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Tyrrell County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#18 in North Carolina

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55
County Score
Cost of Living 85.7Schools 85.7Weather & Climate 73.7

County Report Card

About Tyrrell County, North Carolina

Beating the National Median

Tyrrell County earns a composite score of 55.0, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This rural county performs surprisingly well on the national stage despite its smaller population.

A Top Performer in North Carolina

With a 55.0 score, Tyrrell significantly outperforms the North Carolina state average of 44.7. It stands out as one of the more livable rural options in the eastern part of the state.

Affordable Living and Strong Schools

The county excels with high scores in both cost (85.7) and schools (85.7). Residents enjoy a very low median rent of $612 and a median home value of $138,400.

Economic Growth and Health Hurdles

The income score of 6.0 reflects a modest median household income of $43,952. Health and safety scores also trail the leaders, suggesting room for improvement in community services.

Ideal for Budget-Conscious Families

Tyrrell is a perfect match for families and retirees seeking high-quality schools and exceptionally low housing costs. It rewards those who value quiet, affordable rural living.

Score breakdown

Tax45.7Cost85.7Safety32.3Health37.7Schools85.7Income6Risk54Water44.5Weather73.7
🏛45.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠85.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡32.3
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤37.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓85.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡54
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧44.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤73.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨62.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱33.5
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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Deep Dives

Tyrrell County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Tyrrell County

via TaxByCounty

Tyrrell taxes run higher than most

Tyrrell's effective tax rate of 0.891% sits well above the national median of 0.712%, putting it in the top quarter of counties nationwide. While residents pay a median $1,233 annually—less than the national median of $2,690—they do so on homes worth far less, meaning the tax burden relative to home value is steeper here.

Above average for North Carolina

At 0.891%, Tyrrell's effective rate exceeds North Carolina's state average of 0.701% by 27%, ranking it among the higher-taxed counties statewide. The county's median tax of $1,233 falls below the state median of $1,433, reflecting lower home values rather than lower rates.

Tyrrell outpaces nearby coastal peers

Tyrrell's 0.891% rate tops Washington County (1.123%, highest in the region) and Vance County (0.806%), though it trails Watauga's remarkably low 0.415%. Among Eastern NC counties, Tyrrell residents face a substantial tax burden relative to regional peers.

A $138,400 home costs $1,233 yearly

The typical Tyrrell homeowner with a median-valued home of $138,400 pays approximately $1,233 in annual property taxes at the county's 0.891% rate. Those with mortgages pay an estimated $1,588 per year, while owners without mortgages pay around $907.

Challenge your assessment today

Many Tyrrell County homeowners are unknowingly overassessed and could reduce their tax bills through a formal appeal. Contact your county assessor's office to request a reassessment if your home's valuation seems out of line with comparable properties in your area.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Tyrrell County

via CostByCounty

Tyrrell's Rent Burden Beats National Trend

At 16.7%, Tyrrell County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend a smaller share of earnings on housing. The county's median rent of $612 per month is also notably affordable compared to the national context where median household incomes reach $74,755 versus Tyrrell's $43,952.

Most Affordable Rents in North Carolina

Tyrrell ranks among North Carolina's most affordable counties for renters, with a 16.7% rent-to-income ratio that beats the state average of 18.6%. The median rent of $612 undercuts the state average of $938 by 35%, making this county a standout for cost-conscious renters.

Eastern NC's Most Budget-Friendly Option

Tyrrell's $612 monthly rent is the lowest in its region, outpacing nearby Washington County ($829) and Vance County ($860). With median home values at $138,400, Tyrrell offers the rare combination of low rents and modest home prices across Eastern North Carolina.

Housing Takes 16.7% of Income Here

Renters in Tyrrell spend roughly $612 monthly while homeowners pay $663, both remarkably low given the county's median income of $43,952. Together, these numbers show housing costs consume just over one-sixth of typical household income, leaving more money for other necessities.

