countyscore
37.2
County Score
Property Tax 80.6Weather & Climate 63.8Income & Jobs 58

County Report Card

About Washington County, Arkansas

Washington County trails national livability median

Washington County's composite score of 37.2 falls 26% below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the lower third nationally. This gap reflects a mixed profile of strengths and significant challenges.

Below Arkansas state average

Washington County scores 37.2 against Arkansas's state average of 47.9, ranking it among the state's weaker performers. The county underperforms most Arkansas peers despite some individual strengths.

Income and health outcomes are bright spots

Washington County's income score of 58.0 reflects a median household income of $66,426—the highest among these eight counties—enabling stronger purchasing power. Health outcomes at 38.8 are also solid, supporting quality medical services.

Housing costs and safety present obstacles

Washington County's cost score of just 24.4 reflects median rents of $1,005/month and homes valued at $266,000—by far the highest in this group. Safety scores of 15.9 and schools at 29.7 also warrant attention.

Best for affluent professionals accepting tradeoffs

Washington County suits higher-income professionals and families who can afford elevated housing costs and appreciate good health services. Those seeking affordability or prioritizing safe neighborhoods should look elsewhere.

Score breakdown

Tax80.6Cost24.4Safety15.9Health38.8Schools29.7Income58Risk7.7Water55.4Weather63.8
🏛80.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠24.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼58
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡15.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤38.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓29.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡7.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧55.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨44.6
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱51.6
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

Adair County
Oklahoma
45.6
Benton County
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38.7
Crawford County
Arkansas
43.7
Madison County
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Franklin County
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Delaware County
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McDonald County
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Carroll County
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Deep Dives

Washington County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Washington County

via TaxByCounty

Washington County taxes below national median

Washington County's 0.551% effective tax rate sits below the national median of 0.86%, placing it in the lower half of US counties. The median property tax of $1,465 is notably lower than the national median of $2,690, despite Washington County having a median home value near the national average at $266,000.

Highest-taxed county in Arkansas

Washington County's 0.551% effective rate exceeds Arkansas's state average of 0.532%, and its median property tax of $1,465 far exceeds the state median of $705. It ranks among Arkansas's priciest counties for property tax burden, largely due to significantly higher home values.

Highest taxes in this eight-county region

Washington County's 0.551% rate and $1,465 median tax substantially exceed all other counties in this comparison, including Sebastian County ($1,081). The difference reflects Washington County's median home value of $266,000—the highest in the group and approaching the national median.

Expected annual tax on median home

A typical Washington County homeowner with a $266,000 property pays approximately $1,465 annually in property taxes. Mortgage holders typically face about $1,573, while non-mortgage owners pay closer to $1,306.

Higher values mean greater appeal potential

Washington County's higher property values make assessment accuracy especially important—even small percentage overassessments translate into hundreds of dollars annually. Request a professional reassessment to verify your $266,000 home reflects current market conditions and protect your investment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Washington County

via CostByCounty

Washington defies affordability stereotypes

Washington County renters spend 18.2% of income on housing, nearly matching the national average despite rents ($1,005) that far exceed it. This works because median income here is $66,426—11% below the national median but $20,000+ above rural Arkansas peers.

Affordable despite high rents

Washington County's 18.2% rent-to-income ratio sits just above the Arkansas average despite charging $1,005 monthly—$245 above the state median. Fayetteville's economic strength pulls in higher incomes that balance the premium rents.

Expensive but income-justified

Washington County's $1,005 rent and $1,147 owner costs are the region's highest, but median income of $66,426 is also the highest. This creates surprising affordability: residents pay more but earn proportionally more.

Ownership costs more than rent

Homeowners in Washington County pay $1,147 monthly, $142 more than renters—the only county in this set where buying costs extra. The median home value of $266,000 reflects Fayetteville's booming real estate market.

Washington for ambitious relocators

Washington County suits those relocating for higher wages and career growth; its 18.2% affordability ratio holds despite premium prices. If your income will rise in Fayetteville, the investment in higher housing costs pays dividends.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Washington County

via IncomeByCounty

Washington County outpaces national median

Washington County's median household income of $66,426 exceeds the national median of $74,755 by just under $8,300, placing it within 12 percent of the national benchmark. The county ranks among the stronger-performing counties nationally, driven largely by its dynamic Bentonville and Fayetteville economic centers.

State's highest income county

At $66,426, Washington County's median household income significantly exceeds Arkansas's state average of $51,156 by $15,270. The county represents the economic engine of Arkansas, with earning power substantially above the state norm.

Far outearns regional peers

Washington County households earn nearly $20,000 more than Sebastian County ($56,450) and over $24,600 more than Van Buren County ($47,266). The county's robust tech, retail, and professional services sectors create a distinct economic advantage across the region.

Housing demand reflects prosperity

Washington County's rent-to-income ratio of 18.2 percent reflects healthy housing affordability despite the county's rising home values. However, the median home value of $266,000 signals strong real estate appreciation driven by population growth and economic vitality.

