countyscore
53
County Score
Property Tax 80.3Weather & Climate 66.8Cost of Living 60.4

County Report Card

About Roane County, Tennessee

Roane County Outperforms the National Median

Roane County earns a composite score of 53.0, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a balance of affordability and economic stability that surpasses many comparable counties across the United States.

A Strong Performer in Tennessee

With a score of 53.0, Roane County exceeds the Tennessee state average of 51.3. This ranking highlights the county's competitive edge in the region, particularly regarding taxpayer value.

High Tax Efficiency and Affordability

Roane County excels with a Tax Score of 80.3, supported by a low effective tax rate of 0.552%. Housing remains accessible for many residents, as evidenced by the $767 median monthly rent and a solid Cost Score of 60.4.

Addressing Environmental and Safety Risks

The county faces hurdles in its Risk Score of 31.0 and Safety Score of 34.5, which are its lowest dimensions. Improving public safety infrastructure and environmental resilience could help elevate its overall standing.

The Verdict: Ideal for Budget-Conscious Households

Roane County is an excellent fit for families and retirees looking for low taxes and affordable housing while staying above the state average for overall livability. Its low cost of living provides a significant financial cushion compared to neighboring metro areas.

Score breakdown

Tax80.3Cost60.4Safety34.5Health41.4Schools54.7Income57.5Risk31Water46.5Weather66.8
🏛80.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠60.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼57.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡34.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤41.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓54.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡31
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧46.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨44.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱41.9
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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Rhea County
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Deep Dives

Roane County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Roane County

via TaxByCounty

Roane's taxes fall well below national median

At 0.552%, Roane County's effective tax rate sits comfortably below the national median property tax of $2,690 annually. Homeowners here pay roughly $1,172 per year on a median home valued at $212,300—less than half the national burden on comparable properties.

Roane ranks slightly above state average

Roane's 0.552% effective rate exceeds Tennessee's 0.511% state average, placing it in the middle tier of counties statewide. The median tax bill of $1,172 runs about 15% higher than the state median of $1,016.

Roane fits between mountain and valley counties

Roane's 0.552% rate sits between Sequatchie County's low 0.453% and Rutherford County's 0.507%, reflecting regional variation. Local homeowners pay about $1,172 annually versus Rutherford's $1,757 and Sequatchie's $986—a $585 spread across nearby communities.

What Roane homeowners actually pay yearly

On the median home value of $212,300, the effective rate of 0.552% translates to roughly $1,172 annually without mortgage obligation. With a mortgage, that bill rises to $1,223—a modest $51 difference.

Many Roane homeowners could reduce their burden

Property tax appeals are available to Roane County homeowners who believe their assessment is inflated. If your home has declined in value or was recently assessed above fair market price, contacting the assessor's office could uncover significant savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Roane County

via CostByCounty

Roane's rent stays well below national strain

At 13.9%, Roane County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national comfort threshold of 15%, meaning renters here spend a smaller share of earnings on housing than most Americans. The county's median household income of $66,218 falls just slightly below the national median of $74,755, yet residents pay substantially less for housing.

Roane ranks among Tennessee's most affordable

Roane County's 13.9% rent-to-income ratio beats Tennessee's state average of 17.6% by nearly 4 percentage points, placing it in the state's more affordable tier. With a median rent of $767, the county undercuts the state average of $860 by nearly $100 per month.

Roane offers genuine relief to renters

Compared to neighboring Sevier County's $1,013 monthly rent, Roane's $767 represents a meaningful $246 monthly savings for renters. Scott County to the west is the only close peer, though Scott's lower income levels ($42,679) make its cheaper rents less of a true advantage.

Housing takes modest bite from budgets

Roane residents spend roughly $767 on rent or $842 on mortgages against a median income of $66,218 annually—leaving substantial room in household budgets for other expenses. Combined renter and owner costs average about 16% of gross income, well within affordability guidelines.

