common to Southwest Virginia's post-industrial communities.

Pulaski earns moderately in regional context

Pulaski ($60,767) outearns Portsmouth ($58,972) and Prince Edward ($55,082), but significantly trails Prince George ($88,225) and Powhatan ($110,667). The variation reflects Pulaski's manufacturing heritage versus wealthier suburban and government-anchored neighbors.

Affordable housing supports financial stability

Pulaski residents spend just 16.1% of income on rent—among the lowest in this group—with median home values of $182,500 highly accessible. This affordability allows households to allocate significant resources to debt reduction and savings.

Leverage affordability to build assets

Pulaski households earning $60,767 with low housing costs can dedicate $6,000–$9,100 yearly (10–15% of income) to retirement and investment accounts. The combination of modest income and affordable housing creates real opportunity for long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pulaski County

via CrimeByCounty

Pulaski crime rate exceeds national average

Pulaski County's total crime rate of 3,164.8 per 100,000 is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 95.0, which is lower than many other Virginia counties. Most of this activity is driven by property-related offenses.

Below the Virginia safety average

The county's safety score of 95.0 falls below the Virginia state average of 97.3. Additionally, its total crime rate of 3,164.8 is significantly higher than the state's average of 1,728.8. Four local agencies work to address these elevated figures across the county.

Higher crime rates than nearby areas

Pulaski's crime rate of 3,164.8 is much higher than Radford City's 1,477.5 and Rappahannock's 821.9. This makes it a regional outlier for crime frequency in this part of Virginia. Residents should be aware that the local risk profile is higher than that of its immediate neighbors.

Property crime drives the local rate

The property crime rate in Pulaski is 2,925.4, which is significantly higher than the national average of 2,015.7. In contrast, the violent crime rate of 239.4 is much closer to the state average of 229.7. This indicates that theft and burglary are the primary public safety challenges.

Taking property security seriously

With property crime at 2,925.4 per 100,000, robust home security is essential for Pulaski residents. Alarm systems and reinforced entry points can significantly lower the risk of becoming a statistic. Keeping valuables out of sight in vehicles is another critical step for local safety.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Pulaski County

via SchoolsByCounty

Pulaski County's Regional School Infrastructure

The county operates nine public schools, including five elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. Approximately 3,988 students are enrolled across two distinct school districts.

High Graduation Rates Outpace State Benchmarks

Pulaski County achieves a 91.0% graduation rate, exceeding both the Virginia average of 89.0% and the national average of 87.0%. While the per-pupil expenditure of $7,233 is lower than the state average, the county maintains a solid 54.6 school score.

Pulaski County Public Schools Leads the Area

The primary district, Pulaski County Public Schools, manages eight schools and serves nearly 4,000 students. There are currently no charter schools in operation within the county system.

A Primarily Rural Educational Setting

Education here has a strong rural character, with six of the nine schools located in rural settings and an average school size of 570 students. Pulaski County Senior High is the largest at 1,246 students, while Critzer Elementary serves a smaller community of 402.

Home Buying Near Pulaski's Top Schools

With graduation rates higher than the national average, Pulaski County is an attractive option for families seeking academic results. Explore local home listings to find a property within your preferred school's boundary.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pulaski County

via RiskByCounty

Pulaski's risk sits slightly above national norm

With a composite risk score of 45.9, Pulaski ranks as relatively low overall—just above the national average. The county's flood risk of 65.8 and earthquake risk of 68.0 create elevated exposure despite lower tornado and wildfire threats.

Moderately riskier than Virginia average

Pulaski's score of 45.9 exceeds Virginia's state average of 33.3, placing it in the upper-middle tier of commonwealth counties. The county's southwest location and river geography contribute to above-average hazard exposure.

Riskier than most rural Virginia counties

Pulaski (45.9) ranks higher than Powhatan (21.1), Prince Edward (32.4), and Prince George (13.9), but lower than Prince William (83.2). The county's flood vulnerability from major river corridors distinguishes it from other inland areas.

Flooding poses the paramount threat

Pulaski's flood risk of 65.8 far surpasses tornado risk of 17.7 and wildfire risk of 25.9, making water damage the primary concern. Earthquake exposure at 68.0 adds secondary vulnerability despite Pulaski's distance from major seismic zones.

Flood coverage must be your priority

Pulaski homeowners near rivers or flood-prone areas should secure flood insurance immediately through the National Flood Insurance Program or private carriers. Standard homeowners policies exclude flooding, leaving uninsured residents vulnerable to significant financial loss.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Pulaski County

via WaterByCounty

Pulaski Receives Failing Compliance Grade

Pulaski County earns an F grade for drinking water compliance, recording 46 health violations over the last five years. The violation rate of 173.7 per 100,000 people exceeds the Virginia state average of 126.9. This indicates significant recurring challenges in meeting federal safety standards.

