countyscore
56.8
County Score
Cost of Living 91.2Water Quality 86Property Tax 73.3

County Report Card

About Smyth County, Virginia

Outperforming the National Median

Smyth County delivers a robust composite score of 56.8, significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. It ranks in a high percentile for overall livability and resource management.

A Top Performer in Virginia

The county's 56.8 score sits well above the Virginia average of 50.9. It serves as a regional leader in balancing costs with essential public services.

Affordable Living and Clean Water

With a cost score of 91.2 and a water score of 86.0, the county offers both financial relief and high environmental quality. Median gross rent is very accessible at $692 per month.

Health and Income Needs

Smyth faces headwinds with a health score of 31.0 and an income score of 9.2. The median household income of $46,859 remains below state norms, impacting health outcomes.

Great for High Quality of Life

This county is perfect for those who value environmental purity and extreme affordability over high-stakes career paths. It provides a peaceful, low-cost environment with excellent basic infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax73.3Cost91.2Safety38.7Health31Schools56Income9.2Risk42.2Water86Weather69
🏛73.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠91.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼9.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡38.7
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤31
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡42.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤69
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨48.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱66.6
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

Tazewell County
Virginia
50
Wythe County
Virginia
57.6
Grayson County
Virginia
65.7
Washington County
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Bland County
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Russell County
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Deep Dives

Smyth County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Smyth County

via TaxByCounty

Smyth County taxes lag far behind U.S.

Smyth County's effective tax rate of 0.609% is roughly 77% lower than the national median property tax burden of $2,690 on a $281,900 home. At this rate, a homeowner with the national median-valued house would pay just $1,717 annually—a substantial bargain by American standards.

Below Virginia's average by double digits

Smyth County's 0.609% effective rate runs about 9% below Virginia's 0.671% state average, positioning it in the lower-tax tier across the Commonwealth. The median property tax of $766 is roughly 61% below Virginia's median of $1,960, reflecting both a low rate and modest home values.

Slightly cheaper than nearby Scott County

Smyth County's 0.609% rate edges below Scott County's 0.675%, making it one of southwestern Virginia's cheapest tax havens. Both counties cluster around $125,000 median home values and minimal annual tax bills under $900, serving rural homeowners seeking maximum affordability.

Median Smyth home tax is just $766

With a median home value of $125,800, Smyth County homeowners pay approximately $766 per year in property taxes. With a mortgage, that rises to $872; without one, it drops to $688—among the absolute lowest in Virginia.

Challenge your assessment if needed

Even in deeply affordable counties, some assessments drift above true fair market value, especially in areas with infrequent sales. A free appeal to Smyth County's assessor can verify your home's valuation and potentially lower your annual bill further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Smyth County

via CostByCounty

Smyth County's Rental Advantage

Smyth County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio matches Scott County's, offering households exceptional affordability compared to the national average. At just $692 per month, renters here spend roughly 40% less than the national median while earning a median household income of $46,859.

Virginia's Affordability Sweet Spot

Smyth County ties with Scott as one of Virginia's most affordable counties, with a 17.7% rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average of 18.6%. This consistent value positions Smyth as a genuine refuge for budget-conscious families statewide.

Southwest Virginia's Affordable Trio

Smyth County's $692 rent matches the affordability profile of neighboring Scott County, creating a cluster of exceptionally low-cost housing in Southwest Virginia. Moving northeast toward Shenandoah County ($968 rent) or further to Spotsylvania ($1,733) reveals how dramatically costs rise outside this affordable corridor.

Compact Housing Costs

Smyth County renters spend $692 monthly while homeowners pay $491—an unusually tight spread reflecting the county's overall affordability. With median home values of $125,800, both paths to housing security remain within reach for the $46,859 median household income.

Smyth County: Affordability Meets Community

If budget is your primary relocation driver, Smyth County stands among Virginia's most accessible options with rents under $700 and homes near $126,000. Test your affordability assumptions by comparing these costs to your current location and other Virginia counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Smyth County

via IncomeByCounty

Smyth County significantly trails national earnings

Smyth County's median household income of $46,859 falls 37.3% short of the nation's $74,755 median. This substantial gap reflects the economic realities of rural Southwest Virginia, where post-industrial decline has reshaped employment and wage opportunities.

Among Virginia's lower-income counties

Smyth County earns $28,098 less than Virginia's state median of $74,957 and falls $9,786 below the state per capita average. The county's income profile aligns with other struggling southwestern Virginia communities, signaling regional economic challenges.

Comparable to nearby rural counties

Smyth County's $46,859 income nearly matches Scott County's $45,136, reflecting shared economic struggles in the region. Both counties significantly lag coastal and northern Virginia areas, where proximity to Washington D.C. and major metros supports higher incomes.

Strong housing affordability cushions tight budgets

Smyth County's 17.7% rent-to-income ratio demonstrates excellent housing affordability, allowing households to allocate more income to savings and essentials. A median home value of $125,800 is achievable for households earning $46,859, particularly with support programs for first-time homebuyers.

