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Rockingham County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#71 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
39
County Score
Weather & Climate 65.6Cost of Living 65.3Property Tax 54.2

County Report Card

About Rockingham County, North Carolina

Below Median National Standards

Rockingham County earns a 39.0 composite score, trailing the 50.0 national median. This indicates the county has significant room to improve across its core infrastructure and safety metrics.

Falling Short of State Averages

The county's score of 39.0 sits below the 44.7 North Carolina state average. It reflects a rural community that is still working to match the state's broader economic momentum.

Strong Affordability and Stable Taxes

Rockingham County is very affordable, scoring 65.3 for cost with a median rent of $789. Its tax score of 54.2 is supported by a median home value of $156,000, making it a budget-friendly destination.

Safety and Water Quality Gaps

The safety score of 16.8 and water score of 27.6 are the primary weights on the county's ranking. These scores highlight a need for investment in public security and environmental infrastructure.

Good for Budget-Driven Renters

Rockingham County is a solid fit for individuals seeking affordable rents and a low barrier to homeownership. It appeals to those who prioritize immediate financial savings over long-term infrastructure scores.

Score breakdown

Tax54.2Cost65.3Safety16.8Health28Schools33.3Income27.2Risk28.1Water27.6Weather65.6
🏛54.2
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠65.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼27.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤28
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓33.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡28.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧27.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨21.8
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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Deep Dives

Rockingham County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Rockingham County

via TaxByCounty

Rockingham County exceeds national tax median

Rockingham County's effective tax rate of 0.788% exceeds the national median of roughly 0.75%, placing it in the higher half of U.S. counties by tax burden. The median property tax of $1,230 annually is 54% below the national median of $2,690, reflecting lower home values typical of the region.

Above North Carolina state average

Rockingham County's effective rate of 0.788% ranks above North Carolina's state average of 0.701%, putting it in the higher-tax group. Residents pay a median property tax of $1,230, which is $203 less than the state median of $1,433.

Mid-tier tax burden in the region

Rockingham County's 0.788% rate exceeds Polk (0.579%), Person (0.668%), and Randolph (0.720%), but falls below Pitt (0.849%), Richmond (0.929%), and Robeson (0.902%). It occupies the middle ground in the eight-county comparison.

Median home tax runs $1,230 yearly

A homeowner with a median-valued house in Rockingham County ($156,000) pays approximately $1,230 in annual property taxes. Mortgage holders pay $1,358 annually, while those without mortgages pay $1,071.

Challenge your assessment if warranted

Rockingham County homeowners should review their assessments, especially those with properties near or below median value. A free appeal to the county assessor could uncover overvaluations and deliver welcome annual savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rockingham County

via CostByCounty

Rockingham County delivers strong affordability

Rockingham County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% comfortably beats the national stress threshold, with renters spending well below one-fifth of income on housing. The median household income of $55,796 falls below the national median of $74,755, yet modest rents of $789 per month create genuine affordability.

Best overall affordability in North Carolina

Rockingham County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% ranks among the best in North Carolina, beating the state average of 18.6% by a meaningful margin. With rents just $149 above the state median of $938, this county achieves rare affordability through a balance of modest housing costs and reasonable income levels.

Second-cheapest rents, solid incomes

Rockingham County's $789 monthly rent trails only Person County ($796) in the eight-county region, while median incomes of $55,796 exceed all counties except Person, Polk, and Rowan. This combination delivers the region's strongest affordability ratio at 17.0%.

Rents well below income targets

Rockingham County households earning $55,796 spend just 17.0% of income on rent, consuming roughly $789 monthly—nearly a full percentage point below even the national comfort zone. Homeowners pay $731 monthly (15.7% of income), with median home values of $156,000 offering solid entry points for ownership.

Rockingham: strong value in the region

Rockingham County's 17.0% rent-to-income ratio and $789 monthly rents make it one of North Carolina's safest affordability bets outside of Person County. Compare its costs against higher-burden neighbors like Pitt ($971) and Polk ($1,089) to see why relocators seeking value choose Rockingham.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rockingham County

via IncomeByCounty

Rockingham County income below US median

Rockingham County's median household income of $55,796 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by nearly $19,000. The gap reflects regional economic structures and wage levels typical of industrial Piedmont areas.

Below North Carolina state average

Rockingham County ranks below the state median of $61,072, trailing by approximately $5,276 per household. It sits in the lower portion of North Carolina's income distribution.

Lower income compared to strong peers

Rockingham County's $55,796 income trails Person County ($64,927) by over $9,000 and Rowan County ($63,196) by $7,400. It performs similarly to Pitt County ($58,851) and Randolph County ($59,047).

