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Warren County, North Carolina — County Report Card

NC

#77 in North Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
36.9
County Score
Cost of Living 66.7Weather & Climate 66Lawn Care 50.4

County Report Card

About Warren County, North Carolina

Rural Challenges at a Glance

Warren County scores 36.9 overall, placing it well below the 50.0 national median. Like many rural areas, it struggles to keep pace with national economic trends.

Trailing the State Average

At 36.9, the county falls nearly 8 points behind the North Carolina average of 44.7. It faces a steep climb to match the livability metrics of the state's urban centers.

Affordability is the Highlight

A cost score of 66.7 makes this one of the more affordable pockets in the region. Median home values are accessible at $124,700, and rent averages $771.

Economic and Health Gaps

Low scores in safety (14.1) and health (18.4) present significant hurdles for residents. The income score of 7.6 reflects a median household earnings of $45,279.

Suited for Fixed-Income Living

Warren is best for those seeking a slow pace of life with minimal housing expenses. It is a viable option for retirees or remote workers who prioritize low costs over local amenities.

Score breakdown

Tax48.9Cost66.7Safety14.1Health18.4Schools37.9Income7.6Risk49.3Water21.7Weather66
🏛48.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠66.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼7.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡14.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤18.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓37.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧21.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤66
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱50.4
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

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33.8
Franklin County
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Mecklenburg County
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Deep Dives

Warren County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Warren County

via TaxByCounty

Warren's tax rate ranks well above median

Warren County's effective tax rate of 0.849% runs 19% higher than the national median of 0.712%, placing it firmly in the upper tier of counties nationwide. The median annual property tax of $1,059 remains far below the national median of $2,690, a reflection of Warren's modest median home value of just $124,700.

Warren tops North Carolina's average

At 0.849%, Warren's effective rate exceeds North Carolina's state average of 0.701% by 21%, ranking it among the state's higher-taxed counties. The median property tax of $1,059 falls well below the state median of $1,433 because of the county's lower home valuations.

Warren among the steepest in region

Warren's 0.849% rate ranks third-highest in the comparison group, trailing only Washington (1.123%) and Tyrrell (0.891%), and significantly exceeding Union (0.614%) and Watauga (0.415%). Eastern North Carolina residents in Warren face notably elevated tax burdens relative to neighbors.

A $124,700 home costs $1,059 yearly

The typical Warren homeowner with a median-valued home of $124,700 pays approximately $1,059 in annual property taxes at the county's 0.849% rate. Those with mortgages pay an estimated $1,226 per year, while owners without mortgages pay around $950.

Challenge inflated property values

Warren County homeowners should consider appealing their assessments, especially given the county's relatively elevated tax rate. An assessment review can help ensure your home's valuation reflects actual market value rather than historical or inflated estimates.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Warren County

via CostByCounty

Warren Renters Stretch Incomes Thinly

Warren County's 20.4% rent-to-income ratio exceeds national norms, and the median income of $45,279 falls 39% below the national average. With median rent at $771, residents allocate more of their earnings to housing than national norms would suggest sustainable.

Above-Average Rent Burden Statewide

Warren County's 20.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks above North Carolina's 18.6% average, placing it among less affordable counties despite modest absolute rent costs. The gap signals tight household budgets relative to local wage levels.

Middle Ground in Eastern NC Markets

Warren's $771 rent sits between affordable Tyrrell ($612) and pricier Washington County ($829), yet the county's median income of $45,279 underperforms both neighbors. This positioning creates above-average affordability pressure despite modest rent levels.

Rent Consumes One-Fifth of Earnings

Warren renters spend $771 monthly (20.4% of income) while homeowners pay $745 (19.8%), showing nearly equal burden regardless of tenure. Both figures exceed comfortable affordability thresholds, leaving limited discretionary income for other necessities.

Warren Works Only With Stable Income

Warren County's $771 rent appears affordable until you factor in the local median income of $45,279, which drives the 20.4% ratio above state average. This county suits only those with secure employment or supplemental income beyond typical area wages.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Warren County

via IncomeByCounty

Warren's income lags far behind

Warren County's median household income of $45,279 falls 39% below the national median of $74,755. Like other rural northeastern counties, Warren's economy struggles with limited job diversity and wage growth.

Among North Carolina's lowest incomes

Warren ranks in the lowest tier of North Carolina counties at $45,279, earning 26% less than the state average of $61,072. Agricultural and small-scale manufacturing form the backbone of the local economy.

Similar struggles with nearby counties

Warren's $45,279 sits between Washington County ($41,750) and Vance County ($46,943), reflecting shared economic challenges across rural North Carolina. All three counties depend on limited industries with modest wage levels.

Housing costs pinch budgets

Warren's rent-to-income ratio of 20.4% is higher than many North Carolina counties, indicating housing consumes a meaningful share of household earnings. A median home value of $124,700 remains accessible, but affordability pressures exist for renters.

