countyscore
53.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Property Tax 74.5Disaster Risk 66.7

County Report Card

About Rockbridge County, Virginia

Performing above the national average

Rockbridge County earns a composite score of 53.6, placing it above the national median of 50.0. This indicates a higher-than-average quality of life for its residents on the national stage.

A strong performer in the Commonwealth

With a score of 53.6, Rockbridge County beats the Virginia state average of 50.9. It stands out as a reliable and stable option for those looking to live in the Shenandoah Valley region.

Low taxes and clean drinking water

The county boasts a strong tax score of 74.5, supported by a low effective tax rate of 0.600%. It also maintains a high water quality score of 86.0 and a solid health score of 62.9.

Safety and income scores show lag

The safety score of 36.8 is the county's primary challenge, trailing behind its other performance metrics. The income score of 50.7 is moderate, reflecting a median household income of $63,975.

Ideal for nature-loving retirees

Rockbridge County is a fantastic fit for retirees or remote workers looking for low taxes and high environmental quality. The combination of health and water scores makes it a safe bet for long-term residency.

Score breakdown

Tax74.5Cost45.4Safety36.8Health62.9Schools46.8Income50.7Risk66.7Water86Weather57.9
🏛74.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠45.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼50.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡36.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤62.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓46.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡66.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤57.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨32.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱40.8
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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Deep Dives

Rockbridge County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Rockbridge County

via TaxByCounty

Rockbridge County taxes below national

At 0.600%, Rockbridge County's effective property tax rate falls below the national median of 0.76%, placing it in the bottom 35% of U.S. counties. The median property tax of $1,432 is substantially less than the national median of $2,690.

Below-average taxes for Virginia

Rockbridge County's 0.600% effective rate sits below Virginia's state average of 0.671%, ranking it in the lower half of Virginia's 133 jurisdictions. County residents enjoy a lighter tax load than the typical Virginian.

Competitive rates in the region

Rockbridge County's 0.600% rate compares favorably to nearby Richmond County (0.555%) and beats Roanoke County (0.875%) and Roanoke city (1.013%). The county offers reasonable tax rates for rural Virginia.

Around $1,430 annually for median home

On a median home valued at $238,700, Rockbridge County homeowners pay approximately $1,432 in annual property taxes. Those with mortgages pay $1,483, while homeowners without mortgages pay $1,365.

Assessment accuracy protects your wallet

Even in a relatively low-tax county like Rockbridge, some homeowners may discover they're overassessed. Filing an appeal if your valuation seems high could unlock additional savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rockbridge County

via CostByCounty

Rockbridge offers balanced affordability

Rockbridge County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.9% sits comfortably below Virginia's state average of 18.6% and aligns with national affordability benchmarks. The median household income of $63,975 is modest, yet the county achieves strong affordability through consistently low housing costs.

Better than average Virginia affordability

At 17.9%, Rockbridge County's rent-to-income ratio ranks above the Virginia state average of 18.6%, reflecting efficient housing markets in this rural Blue Ridge location. Median rent of $956 runs 16% below the state median, demonstrating real cost advantages for renters.

Among the cheapest rents in the region

Rockbridge County's $956 median rent is substantially lower than Roanoke County ($1,148) and Richmond County ($1,011), though comparable to Roanoke city ($964). Home values of $238,700 position the county in the middle range, balancing rural character with reasonable entry points for homebuyers.

Low costs at modest income levels

Renters spend $956 monthly while homeowners pay $783 from a median household income of $63,975. The 17.9% rent-to-income ratio reflects Rockbridge's position as one of Virginia's most cost-efficient markets for both renters and owners.

Great for rural living on a budget

Rockbridge County delivers genuine affordability alongside natural beauty and small-town character—a rare combination in modern Virginia. If you value affordable housing, outdoor access, and lower density living, this county offers exceptional value with a rent-to-income ratio well below state average.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rockbridge County

via IncomeByCounty

Rockbridge County slightly below national median

Rockbridge County's median household income of $63,975 falls $10,780 short of the national median of $74,755, representing about 85% of national earnings. The county's per capita income of $37,739 closely mirrors state levels, reflecting a fairly typical earnings distribution.

Middle-income county in Virginia

Rockbridge County's median household income of $63,975 sits below Virginia's state average of $74,957 by about $11,000, placing it in the lower-middle range statewide. The per capita income of $37,739 nearly matches the state's $39,155 average, indicating fairly typical individual earning patterns.

Moderate earnings in rural setting

Rockbridge County's $63,975 median income falls between struggling Russell County ($49,020) and the more prosperous Rockingham County ($78,468) and Roanoke County ($82,931). The county occupies the rural middle-income tier of the region.