Leverage income for legacy wealth

Washington County residents enjoy above-average earnings that create substantial capacity for investment and long-term wealth building. Prioritize retirement account maximization, diversified investment portfolios, and real estate appreciation strategies to transform current income advantage into generational wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Washington County

via CrimeByCounty

Safety Tracks with National Trends

Washington County mirrors national trends with a safety score of 96.3. Its total crime rate of 2,326.0 per 100K is almost identical to the national average of 2,385.5.

Perfectly Matches State Safety Average

The county matches the Arkansas state average safety score exactly at 96.3. Fourteen reporting agencies cooperate to manage public safety in this rapidly growing region.

Safer Urban Alternative to Sebastian

Washington is significantly safer than neighboring Sebastian County, which has a much higher crime rate of 4,516.9. It represents a more secure option in Northwest Arkansas.

Focus on Property Crime Control

The violent crime rate of 304.0 is lower than the state average. However, property crime at 2,022.0 per 100K remains the primary focus for local law enforcement.

Growth Requires New Vigilance

Rapid growth means new neighbors, making smart home tech and doorbell cameras wise investments. Staying informed through local alerts keeps households prepared for any property risks.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Washington County

via HealthByCounty

Washington County leads on life expectancy

At 76.8 years, Washington County's life expectancy exceeds the U.S. average of 76.4 years and ranks among the best in Arkansas. With only 22.1% reporting poor or fair health—well below the national 18% average—the county demonstrates that strong healthcare infrastructure and economic opportunity drive measurable health gains.

Arkansas's healthiest county by far

Washington County ranks at the top of Arkansas counties with a 76.8-year life expectancy—4.5 years ahead of the state average of 72.3 years. The county's 22.1% poor or fair health rate is also among the lowest statewide, reflecting sustained investments in healthcare access and prevention.

A regional health leader

Washington County's 76.8-year life expectancy far outpaces all regional peers; it exceeds Stone County (74.0 years) by nearly 3 years and Sebastian County (73.5 years) by over 3 years. With 80 primary care providers and 429 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, the county maintains the strongest provider network in the region.

Provider strength undermined by insurance gaps

Despite excellent provider availability, Washington County's 14.0% uninsured rate is the highest among the eight counties—reflecting that strong healthcare infrastructure alone doesn't guarantee universal coverage. With 429 mental health providers per 100,000, the county prioritizes behavioral health, supporting mental wellness alongside physical care.

Leverage exceptional local resources

Washington County residents without insurance have access to some of Arkansas's best providers and facilities—yet 14% of residents miss out because of cost. Visit healthcare.gov or contact the Arkansas Department of Human Services to explore Medicaid and marketplace plans; with strong local providers, coverage unlocks exceptional care.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Washington County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive and Diverse Education Hub

Washington County boasts an expansive education system with 70 schools serving 41,915 students across 11 districts. This includes a vast array of 34 elementary, 16 middle, and 14 high schools. As one of the largest systems in the state, it offers unmatched variety in academic programs and settings.

Competitive Spending and Solid Outcomes

The county’s graduation rate of 87.8% exceeds the national average, though it sits slightly below the Arkansas average of 90.3%. Investment is strong, with $6,307 spent per pupil, which is higher than the state-wide median. With a school score of 50.9, the county remains a competitive force in the Arkansas educational landscape.

Springdale and Fayetteville Lead the Region

Springdale School District is a giant in the area, managing 29 schools and 22,745 students. Fayetteville School District also provides extensive options with 16 schools and over 10,000 students. The county features 8 charter schools, representing 11.4% of all campuses and offering significant alternative choices for families.

Urban Centers with Large-Scale Campuses

The county is primarily urban, with 38 schools located in city settings, but it also maintains 23 rural campuses. The average school size is quite large at 607 students, headlined by Fayetteville High School East with 2,685 students. Students here experience a high-energy, diverse environment with access to extensive extracurricular and academic resources.

Discover Vibrant Living Near Top City Schools

Washington County is the place to be for families who want the benefits of large, well-resourced school districts in a growing metro area. From the innovative charters in Springdale to the academic tradition of Fayetteville, school choice is a major draw for the local housing market. Secure your future in a county where education is a top community priority.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Washington County

via RiskByCounty

Washington County faces elevated disaster risk

Washington County's composite risk score of 92.27 is substantially above the national average, marking it as a relatively moderate-risk area and one of America's highest-risk counties. The score reflects significant and widespread hazard exposure across multiple disaster types. Residents here face far greater natural disaster vulnerability than typical Americans.

Highest-risk county in Arkansas

Washington County ranks first among all Arkansas counties with a composite risk score of 92.27, compared to the state average of 55.51. The county faces the greatest combined natural disaster exposure of any Arkansas county by a substantial margin. This exceptional standing reflects extraordinary vulnerabilities across tornadoes, wildfires, and floods.