Low housing costs create wealth-building opportunity

Smyth County residents benefit from some of the state's most affordable housing, freeing cash for financial security and growth. Work with local credit unions and community banks to develop savings plans, explore first-time homebuyer programs, and build assets despite modest incomes.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Smyth County

via CrimeByCounty

Smyth County outperforms national safety benchmarks

Smyth County maintains a total crime rate of 1,399.4 per 100,000 residents, which sits significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns an impressive safety score of 97.8 out of 100. This indicates a high level of security relative to other communities across the United States.

Strong safety standing in Virginia

With a safety score of 97.8, Smyth County ranks above the Virginia state average of 97.3. Its total crime rate of 1,399.4 per 100,000 is also notably lower than the state average of 1,728.8. These figures demonstrate that the county remains a safer-than-average option within the Commonwealth.

Favorable comparisons to regional averages

Smyth County's crime rate of 1,399.4 is much lower than the national average and holds its own against Virginia's regional trends. While neighboring counties vary, Smyth’s safety score remains consistently high. The data indicates that local residents face fewer reported crimes than many of their urban counterparts.

Low violent crime defines local safety

Violent crime in Smyth County occurs at a rate of 167.8 per 100,000, which is less than half the national rate of 369.8. Property crime accounts for the majority of local incidents at 1,231.6 per 100,000 residents. Most interactions with the justice system involve property issues rather than physical confrontations.

Prioritizing property security in Smyth

Since property crimes make up over 87% of local reports, residents should focus on basic home security measures. Simple steps like outdoor lighting and secure locks address the most common risks in the county. Staying informed about local trends helps maintain this community's strong safety profile.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Smyth County

via HealthByCounty

Smyth County Faces Critical Health Crisis

At 70.8 years, Smyth County's life expectancy is the lowest among Virginia's counties and trails the U.S. average by 8.1 years. Nearly 1 in 4 residents (23.6%) report poor or fair health, far exceeding the national rate of 16%—a troubling indicator of widespread health challenges.

Ranks Among Virginia's Least Healthy Counties

Smyth County's 70.8-year life expectancy falls 4.3 years below Virginia's state average of 75.1 years, placing it at the bottom of the state's health rankings. The 23.6% poor health rate is among the highest in Virginia, signaling a public health emergency.

Significantly Behind Surrounding Counties

Smyth County's life expectancy lags Scott County by 2.6 years and Shenandoah County by 5.8 years, despite offering the highest primary care provider density (51 per 100K) in its region. This disparity suggests that provider supply alone cannot address the county's deeper health challenges.

Provider Access Exists; Health Outcomes Still Suffer

Smyth County's 7.9% uninsured rate matches Virginia's state average, yet the county supports 51 primary care providers and 226 mental health providers per 100K—among the highest in the state. Despite robust supply, the county's poor health outcomes suggest systemic barriers to care utilization or underlying socioeconomic challenges.

Take First Step Toward Better Health

Whether insured or uninsured, Smyth County residents deserve access to quality healthcare. Visit healthcare.gov to verify coverage or explore Medicaid options; local community health centers also offer services regardless of insurance status.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Smyth County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Schooling in Smyth County

Smyth County operates 15 public schools, including seven elementary and four high schools. Two districts manage the education of 3,981 local students across a mix of town and rural campuses.

Outperforming State Averages in Graduation

Smyth County delivers a 91.0% graduation rate, beating both the state and national averages. The county's school score of 55.3 is supported by a per-pupil expenditure of $7,577.

Local Focus via Smyth County Public Schools

Smyth County Public Schools is the primary district, educating all 3,981 students across 14 schools. There are zero charter schools, maintaining a tradition of centralized public education.

A Mix of Rural and Town Learning

The county features nine rural schools and six schools in town settings, averaging 306 students per campus. Marion Senior High is the largest institution with 638 students, followed by Chilhowie Elementary with 543.

Invest in a Community Focused on Success

With graduation rates exceeding 90%, Smyth County is a smart choice for families who value academic results. Explore residential options in Marion or Chilhowie to secure a place in these high-performing school zones.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Smyth County

via RiskByCounty

Smyth County faces moderate national risk

Smyth County scores 57.79 with a Relatively Low rating, running 24.5 points above Virginia's state average of 33.27. The elevation reflects particular vulnerability to earthquakes and hurricanes, though floods and wildfires also pose measurable threats.

Upper-middle risk tier in Virginia

Smyth County ranks among Virginia's more exposed counties at 57.79, placing it well above most Commonwealth communities. The rating reflects the intersection of Appalachian seismic activity and weather system exposure.

Comparable risk to Shenandoah County

Smyth County's 57.79 score closely mirrors Shenandoah County's 59.83, though the two counties face different top hazards. Shenandoah's hurricane risk (80.14) far exceeds Smyth's (57.99), while Smyth's flood exposure (61.90) runs slightly lower.

Earthquakes and hurricanes lead threats

Earthquake risk at 61.51 represents Smyth County's dominant hazard, reflecting the county's position in Virginia's seismic zone. Hurricane risk at 57.99 and flood risk at 61.90 form a secondary tier of concern, while wildfire risk remains manageable at 31.27.