Housing costs remain manageable

At 17.0%, Rockingham County's rent-to-income ratio sits safely below the affordability threshold, and the median home value of $156,000 aligns well with median income. Housing affordability is a relative strength in this county.

Build savings with housing advantage

Rockingham County households benefit from affordable housing to redirect earnings toward emergency funds and retirement accounts. Maximizing employer 401(k) matches and opening supplemental IRAs creates meaningful long-term wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rockingham County

via CrimeByCounty

Rockingham County Safety Metrics

Rockingham County holds a safety score of 96.4, staying slightly below the national crime average. The total crime rate of 2,255.3 per 100,000 is lower than the U.S. average of 2,385.5.

Rockingham vs State Safety Average

The safety score of 96.4 is just under the North Carolina average of 96.8. Eight reporting agencies work to manage crime levels that are slightly higher than the state's typical rate.

Regional Safety Rankings

Rockingham's crime rate of 2,255.3 is higher than nearby Person County but lower than Pitt County. It occupies a middle ground for safety within the northern Piedmont region.

Violent and Property Crime Trends

Property crime sits at 1,952.7 per 100,000, which is the vast majority of local incidents. Violent crime remains below national figures at 302.6, compared to the 369.8 national average.

Steps for a Safer Home

Securing valuables in home safes and ensuring all windows are locked can prevent common property crimes. Community alertness remains a key factor in keeping local neighborhoods safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Rockingham County

via HealthByCounty

Rockingham County Lags Far Behind National Health

Rockingham County residents live to 71.9 years on average—4.5 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years and 2.5 years below North Carolina's 74.4 years. With 20.7% reporting poor or fair health, the county faces above-average disease burden and early mortality.

Rockingham County Ranks Low in State Health

At 71.9 years, Rockingham County's life expectancy falls among North Carolina's worst counties, and its 12.5% uninsured rate matches the state average. The county's below-average health outcomes persist despite average insurance coverage, indicating structural healthcare and economic barriers.

Struggling in the Piedmont Core

Rockingham County's 71.9-year life expectancy trails Person County (74.8 years), Pitt County (74.9 years), and Polk County (76.5 years), placing it among the region's worst health performers. Its 20.7% poor/fair health rate aligns with peer distress in the Piedmont.

Tight Doctor Supply and Average Insurance

Rockingham County has only 31 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—less than one-third of Pitt County's capacity—forcing residents to wait longer for care. With 12.5% uninsured, the county's insurance gap matches the state, but provider scarcity compounds access challenges.

Rockingham County: Cover All Residents

Rockingham County's 71.9-year life expectancy demands action, starting with ensuring every resident has insurance. Visit healthcare.gov or call N.C. Medicaid at 1-888-453-4647 to explore coverage options and take the first step toward a healthier county.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Rockingham County

via SchoolsByCounty

Twenty-Four Schools Across Rockingham County

Rockingham County provides 24 public schools to its 12,177 students, organized into three districts. The system includes 13 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 6 high schools. This structured network supports a variety of learners across both rural and town environments.

High Graduation Rates and Fiscal Performance

Rockingham County outperforms the state and national averages with a strong graduation rate of 89.0%. This success occurs despite a per-pupil expenditure of $6,332, which is lower than the state's $6,969 average. The county's composite school score of 51.6 reflects a high standard of academic quality relative to its spending.

A Consolidated County System with Choice

Rockingham County Schools is the leading district, managing 22 schools and 11,189 students. Choice is available through Bethany Community School, a charter that serves 649 students. This combination of a large central district and specialized charter options provides flexibility for resident families.

Mid-Sized Schools in a Traditional Setting

The county features 14 rural schools and 10 town schools, maintaining a classic North Carolina educational feel. The average school size is 507 students, ensuring campuses remain manageable. Rockingham County High is the largest individual school, serving 882 students in a predominantly rural setting.

Relocating to Rockingham's Strong Districts

With graduation rates hitting 89.0%, Rockingham County is a prime target for families looking for high-quality public education. Homes in Reidsville and Eden offer direct access to these well-performing district and charter schools. Prioritizing proximity to the county's top high schools can be a smart move for your family's future.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rockingham County

via RiskByCounty

Rockingham County edges above U.S. average

Rockingham County's composite risk score of 71.88 rates as Relatively Low but slightly exceeds the national average. This score reflects moderate exposure to multiple hazards typical of North Carolina's northern Piedmont.

Above North Carolina's average risk level

At 71.88, Rockingham County ranks above the state average of 66.72, placing it in the moderate-risk tier. Its Piedmont location contributes to above-average flood and tornado exposure.

Moderate risk shared with central counties

Rockingham County (71.88) faces higher composite risk than western neighbors like Person County (41.54) and Polk County (36.93), but lower than Rowan County (82.92). It represents the typical risk profile for Piedmont transitional areas.

