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Randolph County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#29 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
62.8
County Score
Property Tax 94.3Cost of Living 77Weather & Climate 62.8

County Report Card

About Randolph County, West Virginia

Outperforming the National Median Score

Randolph County earns a composite score of 62.7, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a quality of life that exceeds the typical American county profile.

Leading the West Virginia Average

The county edges out the state average of 62.0, marking it as a strong performer within West Virginia. It maintains consistent scores across education, safety, and housing affordability.

Elite Tax Savings and Affordability

A tax score of 94.3 is backed by a very low 0.391% effective tax rate. Housing is a major strength, with a cost score of 77.0 and a median home value of just $137,800.

Infrastructure and Economic Growth Needs

Water quality scores low at 13.5, indicating a need for localized infrastructure investment. The income score of 25.0 also suggests room for growth despite a median household income of $55,057.

A Solid Choice for Families

Randolph is ideal for families seeking a safe community with a respectable school score of 59.1. It provides a balanced lifestyle where low taxes help maximize the value of local earnings.

Score breakdown

Tax94.3Cost77Safety62Health44.6Schools59.1Income25Risk43Water13.5Weather62.8
🏛94.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠77
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼25
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡62
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤44.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓59.1
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡43
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧13.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.5
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

Upshur County
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Pocahontas County
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Tucker County
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Deep Dives

Randolph County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Randolph County

via TaxByCounty

Randolph has the lightest tax touch

Randolph County's effective tax rate of 0.391% ranks it in the lowest 15% of all U.S. counties, far below the national median of 0.73%. At $539 annually, property taxes here are less than one-fifth of the national median of $2,690.

Second-lowest in West Virginia

Randolph County ranks among the lowest-taxing counties in West Virginia, with an effective rate of 0.391% compared to the state average of 0.497%. Only a handful of counties in the state offer lower tax rates, making Randolph attractive for tax-conscious residents.

The region's tax bargain

Randolph's 0.391% rate is the lowest among nearby counties: Tucker County is 0.353%, Summers County is 0.304%, Raleigh is 0.514%, and Ritchie is 0.649%. Randolph sits near the bottom, making it a competitive option regionally for property tax burden.

Budget $539 per year

On the median home value of $137,800, Randolph County residents pay just $539 annually in property tax. Adding mortgage-related costs brings the total to $608; without a mortgage, the base tax is $499.

Double-check your assessment

Even in low-tax counties, overassessment happens—and you have the right to appeal. If your property's assessed value seems inflated compared to recent sales of similar homes in Randolph, a formal challenge could save you money.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Randolph County

via CostByCounty

Randolph offers relief from national rent burden

Randolph County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% sits below the national average, offering moderate relief for renters despite the county's median income of $55,057 being 26% lower than the national median of $74,755. Monthly rent averages $807, making it relatively affordable for a Appalachian county.

Randolph slightly exceeds state affordability

At 17.6%, Randolph's rent-to-income ratio edges above West Virginia's 16.9% average, ranking it roughly in the middle of the state's affordability spectrum. Rent of $807 runs $47 above the state median, though income levels are comparable.

Balanced costs among regional peers

Randolph's $807 rent positions it between pricier Raleigh ($847) and much cheaper Ritchie ($583). Its homeownership costs of $511 monthly rank among the lowest in the region, making it appealing to buyers.

Renting and buying both remain reasonable

Renters spend $807 monthly (17.6% of income), while homebuyers pay just $511 for mortgages on properties averaging $137,800. This split affordability profile means Randolph works well for either renters or first-time buyers.

Randolph balances cost and opportunity

For those weighing West Virginia moves, Randolph offers middle-ground affordability—cheaper than Raleigh but with slightly higher rents than rural Ritchie. It's a solid choice for renters seeking modest costs and homebuyers targeting sub-$140,000 properties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Randolph County

via IncomeByCounty

Randolph County earns 26% below nation

Randolph County's median household income of $55,057 trails the national median of $74,755 by nearly $20,000. Like most West Virginia counties, Randolph faces a persistent income gap driven by limited access to higher-wage industries and educational hubs.

Just above West Virginia's middle

At $55,057, Randolph County slightly exceeds West Virginia's median income of $54,746, ranking in the upper-middle tier statewide. This modest advantage positions the county among the more economically stable regions in the state.

Outpaces Raleigh by $3,000

Randolph County edges out neighboring Raleigh County by roughly $3,000 in median household income, suggesting stronger job market diversity or slightly higher wage levels. Both counties remain interconnected through similar industrial and service-based economies.