Add earthquake insurance to your policy

Smyth County residents should prioritize earthquake insurance; at 61.51 risk, coverage gaps in standard homeowners policies could prove costly. Flood insurance also deserves consideration, particularly for properties in low-lying or riparian zones, given the 61.90 flood risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Smyth County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Climate in the Highlands

Smyth County maintains an average annual temperature of 53.9°F, placing it right in line with the national median for temperate zones. While its temperature is typical for the U.S., its annual precipitation of 48.1 inches is higher than many other mid-latitude counties.

Cooler Than the Virginia Average

Smyth County sits roughly 2 degrees cooler than the Virginia state average of 55.9°F. This lower temperature profile reflects its high-elevation position in the Blue Ridge Mountains compared to the warmer coastal plains.

Milder Than Its Neighbors to the West

Compared to neighboring Tazewell County, which averages just 51.4°F, Smyth County enjoys slightly milder conditions. However, it receives nearly 48 inches of rain, making it wetter than some of its northern Shenandoah Valley neighbors.

Moderate Summers and Snowy Winters

Summers are comfortable with a July average of 73.1°F and only 11 days per year reaching 90°F. Winters bring a significant 10.3 inches of snowfall and an average January temperature of 33.7°F.

Preparedness for Mountain Weather

Residents should prioritize efficient home heating, as winter lows frequently dip during the December to February season. Given the 48 inches of annual rain, high-quality drainage systems and reliable rain gear are essential for local life.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Smyth County

via SoilByCounty

Top-Tier Soils of Smyth County

With a soil score of 48.4, Smyth County boasts some of the highest quality soil in the Commonwealth. The average pH of 5.51 is significantly more balanced than the state average of 5.23, though it remains below the national 6.5 median. This taxonomic profile indicates a healthy, resilient foundation for local ecosystems.

The Perfect Texture for Farming

The soil contains 43.4% silt and 34.3% sand, creating a silty loam-like feel that is easy to till. A 19.2% clay fraction provides just enough structure to hold onto nutrients without sacrificing drainage. This blend is highly sought after for its versatility in both agriculture and landscaping.

Superior Water Storage Capacity

The available water capacity of 0.163 in/in is among the best in the state, far exceeding the 0.143 average. Organic matter is also high at 3.63%, providing a deep well of nutrients for crops. These factors combine to create a highly productive environment that resists drought better than neighboring areas.

Efficient Water Management

Though specific drainage classes aren't listed, the high silt and water capacity suggest a soil that manages moisture effectively. It captures rainfall efficiently for plant use rather than allowing immediate runoff. This makes Smyth County soils reliable for both small-scale gardens and large farms.

A Gardener’s Dream in 7a

The combination of high water capacity and 3.63% organic matter makes Smyth County a premier spot for gardening. These soils support a wide range of vegetables and fruit trees within Hardiness Zone 7a. Grab your shovel and start planting in one of Virginia's best-rated soil zones.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Smyth County

via LawnByCounty

A Top Choice for Virginia Lawns

Smyth County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 66.6, one of the higher ratings in the state. This score places the county well above both the national median (50.0) and the Virginia average (55.4). For Zone 7a homeowners, this means a significantly easier path to a green, healthy yard.

Ideal Rainfall for Easy Maintenance

With 48.1 inches of annual precipitation, Smyth County sits right in the sweet spot for turfgrass health. The county only sees 11 extreme heat days a year, which prevents the grass from going into heat-induced dormancy. This cooling effect, combined with 3,322 growing degree days, ensures a productive and manageable growing season.

Addressing Soil Acidity in Smyth

The soil pH of 5.51 is somewhat low, requiring a steady regimen of lime to reach the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. A texture of 34.3% sand and 19.2% clay provides adequate structure for root growth and air movement. Regular soil testing helps you determine exactly how much amendment is needed to support your specific grass type.

Weathering Periodic Dry Conditions

While 100% of the county is currently abnormally dry, Smyth only saw 19 weeks of drought over the past year. This is relatively low compared to other parts of the state, but vigilance is still required during summer months. Using a rain gauge ensures you hit the target of one inch of water per week during dry spells.

Maximize Your Growing Season

The period between the April 23 spring frost and October 20 fall frost offers a stable window for lawn activities. Planting cool-season mixes in early September allows for root development before the ground chills. Your Zone 7a climate is perfectly suited for fine fescues and bluegrass blends.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smyth County's county score?
Smyth County, Virginia has a composite county score of 56.8 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 Smyth County rank among counties in Virginia?
Smyth County ranks #40 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 Smyth County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Smyth County is $766, with an effective tax rate of 0.61%. This earns Smyth County a tax score of 73.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Smyth County?
The median household income in Smyth County, Virginia is $46,859 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Smyth County earns an income score of 9.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Smyth County, Virginia a good place to live?
Smyth County scores 56.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #40 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Smyth 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 Smyth 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.