Affordable housing supports families

Rockbridge County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.9% indicates housing is quite affordable, consuming less than one-fifth of household earnings. The median home value of $238,700 equals 3.7 years of gross household income—well within reach for working families with modest down payment savings.

Build savings with steady income

Rockbridge County households earning $63,975 annually benefit from moderate housing costs that free up income for savings and investment. Start with employer-sponsored retirement plans and gradually increase contributions as income grows—small consistent actions compound into substantial long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rockbridge County

via CrimeByCounty

Rockbridge Outperforms National Safety Averages

Rockbridge County maintains a total crime rate of 1464.3 per 100K, well below the national mark of 2,385.5. This low frequency contributes to an impressive safety score of 97.7.

A Top Safety Performer in Virginia

With a safety score of 97.7, the county outperforms the Virginia state average of 97.3. It stands out as one of the more secure jurisdictions in the Commonwealth.

Consistent Safety Across the Region

The county's crime rate of 1464.3 per 100K is lower than neighboring Roanoke County's 1577.8. This demonstrates consistent safety levels across the region's rural and suburban corridors.

Violent Crime Rates Remain Low

Violent crime is remarkably low at 150.0 per 100K, which is less than half the national average. Property crime makes up the bulk of reports at 1314.3 per 100K, though it still remains below state averages.

Maintain Your Home Security Standards

Lower crime rates are no reason for complacency when it comes to home security. Installing window locks and exterior lighting helps maintain the high safety standards residents expect.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Rockbridge County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy above national norm

At 76.2 years, Rockbridge County residents exceed the U.S. average of 76.1 years, with only 18.0% reporting poor or fair health. The county's balanced health profile reflects stable community wellness and accessible primary care.

Above-average Virginia performer

Rockbridge County's 76.2-year life expectancy surpasses Virginia's 75.1-year average, placing it in the upper half of the state's health rankings. Its 18.0% poor/fair health rate is notably below Virginia's typical rates.

Balanced health outcomes

Rockbridge County maintains moderate health metrics compared to neighboring Roanoke County (77.5 years) and rural peers, with life expectancy and wellness rates reflecting stable rural healthcare access. The county avoids both the disparities of urban centers and the provider scarcity of remote areas.

Limited mental health resources

With 93 primary care providers per 100,000, Rockbridge County offers adequate preventive care access, but only 5 mental health providers per 100,000—a severe shortage compared to state and regional norms. Just 7.3% lack insurance, slightly below Virginia's 7.9% average.

Secure coverage for mental health

Rockbridge County's critical shortage of mental health providers makes insurance coverage essential for residents seeking behavioral health care outside the county. Explore marketplace and Medicaid plans at vacciness.gov to ensure access to care when local resources are unavailable.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Rockbridge County

via SchoolsByCounty

Focused Schooling in Rockbridge County

Rockbridge County operates four primary public schools, including three elementary schools and one high school. The system serves 1,595 students within its single school district.

Steady Performance in the Valley

The county maintains an 88.0% graduation rate, nearly matching the state average of 89.0%. Investment in students stands at $7,610 per pupil, which supports a school score of 53.8.

Rockbridge County Public Schools District

The district serves over 2,500 total students when including all regional programs, with 0% of its schools operating as charters. This centralization ensures that the high school serves as a major focal point for the entire county.

A Classic Rural Learning Experience

The school landscape is predominantly rural, with three schools in rural areas and one in a town. Rockbridge County High is the largest by far with 994 students, while Mountain View Elementary offers a small environment of just 145 students.

Root Your Family in Rockbridge

Rockbridge County offers a choice between small, rural elementary schools and a large, central high school. Consider the quiet lifestyle and consistent graduation rates when browsing homes in this scenic county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rockbridge County

via RiskByCounty

Rockbridge County sits at national risk average

Rockbridge County's composite risk score of 33.30 aligns almost perfectly with the national median, earning a "Very Low" rating despite modest exposure to multiple hazards. The county's risk profile reflects typical Appalachian mountain geography with localized flooding concerns.

Right at Virginia's average risk level

Rockbridge County's score of 33.30 matches Virginia's state average of 33.27 almost exactly, placing it in the middle of the state's risk distribution. The county represents a typical Virginia jurisdiction in natural disaster exposure.

Safer than Roanoke County, riskier than Russell

Rockbridge County's 33.30 score sits between Roanoke County (52.19) and Russell County (36.55), with wildfire risk of 59.06 notably elevated compared to nearby rural areas. Hurricane exposure of 69.13 surprises many mountain residents but reflects statewide coastal influence.

Wildfires and floods demand preparation

Wildfire risk of 59.06 is Rockbridge County's dominant hazard, driven by Appalachian forest coverage and mountain ridge exposure. Flood risk of 55.76 follows closely, while hurricane (69.13) and earthquake (38.10) risks remain modest.

