countyscore
40.2
County Score
Disaster Risk 89.7Property Tax 66.7Weather & Climate 63.4

County Report Card

About Waynesboro city, Virginia

Waynesboro Faces National Quality Gaps

Waynesboro city earns a 40.2 composite score, which sits below the national median of 50.0. The city faces challenges in safety and income that drag down its overall national standing.

Building Toward State Averages

The city trails the Virginia state average of 50.9, ranking in the lower tier of the state's independent cities. High environmental stability remains its main competitive advantage over neighboring regions.

Exceptional Environmental Stability

Residents enjoy great protection from environmental hazards, evidenced by a risk score of 89.7. The tax environment is also favorable, with a score of 66.7 and an effective rate of 0.667%.

Safety and Economic Mobility Hurdles

Safety and economic mobility are the city's primary hurdles, with scores of 18.4 and 28.4 respectively. While water data is unavailable, local schools also show a need for investment with a 41.8 score.

Suits Low-Risk Living Seekers

Waynesboro suits individuals who prioritize low-risk living and modest tax burdens over high-growth careers. It is a good choice for those who value environmental stability and small-city life.

Score breakdown

Tax66.7Cost25.4Safety18.4Health46.8Schools41.8Income28.4Risk89.7WaterComing SoonWeather63.4
🏛66.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠25.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼28.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡18.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤46.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡89.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤63.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨35.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱56.5
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Waynesboro city

Whether buying or refinancing in Waynesboro city, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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
Compare Waynesboro city with Lonoke County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Lonoke County
Arkansas
Median income: $71,449
40.2
Whitfield County
Georgia
Median income: $64,262
40.2
Clark County
Indiana
Median income: $72,298
40.2
Franklin County
Kansas
Median income: $72,142
40.2
Harvey County
Kansas
Median income: $73,269
40.2
Kennebec County
Maine
Median income: $65,062
40.2
Somerset County
Maryland
Median income: $52,462
40.2
Allegan County
Michigan
Median income: $80,255
40.2

Nearby counties

Staunton city
Virginia
45.7
Augusta County
Virginia
58.8
Albemarle County
Virginia
44.7
Nelson County
Virginia
51.8
Charlottesville city
Virginia
40.3
Harrisonburg city
Virginia
38.5
Greene County
Virginia
50.6
Rockingham County
Virginia
58.3

Deep Dives

Waynesboro city across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Waynesboro city

via TaxByCounty

Waynesboro taxes sit near the top

Waynesboro's effective tax rate of 0.667% approaches the national median and exceeds Virginia's state average, placing it among higher-taxed Virginia municipalities. On a median home of $236,600, Waynesboro residents pay $1,578 annually—below the national median tax of $2,690, but higher than most comparable Virginia counties.

Waynesboro ranks above Virginia average

Waynesboro's effective rate of 0.667% nearly matches Virginia's state average of 0.671%, placing it squarely in the state's middle range for tax burden. The city's median annual tax of $1,578 sits well below the state median of $1,960, reflecting Waynesboro's below-average home values despite its moderate tax rate.

Waynesboro taxes higher than rural peers

Waynesboro's 0.667% effective rate exceeds most surrounding rural counties like Washington (0.514%) and Sussex (0.541%), though it trails Warren (0.586%) and Surry (0.627%). As a small city, Waynesboro's tax model more closely reflects urban costs than the rural counties surrounding it.

Waynesboro homes cost $1,578 yearly

On Waynesboro's median home value of $236,600, homeowners pay approximately $1,578 in annual property taxes. With mortgage adjustments, that figure holds near $1,564, while owners outright pay slightly higher at $1,636.

Review your assessment for accuracy

Waynesboro homeowners should confirm their property assessments reflect current market conditions and can appeal without cost if valuations seem excessive. Successfully appealing an overassessment can result in refunds dating back multiple years.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Waynesboro city

via CostByCounty

Waynesboro's rent burden runs high

Waynesboro's 20.7% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Virginia's state average of 18.6% and sits above the national affordability benchmark, with median rent at $972 monthly. The median household income of $56,364 falls well below the national average of $74,755, creating a squeeze between low wages and moderate rents.

Waynesboro faces above-average housing stress

Waynesboro ranks among Virginia's least affordable cities, with a 20.7% rent-to-income ratio that surpasses the state average by 2 percentage points. The city's lower median income compounds the problem, making housing cost burden more painful than in higher-earning Virginia counties.

