countyscore
46.8
County Score
Property Tax 97.8Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 55.3

County Report Card

About Sevier County, Tennessee

A Noteworthy Regional Destination

Sevier County holds a composite score of 46.8, placing it just under the national median of 50.0. While it is a major tourism hub, its livability metrics reflect the unique pressures of a resort-heavy economy.

Below the State Average

Sevier’s score of 46.8 is lower than the Tennessee average of 51.3. This gap is largely driven by safety and environmental risk factors that often accompany high-traffic mountain regions.

Elite Tax Climate and Water

The county offers one of the best tax environments in the nation with a Tax Score of 97.8 and a very low 0.314% effective rate. Residents also enjoy high-quality water, reflected in a Water Score of 86.0.

Safety and Environmental Risks

The county faces significant challenges in safety (20.5) and environmental risk (22.6). These scores likely reflect the challenges of managing large tourist volumes and the geographic risks of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The Verdict: Best for Tourism Entrepreneurs

Sevier County is a paradise for business owners and those who benefit from the tourism industry and ultra-low property taxes. It suits residents who are comfortable with a lively, high-traffic environment in exchange for significant tax savings.

2040608010097.844.320.531.545.350.422.68655.3Tax97.8Cost44.3Safety20.5Health31.5Schools45.3Income50.4Risk22.6Water86Weather55.346.8/100
This county
National avg
2 above average3 below average

Sevier County DNA

Foverall

How Sevier County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Sevier County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (97.8/100) but notably weak in Safety (20.5/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
97.8+45.8
Cost
44.3
Safety
20.5-34.5
Health
31.5-18.5
Schools
45.3-8.700000000000003
Income
50.4
Risk
22.6-24.4
Water
86+28
Weather
55.3
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$259,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,013/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$259,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$40,520/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $63,829/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

15.2

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
Compare Sevier County with Dillingham Census Area →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Swain County
North Carolina
52.6
Jefferson County
Tennessee
53.8
Cocke County
Tennessee
43.9
Blount County
Tennessee
53.4
Haywood County
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Knox County
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Grainger County
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Hamblen County
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Deep Dives

Sevier County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Sevier County

via TaxByCounty

Sevier County offers exceptional property tax relief

Sevier County's 0.314% effective rate is Tennessee's lowest, generating just $815 in annual taxes on a median home worth $259,500. This represents less than one-third the national median property tax burden.

Sevier's rate is dramatically below state average

At 0.314%, Sevier's effective tax rate is 38% lower than Tennessee's 0.511% state average—the most dramatic discount in the region. Despite higher median home values at $259,500, the median tax bill of just $815 runs 20% below the state median.

Sevier offers the region's most competitive rates

Sevier's 0.314% rate crushes every other county profiled here, undercutting even Sequatchie's 0.453% by 140 basis points. Homeowners here pay $815 annually—lowest in the region on properties worth middle-of-the-road valuations.

What Sevier homeowners owe each year

On the median home value of $259,500 with a 0.314% effective rate, Sevier homeowners pay approximately $815 annually. Including mortgage-related taxes, the bill rises to $900—still the region's most affordable.

Sevier homeowners should still check their assessments

Even with Tennessee's lowest tax rate, homeowners benefit from verifying their property assessment against market comparables. If your home's assessed value is inflated, filing an appeal—even in low-tax Sevier—protects your investment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Sevier County

via CostByCounty

Sevier's tourist economy drives housing costs up

Sevier County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national affordability norms despite a median household income of $63,829 that falls below the national average of $74,755. The $1,013 monthly rent reflects the county's Gatlinburg-driven tourism economy, which inflates housing costs beyond what local wages can support.

Sevier ranks above average in housing burden

Sevier County's 19.0% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Tennessee's 17.6% state average, and its $1,013 median rent runs $153 above state norms—a premium directly tied to Sevier's dominant tourism sector and seasonal demand. The county's housing costs reflect visitor-driven real estate markets, not purely local economic conditions.

Sevier's prime location commands housing premium

Sevier's $1,013 monthly rent significantly exceeds Roane County's $767 and Sequatchie County's $842, reflecting its proximity to Gatlinburg's attractions and the resulting tourism-driven housing demand. Yet Sevier's rent remains well below Rutherford County's $1,405, showing the limits of tourism-driven pricing.