Rent eats 17.6% of household income

The county's rent-to-income ratio of 17.6% ranks among the most affordable in the region, well below the national concern threshold of 30%. At a median home value of $137,800, housing remains within reach for middle-income families.

Leverage affordability to build assets

With a median household income of $55,057 and low rent burden at 17.6%, Randolph County residents can redirect savings into retirement accounts and investment portfolios. Starting even modest monthly contributions to a Roth IRA compounds significantly over decades.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Randolph County

via CrimeByCounty

Randolph County Outperforms National Safety Averages

Randolph County earns an impressive safety score of 98.6, reflecting a total crime rate of 878.4 per 100,000 residents. This figure is less than half the national average of 2,385.5 per 100,000.

Comparing Randolph to State Safety Benchmarks

The county performs better than the state average, staying below the West Virginia total crime rate of 949.0. It aligns closely with the state's average safety score of 98.5, indicating a very safe environment.

Regional Safety in the Highlands

The local crime rate of 878.4 is slightly lower than Ritchie County’s 905.1, showing consistent safety across the region. However, it is notably higher than neighbor Tucker County, which reports a very low 266.8.

Breaking Down Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime occurs at a rate of 289.2 per 100,000, while property crime accounts for 589.2. Most reported incidents involve non-violent property offenses rather than physical confrontations.

Simple Steps for Home Security

Even in high-safety areas, visible security measures like doorbell cameras discourage opportunistic property crimes. Keeping valuables out of sight and locking vehicles further reduces the likelihood of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Randolph County

via HealthByCounty

Randolph's health ranks above many peers

At 74.3 years, Randolph County's life expectancy approaches the U.S. average of 75.1 years, positioning it among West Virginia's healthier counties. Just 22.7% report poor or fair health, well below the national average of roughly 17%, though room for improvement remains.

Randolph outperforms most of West Virginia

With a life expectancy 2.1 years above the state average of 72.2 years, Randolph County ranks among the state's top performers. Its low poor/fair health rate of 22.7% suggests better chronic disease management and preventive care uptake.

Randolph compares well in the region

Randolph's 74.3-year life expectancy edges slightly below nearby Tucker County (75.1 years) but surpasses Raleigh County (69.5 years) by nearly 5 years. The county demonstrates that rural West Virginia communities can achieve competitive health outcomes.

Adequate primary care, tight mental health capacity

Randolph has 76 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and keeps its uninsured rate at 7.4%—nearly state-level. However, mental health providers at 132 per 100K lag behind larger counties, potentially limiting access to psychiatric care for residents with behavioral health needs.

Keep coverage steady for continued health

With an uninsured rate near the state average, most Randolph residents have access to care—but 7.4% remain uncovered. Verify your health insurance annually and explore marketplace options if your coverage lapses.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Randolph County

via SchoolsByCounty

Navigating Randolph's community-focused schools

Randolph County maintains a network of 14 public schools that serve 3,638 students. The infrastructure includes seven elementary schools, two high schools, and a dedicated middle school, all managed by a single district.

Exceptional graduation rates in Randolph

The county boasts an impressive 95% graduation rate, significantly outperforming both the state average of 92.8% and the national average of 87%. This high achievement comes despite a per-pupil expenditure of $6,725, which is lower than state and national benchmarks.

Elkins leads the district enrollment

Randolph County Schools oversees the entire student population, and there are currently no charter schools in the county. Elkins High School stands as the largest institution in the district, supporting 783 students.

A blend of small towns and rural life

The county's 14 schools are split between eight town locales and six rural settings, creating an average school size of 280 students. While Elkins High is the largest, George Ward Elementary provides a more intimate primary setting with 333 students.

Join a high-achieving school community

Randolph County's superior graduation rates make it a standout choice for families prioritizing academic outcomes. Look for your next home in this district to benefit from a school system that consistently outperforms state standards.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Randolph County

via RiskByCounty

Randolph faces moderate national risk levels

Randolph County's composite risk score of 57.06 places it moderately above the national average, driven primarily by flood vulnerability. The county's relatively low tornado risk of 9.13 and minimal wildfire exposure at 16.86 provide some protection compared to other regions.

Second-highest risk in West Virginia

Randolph County ranks second in disaster risk among West Virginia counties with a score of 57.06, exceeding the state average of 49.21 by 16%. The county's flood risk of 78.31 is the primary driver of this elevated ranking.

Riskier than most surrounding counties

Randolph's 57.06 score significantly outpaces nearby Tucker County (12.56) and Taylor County (23.51), reflecting the county's unique flood vulnerability. Only neighboring Raleigh County presents comparable or greater overall disaster risk in the region.

