countyscore
53.4
County Score
Property Tax 81Schools 64.6Lawn Care 58.5

County Report Card

About Shenandoah County, Virginia

Strong National Standing

Shenandoah County scores a 53.4, keeping it well above the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced profile that performs better than half of the counties in the United States.

Beating the State Benchmark

The county's overall score of 53.4 exceeds the Virginia state average of 50.9. This performance highlights its appeal as a stable and attractive alternative to more congested Virginia regions.

Low Taxes and Solid Schools

Residents benefit from a high tax score of 81.0, driven by a low effective tax rate of 0.546%. Furthermore, the school score of 64.6 indicates a strong educational foundation for local families.

Water and Housing Costs

The water score of 12.7 is quite low, pointing toward potential resource or infrastructure concerns. A cost score of 28.2 also indicates that housing, with a median home value of $265,800, is becoming less affordable.

Ideal for Value-Seeking Families

This county suits families who prioritize education and low property taxes while maintaining a decent income level. It offers a classic Virginia lifestyle with better financial metrics than many of its neighbors.

Score breakdown

Tax81Cost28.2Safety54.3Health58.4Schools64.6Income51.9Risk40.2Water12.7Weather58.4
🏛81
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠28.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡54.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤58.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓64.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡40.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧12.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨43.2
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58.5
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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Nearby counties

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56.3
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Rappahannock County
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Hampshire County
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Deep Dives

Shenandoah County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Shenandoah County

via TaxByCounty

Shenandoah County taxes well below U.S. median

Shenandoah County's effective tax rate of 0.546% ranks among Virginia's lowest and is significantly below the national median property tax of $2,690. On the national median home value of $281,900, this rate would yield annual taxes of roughly $1,539—nearly 43% less than typical U.S. homeowners pay.

One of Virginia's lowest tax rates

At 0.546%, Shenandoah County claims one of the Commonwealth's most favorable effective tax rates, about 19% below Virginia's 0.671% state average. The median property tax of $1,451 is roughly 26% below the state median of $1,960, making Shenandoah an especially affordable option for Virginia homeowners.

Lowest rate in the southwestern region

Shenandoah County's 0.546% rate undercuts nearby Scott County (0.675%) and Smyth County (0.609%), offering the region's best tax value. This low rate applies to homes averaging $265,800—higher than neighboring counties—making Shenandoah competitive for buyers seeking both affordability and value.

Median Shenandoah tax runs about $1,451

On Shenandoah County's median home value of $265,800, homeowners pay roughly $1,451 annually in property taxes. With a mortgage, taxes total $1,390; without one, $1,581—reflecting the county's exceptionally low rate even on mid-range home values.

Review your assessment; savings possible

Even low-tax counties see some homes overassessed relative to fair market value. If your home's tax assessment seems high compared to recent sales in your neighborhood, you can file an appeal with Shenandoah County's assessor at no cost.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Shenandoah County

via CostByCounty

Shenandoah's Mid-Market Affordability

Shenandoah County's 18.0% rent-to-income ratio sits just slightly above the national norm, offering moderate relief compared to costlier coastal metros. With median rent at $968 and median household income at $64,437, working families here have more financial flexibility than typical renters nationwide.

Just Above Virginia's Average

At 18.0%, Shenandoah County's rent-to-income ratio marginally exceeds Virginia's state average of 18.6%, placing it solidly in the middle tier of the commonwealth's affordability landscape. The county offers reasonable housing costs while maintaining access to rural charm and community amenities.

Shenandoah's Position in the Valley

Shenandoah County's $968 rent sits between affordable Scott and Smyth counties (both around $665-$692) and pricier northern options like Spotsylvania. This positions the county as the gateway between Southwest Virginia's bargain neighborhoods and the state's more expensive regions.

Renting vs. Owning Trade-offs

Renters in Shenandoah pay $968 monthly while homeowners spend $1,092—a notable $124 premium that reflects higher property values averaging $265,800. Despite the ownership premium, both pathways remain accessible to the county's $64,437 median household income.

Shenandoah: Balanced Cost, Scenic Life

If you're relocating for mid-range affordability with natural beauty, Shenandoah County delivers reasonable housing costs without the frugal trade-offs of poorer regions. Compare its $968 rents and $265,800 median home values to neighboring counties and pricier state averages.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Shenandoah County

via IncomeByCounty

Shenandoah County earns below national average

Shenandoah County's median household income of $64,437 sits 13.8% below the national median of $74,755. While the gap is narrower than many rural counties, households still earn roughly $10,300 less than the typical American family.

Below state average but solidly middle tier

Shenandoah County earns $10,520 less than Virginia's state median of $74,957 and trails per capita income by $3,795. The county ranks in Virginia's middle range, outperforming struggling southwestern counties while falling short of the state's wealthiest regions.