Tourism dollars support higher housing costs

Sevier residents spend roughly 19% of their $63,829 median income on rent ($1,013) or 14% on ownership costs ($750)—a split that suggests many residents benefit from tourist-season economic activity beyond the median income. The median home value of $259,500 reflects a market where seasonal tourism wealth drives appreciation.

Sevier suits those seeking mountain living premium

If you're drawn to Sevier County's Gatlinburg-adjacent lifestyle and tourism-dependent economy, budget 19% of income for housing costs—a premium justified by natural amenities and seasonal opportunity. Compare whether Sevier's mountain proximity and tourism appeal justify rents $150+ above state average versus more affordable neighboring counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Sevier County

via IncomeByCounty

Sevier trails nation, leads mountain region

Sevier County's median household income of $63,829 falls $10,926 short of the national median of $74,755, though it outperforms most rural mountain counties. This reflects Sevier's status as a tourism destination with seasonal employment patterns.

Sevier ranks solidly in Tennessee midfield

Sevier County's median household income of $63,829 exceeds Tennessee's state average of $58,994 by 8.2%, placing it in the middle-to-upper tier of Tennessee's 95 counties. Tourism-driven employment bolsters the local wage base.

Sevier outearns mountain peers, trails suburbs

Sevier's $63,829 income positions it between rural counties like Sequatchie ($52,260) and Roane ($66,218). The county significantly lags the Nashville-area boom counties of Robertson ($78,439) and Rutherford ($82,588), which benefit from suburban growth rather than seasonal tourism.

Home values climb faster than incomes

Sevier's rent-to-income ratio of 19.0% masks a deeper concern: the median home value of $259,500 has surged due to Gatlinburg tourism and investment demand, outpacing local income growth. Households face rising property taxes and home maintenance costs.

Harness seasonal income strategically

Sevier's tourism-driven economy creates seasonal income volatility—workers should establish a rainy-day fund covering 4-6 months of expenses. Direct off-season income into high-yield savings or automated investments to smooth earnings and build wealth during slower months.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Sevier County

via CrimeByCounty

Sevier County Remains Safer Than National Average

Sevier County maintains a safety score of 96.7, despite high tourist traffic throughout the year. Its total crime rate of 2,062.8 per 100K is lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Managing Crime in a High-Traffic County

Sevier County's crime rate of 2,062.8 is higher than the Tennessee average of 1,785.6. Six local agencies work to maintain order in a region that sees millions of visitors annually.

Comparing Safety Near the Great Smokies

Sevier County has a higher crime rate than nearby Roane County, which sits at 1,521.0 per 100K. However, it offers a much safer environment than urban Shelby County.

Tourism Impact on Property Crime Rates

Property crime is the most frequent issue, with 1,692.1 incidents per 100K residents. Violent crime sits at 370.7 per 100K, which almost perfectly mirrors the national average.

Security Awareness for Homes and Rentals

With high property crime rates, Sevier residents and rental owners should prioritize high-quality locks and alarm systems. Vigilance is key to maintaining personal safety in busy tourist areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Sevier County

via SchoolsByCounty

Education at the Gateway to the Smokies

Sevier County maintains 32 public schools that serve a total of 14,455 students under a single district. The system features 14 elementary schools, 8 middle schools, and 8 high schools, along with specialized education facilities. This robust infrastructure supports a geographically diverse region with varied educational needs.

Competitive Spending and Graduation Goals

With a per-pupil expenditure of $6,795, Sevier County invests more per student than the state average of $6,215. The graduation rate is 91.0%, which remains comfortably above the national average of 87.0%. The county's school score of 53.6 perfectly matches the state average, indicating a balanced educational performance.

Unified District Serving a Large Population

The Sevier County district manages all 32 schools, including 2 alternative schools and 1 special education facility. Sevier County High School is the largest anchor of the system with 1,248 students. While the system is large, there are no charter schools, keeping the focus on a singular, unified public district.