Consider Tyrrell for Maximum Affordability

If housing costs are your primary concern, Tyrrell County delivers the lowest rent-to-income ratio in this comparison at 16.7% and median rents 35% below state average. The tradeoff: this rural county offers limited job markets compared to urbanizing neighbors, so weigh affordability against employment opportunities in your field.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Tyrrell County

via IncomeByCounty

Tyrrell trails national income average

Tyrrell County's median household income of $43,952 falls 41% below the national median of $74,755. This income gap reflects economic challenges common in rural Eastern North Carolina counties, where fewer high-wage job opportunities exist than in urban centers.

Among North Carolina's lowest earners

Tyrrell ranks near the bottom of North Carolina's 100 counties for household income, earning 28% less than the state average of $61,072. Only a handful of counties in the state report lower median household incomes.

Similar to surrounding rural counties

Tyrrell's $43,952 income sits slightly above Washington County ($41,750) and matches the economic profile of other northeastern counties. Neighboring Vance and Warren counties report modestly higher incomes in the $45,000-$47,000 range.

Rent remains affordable here

At 16.7%, Tyrrell's rent-to-income ratio is well below the national benchmark of 30%, meaning renters spend a healthy share of earnings on housing. With a median home value of $138,400, homeownership remains relatively accessible for households earning near the county median.

Build financial security in Tyrrell

Even modest incomes can grow through consistent saving and smart investing. Consider working with a local financial advisor to explore retirement accounts, emergency funds, and long-term wealth-building strategies tailored to rural North Carolina's economy.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Tyrrell County

via CrimeByCounty

Tyrrell County Earns High Marks for Safety

Tyrrell County maintains a robust safety score of 97.5 out of 100, indicating a secure environment for residents. Its total crime rate of 1,593.4 per 100,000 people sits well below the national average of 2,385.5. This data reflects a community that is significantly safer than many rural peers across the country.

Beating the North Carolina Safety Average

Tyrrell's safety score of 97.5 exceeds the North Carolina state average of 96.8. The county's total crime rate of 1,593.4 is also noticeably lower than the state's average rate of 2,050.0. These figures place Tyrrell in a strong position within the state's public safety rankings.

Safer Than Its Coastal Neighbors

When compared to nearby Washington County, which reports a crime rate of 2,008.8, Tyrrell County is considerably safer. While Tyrrell reports 1,593.4 crimes per 100,000 residents, it remains a regional leader in low crime volume. However, because only one agency reports data here, these figures should be interpreted with some caution.

Violent Crime Trends and Property Safety

The county's property crime rate of 1,150.8 is significantly lower than the national average of 2,015.7. Conversely, the violent crime rate of 442.6 is slightly higher than the national benchmark of 369.8. This suggests that while theft is rare, local law enforcement remains focused on interpersonal safety.

Securing Your Tyrrell County Property

Even with property crime rates below national averages, staying vigilant helps maintain this safety trend. Investing in basic home security, such as motion-activated lighting or smart cameras, provides peace of mind. Local residents can further protect their homes by participating in community watch programs.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Tyrrell County

via HealthByCounty

Tyrrell outlives the nation

At 76.0 years, Tyrrell County residents live longer than the U.S. average of 73.4 years—a notable edge of 2.6 years. Yet one in five residents report poor or fair health, suggesting life length doesn't always mean life quality. These residents beat national odds, but hidden health challenges persist.

Above average in a healthy state

Tyrrell's 76.0-year life expectancy exceeds North Carolina's state average of 74.4 years by 1.6 years, placing it in the healthier tier of NC counties. However, its 20.1% poor/fair health rate sits above the state's typical burden of chronic disease. The county is punching above its weight in longevity but facing real daily health struggles.

Eastern NC's mixed health picture

Compared to nearby counties, Tyrrell holds its ground: it outlives Warren (73.0 years) and Washington (71.2 years) by several years, though trails Watauga (79.4 years) and Union (78.5 years). Its 20.1% poor/fair health rate sits between its healthier and more burdened neighbors. Mental health support is available at 29 per 100,000 residents, modest compared to state leaders.

