countyscore
62.9
County Score
Disaster Risk 89.6Water Quality 86Property Tax 79.9

County Report Card

About Richmond County, Virginia

A high-performing rural gem nationwide

Richmond County earns an impressive composite score of 62.9, easily surpassing the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a high overall standard of living compared to rural counties across the United States.

Outperforming the Virginia state average

The county's score of 62.9 stands well above the Virginia average of 50.9. It ranks as one of the stronger performers in the state, offering a balanced profile of low risk and high safety.

Exceptional safety and environmental security

The county excels in risk management with a score of 89.6 and public safety at 75.7. Residents also benefit from a low 0.555% effective tax rate and a strong water quality score of 86.0.

Room for growth in health outcomes

While most scores are high, the health score of 40.9 is the county's primary weak point. Additionally, while the cost score of 36.7 is fair, it suggests some pressure on the local housing market relative to rural peers.

Ideal for families seeking quiet security

Richmond County is perfect for families or retirees who prioritize safety and low environmental risk. Its strong schools and low taxes make it a premier choice for those moving away from urban centers.

Score breakdown

Tax79.9Cost36.7Safety75.7Health40.9Schools78.2Income51.1Risk89.6Water86Weather63
🏛79.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠36.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡75.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤40.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓78.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡89.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨26.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50
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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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Essex County
Virginia
51.1
Westmoreland County
Virginia
55.4
Northumberland County
Virginia
66.8
King and Queen County
Virginia
63.7
Lancaster County
Virginia
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St. Mary's County
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52.3
Middlesex County
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King William County
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57

Deep Dives

Richmond County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Richmond County

via TaxByCounty

Richmond County taxes well below national

At 0.555%, Richmond County's effective property tax rate ranks below the national median of 0.76%, placing it in the bottom 30% of U.S. counties for tax burden. The median property tax of $1,188 is less than half the national median of $2,690.

Among Virginia's lowest-taxed counties

Richmond County's 0.555% effective rate places it below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, ranking it in the bottom third of Virginia's 133 jurisdictions. County residents enjoy substantially lighter tax obligations than the typical Virginian.

Most affordable taxes in the region

Richmond County's 0.555% rate beats nearby Rockbridge County (0.600%) and stands well below urban centers like Richmond city (0.864%) and Roanoke (1.013%). This rural county offers some of the region's lowest property tax rates.

Under $1,200 annually for median home

On a median home valued at $214,200, Richmond County homeowners pay approximately $1,188 in annual property taxes. This is among the lowest tax burdens in Virginia, making the county attractive for tax-conscious homebuyers.

Check your assessment for accuracy

Even in low-tax Richmond County, some homeowners may be overassessed and eligible for tax appeals. Reviewing your property valuation could identify additional savings opportunities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Richmond County

via CostByCounty

Richmond County offers solid affordability

With a rent-to-income ratio of 18.9%, Richmond County sits just above Virginia's state average of 18.6% and comfortably within the national comfort zone for housing costs. The median household income of $64,184 is close to the state median, making this an accessible market for many households.

Middle of the pack in Virginia affordability

Richmond County's 18.9% rent-to-income ratio places it near the state average of 18.6%, marking it as a stable, moderately affordable option compared to pricier urban areas. Median rent of $1,011 runs slightly below the state average of $1,140, offering modest savings for renters.

Cheaper rents than Richmond city neighbors

Richmond County's median rent of $1,011 undercuts Richmond city ($1,314) by $303 monthly while matching the affordability of Rockingham County ($1,125). Home values of $214,200 are significantly more modest than the city's $328,100, appealing to buyers seeking rural charm with reasonable pricing.

Balanced housing and income picture

Renters spend $1,011 monthly on housing while homeowners face $858 in monthly costs from a median income of $64,184. This relatively balanced distribution means residents keep more income for other necessities and discretionary spending compared to pricier Virginia markets.

A solid choice for rural-minded relocators

Richmond County's near-average affordability combined with lower home values makes it attractive for families prioritizing space and rural living over urban amenities. The modest rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% suggests sustainable housing costs over the long term.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Richmond County

via IncomeByCounty

Richmond County trails national income by 14%

Richmond County's median household income of $64,184 falls $10,571 short of the national median of $74,755. Despite this gap, the county's per capita income of $27,687 reflects a working-class economy with more modest individual earnings.

Below-average income across Virginia

Richmond County ranks below Virginia's state average median household income of $74,957, earning about $10,773 less per household. The county's per capita income of $27,687 significantly trails the state's $39,155 average, indicating lower individual earnings potential.

Rural county in lower income tier

Richmond County's $64,184 median income sits modestly above struggling Russell County ($49,020) but well below prosperous Rockingham County ($78,468) and Roanoke County ($82,931). The county represents the rural middle ground of Virginia's economic landscape.

