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Taylor County, West Virginia — County Report Card

WV

#16 in West Virginia

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
67.8
County Score
Cost of Living 86.2Safety 84.3Property Tax 83.3

County Report Card

About Taylor County, West Virginia

A National Leader in Livability

Taylor County earns a 67.8 composite score, far surpassing the 50.0 national median. It offers a well-rounded set of high scores that appeal to a broad range of residents.

Outperforming Most West Virginia Counties

The county’s score is well above the state average of 62.0, establishing it as a premier location. High safety and solid infrastructure help it stand out in the regional landscape.

Superior Safety and Strong Infrastructure

A safety score of 84.3 makes it one of the most secure counties in the state. It also features a respectable water score of 60.6 and a cost score of 86.2, with median rent at $672.

Room for Health and Schools

Health and school scores of 36.6 and 48.8 respectively are the county's primary areas for improvement. Strengthening these sectors would elevate the county to even higher national percentiles.

The All-Around Choice for Families

Taylor County is an excellent fit for active families who prioritize a safe community and stable infrastructure. The $56,807 median household income goes further here than in most other counties.

Score breakdown

Tax83.3Cost86.2Safety84.3Health36.6Schools48.8Income29.8Risk76.5Water60.6Weather68
🏛83.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠86.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼29.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡84.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤36.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧60.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱74.7
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

Barbour County
West Virginia
62.8
Marion County
West Virginia
54.4
Harrison County
West Virginia
56.3
Monongalia County
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Preston County
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Tucker County
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Doddridge County
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Upshur County
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Deep Dives

Taylor County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Taylor County

via TaxByCounty

Taylor's rate edges above U.S. average

Taylor County's 0.527% effective tax rate slightly exceeds the national median of 0.73%—no, that's incorrect; let me revise: it sits modestly above some national comparisons but below many high-tax states. The median annual tax of $759 remains less than one-third the national median of $2,690, reflecting lower property values nationwide.

Above average within West Virginia

Taylor County's 0.527% rate ranks it above West Virginia's state average of 0.497%, placing it in the upper-middle tier of the state's counties. The median tax of $759 also exceeds the state median of $699, indicating a moderately higher tax burden regionally.

Moderately high for the area

Taylor's 0.527% rate exceeds Raleigh (0.514%), Roane (0.444%), and Summers (0.304%), but trails Ritchie (0.649%). Within the eight-county region, it ranks in the upper half, closer to the higher-tax end than the lower.

Expect $759 annually

On a median home value of $144,000, Taylor County residents pay approximately $759 per year in property tax. With mortgage costs added, the annual burden reaches $951; without a mortgage, the base tax is $523.

Challenge inflated assessments

Taylor County homeowners should verify their assessed values against recent comparable sales in the area, as overassessment is often overlooked. If your property's assessed value appears excessive, filing an appeal with the county could reduce your annual tax obligation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Taylor County

via CostByCounty

Taylor balances modest income with low costs

Taylor County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.2% sits comfortably below the national average of roughly 15%, despite median income of $56,807 remaining 24% below the national median of $74,755. Monthly rent of $672 is genuinely affordable for the region.

Taylor ranks among state's most affordable

At 14.2%, Taylor's rent-to-income ratio is one of West Virginia's best, beating the state average of 16.9%. Median rent of $672 runs just $88 below the state average, making Taylor a solid middle option statewide.

Taylor offers competitive rental pricing

Taylor's $672 rent sits between the bargains of Ritchie ($583) and Roane ($590) and the pricier counties like Raleigh ($847). Homeownership costs of $602 monthly rank reasonable by region standards.

Housing is lean but manageable for income

Renters spend $672 monthly (14.2% of income), while homebuyers pay $602 on properties worth $144,000. This balanced profile leaves substantial income for other expenses while maintaining affordable homeownership paths.

Taylor combines affordability with stability

Taylor County offers among the state's best rent-to-income ratios with a relatively healthy median income of $56,807. It's an attractive relocation choice if you seek affordable housing without sacrificing income potential or community services.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Taylor County

via IncomeByCounty

Taylor County narrows national income gap

Taylor County's median household income of $56,807 outpaces most West Virginia counties and narrows the gap to the national median of $74,755 to roughly $18,000. The county's stronger per capita income of $31,241 suggests more balanced household earnings.

Taylor leads state income rankings

At $56,807, Taylor County exceeds West Virginia's median of $54,746 and ranks among the state's highest-income counties in this group. The county's economic profile positions it as a regional leader in household earning power.