Predominantly Rural and Town Settings

The district's character is defined by its 17 rural and 10 town-based schools, with only 5 schools in suburban areas. An average school size of 482 students provides a mid-range environment that avoids the overcrowding found in larger metro areas. Popular primary schools like New Center Elementary serve 855 students, acting as major community anchors.

Education-Focused Living in East Tennessee

Families moving to Sevier County often look for properties in the Sevierville and Seymour areas to access the county's largest schools. Above-average per-pupil spending makes the area an attractive option for those wanting well-funded public programs. Quality schools near the Great Smoky Mountains create a compelling case for local home buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Sevier County

via RiskByCounty

Sevier faces well-above-average national risk

Sevier County scores 77.39 on composite risk—a Relatively Low rating that still runs 55% higher than the national average. This reflects Sevier's position as one of America's more hazard-exposed counties, driven by high flood, wildfire, and earthquake risks concentrated in its mountain terrain. The gap illustrates how Appalachian geography creates compounded natural disaster exposure.

Upper tier of Tennessee's riskier counties

At 77.39, Sevier sits 47% above Tennessee's state average of 52.45, placing it in the state's top quartile for composite risk. Only Rutherford (91.73) and Shelby (99.36) exceed Sevier's hazard exposure among Tennessee's 95 counties. Sevier residents face significantly more natural disaster risk than their counterparts across most of the state.

Riskiest of the East Tennessee counties

Sevier (77.39) dramatically outpaces nearby Sequatchie (40.17) and Roane (68.99), driven by the county's heavy concentration in the Great Smoky Mountains and tourism corridors. Its wildfire risk (78.72) and flood risk (84.06) are the state's second-highest after Rutherford. Sevier represents a high-hazard zone even by East Tennessee standards.

Floods and wildfires dominate the threat landscape

Sevier's flood risk reaches 84.06—second only to Rutherford in the state—reflecting mountain streams, river valleys, and development in vulnerable areas. Wildfire risk (78.72) is equally alarming, with dense forest, rugged terrain, and rapid fire spread. Earthquake (90.01) and tornado (70.93) risks round out a portfolio of serious, convergent hazards.

Flood and wildfire coverage are essential

Flood insurance is non-negotiable in Sevier County—obtain a policy before disaster strikes, as coverage typically requires a 30-day waiting period. Verify that your homeowners policy includes wildfire protection and maintain defensible space of at least 100 feet around structures. Consider earthquake insurance as well, given Sevier's 90.01 earthquake score, and review all three policies annually for adequacy.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Sevier County

via WaterByCounty

Top-Tier Drinking Water Compliance in Sevier

Sevier County maintains an A grade with zero drinking water health violations over the past five years. Its 0.0 violation rate per 100,000 residents is exemplary compared to the Tennessee state average of 34.6. Local water utilities are consistently meeting or exceeding Safe Drinking Water Act standards.

Bacteria and Sedimentation Impact Mountain Streams

In the 2022 assessment, 24.3% of Sevier's 148 assessed water bodies were found to be impaired. E. Coli and sedimentation are the leading causes of these impairments, often linked to tourism and development. This impairment rate remains lower than the statewide average of 30.2%.

Deep Monitoring Data for Organic Compounds

With 80 monitoring sites and 16,872 measurements recorded, Sevier County has one of the most active data footprints in the region. Monitoring focuses heavily on physical traits, organics, and pesticides. This data is essential for protecting the water quality of the Great Smoky Mountains area.

Little Pigeon River Below Median Flow

The Little Pigeon River at Sevierville is currently discharging 198 cfs, which is 34% of its long-term mean of 589 cfs. While not as critically low as other regions, these reduced flows can impact local aquatic life and concentrate pollutants. Monitoring this gauge provides a real-time signal of watershed stress.

Filter for Sediment and Bacteria

Although municipal water is safe, the presence of E. Coli and sediment in nearly a quarter of local streams suggests a need for caution with private water. Homeowners using wells should test regularly for bacteria, especially during the current low-flow period. Staying informed about watershed health helps protect the county's pristine reputation.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Sevier County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool Mountain Climate

Sevier County's annual average temperature of 52.2°F is cooler than the national median, reflecting its high-elevation terrain. This mountain climate receives 63.8 inches of annual precipitation, far exceeding typical national rainfall levels.

