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Stokes County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#4 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
62.4
County Score
Safety 94.8Property Tax 72Cost of Living 67

County Report Card

About Stokes County, North Carolina

Exceeding the National Benchmark

Stokes County achieves a high 62.4 composite score, easily surpassing the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the top tier of counties in the dataset for overall quality of life.

A Statewide Performance Leader

With a score far above the North Carolina average of 44.7, Stokes is a standout performer in the state. It offers a superior combination of safety and financial stability compared to most neighbors.

Elite Safety and Low Tax Burden

The county boasts an exceptional safety score of 94.8, one of the highest in the region. Combined with a tax score of 72.0 and an effective tax rate of 0.620%, it is both secure and affordable.

Room to Improve Education

Despite its overall success, the county's school score sits at 31.4, indicating a need for more investment in local education. The income score of 39.1 also shows room for higher-wage job development.

The Ultimate Safe Haven

Stokes County is the premier choice for families where personal safety and low taxes are the top priorities. It provides a peaceful, secure environment that is becoming increasingly rare in high-growth states.

Score breakdown

Tax72Cost67Safety94.8Health43.9Schools31.4Income39.1Risk60.3Water53.9Weather66.8
🏛72
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠67
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼39.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡94.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤43.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓31.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡60.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧53.9
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨21.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.7
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

Patrick County
Virginia
58.1
Henry County
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51.7
Forsyth County
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33.8
Surry County
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Rockingham County
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Martinsville city
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Yadkin County
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Floyd County
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Deep Dives

Stokes County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Stokes County

via TaxByCounty

Stokes homeowners pay well below nation

Stokes County's effective rate of 0.620% sits below the national median rate, with homeowners paying $1,158 annually versus the national median of $2,690. This tax advantage reflects both rate and home values in the region.

Stokes rates below North Carolina average

At 0.620%, Stokes County undercuts North Carolina's state average of 0.701%, placing it among the state's more tax-friendly counties. Median taxes of $1,158 reflect Stokes's moderate home values.

Stokes aligns with nearby county rates

Stokes's 0.620% rate closely matches Surry (0.621%) and Stanly (0.623%), positioning it squarely in the regional middle tier. Only Swain (0.402%) offers significantly lower rates nearby.

Your annual Stokes tax bill

On a median home valued at $186,800, Stokes homeowners pay approximately $1,158 annually—about $97 per month. With a mortgage, that reaches $1,252; without one, it's $1,038.

Stokes residents can appeal assessments

Across North Carolina, overassessment remains common, and Stokes homeowners can file free appeals if they believe valuations are inflated. Documenting recent comparable sales strengthens your case with the county assessor.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Stokes County

via CostByCounty

Stokes delivers exceptional affordability

Stokes County's rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% is among the lowest in this dataset and substantially better than North Carolina's 18.6% average. With a median household income of $60,039 and rent of just $766/month, Stokes residents enjoy a genuinely comfortable housing situation.

Top-tier affordability in North Carolina

At 15.3%, Stokes County's rent-to-income ratio ranks it among North Carolina's most affordable markets, beating the state average by over 3 percentage points. This strong performance reflects solid incomes ($60,039) paired with below-average rents ($766/month).

Stokes beats most peer counties

Stokes' 15.3% rent-to-income ratio is better than all comparable counties here, including Stanly (16.2%), Surry (15.8%), and Swain (15.5%). The $766 rent is moderate, and the $60,039 median income provides solid financial cushion.

Housing takes just 15 cents per dollar

Stokes renters allocate only 15.3% of their $60,039 income to $766/month rent—among the best ratios regionally. Homeowners benefit similarly, paying $750/month on the same income, with a median home value of $186,800 remaining accessible.

Stokes County: affordability meets stability

Relocating to Stokes County positions you in one of North Carolina's most affordable housing markets while maintaining solid incomes. The 15.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among the state's best—real financial breathing room for working families.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Stokes County

via IncomeByCounty

Stokes income trails national average slightly

Stokes County's median household income of $60,039 falls $14,716 short of the national median of $74,755, representing a roughly 20% gap. This places Stokes in the middle-lower tier nationally, ahead of most rural and struggling counties but behind prosperous suburban and metro regions. The county's economy shows moderate health relative to many rural North Carolina peers.

Stokes slightly below state average rank

At $60,039, Stokes's median household income edges below the North Carolina state average of $61,072 by about $1,000. The county ranks in the upper-middle tier among North Carolina's 100 counties, just shy of statewide parity. This near-average position reflects Stokes's character as a stable, working-class rural county without significant poverty concentrations.

Competitive with piedmont manufacturing belt

Stokes's $60,039 trails Stanly ($61,631) by a narrow $1,600 but exceeds Surry ($56,095) and Rutherford ($49,771) by substantial margins. Compared to Transylvania ($64,523), Stokes lags by $4,500, reflecting the latter's distinct mountain economy. Stokes's income position aligns it with stable, manufacturing-dependent piedmont counties.