Roane County welcomes budget-conscious renters

If you're relocating from higher-cost regions, Roane County offers rare affordability without requiring the trade-offs of income or access found in cheaper Appalachian counties. Test the market: compare your current housing costs against Roane's $767 rent and $212,300 median home value to see your potential savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Roane County

via IncomeByCounty

Roane earns above the state, below nation

Roane County's median household income of $66,218 outpaces Tennessee's state average of $58,994 by 12%, but falls short of the national median of $74,755. This positions Roane as a moderately performing county in the broader U.S. income landscape.

Roane ranks in Tennessee's upper middle

Among Tennessee's 95 counties, Roane County's $66,218 median household income places it solidly in the upper-middle tier. The county outearns roughly 60% of its state peers, reflecting a relatively stable local economy.

Roane lags faster-growing Rutherford

Roane's $66,218 income trails Robertson County ($78,439) and Rutherford County ($82,588), both of which benefit from suburban growth and job migration. However, Roane significantly outearns Scott County ($42,679) and Sequatchie County ($52,260), its more rural neighbors.

Housing costs are manageable here

Roane's rent-to-income ratio of 13.9% is the healthiest among the eight counties profiled, well below the national affordability threshold of 30%. A median household earning $66,218 can comfortably sustain the median home value of $212,300 while maintaining financial flexibility.

Build on Roane's income stability

With above-state-average income and favorable housing costs, Roane households are positioned to invest in retirement and wealth-building. Consider maxing out 401(k) contributions and exploring low-cost index funds to compound gains over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Roane County

via CrimeByCounty

Roane County Exceeds National Safety Standards

Roane County maintains an impressive safety score of 97.6, significantly outperforming many regions across the country. Its total crime rate of 1,521.0 per 100K residents sits well below the national average of 2,385.5.

A Top Performer in Tennessee Safety

With a safety score of 97.6, Roane County ranks above the Tennessee state average of 97.2. Local law enforcement across six reporting agencies keeps total crime lower than the state average of 1,785.6 per 100K.

Leading Nearby Counties in Security

Roane County is safer than neighboring Sevier County, which reports a higher crime rate of 2,062.8 per 100K. This region offers a more secure environment than larger hubs like Rutherford County.

Property Crimes Outpace Violent Incidents

Violent crime remains low at 204.5 per 100K, which is nearly half the national rate. Most reported incidents are property crimes, which occur at a rate of 1,316.5 per 100K residents.

Stay Vigilant to Keep Roane Safe

While Roane is statistically very safe, residents should remain proactive about home security. Basic measures like smart lighting and locked entry points help maintain these exceptionally low crime numbers.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Roane County

via HealthByCounty

Roane slightly outlives the nation

Roane County residents live to 72.6 years, matching Tennessee's state average but outpacing the U.S. life expectancy of 71.4 years. Nearly 1 in 5 residents (19.3%) report poor or fair health, slightly better than comparable U.S. counties. The county's health profile suggests solid foundational care with room for targeted improvement.

Roane ranks above Tennessee average

At 72.6 years, Roane County's life expectancy edges out Tennessee's 72.4-year state average—a meaningful advantage in a state facing significant health challenges. The county's 8.8% uninsured rate substantially beats Tennessee's 11.9% state average, suggesting stronger health coverage access. This better-than-average footing gives Roane a foundation many rural Tennessee counties lack.

Roane outperforms surrounding counties

Roane's 72.6-year life expectancy exceeds nearby Scott County (71.4) and Sequatchie County (75.2 years, though with a higher poor/fair health rate of 25.9%). Roane's 8.8% uninsured rate is the lowest among its peers, demonstrating above-average coverage access. The county's 43 primary care providers per 100,000 residents are competitive, placing it firmly in the middle of its regional cohort.

Healthcare access is relatively stable

With 43 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Roane offers reasonable daily access to routine care, and its 64 mental health providers per 100,000 show growing mental health capacity. The 8.8% uninsured rate means roughly 9 in 100 residents lack coverage, creating gaps in preventive and emergency care. Sustained investment in primary care and mental health services could further close this access gap.