Insurance gaps in a rural county

Tyrrell's uninsured rate of 15.7% exceeds the state average of 12.5%, meaning roughly one in six residents lack health coverage. Primary care provider data is unavailable, but the county has 29 mental health providers per 100,000 residents. Rural location and insurance gaps create real barriers to routine care.

Explore health coverage options now

With 15.7% of Tyrrell uninsured, checking eligibility for Medicaid, Marketplace plans, or employer coverage is a vital first step. Visit healthcare.gov or NC's Medicaid website to see what options fit your household. Don't let uninsured status block access to the care that could extend and improve your life.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Tyrrell County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Close-Knit School Infrastructure

Tyrrell County operates a focused education system with 3 total public schools serving 499 students. The infrastructure consists of one elementary, one middle, and one high school managed by a single district. This streamlined setup ensures every student is accounted for within a small community environment.

High Graduation Rates and Local Investment

The county boasts an impressive 95.0% graduation rate, significantly outperforming both the state average of 88.0% and the national average of 87.0%. While the $9,655 per-pupil expenditure is below the national average of $13,000, it remains well above the North Carolina state average of $6,969. The county's school score of 61.9 also exceeds the state and national medians.

Unified Under Tyrrell County Schools

Tyrrell County Schools is the sole district in the area, managing all 499 students across its three campuses. There are currently no charter schools in the county, meaning the traditional public system serves 100% of the student population. This creates a unified educational experience for all residents.

Small Schools in a Rural Setting

Education here feels personal, with all three schools located in rural settings and an average school size of just 166 students. Columbia High is the largest campus with 199 students, while Columbia Middle is the smallest with 111. Families can expect a quiet, rural atmosphere where teachers and students know one another by name.

Find a Home Near Top-Performing Schools

With some of the highest graduation rates in the state, Tyrrell County offers a compelling case for families looking to relocate. Explore local real estate to find a home where small-town values meet strong academic outcomes. School quality remains a top reason to plant roots in this quiet corner of North Carolina.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Tyrrell County

via RiskByCounty

Tyrrell faces below-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 46.02, Tyrrell County ranks as Relatively Low—significantly safer than the national average of around 65. This puts the county in a better position than most American counties when it comes to overall natural disaster exposure.

Among safest counties in North Carolina

Tyrrell's score of 46.02 places it well below North Carolina's state average of 66.72, making it one of the state's lower-risk counties. Most of Tyrrell's neighbors face substantially higher composite risk levels.

Safer than coastal and central peers

Tyrrell scores 46.02 compared to Washington County (59.64) and Watauga County (71.85) nearby. The county's low risk rating reflects its distance from major urban and tornado-prone corridors that affect surrounding regions.

Hurricane and flood risks dominate

Hurricane risk tops Tyrrell's hazard profile at 92.12, followed by flood risk at 68.80—reflecting the county's coastal location in eastern North Carolina. Tornado and earthquake risks remain comparatively low at 21.37 and 18.96 respectively.

Prioritize hurricane and flood coverage

Tyrrell residents should secure flood insurance immediately, as standard homeowners policies exclude water damage. Hurricane-resistant upgrades and a comprehensive evacuation plan are essential given the county's 92.12 hurricane risk score.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Tyrrell County

via WeatherByCounty

A Warm Coastal Profile Above National Norms

Tyrrell County features an average annual temperature of 60.8°F, placing it well above the median for U.S. counties. This coastal environment is characterized by warm air and significant moisture from the surrounding sounds.

Outpacing the North Carolina Temperature Average

At 60.8°F, Tyrrell County is warmer than the state average of 59.3°F. Its annual precipitation of 55.3 inches also exceeds the North Carolina average of 51.5 inches, reflecting its humid coastal position.

Consistency Across the Inner Banks

Tyrrell's climate mirrors its coastal neighbors, though its 31 extreme heat days are fewer than some inland North Carolina counties. The county averages 42.8°F in January, maintaining a slightly warmer winter profile than the central Piedmont.