Taylor competes with Tyler County

Taylor County's income of $56,807 nearly matches neighboring Tyler County ($58,293), with both counties significantly outpacing peers like Roane ($45,194) and Summers ($42,544). The proximity in earnings suggests similar, stronger employment bases.

Rent burden just 14.2% of income

Taylor County's rent-to-income ratio of 14.2% ranks among the region's most affordable, allowing households to allocate substantial income beyond housing. At a median home value of $144,000, homeownership remains accessible to middle-income families.

Invest aggressively for long-term growth

With a median household income of $56,807 and a low rent burden of 14.2%, Taylor County residents have capacity to maximize retirement savings and index fund investments. Families should consider increasing 401(k) contributions and opening education savings accounts (529 plans) for children.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Taylor County

via CrimeByCounty

Taylor County Ranks Among Safest Nationally

Taylor County delivers an elite safety score of 99.4, driven by a total crime rate of just 367.4 per 100,000. This rate is a small fraction of the national average of 2,385.5.

Top-Tier Safety Performance in WV

Ranking as one of the safest counties in West Virginia, Taylor stays well below the state average crime rate of 949.0. Its violent crime rate of 48.2 is significantly lower than the state mark of 213.9.

Taylor County vs. Regional Peers

Taylor outperforms neighboring Tyler County (755.7) and Ritchie County (905.1) by a wide margin. It stands as one of the top-tier safety performers in the entire region.

Violent Crime is Extremely Rare

Violent crime is rare at 48.2 per 100,000, while property crime stays low at 319.2. Most local activity involves minor property issues rather than serious threats to personal safety.

Peace of Mind for Residents

Even with low local crime, a basic home security system provides peace of mind against transit-related theft. Always secure outdoor equipment and bicycles to prevent quick opportunistic thefts.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Taylor County

via HealthByCounty

Taylor performs near national health standards

At 73.6 years, Taylor County's life expectancy closely approaches the U.S. average of 75.1 years, placing it among West Virginia's healthier counties. With 26.5% reporting poor or fair health, the rate exceeds the national average but reflects manageable chronic disease burden.

Taylor leads West Virginia's health rankings

Taylor's life expectancy of 73.6 years outpaces the state average of 72.2 years by 1.4 years, making it a relative bright spot. Its uninsured rate of 7.5% nearly matches the state average, suggesting stable health insurance access.

Taylor competes with the region's best

Taylor's 73.6-year life expectancy ranks among the higher end of this eight-county set, trailing only Tucker County (75.1 years) and Tyler County (74.8 years). The county demonstrates that even rural West Virginia communities can achieve near-national health benchmarks.

Primary care scarcity despite good health outcomes

Taylor has only 24 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—a critical shortage—yet maintains relatively good health outcomes and a 7.5% uninsured rate. Mental health capacity at 67 per 100K is tight, potentially limiting behavioral health access for residents.

Maintain your coverage for sustained health

Taylor County's solid health profile reflects stable insurance access, but 7.5% of residents remain uninsured. Renew your coverage annually and explore marketplace options to protect your family's health and financial security.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Taylor County

via SchoolsByCounty

Taylor County's public school system

Taylor County operates five public schools catering to 2,213 students within one school district. The system is comprised of three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.

Strong graduation rates and solid scores

With a 92% graduation rate, the county consistently outperforms the national average. Despite a lower per-pupil expenditure of $6,701, Taylor County maintains a school score of 53.9, which is higher than the national median.

Taylor County Schools leads the area

Taylor County Schools manages all 2,213 students, and the county currently has no charter schools. Taylor County Middle School is the largest facility in the district, serving 685 students.

A balance of town and country

The school landscape is split between three rural campuses and two town-based locations, averaging 443 students per school. Enrollment ranges from 685 at the middle school to 122 at Flemington Elementary.

Discover homes near Taylor County schools

Taylor County's blend of town and rural schools provides families with diverse options for their children's education. Search for local listings to find a home in a district with graduation rates that exceed national trends.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Taylor County

via RiskByCounty

Taylor ranks among nation's safer counties

Taylor County's composite risk score of 23.51 places it in the very low national risk category, offering residents exceptional protection from natural disasters. Wildfire risk of just 14.92 and minimal tornado exposure at 15.11 contribute to this favorable positioning.

Among West Virginia's safest counties

Taylor County ranks in the lower half of West Virginia's disaster risk with a score of 23.51, significantly below the state average of 49.21. Only a handful of counties in the state offer comparable protection from natural hazard exposure.

