countyscore
58.3
County Score
Property Tax 82.6Income & Jobs 82.1Health 66.4

County Report Card

About Rockingham County, Virginia

Ranking high among American counties

Rockingham County delivers a robust composite score of 58.3, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This places it in the upper echelon of livable counties nationwide.

Surpassing the Virginia quality of life

Rockingham's score of 58.3 is significantly higher than the Virginia average of 50.9. It ranks as a premier choice within the state, despite having no school data currently available.

Very low taxes and high incomes

Residents benefit from a high tax score of 82.6, with an effective rate of just 0.532%. This is paired with an income score of 82.1, driven by a median household income of $78,468.

Risk factors and affordability concerns

The risk score of 25.0 is a notable low point, suggesting vulnerability to environmental or economic factors. Housing affordability also scores lower at 29.3, as median home values reach $287,900.

A powerhouse for working families

Rockingham County is excellently suited for middle-to-high income families who prioritize low tax burdens and high safety. It offers a rare mix of economic prosperity and rural charm.

Score breakdown

Tax82.6Cost29.3Safety64Health66.4SchoolsComing SoonIncome82.1Risk25Water54.4Weather59.8
🏛82.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠29.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼82.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡64
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤66.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡25
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧54.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤59.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱59
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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Pendleton County
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Deep Dives

Rockingham County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Rockingham County

via TaxByCounty

Rockingham County taxes well below national

At 0.532%, Rockingham County's effective property tax rate ranks below the national median of 0.76%, placing it in the bottom 25% of U.S. counties. Despite median homes valued at $287,900—near the national median—the median property tax of just $1,532 is far below the national median of $2,690.

Among Virginia's lowest-taxed counties

Rockingham County's 0.532% effective rate ranks among Virginia's lowest, falling well below the state average of 0.671%. County residents enjoy one of Virginia's lightest property tax burdens.

Valley county with modest tax rates

Rockingham County's 0.532% rate beats nearby Rockbridge County (0.600%) and Russell County (0.538%), making it among the region's most tax-friendly. It stands well below urban neighbors like Roanoke city (1.013%) and Roanoke County (0.875%).

Under $1,550 on higher-valued homes

On a median home valued at $287,900, Rockingham County homeowners pay approximately $1,532 in annual property taxes. This represents excellent value, as homeowners on near-national-average home values pay significantly below national-average taxes.

Double-check assessments for savings

Rockingham County's favorable tax rates don't eliminate the possibility of overassessment for some homeowners. Verifying your property's valuation could uncover additional tax relief opportunities.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rockingham County

via CostByCounty

Rockingham combines income and affordability

Rockingham County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% is the second-lowest profiled and comfortably below Virginia's state average of 18.6%. With a median household income of $78,468—above both state and national medians—residents enjoy strong earning power paired with manageable housing costs.

Near the top for Virginia affordability

Rockingham County's 17.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks among Virginia's most affordable markets, substantially better than the state average of 18.6%. The median rent of $1,125 remains reasonable despite above-average incomes, signaling a healthy balance between supply and demand.

Better than most regional peers

Rockingham County's $1,125 median rent falls between Roanoke County ($1,148) and Richmond County ($1,011), yet its 17.2% rent-to-income ratio beats both thanks to higher incomes. Home values of $287,900 are competitive with Roanoke County, offering solid suburban living at reasonable prices.

Strong income offsets moderate rents

Renters allocate $1,125 monthly to housing while homeowners pay $909 from a solid median income of $78,468. At 17.2%, the rent-to-income ratio is the second-best among profiled counties, reflecting the county's economic strength and housing balance.

Ideal for families prioritizing stability

Rockingham County combines strong local incomes, below-average housing burdens, and Shenandoah Valley charm—making it ideal for families seeking economic security. With the second-lowest rent-to-income ratio statewide, you'll enjoy both affordability and access to quality neighborhoods and schools.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rockingham County

via IncomeByCounty

Rockingham County outearns the nation

Rockingham County's median household income of $78,468 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by $3,713, placing it solidly in the upper-income tier. This strong performance reflects a diverse economy with thriving manufacturing, agriculture, and education sectors.

Above-average earners in Virginia

Rockingham County ranks above Virginia's state average median household income of $74,957, earning $3,511 more per household. The county's per capita income of $39,011 matches the state average precisely, indicating typical individual earning potential with solid household consolidation.