Hot Humid Summers and Gentle Winters

Summer temperatures average 77.1°F, with 31 days per year crossing the 90°F threshold. While snowfall data is limited for this coastal area, the mild 44.2°F winter average suggests that frozen precipitation is a rare event.

Focus on Cooling and Moisture Management

Homeowners should prioritize efficient HVAC systems to handle 31 days of extreme heat and high coastal humidity. Given the 55.3 inches of annual rain, maintaining clear gutters and elevated structures is a practical necessity for the local climate.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Tyrrell County

via SoilByCounty

Highly Acidic Coastal Lowlands

Tyrrell County features highly acidic soil with an average pH of 4.66, significantly lower than the national median of 6.5. This measurement even falls below the North Carolina state average of 5.14, indicating a specialized environment for native flora. While taxonomic data is limited here, the acidity suggests a high presence of organic acids common in coastal plains.

A Sandy and Silty Blend

The soil composition consists of 40.5% sand and 30.0% silt, creating a mix that offers moderate workability. With only 10.6% clay, these soils generally lack the heavy compaction found in the Piedmont. This balance allows for decent aeration while the high silt content provides a smooth texture for root expansion.

Exceptional Organic Matter Levels

Tyrrell County boasts a remarkable 16.51% organic matter, dwarfing the national average of 2.0% and the state average of 5.12%. This rich carbon content drives an impressive Available Water Capacity of 0.209 in/in. Such high fertility creates a soil score of 62.9, more than double the North Carolina average of 29.4.

Hydrology in the Coastal Plain

Specific drainage and hydrologic group data are currently unavailable for this county profile. However, the high water capacity suggests the soil holds moisture effectively, which is vital for the region's agricultural stability. Local growers should monitor site-specific saturation levels given the high organic content and coastal elevation.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 8b

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 8b, Tyrrell County is ideal for blueberries and other acid-loving crops that thrive in high organic matter. The long growing season and nutrient-dense soil provide a unique advantage for coastal gardening. Start your garden today by selecting plants that love rich, moist, and acidic conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Tyrrell County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Conditions Create a Tough Lawn Challenge

Tyrrell County presents a significant challenge for homeowners with a lawn difficulty score of 33.5, which is notably lower than the national median of 50.0. Its coastal Hardiness Zone 8b provides plenty of warmth, but residents find it more difficult to maintain green space here than in many other parts of the state.

High Rainfall and Mild Heat Patterns

The county receives 55.3 inches of annual precipitation, exceeding the ideal lawn range of 30-50 inches. With 31 extreme heat days and 4,853 growing degree days, the climate supports long periods of growth, though excess moisture can lead to fungal issues.

Overcoming Highly Acidic Soil Barriers

The soil is extremely acidic with a pH of 4.66, falling far short of the 6.0-7.0 range preferred by most grasses. While specific drainage data is unavailable, the mix of 10.6% clay and 40.5% sand requires significant lime applications to balance the chemistry for healthy roots.

Recent Dry Spells Impact Turf Health

Tyrrell County spent 26 weeks in drought over the last year, and currently, 100% of the area is considered abnormally dry. To preserve turf during these dry windows, homeowners should water deeply and infrequently rather than providing light daily sprinkles.

Start Strong with Warm-Season Grasses

Given the Zone 8b climate, warm-season varieties like St. Augustine or Bermuda are the most reliable choices. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on March 29th to ensure the lawn establishes before the summer heat arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tyrrell County's county score?
Tyrrell County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 55 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 Tyrrell County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Tyrrell County ranks #18 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 Tyrrell County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Tyrrell County is $1,233, with an effective tax rate of 0.89%. This earns Tyrrell County a tax score of 45.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Tyrrell County?
The median household income in Tyrrell County, North Carolina is $43,952 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Tyrrell County earns an income score of 6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Tyrrell County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Tyrrell County scores 55/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Tyrrell 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 Tyrrell 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.