countyscore
54.5
County Score
Safety 87.8Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 67.8

County Report Card

About Walker County, Georgia

Outperforming the National Standard

Walker County earns a composite score of 55.0, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This score suggests a higher overall quality of life than the typical U.S. county.

A Top Performer in Georgia

With a score of 55.0, Walker significantly outperforms the Georgia state average of 46.7. It stands out as one of the more desirable counties in the northern part of the state.

Exceptional Safety and Water Quality

Safety is a hallmark here, reflected in a high score of 87.8. The county also provides high-quality water resources, earning an 86.0 in that dimension.

Environmental Risks and Low Income

The county faces a low risk score of 28.0, indicating higher vulnerability to natural hazards. Additionally, the income score of 27.4 reflects a modest median household income of $55,887.

Ideal for Secure Family Living

Walker County suits families and individuals who prioritize safety and standard of living above all else. Its strong school score of 56.5 makes it an attractive rural-suburban hybrid.

204060801005543.887.827.556.532.4288667.8Tax55Cost43.8Safety87.8Health27.5Schools56.5Income32.4Risk28Water86Weather67.854.5/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Walker County DNA

Foverall

How Walker County compares to the national average across nine baseline dimensions

Walker County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (87.8/100) but notably weak in Health (27.5/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
55
Cost
43.8
Safety
87.8+32.8
Health
27.5-22.5
Schools
56.5
Income
32.4-18.6
Risk
28-19
Water
86+28
Weather
67.8+11.799999999999997
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Whether buying or refinancing in Walker County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$197,100

National median: $185,300

Median Rent

$940/mo

National median: $877/mo

Income Needed (home)

$197,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$37,600/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.3x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $59,469/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

11.7

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Counties with similar scores

Marshall County
Alabama
Median income: $62,571
54.5
Howard County
Arkansas
Median income: $45,603
54.5
Union County
Florida
Median income: $64,146
54.5
Noble County
Indiana
Median income: $71,723
54.5
Franklin Parish
Louisiana
Median income: $47,020
54.5
Simpson County
Mississippi
Median income: $56,381
54.5
Cole County
Missouri
Median income: $74,876
54.5
Henry County
Tennessee
Median income: $50,613
54.5

Nearby counties

Catoosa County
Georgia
48.7
Dade County
Georgia
64.2
Whitfield County
Georgia
40.5
Chattooga County
Georgia
46.1
Gordon County
Georgia
43.2
Hamilton County
Tennessee
36.1
Murray County
Georgia
59.7
Floyd County
Georgia
37.2

Deep Dives

Walker County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 9 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Walker County

via TaxByCounty

Walker County has exceptionally low tax rates

At 0.778% effective rate, Walker County ranks among the lowest-tax counties in the nation, sitting in the bottom 25% for property tax burden. The median tax of just $1,353 is less than half the national median of $2,690.

Walker ranks among Georgia's most affordable

Walker County's 0.778% rate is notably below Georgia's 0.898% average, making it one of the state's most tax-friendly counties for property owners. At $1,353, the median tax also falls well short of Georgia's $1,529 median.

Walker offers the lowest rates in its region

Walker's 0.778% rate beats all nearby competitors, including Wayne County (0.796%), Upson County (0.886%), and significantly undercuts higher-tax neighbors Ware County (1.011%) and Warren County (1.031%). Walker's advantage is one of the clearest in the region.

Median home tax runs about $1,353 annually

On Walker's median home value of $173,900, your annual property tax runs approximately $1,353. With a mortgage, expect closer to $1,520 once you factor in additional taxes and fees.

Even low-tax counties see overassessment

Walker's competitive tax rate doesn't mean every assessment is correct—overvalued properties still slip through the system. If your home's assessed value doesn't match recent comparable sales in your neighborhood, a formal appeal can provide additional relief.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Income & Jobs in Walker County

via IncomeByCounty

Walker's income gap with the nation

Walker County's median household income of $55,887 is 25% below the national median of $74,755, reflecting the economic realities of northwest Georgia. The county's economy is anchored by regional employers and smaller manufacturing operations.

Below state average, middle of the pack

Walker's median household income trails Georgia's statewide average of $60,488, placing it in the lower-middle tier of Georgia counties. Per capita income of $30,482 is slightly below the state average of $31,115.

Slightly above neighboring Upson

Walker County's $55,887 median income edges out Upson County ($50,904) and outpaces Ware County ($44,833), making it one of the stronger earners in the region. This modest advantage reflects Walker's more diverse regional economy.

Housing costs remain affordable

Walker's rent-to-income ratio of 18.6% is well below the 30% affordability standard, ensuring housing remains accessible for most families. The median home value of $173,900 is reasonable for households earning the county median.