Dramatically riskier than surrounding counties

Washington County's score of 92.27 far exceeds all adjacent counties, including Sebastian County (86.80) and Van Buren County (50.57). The county's risk exposure is unique in its region, with substantially higher tornado, wildfire, and flood vulnerabilities. This elevated hazard concentration distinguishes Washington County as exceptionally vulnerable within Arkansas.

Tornadoes, wildfires, and floods pose greatest threats

Tornado risk in Washington County reaches 95.36—nearly the nation's highest—creating an extraordinary severe weather threat that dwarfs other hazards. Wildfire risk scores 94.05 and flood risk reaches 90.14, creating a triple threat to homes and property. Together, these three hazards account for the county's exceptional composite risk score.

Invest in comprehensive protection now

Washington County residents should install a safe room or basement shelter immediately given the 95.36 tornado risk—the highest in Arkansas. Homeowners insurance must include comprehensive windstorm, hail, and flood coverage; separate flood insurance through NFIP is essential given the 90.14 flood risk. Wildfire insurance and defensible space maintenance around your property are equally critical given the 94.05 wildfire vulnerability.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Washington County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler and Drier Than the Average

Washington County has an annual average temperature of 57.8°F, making it one of the cooler regions in the state. It also receives 48.5 inches of rain, which is lower than the Arkansas average.

The Cooler Side of Arkansas

The county sits 3.2 degrees below the state average temperature of 61.0°F. It is also significantly drier than the state average, receiving nearly 4 inches less precipitation annually.

Northwest Arkansas Weather Patterns

Compared to White County, Washington County is much more temperate, with only 39 extreme heat days versus White's 76. It also sees more snow, averaging 6.0 inches per year.

Cold Winters and Managed Summers

Winters feature a January average of 36.5°F, while summers are relatively mild for Arkansas at 76.7°F. The county averages only 39 days of temperatures above 90°F.

Ready for Snow and Moderate Heat

Residents should keep snow shovels ready for the 6 inches of annual snowfall. The moderate number of extreme heat days makes this county ideal for outdoor recreation compared to southern Arkansas.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Washington County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Ozark Acidity in Washington County

Washington County maintains an average pH of 5.46, falling just below the Arkansas state average of 5.56. This acidic profile is typical for the region, requiring soil management for those accustomed to the national median of 6.5.

Silty Mix with Moderate Clay Content

The soil contains 46.3% silt and 17.8% clay, offering a good balance between nutrient storage and physical structure. With 33.7% sand, the soil provides enough drainage to prevent the heavy silt from compacting too quickly.

Strong Water Storage and Healthy Organic Levels

At 3.46% organic matter, the soil is healthier than many neighboring counties, though it still sits below the 4.15% state average. The available water capacity of 0.155 in/in is a strength, beating the state benchmark for moisture retention.

Unique Hydrology Near Local Waterways

Dominant soils are classified as subaqueous, reflecting areas that are often saturated or near the water table. While specific hydrologic group data is limited, this suggests a landscape deeply influenced by its proximity to Ozark streams.

Ideal Growing for Zone 7a Favorites

Washington County’s zone 7a climate is famous for apples, berries, and diverse gardens. The soil’s above-average water capacity makes it an excellent choice for a productive home orchard or vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Washington County

via LawnByCounty

Washington County: An Ideal Spot for Lawns

Washington County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 51.6, making it the easiest in this group to maintain. It is more favorable than both the national median of 50.0 and the state average of 37.3. Growing in Zone 7a offers a great environment for a variety of grass types.

Milder Heat and Perfect Precipitation

With only 39 extreme heat days, Washington County is much milder than the state average of 64 days. Its 48.5 inches of annual rain falls perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawn health. This combination makes it much easier to keep turf green without constant intervention.

Correcting Acidity in Local Soils

The soil pH is 5.46, which is acidic and requires lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 range for optimal nutrient uptake. While texture data is unique for the area, the 17.8% clay and 33.7% sand offer a decent balance. Regular testing will help you fine-tune your fertilizer and lime applications.

Monitoring Occasional Dry Spells

Washington County is currently 100% abnormally dry, though only 6.7% is in severe drought. The county experienced 18 weeks in drought over the past year, which is lower than many neighboring counties. This relative stability allows for a more relaxed, but still attentive, watering schedule.

Growing Lush Lawns in Zone 7a

Tall Fescue is a popular and successful choice for this zone, especially given the lower number of extreme heat days. You should aim to plant after the last spring frost on April 15th for the best results. With the favorable difficulty score, your lawn has a great chance to be the best on the block.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Washington County's county score?
Washington County, Arkansas has a composite county score of 37.2 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 Washington County rank among counties in Arkansas?
Washington County ranks #69 among all counties in Arkansas 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 Washington County, Arkansas?
The median annual property tax in Washington County is $1,465, with an effective tax rate of 0.55%. This earns Washington County a tax score of 80.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Washington County?
The median household income in Washington County, Arkansas is $66,426 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Washington County earns an income score of 58/100 on CountyScore.
Is Washington County, Arkansas a good place to live?
Washington County scores 37.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #69 in Arkansas. The best way to evaluate Washington 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 Washington County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.