Housing costs stay reasonable

Richmond County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.9% indicates housing is comfortably affordable, consuming less than one-fifth of typical household earnings. The median home value of $214,200 equals roughly 3.3 years of gross household income, making homeownership achievable for most working families.

Strategic saving unlocks opportunity

With median income of $64,184 and manageable housing costs, Richmond County households can redirect savings toward long-term wealth building through retirement accounts and conservative investments. Even small monthly contributions compound substantially—start where you can and increase contributions as income grows.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Richmond County

via CrimeByCounty

Richmond County is exceptionally safe

Richmond County boasts an incredibly low total crime rate of 579.9 per 100,000 residents. This is roughly 75% lower than the national average of 2,385.5. These impressive numbers earn the county a top-tier safety score of 99.1.

One of Virginia's safest counties

The safety score of 99.1 is much higher than the Virginia average of 97.3. With a total crime rate of 579.9, Richmond County is one of the most secure jurisdictions in the Commonwealth. Three reporting agencies work together to maintain this peaceful environment.

Outperforming all regional neighbors

Richmond County is significantly safer than Prince Edward County (725.3) and Rappahannock County (821.9). It offers a level of security that is rare even in other safe Virginia counties. Residents enjoy a much lower risk of crime than those in any other county in this group.

Low frequency of all crime types

The violent crime rate is 211.9, which is below the state average of 229.7. Property crime is even more impressive at just 368.0 per 100,000, compared to the national average of 2,015.7. Both person and property offenses are remarkably uncommon here.

Staying safe in Richmond County

A safety score of 99.1 is nearly perfect, but continued vigilance preserves this status. Since property crime accounts for 368.0 of local incidents, locking up sheds and homes remains a best practice. Community connection is often the best defense in such a safe area.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Richmond County

via HealthByCounty

Longer lives despite health challenges

Richmond County residents enjoy a life expectancy of 76.3 years, slightly above the national average of 76.1 years, yet one in four report poor or fair health. This paradox suggests that while lifespan is competitive, daily health struggles affect quality of life.

Mid-range performer in Virginia

At 76.3 years, Richmond County's life expectancy exceeds Virginia's average of 75.1 years, positioning it above the state median. However, its 25.5% poor/fair health rate is among the highest in Virginia, indicating significant wellness disparities.

Rural access constraints

Richmond County's 11 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the lowest in its peer group—constrains healthcare access compared to neighboring counties with 25-124 providers. The county's mental health provider ratio of 185 per 100,000 also lags regional standards.

Provider shortage affects daily care

Residents face significant barriers to routine healthcare due to just 11 primary care providers per 100,000, requiring many to travel for preventive care. With 9.6% uninsured—above Virginia's 7.9% average—some residents delay seeking help entirely.

Bridge coverage gaps now

Richmond County's high uninsured rate means many families miss preventive care opportunities that could improve those concerning health metrics. Explore Medicaid expansion and marketplace plans at vacciness.gov to find affordable coverage for your household.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Richmond County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Education in Richmond County

Richmond County infrastructure consists of six public schools serving 1,346 students. The system is divided among three districts, including specialized technical and alternative education centers.

Leading the State in Graduation Rates

The county boasts an elite 97.0% graduation rate, which is 10 points higher than the national average. This high performance is achieved with a per-pupil expenditure of $7,820, very close to the Virginia state average.

Core Districts and Technical Centers

Richmond County Public Schools is the largest district, serving all 1,346 students. No charter schools exist here, but the Northern Neck Technical Center provides specialized vocational pathways for the region.

A Truly Rural Learning Environment

All six schools are located in rural areas, offering students a quiet and focused atmosphere. Richmond County Elementary is the largest hub with 821 students, while Rappahannock High maintains a smaller student body of 525.

Exceptional Graduation Rates in the Countryside

With a 97% graduation rate, Richmond County offers some of the most reliable academic outcomes in the state. Explore rural estates and townhomes within this high-achieving school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Richmond County

via RiskByCounty

Richmond County enjoys minimal disaster risk

Richmond County's composite risk score of 10.43 places it well below the national average, earning a "Very Low" rating across most hazard categories. This rural county benefits from geographic insulation from major earthquake zones and wildfire-prone regions.

Virginia's safest county by composite score

Richmond County's 10.43 score ranks among the absolute lowest in Virginia, significantly below the state average of 33.27. Only a handful of Virginia counties match this level of natural disaster resilience.

Safest in a relatively low-risk region

Richmond County's score of 10.43 edges out nearby Russell County (36.55) and stands dramatically lower than urban centers like Richmond city (78.40). The Northern Neck's rural character and distance from major fault lines provide genuine protection.