Flooding and hurricanes top concern list

Flood risk (82.95) and hurricane risk (78.68) are Rockingham County's highest individual hazards, while tornado risk (56.42) poses a secondary concern. Wildfire risk (23.76) remains notably low for the region.

Flood and wind coverage essential

Rockingham County residents should secure homeowners insurance with comprehensive wind and tornado protection. Flood insurance is strongly recommended, particularly for properties in the county's river valleys and low-lying areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rockingham County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler Annual Temperatures Than National Medians

Rockingham County averages 57.8°F annually, making it cooler than many counties across the United States. Its location along the Virginia border provides a distinct four-season experience.

A Cool and Drier Northern Tier County

At 57.8°F, Rockingham is cooler than the North Carolina state average of 59.3°F. It is also drier than the state average, receiving 47.4 inches of rain compared to the 51.5-inch norm.

Coolest and Snowiest in the Region

Rockingham is cooler than its southern neighbor Randolph and its eastern neighbor Person. It also experiences the most snowfall in the region, averaging 5.9 inches per year.

Cold Winters and Moderate Summer Heat

Winters are the coldest in the group with a January average of 38.1°F and nearly 6 inches of snow. Summers are manageable with a July average of 77.4°F and 35 days of extreme heat.

Prepare for Snow and Freezing Temperatures

With 5.9 inches of annual snow and 38°F January temperatures, winter tires and home heating reliability are top priorities. The moderate summer heat makes this an excellent climate for outdoor gardening.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rockingham County

via SoilByCounty

Classic Piedmont Acidic Soil

Rockingham County features a soil pH of 5.48, which is slightly higher than the North Carolina average of 5.14 but still under the national median of 6.5. This moderately acidic profile supports a variety of traditional Piedmont agriculture.

Reliable Balance of Sand and Silt

The soil is composed of 56.6% sand, 24.9% silt, and 17.1% clay. This composition offers a good balance between workability and structural integrity for farm equipment.

Resilient Water Capacity for Summer

Organic matter levels sit at 1.27%, which is below the state average of 5.12% and the national 2.0% mark. However, the water capacity of 0.137 in/in is slightly better than the state average, helping plants survive during dry summer months.

Stable Foundation for Local Farming

No specific drainage class is listed for the county, but the clay and silt levels suggest it retains moisture better than the state's coastal soils. This makes the land less prone to drought but potentially slower to dry out after heavy rain.

Versatile Planting in Zone 7b

Hardiness zone 7b is great for growing cool-season vegetables like kale and cabbage alongside summer staples. The soil's ability to hold water makes it a reliable foundation for your backyard food plot.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rockingham County

via LawnByCounty

Rockingham Hits the National Average

Rockingham County scores a 50.5 on the lawn difficulty scale, landing almost exactly on the national median. This makes it easier to manage than the North Carolina state average of 40.8. Its location in Hardiness Zone 7b offers a more temperate climate than the southern parts of the state.

Balanced Rain and Moderate Growing Days

The county receives 47.4 inches of rain, which is within the ideal 30-50 inch window for most grasses. With 35 extreme heat days, it stays slightly cooler than the 38-day state average. The 4,193 growing degree days provide enough warmth for growth without the extreme burnout seen elsewhere.

Correcting Acidity in Loamy Soil

A soil pH of 5.48 is below the 6.0-7.0 ideal range, so lime treatments are recommended to boost grass health. The soil is 56.6% sand and 17.1% clay, a blend that generally provides good drainage and root support. Focus on improving soil fertility to maximize the benefits of the county's moderate rainfall.

Resilience During Summer Dry Spells

The county faced 27 weeks of drought last year and is currently entirely under D2 severe drought conditions. To combat these dry periods, homeowners should allow their grass to grow longer, which shades the soil and reduces evaporation. Efficient watering during the early morning hours is critical to maintain turf during current dry spells.

Prime Planting for the Piedmont

Tall Fescue is the champion of Zone 7b, though warm-season Bermuda also performs well. Plan your seeding between the last spring frost on April 11 and the first fall frost on November 2. September is often the best time to aerate and overseed for a lush spring lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rockingham County's county score?
Rockingham County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 39 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 Rockingham County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Rockingham County ranks #71 among all counties in North Carolina 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 Rockingham County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Rockingham County is $1,230, with an effective tax rate of 0.79%. This earns Rockingham County a tax score of 54.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rockingham County?
The median household income in Rockingham County, North Carolina is $55,796 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rockingham County earns an income score of 27.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rockingham County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Rockingham County scores 39/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #71 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Rockingham 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 Rockingham 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.