Second-highest in the region

Rockingham County's $78,468 median income ranks second only to Roanoke County ($82,931) in the region, outearning Rockbridge County ($63,975) by $14,493 and Salem city ($66,716) by $11,752. The county represents strong suburban-rural prosperity.

Excellent housing affordability

Rockingham County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.2% ranks among the best in the region, meaning housing costs consume minimal household earnings. The median home value of $287,900 equals 3.7 years of gross household income—very achievable for dual-income households.

Strong income fuels investments

With median income of $78,468 and excellent housing affordability, Rockingham County households are well-positioned to build substantial wealth through consistent investing. Consider working with a financial advisor to develop a comprehensive strategy: maximize retirement accounts, build emergency savings, then expand into diversified investments.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rockingham County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety in Rockingham County

Rockingham County boasts a total crime rate of just 836.7 per 100K, less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This exceptional data results in a safety score of 98.7.

Leader in Virginia Public Safety

The county is significantly safer than the average Virginia jurisdiction, with its 98.7 score beating the state average of 97.3. It represents some of the best safety metrics in the Commonwealth.

Lower Crime Than Regional Neighbors

Compared to nearby Rockbridge County’s rate of 1464.3 per 100K, Rockingham is even more secure at 836.7. Its crime rate is also far below the state average of 1728.8.

Minimal Violent and Property Crime

Both violent crime (145.4) and property crime (691.3) are exceptionally low in this county. These figures indicate a high level of community safety where most residents will never experience a serious crime.

Preserving a Safe Community

Maintaining this high safety level requires community vigilance and personal home security. Simple habits like locking doors and monitoring property help keep Rockingham County secure for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Rockingham County

via HealthByCounty

Life expectancy leads the nation

At 78.1 years, Rockingham County residents enjoy one of Virginia's longest lifespans, exceeding the U.S. average of 76.1 years by two years. Only 16.7% report poor or fair health, reflecting strong preventive care and chronic disease management.

Virginia's longevity standout

Rockingham County ranks among Virginia's healthiest with a 78.1-year life expectancy, three years above the state average of 75.1 years. Its strong performance places it in the state's elite health performers.

Outperforms regional peers

Rockingham County's 78.1-year life expectancy leads most surrounding counties, rivaling even Roanoke County's 77.5 years while maintaining lower health burden than neighboring Rockbridge County. The county's rural character and health infrastructure support exceptional longevity.

Provider shortage despite good outcomes

With only 25 primary care providers and 32 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Rockingham County faces significant access constraints despite excellent health outcomes. Yet 9.3% lack insurance—above Virginia's 7.9% average—creating care barriers for vulnerable populations.

Close coverage gaps for all

Though Rockingham County boasts strong overall health, its 9.3% uninsured rate and low provider density mean some residents struggle to access care. Visit vacciness.gov to explore Medicaid and marketplace options that ensure all county residents can achieve health parity.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rockingham County

via RiskByCounty

Rockingham County faces significant disaster exposure

Rockingham County's composite risk score of 75.03 substantially exceeds the national median, earning a "Relatively Low" rating that masks substantial flood and wildfire vulnerability. The county ranks among the most exposed jurisdictions in Virginia for a rural area.

Virginia's third-highest risk jurisdiction

Rockingham County's composite score of 75.03 ranks it among Virginia's top three most exposed areas, behind only Richmond city (78.40) and Roanoke city (72.87). The county far exceeds the state average of 33.27, making it an outlier in natural disaster exposure.

Dramatically riskier than neighboring counties

Rockingham County's 75.03 score towers over Rockbridge County (33.30) and Russell County (36.55), reflecting unique geographic vulnerability to multiple hazard types. The Shenandoah Valley's flood exposure and wildfire susceptibility set it apart from surrounding counties.

Floods and wildfires define your hazard profile

Flood risk of 84.64 tops all hazards in Rockingham County, followed by wildfire risk of 64.41—both substantially higher than neighboring mountain counties. Hurricane exposure of 82.52 and earthquake risk of 67.02 round out a multi-hazard environment.

Comprehensive insurance coverage is essential

Rockingham County residents must obtain flood and wildfire insurance—your composite risk of 75.03 demands multiple layers of protection beyond standard homeowners policies. Create defensible space around your home and understand your specific flood zone and elevation relative to the Shenandoah River.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rockingham County

via WeatherByCounty

A cool and dry mountain climate

Rockingham County's 53.6°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median. Its 39.0 inches of precipitation is also notably lower than many other regions in the eastern U.S.