Competitive with regional counterparts

Shenandoah County's $64,437 income significantly exceeds nearby Scott County ($45,136) and Smyth County ($46,859), but trails Southampton County ($68,465). The Shenandoah Valley region shows varied economic performance, with larger employers and agricultural diversity creating income variation.

Housing affordability improves quality of life

At 18.0% of income, Shenandoah County's rent-to-income ratio remains well below the affordability threshold, meaning most households spend less than $10,000 yearly on housing. A median home value of $265,800 remains within reach for households earning $64,437 with conventional financing.

Strategic savings unlock long-term wealth

Shenandoah County's affordable housing creates breathing room for families to save and invest in their future. Take advantage of lower housing costs to maximize retirement contributions, build emergency funds, and explore real estate investment opportunities in the growing Shenandoah Valley.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Shenandoah County

via CrimeByCounty

Strong Safety Profile in Shenandoah

Shenandoah County has a total crime rate of 1033.0 per 100K, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. This low rate earns the county a stellar safety score of 98.4.

Surpassing the State Safety Average

With a score of 98.4, the county is significantly safer than the Virginia average of 97.3. It ranks as one of the most secure regions in the Commonwealth.

Regional Leaders in Public Safety

The county’s crime rate of 1033.0 per 100K is slightly higher than Rockingham County’s 836.7. Even so, it remains far below the state average total crime rate of 1728.8.

Extremely Low Violent Crime Frequency

Violent crime is minimal at 162.4 per 100K, while property crime is also low at 870.6. These figures represent some of the lowest crime levels in the region and the state.

Maintain the County's Safety Record

Safety is a community-wide effort that starts with individual home security. Residents can help maintain these low rates by ensuring their homes are well-lit and properly secured.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Shenandoah County

via HealthByCounty

Shenandoah County Exceeds National Health Standards

With a life expectancy of 76.6 years, Shenandoah County residents live longer than the U.S. average of 78.9 years—a strong showing for rural Virginia. Only 18.5% report poor or fair health, below the national average of 16%, signaling better overall wellness.

Above-Average Health in Virginia

Shenandoah County's 76.6-year life expectancy exceeds Virginia's state average of 75.1 years by 1.5 years. The county's 18.5% poor health rate outperforms state benchmarks, placing it in the healthier half of Virginia's municipalities.

Regional Leader in Health Outcomes

Shenandoah County's life expectancy edges out Scott County (73.4 years) and matches closely with Staunton (74.9 years). The county offers 34 primary care providers per 100K, competitive with surrounding rural areas.

Solid Access Despite Rural Challenges

Shenandoah County's 8.6% uninsured rate slightly exceeds Virginia's average of 7.9%, affecting about 1 in 12 residents. The county provides 34 primary care providers and 82 mental health providers per 100K—adequate for routine care, though mental health resources remain stretched.

Close the Coverage Gap Today

Shenandoah County residents without insurance should explore Marketplace plans and Medicaid eligibility through healthcare.gov. Local health departments can guide you to enrollment assistance and answer questions about coverage options.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Shenandoah County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Growing District in the Valley

Shenandoah County hosts 11 public schools across two districts, serving 5,630 students. The system is balanced with three schools at each primary level: elementary, middle, and high.

Exceptional Graduation Rates and Performance

The county excels with a 93.0% graduation rate, well above the state average of 89.0% and the national average of 87.0%. These results come with a 56.3 school score and a per-pupil expenditure of $7,559.

The Impact of Shenandoah County Schools

Shenandoah County Public Schools is the dominant provider, managing 10 schools and 5,630 students. No charter schools exist in the area, meaning families rely on the highly-rated public district.

Large Town Schools Meet Rural Settings

With seven rural and four town-based schools, the average enrollment is 626 students. W.W. Robinson Elementary is a major local anchor, serving over 1,061 students in a primary setting.

Relocate to a High-Performing District

Shenandoah County is a top contender for families prioritizing academic excellence and high graduation rates. Look for homes in Woodstock or Strasburg to be part of this successful educational community.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Shenandoah County

via RiskByCounty

Shenandoah faces elevated national risk

Shenandoah County scores 59.83 with a Relatively Low rating, placing it nearly 26 points above Virginia's average of 33.27. This above-state-average exposure reflects the county's diverse hazard vulnerabilities, from hurricanes to floods.

Among Virginia's higher-risk counties

Shenandoah County ranks in the upper half of Virginia's risk distribution at 59.83, reflecting notably elevated exposure compared to most Commonwealth counties. The rating signals residents should take preparedness seriously.

Riskier than peers in the Shenandoah region

Shenandoah County's 59.83 composite score exceeds Smyth County (57.79) and significantly outpaces Scott County (41.95). The county's 80.14 hurricane risk—the state's highest—drives much of this elevation and reflects vulnerability to Atlantic tropical systems.

Hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires threaten

Hurricane risk at 80.14 dominates Shenandoah's hazard landscape, followed closely by flood risk at 73.89—both well above state and national averages. Wildfire exposure at 63.36 also ranks among Virginia's highest, creating a compound vulnerability to weather-driven disasters.

Hurricane insurance and flood prep matter most

Shenandoah County homeowners must ensure wind and hail coverage is robust given the 80.14 hurricane risk score; standard policies sometimes exclude these perils. Flood insurance is essential: at 73.89 flood risk, the Shenandoah Valley's river systems pose meaningful threats to properties in low-lying areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Shenandoah County

via WeatherByCounty

A cool, northern-style mountain climate

Shenandoah County averages 53.0°F annually, making it one of the cooler spots relative to the national median. This climate is defined by colder winters and a shorter growing season.

One of Virginia's coldest counties

The county's 53.0°F average is nearly three degrees lower than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. It consistently ranks as one of the chillier jurisdictions in the Commonwealth.

Heavy snow and low rainfall

Shenandoah receives a significant 22.4 inches of snow annually, which is higher than most of its neighbors. Paradoxically, it is quite dry, with only 38.4 inches of total precipitation compared to the state's 45.7.

Freezing winters and moderate summers

January is cold here, with an average temperature of 31.9°F. While July reaches an average of 74.1°F, the county only sees about 20 days of extreme heat over 90°F per year.

Winter readiness is the top priority

With 22.4 inches of annual snow and sub-freezing January averages, residents need heavy winter gear and reliable heating. The low annual rainfall of 38.4 inches means fewer rainy days, but snow management is key.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Shenandoah County

via SoilByCounty

High-Quality Valley Soils

Shenandoah County earns a strong soil score of 43.2, outperforming the state average of 30.6 by a wide margin. The average pH of 5.37 is slightly higher than the state average but requires occasional lime to reach the national 6.5 ideal. This creates a productive base for the county's famous agricultural operations.

Silt and Sand Dominance

The soil composition features 41.6% silt and 35.3% sand, paired with a modest 18.9% clay. This mix offers excellent workability, as the sand prevents the heavy clumping often found in clay-rich regions. It provides an ideal physical structure for root penetration and moisture movement.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

With a 4.02% organic matter content, these soils are twice as rich as the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.151 in/in exceeds the state benchmark of 0.143, ensuring plants stay hydrated. This exceptional fertility supports high-yield farming and lush home gardens.

Managing the Valley Watershed

Formal drainage and hydrologic data are unavailable, but the high sand and silt percentages suggest a well-draining landscape. These soils generally move water efficiently, reducing the risk of root rot in agricultural fields. Local growers should focus on maintaining the high organic content to preserve this natural filtration.

Abundant Growth in Zone 7a

Zone 7a provides a long growing season for everything from tomatoes to timber. The high organic levels mean your garden needs less supplemental fertilizer to thrive. It is a fantastic time to plant a diverse array of native shrubs or a sprawling vegetable plot.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Shenandoah County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating Lawn Challenges in Shenandoah

Shenandoah County holds a lawn difficulty score of 58.5, which is slightly better than the Virginia state average of 55.4. While the score suggests moderate ease, the Zone 7a climate presents specific seasonal hurdles for local gardeners. You enjoy better-than-average conditions compared to the national baseline of 50.0.

Moderate Precipitation and Growth Cycles

The county receives 38.4 inches of rain annually, fitting perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawn health. With 3,266 growing degree days, grass stays active for a significant portion of the year despite 20 extreme heat days. This balance requires consistent monitoring but supports a robust mowing season.

Neutralizing Acidic Shenandoah Soils

Local soil is notably acidic with a pH of 5.37, falling below the preferred 6.0-7.0 threshold. The mix of 35.3% sand and 18.9% clay creates a decent foundation, but lime treatments are necessary to balance the chemistry. Adding these amendments helps your grass absorb fertilizers more effectively.

Overcoming Persistent Drought Pressures

Lawns faced a tough year with 38 weeks in drought, and the entire county remains abnormally dry today. To protect your investment, focus on deep, infrequent watering that encourages roots to reach further into the ground. Mulching grass clippings also helps retain moisture during these extended dry periods.

Timing Your Shenandoah Planting

Cool-season grasses like tall fescue thrive here if seeded after the last spring frost on April 25. Aim for fall renovation before the first frost on October 20 to ensure young seedlings establish before winter dormancy. These specific windows provide the best chance for a dense and weed-resistant lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shenandoah County's county score?
Shenandoah County, Virginia has a composite county score of 53.4 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 Shenandoah County rank among counties in Virginia?
Shenandoah County ranks #64 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 Shenandoah County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Shenandoah County is $1,451, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Shenandoah County a tax score of 81/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Shenandoah County?
The median household income in Shenandoah County, Virginia is $64,437 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Shenandoah County earns an income score of 51.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Shenandoah County, Virginia a good place to live?
Shenandoah County scores 53.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #64 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah 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.