Rents affordable, homeownership accessible

Stokes's rent-to-income ratio of 15.3% ranks among the healthiest of all eight counties, signaling genuine housing affordability for renters. The median home value of $186,800 sits within reach for two-income households and those with modest down payments at conventional mortgage rates. This favorable housing ratio leaves meaningful room in household budgets for savings and investment.

Strong position for long-term wealth building

Stokes households earning $60,039 can comfortably save 10–12% of income annually—$6,000–$7,200—for retirement, college, and home equity. The favorable rent-to-income ratio means more households can pursue homeownership and benefit from automatic equity building. Manufacturing employment often includes pension access, further strengthening retirement security when combined with disciplined personal savings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Stokes County

via CrimeByCounty

Stokes County Achieves Perfect Safety Score

Stokes County reports a perfect 100.0 safety score according to 2022 data from two reporting agencies. Its total crime rate of just 4.5 per 100,000 is nearly non-existent compared to the national average of 2,385.5.

The Gold Standard for State Safety

Stokes far exceeds the North Carolina average safety score of 96.8. This minimal level of reported crime makes it one of the most secure counties in the entire state.

A Calm Alternative to Regional Neighbors

While neighboring Surry County reports a crime rate of 1,730.4, Stokes remains exceptionally quiet at 4.5. This low activity level provides a uniquely tranquil environment for residents.

Minimal Property Incidents and No Violent Crime

The county reported zero violent crimes per 100,000 residents in 2022. The entire crime rate consists of a negligible 4.5 property crimes per 100,000 people.

Vigilance Even in Very Safe Areas

Low numbers are great, but maintaining them requires residents to stay aware and report unusual activity. Basic home security measures are still recommended to prevent opportunistic incidents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Stokes County

via HealthByCounty

Stokes approaches national health standards

Life expectancy here reaches 73.7 years, about 3.7 years below the U.S. average of 77.4 years. Health status is relatively positive, with just over one in five reporting poor or fair health—below the national average.

Slightly below North Carolina average

Stokes's 73.7-year life expectancy falls 0.7 years short of the state's 74.4-year average. The county's uninsured rate of 10.4% is notably lower than North Carolina's 12.5%, suggesting strong insurance coverage despite modest health outcomes.

Solid health outcomes, tight provider networks

Stokes's 73.7-year life expectancy matches Surry County and exceeds Rutherford, Sampson, and Scotland, though trails Stanly and Transylvania. With only 27 primary care providers per 100,000—the lowest in the region—care availability is a constraint despite good coverage rates.

Strong coverage, sparse primary care

Stokes leads the cohort with a 10.4% uninsured rate—meaning nearly 9 in 10 residents have coverage. However, only 27 primary care providers per 100,000 serve the county, making appointments and access more challenging despite insurance eligibility.

Keep your coverage active and accessible

Stokes County has excellent insurance uptake at 10.4% uninsured—among the best in the region. Maintain your coverage and register with a primary care provider early; with limited availability, establishing care before you need it is essential.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Stokes County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Close-Knit Public School System

Stokes County provides education for 5,606 students across 19 public schools. The landscape is primarily composed of 11 elementary schools, three middle schools, and five high schools. All schools operate under a single, unified county district, ensuring a cohesive curriculum for all residents.

Consistent Performance and Balanced Spending

The county maintains an 87.0% graduation rate, matching the national average. Spending sits at $6,659 per pupil, which is slightly below the North Carolina state average of $6,969. The composite school score of 51.2 aligns closely with the state average of 52.4, indicating consistent academic quality.

Unified District Serving Local Families

Stokes County Schools manages the entire public education system, with no charter schools currently operating in the area. This unified approach serves 5,606 students and focuses on traditional community schooling. West Stokes High School stands as the largest institution in the county with 785 students.

Small Schools in a Rural Landscape

The county is overwhelmingly rural, with 16 schools in rural settings and three in suburban areas. Stokes County features a very low average school size of just 295 students, offering one of the most intimate learning environments in the state. From Chestnut Grove Middle to King Elementary, students benefit from smaller cohorts.

Experience Intimate, Community-Based Schooling

Stokes County is ideal for families seeking small class sizes and a rural lifestyle without sacrificing academic standards. With no schools exceeding 800 students, the personal attention here is a significant draw for homebuyers. Look for residential properties near your preferred local school to enjoy this tight-knit community feel.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Stokes County

via RiskByCounty

Stokes County has the lowest disaster risk statewide

With a composite risk score of 39.73, Stokes County carries a very low risk rating—among the safest communities in North Carolina and well below the national average. The county's minimal wildfire (16.09) and tornado (35.94) risks are defining strengths.