Watershed Impairment Mirrors State Average

Data from the 2022 assessment shows that 46.7% of Pulaski's 90 assessed water bodies are impaired. Top causes of impairment include E. coli and PCBs in fish tissue. This matches the state average of 46.1%, showing moderate ecological health despite drinking water issues.

High Monitoring Density Across Pulaski

The county features 34 active monitoring sites that have logged 19,301 measurements in five years. These efforts focus on physical, nutrient, and microbiological characteristic groups. This level of data is crucial for diagnosing the sources of the county's water quality problems.

New River Flows Significantly Low

The New River at Radford currently flows at 1,060 cfs, which is just 27% of its long-term mean. Such low discharge levels can negatively affect water temperature and dissolved oxygen. This may exacerbate existing issues with local fish tissue contaminants.

Urgent Need for Filtration and Testing

Given the county's F grade and 46 violations, residents should consider using certified water filters and conducting independent testing. The current low flow of the New River may also concentrate pollutants like PCBs. Extra vigilance is required until the violation rate drops below the state average.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pulaski County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool mountain air and modest rain

Pulaski County is cooler than the national median, with an annual average temperature of 52.8°F. It is also drier than many of its neighbors, receiving 40.0 inches of annual precipitation.

Among the coolest counties in Virginia

Pulaski’s 52.8°F average temperature is more than three degrees below the state average of 55.9°F. Its 40.0 inches of rain is also well below the 45.7-inch state average.

Low heat risk but significant snow

Pulaski sees only 6 days of extreme heat per year, far fewer than the 45 days in Prince George. However, it handles much more winter weather, with an annual snowfall average of 15.8 inches.

Mild summers and cold, snowy winters

July is pleasant with an average of 72.0°F, while the overall summer average stays a cool 70.3°F. Winters are the main event, with a January average of 33.2°F and nearly 16 inches of annual snow.

Prioritize heating and winter readiness

Homeowners should focus on insulation and heating efficiency to manage the cold winters and 15.8 inches of snow. Extensive cooling systems are less critical here, as extreme heat occurs only about six times a year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pulaski County

via SoilByCounty

Top-Tier Soils in the New River Valley

Pulaski County boasts a soil score of 45.1, significantly higher than the Virginia state average of 30.6. The pH level of 5.33 remains acidic compared to the 6.5 national median but is healthy for the region.

A Silty Mix Built for Productivity

This soil features a balanced mix of 34.2% sand and 42.1% silt. The high silt content provides a smooth, productive texture that retains nutrients far better than the sandier counties to the east.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

The organic matter reaches an impressive 4.38%, far exceeding the state average of 2.90%. Available water capacity stands at 0.157 in/in, providing a massive reservoir for plants during the dry summer months.

Deep Retention Supports Thriving Crops

Though specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the significant silt and clay components suggest steady, reliable water retention. This composition supports consistent moisture levels for deep-rooted forage and specialty crops.

High-Yield Potential in Zone 7a

Hardiness Zone 7a is perfect for cool-season greens, apples, and hardy perennials. The rich organic content makes this some of the most naturally productive ground in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pulaski County

via LawnByCounty

Optimal Growing Conditions in Pulaski

Pulaski County enjoys a lawn difficulty score of 67.6, significantly higher than the state average of 55.4 and the national median. This hardiness zone 7a region is one of the most favorable areas for lawn enthusiasts in the state.

Cooler Summers and Manageable Growth

With only 6 extreme heat days per year compared to the state average of 28, Pulaski lawns face very little heat stress. The 40.0 inches of annual precipitation provides a steady supply of moisture for the 3,070 growing degree days.

Clay-Rich Soils with Drainage Needs

The soil contains 19.0% clay and has a pH of 5.33, requiring some lime and aeration for peak performance. The sand content is lower at 34.2%, meaning these soils hold moisture well but can become compacted over time.

Navigating Moderate Seasonal Dryness

The county experienced 26 weeks in drought last year, though current conditions remain only 'abnormally dry.' Because the summers are cooler, lawns here recover faster from dry spells than those in the hotter eastern parts of Virginia.

Seeding for Success in the Mountains

Kentucky Bluegrass and Fine Fescue thrive in these cooler conditions, especially with the April 25 to October 17 growing season. Planting should occur shortly after the spring frost to take advantage of the mild summer temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pulaski County's county score?
Pulaski County, Virginia has a composite county score of 45.7 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 Pulaski County rank among counties in Virginia?
Pulaski County ranks #94 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 Pulaski County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Pulaski County is $1,176, with an effective tax rate of 0.64%. This earns Pulaski County a tax score of 69.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pulaski County?
The median household income in Pulaski County, Virginia is $60,767 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pulaski County earns an income score of 41.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pulaski County, Virginia a good place to live?
Pulaski County scores 45.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #94 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Pulaski 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 Pulaski 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.