Build resilience through planning

Warren County households benefit from community-based financial coaching and microsavings programs. Focus on building emergency funds first, then explore employer retirement plans and matched savings accounts to gradually accumulate long-term wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Warren County

via CrimeByCounty

Warren County Matches National Crime Norms

Warren County reports a total crime rate of 2,446.4, which is slightly above the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a safety score of 96.1 out of 100. This data indicates that safety levels are generally consistent with national trends for rural communities.

Safety Just Below the State Average

Warren County's safety score of 96.1 is slightly lower than the North Carolina average of 96.8. Its total crime rate of 2,446.4 sits above the state average of 2,050.0. Three reporting agencies provide the data that shapes this public safety profile.

Safer than Neighbors to the West

Warren County is significantly safer than neighboring Vance County, where the crime rate is 3,447.7. Residents in Warren experience roughly 1,000 fewer crimes per 100,000 people than those in Vance. This makes Warren a relatively more secure option within its immediate regional cluster.

Analyzing Property Crime and Violence

Property crime in Warren County is 2,063.5, which is very close to the national average of 2,015.7. The violent crime rate of 382.9 is also comparable to the national figure of 369.8. This balance shows that crime in the county is split traditionally between theft and interpersonal incidents.

Securing Your Warren County Home

With property crime rates hovering near national averages, home security is a wise priority. Simple measures like outdoor sensor lights and heavy-duty locks can deter potential burglars. Joining local neighborhood watch groups can help further lower the crime rate by increasing community surveillance.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Warren County

via HealthByCounty

Warren County faces crisis-level health

Warren County residents live just 73.0 years, roughly at the U.S. average of 73.4 but 1.4 years below North Carolina's 74.4 years. A stark 25.2% report poor or fair health—the highest rate among the eight counties—signaling an epidemic of chronic disease and preventable death. Warren faces the most severe health burden in this profile.

NC's second-lowest life expectancy

Warren's 73.0 years ranks second-to-last in North Carolina, just ahead of Vance (70.1 years) and well below the state average of 74.4. Its 25.2% poor/fair health rate is the state's highest among the eight profiled counties. Warren represents a county in health distress, requiring urgent intervention and resource investment.

Critically short on primary care

Warren's crisis point is primary care: just 5 providers per 100,000 residents—the lowest of any county in this profile and a fraction of Union's 69 or Wake's 86. With 117 mental health providers per 100,000, Warren has moderate behavioral health support, but the absence of primary care means residents cannot access basic preventive services. Geographic and workforce isolation drives poor health outcomes.

Uninsured and dangerously under-resourced

Warren's 15.0% uninsured rate exceeds North Carolina's 12.5% average, leaving roughly 1,500 residents without coverage. With only 5 primary care providers per 100,000—essentially no accessible primary care—residents face a perfect storm: no insurance, no nearby doctors, and the state's worst health outcomes. The absence of preventive care infrastructure drives Warren's crisis.

Coverage is your lifeline

In Warren, getting covered is not optional—it's essential. With 15.0% uninsured and virtually no primary care access, Medicaid or Marketplace coverage is your bridge to care. Call 1-800-318-2596 or visit healthcare.gov today to explore coverage; every day without insurance increases your health risk.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Warren County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Rural Learning Centers

Warren County offers a focused public education system consisting of 8 schools serving 1,936 students. The landscape includes 3 elementary, 1 middle, and 3 high schools across 2 districts. This small scale ensures that the school system remains a central pillar of the local rural community.

Educational Investment and Growth

The county spends $8,234 per pupil, which is notably higher than the state average of $6,969. While the graduation rate of 78.2% trails the state average of 88.0%, the school score of 50.0 matches the national median. These figures reflect a county heavily investing resources into its student population.

Local Districts and Tribal Schools

Warren County Schools is the largest district, serving 1,801 students across 7 schools. The county also hosts the Haliwa-Saponi Tribal School, which serves 135 students as its own district. Charter options are available through a single school, making up 12.5% of the county’s total offerings.

The Intimacy of Rural Education

Every school in Warren County is located in a rural setting, providing a consistent environment for all students. The average school size is 242 students, ranging from Vaughan Elementary at 163 to Warren County Middle at 402. This allows for a close-knit feel where students remain in the same peer groups for years.

Discover Rural Living Near Local Schools

Warren County is ideal for families seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with schools that are deeply integrated into the community. With higher-than-average state spending per pupil, the county shows a strong commitment to its young residents. Explore local homes to find a place in this dedicated educational environment.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Warren County

via RiskByCounty

Warren enjoys below-average risk profile

Warren County's composite risk score of 50.76 earns a Relatively Low rating, placing it well below the national average. The county's exposure to natural disasters remains manageable compared to most American counties.

Among North Carolina's safer counties

At 50.76, Warren sits comfortably below North Carolina's state average of 66.72, ranking among the state's lower-risk jurisdictions. The county's location in the northeastern Piedmont provides some natural protection.