Check your coverage options today

If you're among Roane's 8.8% uninsured residents, explore marketplace plans at Healthcare.gov or contact the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance for local enrollment support. Even with above-average coverage rates, many working families miss eligibility for subsidized plans. A few minutes of research now could save thousands in unexpected medical costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Roane County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Consolidated Network of Community Schools

Roane County operates a streamlined educational infrastructure consisting of 18 public schools managed by a single unified district. The system supports 6,344 students through a balanced mix of six elementary, five middle, and six high schools. This centralized structure ensures consistent resources across the county's growing student population.

High Graduation Rates Outpace National Benchmarks

The county boasts an impressive 95.0% graduation rate, significantly higher than the national average of 87.0% and the state average of 93.3%. Despite a per-pupil expenditure of $6,340—which is less than half the national average of $13,000—the district maintains a solid school score of 54.7. These figures suggest that Roane County achieves high academic efficiency by delivering strong results with lean funding.

One District Serving the Entire County

The Roane County school district manages all 18 public schools within the region, and currently, there are no charter schools in operation. Kingston Elementary stands out as the largest facility, serving 808 students in a primary setting. The district's secondary education is anchored by Roane County High School, which enrolls 652 students.

A Blend of Town and Rural Learning

The local educational environment features a mix of 11 town-based schools and 7 rural campuses, reflecting the county's diverse geography. With an average school size of 352 students, the atmosphere feels intimate and community-oriented compared to large urban centers. Families experience a range of settings, from the 808-student Kingston Elementary to smaller specialized programs.

Relocating for Academic Success

Families looking for high graduation rates in a scenic setting should explore homes near top-performing schools like Kingston Elementary. School quality remains a primary driver for property values in this region, making it an attractive destination for education-focused buyers. Transitioning to Roane County offers a rare combination of small-town school feel and competitive academic outcomes.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Roane County

via RiskByCounty

Roane's risk sits above national average

Roane County scores 68.99 on composite risk, earning a Relatively Low rating but running 31% higher than the national average. This means residents face moderate exposure to natural hazards compared to most American counties. The gap reflects Tennessee's geography and exposure to multiple weather-related threats.

Middle of the pack in Tennessee

At 68.99, Roane scores notably higher than Tennessee's state average of 52.45, placing it in the upper-middle tier of the state's 95 counties. This ranks Roane as more exposed to natural hazards than most of its peers statewide. Only counties with significant urban density or geographic vulnerability score higher.

Higher risk than nearby counties

Roane's 68.99 composite score outpaces Sequatchie County (40.17) and Scott County (26.11), though it trails Sevier County (77.39) to the east. Its earthquake risk of 86.32 stands notably above regional neighbors, while tornado risk (71.85) remains consistently elevated across East Tennessee. Residents should view Roane as a moderate-to-higher-risk zone within its regional context.

Earthquakes and tornadoes top the list

Roane faces its highest hazard from earthquakes (86.32) and tornadoes (71.85), both substantially above state average. Flood risk (69.88) rounds out the top three, reflecting the county's position along the Clinch and Emory Rivers and vulnerable low-lying areas. These three hazards account for the bulk of Roane's overall risk profile.

Secure coverage before disaster strikes

Standard homeowners insurance does not cover earthquakes or flooding—two of Roane's biggest risks—so separate policies are critical. Verify that your homeowners policy includes tornado and wind coverage with adequate limits, and strongly consider earthquake and flood insurance given your county's exposure scores. Talk with a local agent about bundling these protections at a lower rate.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Roane County

via WeatherByCounty

A Moderate Southern Profile

Roane County’s 58.0°F average temperature sits right at the national median for a humid subtropical zone. The climate is characterized by warm summers and short, cool winters.