Safer than most surrounding areas

Taylor County's 23.51 score is substantially lower than neighboring Randolph County (57.06) and moderately safer than Harrison County peers. The county's low wildfire and tornado exposure make it distinctly protected compared to regional averages.

Flooding is Taylor's main hazard

Taylor County's primary natural disaster concern is flooding at 53.53, which remains moderate compared to state and national standards. All other hazards—wildfire, tornado, earthquake, and hurricane—score well below concerning thresholds.

Comprehensive coverage easily affordable here

Taylor County's low-risk profile means residents benefit from competitive insurance rates and minimal specialized coverage needs. Standard homeowner insurance is typically sufficient, though those in flood-susceptible areas should verify coverage before a weather event threatens.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Taylor County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cooler Temperate Climate

Taylor County averages 51.5°F annually, placing it below the national median of approximately 55°F. This temperate mountain climate provides a distinct four-season cycle typical of the Appalachian region.

Slightly Cooler Than the State Average

The county’s 51.5°F average is over a degree cooler than the West Virginia state average of 52.8°F. This makes it one of the state's more moderate northern counties.

High Rainfall Compared to Neighbors

With 48.6 inches of annual precipitation, Taylor is wetter than the state average of 47.0 inches. It sees significantly less snow than its high-altitude neighbors like Tucker County.

Mild Summers and Snowy Winters

Taylor sees only 4 days of extreme heat above 90°F each year, keeping July averages at a comfortable 71.3°F. Winters bring 25.5 inches of snow and January lows that average 30.0°F.

Prepare for Steady Winter Snow

Residents should prioritize reliable heating for the 32.3°F winter average. While summer cooling needs are low, 48.6 inches of rain requires well-maintained drainage systems.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Taylor County

via SoilByCounty

Acidity defines the regional soil

Taylor County lacks specific local pH data, but the state average of 5.25 suggests a generally acidic profile. This is much lower than the national median of 6.5, which often requires gardeners to use lime for balance. The county's soil score remains unknown without more localized sampling.

Sizing up the soil texture

Specific percentages for sand, silt, and clay are currently missing from the county records. These three components define whether a soil is easy to till or prone to compaction. Understanding your local texture is the first step toward improving soil health in your own backyard.

Strong organic matter potential

West Virginia leads with a high organic matter average of 21.03%, compared to the national average of just 2.0%. This richness supports a state-wide available water capacity of 0.142 in/in. Taylor County likely shares this high-carbon foundation, which is great for building soil life.

Water flow across Taylor County

Drainage classes and hydrologic groups for this county are not currently available in the dataset. This information is critical for managing field runoff and ensuring proper drainage for home construction. Localized testing can help determine if the soil is well-drained or poorly-drained.

Diverse planting in Hardiness Zone 6b

Taylor County is situated in Hardiness Zone 6b, which supports a wide range of temperate-climate plants. From berries to root vegetables, the environment is well-suited for a productive growing year. Don't wait—start planning your garden today to take advantage of the local climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Taylor County

via LawnByCounty

Dependable Success in Taylor County

Taylor County’s 74.7 difficulty score indicates a very hospitable environment for home lawns. This Zone 6b region is much easier to manage than the national average, benefiting from mild temperatures and steady rain.

Mild Temperatures and High Moisture

Annual precipitation of 48.6 inches keeps Taylor County lawns naturally lush throughout the year. With only 4 extreme heat days, you'll spend less time worrying about scorched grass compared to counties further south.

Assessing the Soil Needs

Specific soil metrics are not available for Taylor County at this time. We recommend a simple jar test to check for clay content, ensuring your lawn's drainage can handle the nearly 49 inches of annual rain.

Stable Moisture All Year

The county spent 12 weeks in drought over the last year, which is low for the region. Current data shows the county is entirely free of drought, so standard watering practices should be sufficient for most yards.

Ready for Spring Growth

Kentucky Bluegrass is a favorite for this climate and thrives in the temperate 2,957 growing degree days. Plan to seed after April 26th to avoid the risk of late spring frost damaging new sprouts.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Taylor County's county score?
Taylor County, West Virginia has a composite county score of 67.8 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 Taylor County rank among counties in West Virginia?
Taylor County ranks #16 among all counties in West 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 Taylor County, West Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Taylor County is $759, with an effective tax rate of 0.53%. This earns Taylor County a tax score of 83.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Taylor County?
The median household income in Taylor County, West Virginia is $56,807 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Taylor County earns an income score of 29.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Taylor County, West Virginia a good place to live?
Taylor County scores 67.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in West Virginia. The best way to evaluate Taylor 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 Taylor County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.