Among Tennessee's Coolest and Snowiest

At 52.2°F, Sevier County is significantly cooler than the Tennessee average of 58.1°F. It also records 29.4 inches of annual snowfall, which is dramatically higher than the state's typical lowland averages.

Elevated Above Its Eastern Neighbors

Sevier’s climate is defined by the Great Smoky Mountains, making it much snowier than neighboring valley counties. While nearby areas see minimal snow, Sevier's 29.4-inch average stands out as a regional outlier.

Long Winters and Temperate Summers

July averages a comfortable 69.7°F with only 21 days of extreme heat per year. Winters are cold and snowy, with a January average of 33.4°F and nearly 30 inches of snow accumulaton.

Prepare for Snow and Mountain Air

Residents must invest in snow removal equipment and winterized vehicles to handle the 29.4 inches of annual snowfall. The temperate 68.3°F summer average makes it a premier destination for escaping the Southern heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Sevier County

via SoilByCounty

Diverse soils of the Great Smokies

Sevier County's complex mountain geography means that county-wide averages for pH and taxonomy are not currently available. The soil here is shaped by the proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains, creating highly localized conditions.

A mosaic of mountain materials

Specific sand, silt, and clay percentages are not recorded at the county level for Sevier. Growers typically encounter a wide range of textures, from rocky forest floors to rich alluvial deposits in the lower valleys.

Testing for mountain fertility

While official data on organic matter and water capacity is missing, the surrounding region's natural forests suggest pockets of high fertility. Gardeners should conduct individual soil tests to see how their land compares to the Tennessee average AWC of 0.171 in/in.

Elevation drives water movement

Official drainage classes are unmapped, yet the dramatic topography ensures that water moves quickly across the landscape. Proper erosion control is the most critical factor for any agricultural or building project in this area.

Garden in the lush Zone 7b

Sevier County resides in Zone 7b, offering a climate where everything from rhododendrons to summer squash can flourish. Use the local climate to your advantage and start a garden that celebrates the biodiversity of the Appalachian foothills.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Sevier County

via LawnByCounty

Mountain Lawns and Valley Greens

Sevier County holds a lawn difficulty score of 54.2, making it easier than the Tennessee state average of 48.0. In Zone 7b, the combination of high elevation and heavy rain creates a unique microclimate. While the score is good, the extreme rainfall and drought swings require a dedicated maintenance strategy.

Wet Climate with Temperate Summers

The county is the wettest in the set, receiving 63.8 inches of rain annually. With only 21 extreme heat days and 2,968 growing degree days, turf experiences less thermal stress than in the rest of Tennessee. The growing season is slightly shorter, typically starting after the April 17 frost and ending in late October.

Preparing for Appalachian Runoff

Specific soil metrics are limited for this mountainous region, but the 63.8 inches of rain necessitates excellent drainage planning. Regional soils often require organic amendments to handle the high moisture without compacting. Homeowners should focus on leveling and aeration to prevent runoff and erosion on sloped properties.

Managing Severe Drought Fluctuations

Despite the heavy rainfall, 35.3% of Sevier County is currently experiencing severe drought. The county spent 14 weeks in drought over the past year, proving that summer rain can be inconsistent. When dry spells hit, focused irrigation is necessary to protect the turf from the 100% abnormally dry conditions currently present.

Seeding for Success in Sevier

Cool-season grasses like Fine Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive in the county's relatively low GDD and cooler July averages. For the best results, aim to seed your lawn after the last spring frost on April 17. The high annual rainfall will support these varieties, provided your soil has the drainage to handle it.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sevier County's county score?
Sevier County, Tennessee has a composite county score of 46.8 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 Sevier County rank among counties in Tennessee?
Sevier County ranks #67 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 Sevier County, Tennessee?
The median annual property tax in Sevier County is $815, with an effective tax rate of 0.31%. This earns Sevier County a tax score of 97.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Sevier County?
The median household income in Sevier County, Tennessee is $63,829 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Sevier County earns an income score of 50.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Sevier County, Tennessee a good place to live?
Sevier County scores 46.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #67 in Tennessee. The best way to evaluate Sevier 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 Sevier County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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