Focus on wildfire mitigation and flood awareness

Rockbridge County residents should clear vegetation and maintain defensible space around homes given wildfire risk of 59.06, particularly critical in mountain locations. Obtain flood insurance if your property is in a valley or near waterways; review your elevation and flood zone designation.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rockbridge County

via WeatherByCounty

A rainy valley in the mountains

While specific annual temperature data for Rockbridge is limited, its 47.2 inches of annual precipitation is well above the national median. This indicates a lush, moisture-rich environment.

More precipitation than the state average

Rockbridge County is wetter than the average Virginia county, exceeding the state precipitation average of 45.7 inches. It serves as a significant drainage area for the Shenandoah Valley.

Snowier than its southern neighbors

The county receives 18.6 inches of snow annually, significantly more than the 11.4 inches seen in nearby Roanoke County. This shift reflects its more northerly and higher elevation position.

Cold winters with significant snow

While summer averages are not fully documented here, the winter profile is clear with 18.6 inches of snow. This contributes to a robust winter season for the region.

Prepare for wet and snowy conditions

Residents should prioritize drainage and gutter maintenance to handle the 47.2 inches of annual rain. Reliable snow tires or four-wheel drive are useful for navigating the 18.6 inches of yearly snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rockbridge County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Appalachian Acidity

Rockbridge County features an average soil pH of 5.29, which sits just above the Virginia state average of 5.23. It remains significantly lower than the national median of 6.5, following the regional trend for acidic valley soils. This pH level supports many native hardwood forests but requires monitoring for agriculture.

Silty and Smooth Texture

The soil composition is 45.5% sand, 37.9% silt, and 16.6% clay. This texture is known for being relatively smooth and easy to till compared to heavier clay soils found eastward. The moderate clay content provides enough structure to prevent the soil from washing away too easily.

Exceptional Water Capacity

Rockbridge boasts an available water capacity of 0.157 in/in, well above the state average of 0.143 in/in. Organic matter is slightly lower at 1.90%, just under the 2.0% national benchmark. This high water storage makes the soil very resilient against short-term droughts.

Efficient Water Management

While drainage class data is missing, the physical mix of sand and silt typically allows for efficient water movement. This is critical in the county's rolling terrain to prevent excessive runoff and erosion. Proper land management can leverage these traits for sustainable grazing or farming.

Hardy Growth in Zone 7a

The 7a hardiness zone is perfect for growing cool-season grasses and a variety of hardy vegetables. With superior water retention, your plants will be better protected during the heat of July. Adding compost will help bring that 1.90% organic matter up to even more productive levels.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rockbridge County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in Rockbridge County

Rockbridge County is a challenging place for lawn care, with a difficulty score of 40.8. This is significantly lower than the state average of 55.4 and the national median of 50.0. Homeowners in this hardiness zone 7a must be proactive to maintain a healthy lawn against local environmental pressures.

Abundant Rain but Growing Uncertainties

The county receives a healthy 47.2 inches of annual precipitation, which is on the high end of the ideal range. While specific heat and growing degree data are unavailable, the high rainfall can lead to nutrient leaching in certain soil types. Consistent monitoring of turf health is required to ensure the moisture is being used effectively.

Balancing pH in Rockbridge Soils

The soil pH sits at 5.29, which is acidic enough to hinder grass growth without regular lime amendments. The composition is a mix of 45.5% sand and 16.6% clay, providing moderate drainage that usually prevents waterlogging. For a successful lawn, focus on building soil structure and raising the pH toward a more neutral 6.5.

Navigating Long-Term Water Deficits

Last year, the county suffered through 29 weeks of drought conditions, and the entire area currently remains abnormally dry. This persistence of dry weather is a major factor in the county's low difficulty score. To build resilience, select grass varieties known for deep roots and high drought tolerance.

Starting Strong in Zone 7a

In hardiness zone 7a, Tall Fescue is the most recommended grass due to its ability to handle both cold and dry periods. While frost dates are not specified, the general rule for this region is to seed in the early fall when temperatures begin to cool. Despite the challenges, a dedicated maintenance plan can still yield a beautiful Rockbridge lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rockbridge County's county score?
Rockbridge County, Virginia has a composite county score of 53.6 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 Rockbridge County rank among counties in Virginia?
Rockbridge County ranks #61 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 Rockbridge County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Rockbridge County is $1,432, with an effective tax rate of 0.60%. This earns Rockbridge County a tax score of 74.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rockbridge County?
The median household income in Rockbridge County, Virginia is $63,975 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rockbridge County earns an income score of 50.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rockbridge County, Virginia a good place to live?
Rockbridge County scores 53.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #61 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Rockbridge 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 Rockbridge 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.