Cooler and drier than Virginia averages

At 53.6°F, the county is more than two degrees cooler than the state average of 55.9°F. It is also significantly drier than the statewide average of 45.7 inches of precipitation.

Drier than most surrounding counties

With only 39.0 inches of rain, Rockingham is one of the drier spots in the state. However, it sees 19.4 inches of snow, which is higher than its southern neighbor, Roanoke.

Crisp winters and mild summer heat

The county sees 21 extreme heat days over 90°F, with July averaging 74.8°F. Winter is biting, with January temperatures averaging 32.4°F and bringing nearly 20 inches of snow.

Winterize for the valley chill

Efficient heating systems are critical for Januarys that hover near freezing. Residents should also prepare for nearly 20 inches of snow, though the low annual rainfall reduces the risk of frequent flooding.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rockingham County

via SoilByCounty

Shenandoah Valley Soil Health

Rockingham County soils have an average pH of 5.20, very close to the state average of 5.23. Like most of the region, these soils are naturally acidic compared to the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile has long supported the county's status as an agricultural powerhouse.

A Heavy, Silt-Rich Mix

The soil is remarkably balanced with 37.7% sand, 37.2% silt, and a substantial 19.0% clay. This higher clay percentage provides excellent nutrient-holding capacity and structure for large-scale farming. It requires more careful management than sandy soils to avoid compaction when wet.

State-Leading Organic Matter

Rockingham exceeds the state average for organic matter with a healthy 2.95% rating. Its available water capacity of 0.143 in/in perfectly matches the state average. This high organic content is a key driver of the county’s exceptional agricultural productivity.

Stable Hydrologic Performance

The 19% clay content suggests these soils hold onto moisture longer than neighboring sandy areas. While specific drainage classes aren't provided, this mix is generally reliable for supporting heavy infrastructure and consistent crop yields. Farmers should watch for drainage needs in low-lying fields.

Productive Gardening in Zone 7a

Zone 7a allows for a diverse range of crops, from forage for livestock to intensive vegetable gardens. The high organic matter means your soil is already well-equipped to support heavy feeders like corn or squash. Take advantage of this natural fertility by starting a family vegetable plot.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rockingham County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions in Rockingham County

Rockingham County earns a lawn difficulty score of 59.0, indicating it is easier to grow grass here than in most of Virginia. This score beats the national median of 50.0 and the state average of 55.4. Hardiness zone 7a provides a temperate climate that is well-suited for traditional lawn varieties.

Cooler Summers and Leaner Rainfall

The county sees only 21 extreme heat days per year, well below the state average, which helps protect cool-season grasses from summer stress. However, annual precipitation is lower at 39.0 inches, near the bottom of the ideal lawn range. This suggests that while heat isn't a major enemy, supplemental watering is crucial.

Addressing Acidity in Loamy Soils

The soil pH of 5.20 is below the ideal threshold, meaning lime applications are likely necessary for optimal grass health. With 37.7% sand and 19.0% clay, the soil has a good texture for holding moisture without becoming compacted. Regular aeration will help maintain this balance and ensure nutrients reach the root zone.

Significant Drought History to Manage

Rockingham County spent 35 weeks in drought over the past year, more than any other county in this group. Currently, 100% of the county is classified as abnormally dry, making water conservation a top priority. Using drought-resistant cultivars and mulch can help your lawn survive these frequent dry periods.

Optimize Your Planting Timeline

Plan your seeding between the last spring frost on April 21 and the first fall frost on October 23. The 3,423 growing degree days provide a solid window for growth, especially for cool-season grasses like Fescue or Bluegrass. Starting your fall renovation in September gives your lawn the best chance to thrive before winter.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rockingham County's county score?
Rockingham County, Virginia has a composite county score of 58.3 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 Virginia?
Rockingham County ranks #29 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 Rockingham County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Rockingham County is $1,532, with an effective tax rate of 0.53%. This earns Rockingham County a tax score of 82.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rockingham County?
The median household income in Rockingham County, Virginia is $78,468 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rockingham County earns an income score of 82.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rockingham County, Virginia a good place to live?
Rockingham County scores 58.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #29 in Virginia. 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.

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.