Similar profile to nearby counties

Warren (50.76) scores comparably to Vance County (48.38) and significantly better than Union County (89.06). The county's risk level reflects its distance from major tornado corridors and coastal hazard zones.

Hurricanes and floods lead hazard list

Hurricane risk dominates at 84.86, followed by tornado exposure at 57.67 and flood risk at 55.92. All other hazards remain relatively subdued, making wind-driven and water-related events the primary concerns.

Secure flood coverage and wind protection

Warren residents should purchase flood insurance and ensure roof reinforcement against high winds, as these represent the county's primary hazards. Standard homeowners insurance covers wind damage, but separate flood insurance is absolutely necessary.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Warren County

via WeatherByCounty

Warmer Annual Averages than National Median

Warren County maintains an average annual temperature of 59.8°F, placing it above the typical temperature for U.S. counties. This defines a climate with significant summer warmth and moderate winters.

Near the North Carolina State Average

The county's 59.8°F annual temperature is almost exactly in line with the state average of 59.3°F. Rainfall follows a similar trend, with 47.7 inches annually compared to the state's 51.5-inch average.

Notable for Significant Summer Heat

Warren County experiences 50 extreme heat days per year, which is higher than several of its northern and western neighbors. Despite this summer intensity, its July average of 78.6°F remains consistent with regional norms.

Sizzling Summers and Moderate Snowfall

Summer averages 76.6°F, but the 50 days of 90°F+ temperatures define the season. Winter is relatively mild at 43.0°F, though the county receives a respectable 5.5 inches of snow annually.

Equip for Heat Waves and Light Snow

With 50 days of extreme heat, reliable HVAC systems and sun protection are vital for residents. Additionally, the 5.5 inches of annual snowfall suggests that basic winter weather preparations are necessary for the colder months.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Warren County

via SoilByCounty

Mildly Acidic Northern Soils

Warren County features a pH of 5.81, making its soil significantly less acidic than the North Carolina average of 5.14. While still below the national median of 6.5, this higher pH makes it one of the more hospitable counties in the state for nutrient availability. It reflects a slightly different mineralogy than the deeper red clays found elsewhere.

High Sand and Moderate Silt

The soil composition is dominated by 60.3% sand, the highest in this regional group, along with 24.4% silt and 15.3% clay. This creates a very workable, light texture that resists the heavy compaction typical of the Piedmont. This grit is ideal for plants that require excellent aeration around their root systems.

Low Organic Reserves

Warren County has just 1.18% organic matter, which is well below the national 2.0% average. Its Available Water Capacity of 0.129 in/in also sits slightly below the state average of 0.134. Consequently, the soil score of 24.8 reflects a landscape that requires active management to sustain high productivity.

A Naturally Draining Landscape

Detailed drainage data is not available, but the 60.3% sand content suggests that water moves through these soils rapidly. This prevents root rot but can lead to moisture stress during the hot North Carolina summers. Strategic use of cover crops can help improve the soil's ability to hold water over time.

Success in Hardiness Zone 8a

In Zone 8a, Warren County offers a long, warm growing season perfect for watermelons and cantaloupes that love sandy ground. The relatively high pH means you may need less lime than your neighbors to get started. Embrace the sand and start a garden that celebrates the heat of the South.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Warren County

via LawnByCounty

Top-Tier Lawn Potential in Warren

Warren County stands out with a lawn difficulty score of 50.4, making it one of the easiest places in the state to grow grass. This score exceeds both the state and national averages, providing a great starting point for local gardeners.

Warm Summers and Steady Rainfall

The area experiences 50 extreme heat days and 47.7 inches of annual precipitation, which is well-suited for many turf varieties. This climate provides a long growing season that keeps lawns active well into the autumn months.

The Best Natural Soil in the Region

With a pH of 5.81, Warren has some of the most balanced soil in the state, nearing the ideal 6.0 mark. The high sand content of 60.3% ensures excellent drainage, though it may require more frequent light fertilization.

Navigating Severe Dry Periods

Despite having 100% of its area in severe drought (D2+), Warren's sandy soil helps prevent standing water issues. Lawns here have navigated 23 weeks of drought in the past year, making water conservation efforts essential.

Ideal Timing for Zone 8a Growth

Tall fescue and heat-hardy warm-season grasses perform exceptionally well in this county. Start your lawn prep in early April once the risk of frost passes on the 3rd to take advantage of the prime growing window.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Warren County's county score?
Warren County, North Carolina has a composite county score of 36.9 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 Warren County rank among counties in North Carolina?
Warren County ranks #77 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 Warren County, North Carolina?
The median annual property tax in Warren County is $1,059, with an effective tax rate of 0.85%. This earns Warren County a tax score of 48.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Warren County?
The median household income in Warren County, North Carolina is $45,279 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Warren County earns an income score of 7.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Warren County, North Carolina a good place to live?
Warren County scores 36.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #77 in North Carolina. The best way to evaluate Warren 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 Warren 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.