Hurricane exposure remains your sole concern

Hurricane risk scores 79.47—your only significantly elevated hazard—reflecting coastal vulnerability despite the county's overall low composite risk of 10.43. Flood risk of 48.20 is moderate, while wildfire (4.13) and tornado (20.29) risks are minimal.

Coastal residents need hurricane and flood coverage

While Richmond County's overall risk is low, residents in flood-prone or hurricane-vulnerable areas should secure flood insurance, especially near the Rappahannock River. Standard homeowners policies won't cover hurricane or flood damage—gap protection is essential.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Richmond County

via WeatherByCounty

Warm coastal influence and mild winters

With an average annual temperature of 58.2°F, Richmond County is warmer than the national median. The humid climate is typical of the mid-Atlantic coastal plain.

Higher temperatures than the state median

The county's 58.2°F annual average is significantly warmer than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. It ranks among the warmer jurisdictions in the Commonwealth due to its low elevation.

Lighter snow and steady rainfall

Richmond County sees only 11.5 inches of snow annually, which is much less than the inland mountain counties. Its 45.2 inches of annual rain closely matches the Virginia state average of 45.7 inches.

Steamy summers and relatively mild winters

Summer is intense here with 44 days reaching over 90°F and a July average of 78.2°F. Winters are gentler than elsewhere in the state, with January temperatures staying well above freezing at 37.6°F.

Prioritize cooling and humidity control

High-efficiency air conditioning is a must to combat the 44 extreme heat days each year. Residents can worry less about heavy snow gear, as typical accumulation is light at just 11.5 inches.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Richmond County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Plain Acidic Base

Richmond County records a very acidic average pH of 4.95, which is much lower than the national median of 6.5. This measurement is also lower than the Virginia state average of 5.23. The soil requires careful management for pH-sensitive crops common to the Northern Neck area.

Coarse Texture and Light Silt

The soil composition is 58.0% sand, 27.9% silt, and 11.1% clay. This high-sand mix provides a loose, workable texture that allows roots to penetrate easily. The low clay content keeps the soil from becoming compacted, though it offers less natural mineral fertility than heavier soils.

Healthy Organic Matter Levels

The organic matter content is 2.92%, which beats the national average and slightly exceeds the state average of 2.90%. Despite the high organic matter, the available water capacity is 0.135 in/in, trailing the state average of 0.143 in/in. This suggests that while the soil is fertile, it may dry out faster than average during summer months.

Rapid Water Movement Potential

Specific drainage and hydrologic data are unavailable, but the 58% sand content typically indicates well-drained conditions. This is beneficial for preventing root rot in many crops but requires attentive irrigation during dry spells. Builders should note the low clay content when assessing site stability.

Success in Zone 7b

The 7b hardiness zone supports a wide range of vegetables, small fruits, and ornamentals. High organic matter levels make this soil excellent for intensive gardening if pH is adjusted. Start a compost pile today to maintain these healthy organic levels and improve water retention.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Richmond County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Plain Challenges in Richmond County

Richmond County matches the national median difficulty score exactly at 50.0, making it slightly harder to maintain than the state average. Located in hardiness zone 7b, the county faces higher hurdles than its city namesake. Success here depends on adapting to the coastal climate and specific soil profiles.

Long Growing Seasons and High Heat

The county records 4,351 growing degree days, indicating a robust season for plant development. However, like much of the region, 44 extreme heat days per year put significant stress on cool-season grasses. The 45.2 inches of annual rainfall provides a solid base for growth if managed correctly during peak summer.

Highly Acidic Soils Impact Nutrient Uptake

At a pH of 4.95, Richmond County’s soil is some of the most acidic in the region, requiring significant lime treatment to reach optimal levels. The soil is 58.0% sand and 11.1% clay, which leads to fast drainage and potential nutrient leaching. Improving soil health with organic matter is essential for maintaining a lush, green lawn.

Extended Drought Risks in the County

Over the past year, the county spent 15 weeks in drought conditions, significantly more than neighboring urban areas. Currently, 100% of the county is considered abnormally dry, necessitating deep and infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth. Mulching around lawn edges can help retain vital moisture during these periods.

Timing Your Seeding for Success

For best results in zone 7b, aim to seed between the first fall frost on October 30 and the last spring frost on April 8. Bermuda or Zoysia grass are excellent warm-season choices that can handle the local heat and sandy soil. Starting your lawn preparation now ensures your turf is ready for the high-degree-day growing season.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Richmond County's county score?
Richmond County, Virginia has a composite county score of 62.9 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 Richmond County rank among counties in Virginia?
Richmond County ranks #15 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 Richmond County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Richmond County is $1,188, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Richmond County a tax score of 79.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Richmond County?
The median household income in Richmond County, Virginia is $64,184 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Richmond County earns an income score of 51.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Richmond County, Virginia a good place to live?
Richmond County scores 62.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #15 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Richmond 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 Richmond County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.