Flooding is Randolph's primary concern

Flooding dominates Randolph County's risk profile with a score of 78.31, making it the county's defining natural disaster threat. Earthquake risk at 33.91 and hurricane risk at 50.81 present secondary but meaningful hazards for residents.

Prioritize flood insurance and readiness

Randolph County residents in flood-prone areas must secure dedicated flood insurance, as standard homeowner policies exclude flood damage. Developing a family emergency plan and maintaining evacuation routes are equally important given the county's substantial flood exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Randolph County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cold, Wet Mountain Stronghold

Randolph County's 48.5°F average temperature is much lower than the national median. It also ranks as a very wet region, receiving 53.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Exceeding State Rainfall and Snowfall

At 48.5°F, Randolph is several degrees colder than the state average of 52.8°F. It receives nearly 7 inches more rain and much more snow than the average West Virginia county.

Snowier Than Its Southern Neighbor

Randolph averages 82.3 inches of snow, surpassing Pocahontas County's 68.6 inches. It shares the region's lack of extreme heat, recording just one day per year over 90°F.

Harsh Winters and Crisp Summers

The county faces long winters with a January average of 27.4°F and over 80 inches of snow. Summers are exceptionally mild, with a July average of only 68.0°F.

Prepare for Heavy Winter Loads

Homes need high-quality insulation and roof structures capable of handling 82.3 inches of snow. Waterproof gear is essential year-round to manage the high 53.9 inches of annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Randolph County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic foundations in the high country

Randolph County shares the state's typical acidic profile, where the average pH of 5.25 is much lower than the national median of 6.5. This level of acidity influences which nutrients are available to native forests and crops. Specific local taxonomic data is not currently recorded in this dataset.

Natural texture and drainage balance

Although specific sand and silt percentages are not listed, the county's rugged terrain suggests a mix that favors drainage. The workability of local soil depends heavily on these unrecorded ratios of mineral particles. Growers should test their specific plots to determine the best tillage practices.

Productivity fueled by organic content

The state average for organic matter is an impressive 21.03%, providing a massive boost compared to the 2.0% national average. This high carbon content helps maintain a state-wide water capacity of 0.142 in/in. These factors suggest the region has high potential for nutrient retention.

Navigating the hydrologic landscape

Dominant drainage classes remain unspecified for this county, requiring local observation for farming and construction. Proper water management is essential in the Appalachian highlands to prevent erosion and runoff. Knowing your hydrologic group helps in designing effective irrigation and drainage systems.

High-altitude gardening in Zone 6a

With a Hardiness Zone of 6a, Randolph County experiences shorter growing seasons than its neighbors. The cool climate and acidic soils are perfect for rhododendrons, blueberries, and potatoes. It is an excellent environment for gardeners who enjoy the challenges and rewards of mountain cultivation.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Randolph County

via LawnByCounty

Moderate Challenges in High Elevation Turf

Randolph County scores 50.5 on the difficulty scale, aligning almost exactly with the national median. This Zone 6a region presents more challenges than the state average of 66.5 due to its shorter growing window and higher precipitation levels.

Abundant Rainfall and Short Summers

The county receives a heavy 53.9 inches of rain annually, which exceeds the ideal lawn range and can lead to saturated roots. Only one extreme heat day per year means you won't struggle with wilting, but you must monitor for fungal issues from the moisture.

Managing High-Moisture Soil

Soil data is limited for this county, but the high rainfall suggests a need for excellent drainage. We recommend testing your soil to see if amendments are required to manage the potential acidity from frequent heavy rains.

A Year of Significant Dryness

Despite high total rainfall, the county spent 33 weeks in drought over the last year. This volatility means you should install rain barrels to capture runoff for use during those surprisingly frequent dry stretches.

Beating the Early October Frost

Tall Fescue is a hardy choice for this 6a zone and handles the variable moisture well. Ensure you finish seeding by mid-September to avoid the first fall frost, which typically arrives by October 12.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Randolph County's county score?
Randolph County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 62.8 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 Randolph County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Randolph County ranks #29 among all counties in West 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 Randolph County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Randolph County is $539, with an effective tax rate of 0.39%. This earns Randolph County a tax score of 94.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Randolph County?
The median household income in Randolph County, West Virginia is $55,057 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Randolph County earns an income score of 25/100 on CountyScore.
Is Randolph County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Randolph County scores 62.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #29 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Randolph 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 Randolph 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.