Strategic saving strengthens Walker families

Walker County households should leverage their stable housing costs to redirect savings toward retirement and investment accounts. Starting a workplace retirement plan or Roth IRA, even with modest contributions, builds long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Walker County

via CrimeByCounty

Walker County Ranks Among Nation's Safest

Walker County boasts an exceptional safety score of 99.6, fueled by a total crime rate of just 261.5 per 100,000 residents. This rate is nearly ten times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in Georgia Public Safety

The county far exceeds the Georgia state average safety score of 97.8. Its total crime rate of 261.5 is a fraction of the statewide average of 1,412.9 per 100,000.

Setting the Standard in Northwest Georgia

Walker County provides a highly secure environment compared to neighboring jurisdictions in the Appalachian foothills. Its crime metrics are among the lowest in the region, making it a standout for public safety.

Remarkably Low Violent Crime Rates

The county reports a violent crime rate of only 27.9 per 100,000, well below the national mark of 369.8. Property crime is also minimal at 233.6, highlighting a generally peaceful community environment.

Preserving Your Peace of Mind

While rates are exceptionally low, simple measures like motion-sensor lights and alarm systems help deter opportunistic property crime. Consistent community engagement ensures Walker County remains one of the safest spots in the state.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Weather & Climate in Walker County

via WeatherByCounty

Temperate weather in Northwest Georgia

Walker County sits at an annual average of 60.3°F, making it warmer than the national median but cooler than most of the state. It receives 53.7 inches of precipitation and a light dusting of 0.9 inches of snow.

Cooler than the Georgia state average

The county is cooler than the Georgia average of 63.7°F due to its northern latitude. Its 53.7 inches of rainfall is slightly higher than the state average of 51.4 inches.

Warmer and drier than Union County

Walker is significantly warmer and drier than Union County to the east. While Union sees 60.3 inches of rain, Walker receives a more moderate 53.7 inches.

Mild summer peaks and crisp winters

July highs average 78.5°F with 44 days of extreme heat, which is milder than central Georgia. Winters are crisp, averaging 42.9°F with nearly an inch of annual snowfall.

Prepare for rain and winter frost

Residents should prepare for occasional icy conditions during the 42.9°F winter months. High-capacity gutters are recommended to manage the 53.7 inches of annual rain the county receives.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Walker County

via SoilByCounty

Baseline Soil Characteristics

Specific taxonomic and pH data for Walker County are not currently available in the primary dataset. Local conditions may differ significantly from the national median pH of 6.5, making soil testing essential.

Soil Mineral Components

We lack specific measurements for the sand, silt, and clay ratio in this region. Identifying whether your soil is gritty or sticky helps determine its overall workability and drainage needs.

Fertility and Water Capacity

Data on organic matter and available water capacity are not present in current records. With the state average organic matter at 1.83%, local growers should focus on building soil health through organic amendments.

Assessing Drainage Needs

The dominant drainage and hydrologic classifications are currently unlisted for Walker County. Check your land for standing water to understand its suitability for various agricultural or construction projects.

Diverse Planting in Zone 8a

Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, Walker County offers a versatile environment for gardeners. You can successfully grow everything from blueberries to hardy greens in this favorable climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Walker County

via LawnByCounty

Walker County's favorable lawn score

Walker County scores a 43.9 on the lawn difficulty scale, making it one of the easier spots in Georgia to maintain grass. This score sits well above the state average of 35.8 and approaches the national median of 50.0.

Mild temperatures and ample rain

Residents enjoy a milder climate with only 44 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly lower than the state average of 65. With 53.7 inches of annual precipitation, the environment provides ample natural moisture for your turf.

Optimizing local soil health

Local soil characteristics are currently unavailable, but the 8a hardiness zone suggests a need for well-draining soil preparation. Focus on aeration to help roots penetrate the earth more effectively during the 4,772 growing degree days.

Staying resilient during dry spells

Severe drought affects 99.6% of the county, following 19 weeks of drought conditions over the last year. Implementing water-saving measures like mulch-mowing keeps moisture in the soil even when rain is scarce.

Timing your Walker County lawn

The 8a climate is perfect for Zoysia or Fescue, provided you wait for the last spring frost on April 6. Start your lawn projects early to ensure strong establishment before the November 9 frost deadline.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Walker County's county score?
Walker County, Georgia has a composite county score of 54.5 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 Walker County rank among counties in Georgia?
Walker County ranks #35 among all counties in Georgia 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 Walker County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Walker County is $1,479, with an effective tax rate of 0.75%. This earns Walker County a tax score of 55/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Walker County?
The median household income in Walker County, Georgia is $59,469 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Walker County earns an income score of 32.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Walker County, Georgia a good place to live?
Walker County scores 54.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #35 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Walker 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 Walker County with other counties side by side.
By Evan Brooks, Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.