Perfectly Average for Tennessee

At 58.0°F, Roane is almost exactly in line with the Tennessee state average of 58.1°F. It serves as a benchmark for the state's weather patterns.

Comparing Valley Heat Trends

Roane experiences 35 days of extreme heat, slightly more than Rhea’s 31 days. It receives a healthy 59.6 inches of rain, keeping the landscape green year-round.

Warm Summers with Rare Snow

July temperatures average 77.3°F, contributing to five weeks of 90-degree weather. Snow remains a rarity, averaging just 1.9 inches per year.

Manage Humidity and Summer Heat

Use dehumidifiers to stay comfortable during the rainy 59-inch seasons. Plan for high energy usage in the summer when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Roane County

via SoilByCounty

Highly acidic soils in Roane County

Roane County features a fairly acidic soil profile with an average pH of 5.17, which sits notably lower than the national median of 6.5. While specific taxonomic data is limited for this region, the 44.2 soil score indicates health that exceeds the Tennessee state average of 38.5.

A balanced mix of sand and silt

The soil composition here is 44.2% silt and 32.2% sand, creating a textured environment with 18.7% clay content. This specific ratio provides a stable structure that balances aeration and density, though workability depends on managing the acidity.

Exceptional organic matter levels

Organic matter in Roane County is impressive at 5.10%, more than doubling the state average of 2.44% and the national average of 2.0%. However, the available water capacity of 0.162 in/in is slightly below the state benchmark of 0.171 in/in, requiring more frequent monitoring during dry spells.

Managing local water movement

While specific drainage classes are not officially mapped for this area, the composition suggests moderate permeability for local growers. Farmers and builders should consider the high organic content when planning structural foundations or irrigation systems.

Hardy growth in Zone 7b

The USDA Hardiness Zone 7b supports a wide variety of perennials and seasonal vegetables that thrive in acidic conditions. Use this rich organic foundation to start a garden featuring blueberries or azaleas, which naturally prefer this soil's unique chemistry.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Roane County

via LawnByCounty

Managing the Roane County Ridge

Roane County earns a 41.9 lawn difficulty score, making it significantly harder to maintain than the national median of 50.0. In USDA Hardiness Zone 7b, homeowners navigate a climate that sits below the Tennessee state average score of 48.0. Residents must balance high rainfall with recent severe weather trends to keep grass healthy.

Ample Rain Meets Summer Heat

The county receives 59.6 inches of annual precipitation, which exceeds the ideal lawn range of 30-50 inches. With 4,265 growing degree days and 35 extreme heat days, turf grows rapidly but faces significant heat stress. The typical growing season begins after the final frost on April 8 and lasts until early November.

Neutralizing Acidic Appalachian Soils

The local soil pH of 5.17 is sharply acidic compared to the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turfgrasses. While the clay content is moderate at 18.7%, the high acidity levels mean regular lime applications are necessary to unlock nutrients. Although drainage data is limited, the 32.2% sand content helps prevent total saturation during heavy rains.

Battling Severe Drought Conditions

Roane County faced 19 weeks in drought over the past year, with 47.7% of the area currently under severe drought conditions. Every acre of the county is considered abnormally dry, requiring deep, infrequent watering to encourage deep root growth. Mulching grass clippings back into the lawn can help retain moisture during these stressful periods.

Selecting Your Roane County Turf

Tall Fescue and Bermuda grass are excellent choices for Zone 7b, providing a balance of heat tolerance and durability. Plan to seed or sod shortly after the April 8 spring frost or in early September for optimal root establishment. With the right grass type and consistent soil pH management, your lawn can thrive despite the local challenges.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Roane County's county score?
Roane County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 53 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 Roane County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Roane County ranks #42 among all counties in Tennessee 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 Roane County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Roane County is $1,172, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Roane County a tax score of 80.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Roane County?
The median household income in Roane County, Tennessee is $66,218 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Roane County earns an income score of 57.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Roane County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Roane County scores 53/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #42 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Roane 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 Roane 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.