Stokes ranks as North Carolina's lowest-risk county

Stokes' 39.73 score sits dramatically below the state average of 66.72, making it one of North Carolina's safest communities for natural disasters. Wildfire risk (16.09) is exceptionally low compared to state peers, a rare advantage in the Piedmont.

Stokes offers exceptional safety compared to neighbors

Stokes' 39.73 score is substantially lower than neighboring Surry (73.57), Transylvania (64.25), and Rutherford (72.68), offering residents significantly lower disaster exposure. The county's northwestern location and terrain provide natural protection against multiple hazard types.

Hurricane risk is Stokes' primary concern

Hurricane risk (68.71) is Stokes' highest hazard score, followed by flood risk (57.98) and earthquake risk (53.18)—all moderate by state standards. Tornado (35.94) and wildfire (16.09) risks are exceptionally low, providing meaningful relief compared to surrounding counties.

Standard coverage suffices for Stokes residents

Stokes County residents benefit from exceptionally low disaster risk, so standard homeowners insurance with basic wind coverage typically provides adequate protection. That said, those in mapped flood zones should still consider flood insurance, as Stokes' 39.73 composite risk remains modestly above zero.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Stokes County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate Northern Piedmont Climate

Stokes County averages 57.8°F annually, which is closer to the national median than most of North Carolina. It features four distinct seasons with a noticeable winter presence.

Cooler Than the State Average

The county's average temperature is 1.5 degrees lower than the North Carolina average of 59.3°F. It receives 47.3 inches of precipitation, slightly less than the state average.

Snowier Than Southern Neighbors

Stokes receives 7.4 inches of snow annually, which is significantly higher than Rowan or Stanly. It also enjoys fewer extreme heat days than the counties to its south.

Colder Winters and Moderate Heat

Winter temperatures average 40.1°F, bringing more snow than much of the state. Summers are warm but moderated, with 34 days of extreme heat and a July average of 77.4°F.

Equip for Winter Snow

With over 7 inches of annual snow, residents should keep shovels and winter tires ready. The 34 days of extreme heat also require reliable indoor cooling during the peak of summer.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Stokes County

via SoilByCounty

Weathered Piedmont Ultisols

Stokes County features Ultisols with a pH of 5.29, which is slightly more alkaline than the state average of 5.14. These are old, weathered soils typical of the Piedmont region.

Channery Fine Sandy Loam

The dominant texture is a Channery fine sandy loam, composed of 60.6% sand and 16.8% clay. This provides a gritty yet structured soil that is easy to till while resisting heavy compaction.

Reliable Water for Plants

Organic matter is low at 1.55%, falling below the state benchmark of 5.12%. However, the available water capacity of 0.136 in/in is strong, providing a steady supply of moisture to roots.

Well Drained for Healthy Roots

The soil is classified as well drained and belongs to hydrologic group B. This means it has a moderate infiltration rate, making it excellent for farming and residential gardening without drainage issues.

Diverse Planting in Zone 7b

The 7b hardiness zone is perfect for everything from kale to berries. Take advantage of the well-drained loams in Stokes County and start your garden this season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Stokes County

via LawnByCounty

Stokes County Leads in Growing Ease

Stokes County earns a difficulty score of 51.7, making it easier to maintain a lawn here than in most of North Carolina. This score puts the county just above the national median, offering a more forgiving environment in hardiness zone 7b.

Cooler Summers Benefit Local Turf

With only 34 extreme heat days—below the state average of 38—lawns here suffer less summer burnout. Annual precipitation of 47.3 inches provides a solid foundation, though it is slightly lower than the state average of 51.6 inches.

Working with Well-Drained Sandy Loam

The soil is classified as a well-drained channery fine sandy loam with 60.6% sand. While the 5.29 pH is acidic, the good drainage prevents many root rot issues common in heavier clay soils found elsewhere in the state.

Moderate Drought Challenges for Stokes

The county spent 22 weeks in drought last year, with 70.7% of the area currently facing severe conditions. Because the soil is well-drained, lawns may show drought stress faster, necessitating proactive watering during dry weeks.

Timing Your Stokes County Planting

Tall Fescue thrives in zone 7b and benefits from the 4,161 growing degree days available here. Wait for the last frost on April 11 before major spring work, and prepare for the growing season to wind down by October 30.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stokes County's county score?
Stokes County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 62.4 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 Stokes County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Stokes County ranks #4 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 Stokes County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Stokes County is $1,158, with an effective tax rate of 0.62%. This earns Stokes County a tax score of 72/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Stokes County?
The median household income in Stokes County, North Carolina is $60,039 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Stokes County earns an income score of 39.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Stokes County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Stokes County scores 62.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Stokes 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 Stokes 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.