Caught between cheap and expensive

Waynesboro's $972 rent falls between rural counties like Washington ($832) and Warren ($1,199), while home values of $236,600 trail Warren ($315,800) but exceed Tazewell ($116,100). The city's affordability challenge stems less from absolute housing costs and more from relatively low resident incomes.

Renters hurt more than homeowners

Renters dedicate $972 monthly (20.7% of income) while homeowners spend $1,181 on properties valued at $236,600—an uncommon pattern suggesting renters face market pressure. At $56,364 median household income, Waynesboro residents struggle most with housing affordability in this group.

Waynesboro: affordable prices, tight budgets

Waynesboro's housing costs ($972 rent, $236,600 homes) appear reasonable until you factor in the city's $56,364 median income—lowest in this comparison. Relocators should investigate local job prospects carefully; moving here for cheaper housing could backfire if wages don't support your cost of living.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Waynesboro city

via IncomeByCounty

Waynesboro income significantly below average

Waynesboro's median household income of $56,364 trails the national median of $74,755 by $18,391—a 24.6% shortfall that ranks the city in the bottom 25% nationally. Limited industrial base and population loss have constrained local earning power.

Waynesboro struggles in Virginia comparison

At $56,364, Waynesboro's median household income falls 24.8% below Virginia's state average of $74,957, ranking it among the lowest-income localities in the analysis. The city has not kept pace with statewide economic growth trends.

Income disadvantages across comparisons

Waynesboro's $56,364 income trails Sussex County ($62,821) by $6,457 and falls far short of Surry County ($71,458). The gap widens dramatically against stronger performers like Warren County ($84,331) and Virginia Beach ($90,685).

Housing costs strain household budgets

Waynesboro's rent-to-income ratio of 20.7% is among the highest in the sample, indicating housing expenses consume a larger share of already-modest income. The median home value of $236,600 creates an affordability challenge for households earning $56,364.

Deliberate financial planning for Waynesboro

Waynesboro residents earning $56,364 must prioritize cash flow discipline: reducing unnecessary expenses, automating small savings deposits, and seeking skill-building opportunities for income advancement. Working with nonprofit financial counselors and exploring employer benefits (401(k) matching, HSA options) can help overcome income constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Waynesboro city

via CrimeByCounty

National Comparison for Waynesboro Safety

Waynesboro holds a safety score of 96.6, which reflects a solid security environment. Its total crime rate of 2,166.4 per 100,000 is still lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Waynesboro’s Position Within Virginia

The city’s total crime rate of 2,166.4 is higher than the Virginia state average of 1,728.8. This places the city among the areas with more reported activity compared to the state average safety score of 97.3.

Regional Safety and Reporting Context

Waynesboro's rate of 2,166.4 is higher than nearby Warren County's 1,208.3. Because this data comes from a single agency, residents should interpret these specific figures with some caution regarding city-wide reporting.

Violent and Property Crime Insights

Property crime is the most frequent issue, recorded at 1,947.1 per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate of 219.3 remains slightly lower than the Virginia state average of 229.7.

Staying Vigilant in the City

With property crime being the main factor, residents should prioritize home security measures. Simple steps like deadbolts and reinforced window locks go a long way in urban environments.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Waynesboro city

via HealthByCounty

Waynesboro faces meaningful health gaps

At 73.6 years, Waynesboro's life expectancy falls 0.9 years below the U.S. average of 74.5 years, with 18.5% of residents reporting poor or fair health. These numbers suggest moderate but persistent population health challenges for this small city.

Below Virginia's health average

Waynesboro's 73.6-year life expectancy ranks below Virginia's 75.1-year state average, placing it among the state's lower performers. At 8.8% uninsured, Waynesboro exceeds the state average of 7.9%, meaning a meaningful share of residents face insurance barriers.

Waynesboro underperforms peers on longevity

Waynesboro's 73.6-year life expectancy trails Washington County (74.3 years) and Surry County (75.6 years), though the city outpaces Tazewell County (70.5 years). On providers, Waynesboro offers 84 primary care per 100K and 198 mental health per 100K—solid urban-scale resources.

Good providers, coverage barriers persist

Waynesboro provides 84 primary care providers per 100K and 198 mental health providers per 100K, reflecting urban capacity, yet 8.8% of residents lack insurance. This coverage gap likely prevents some residents from accessing the providers their city has invested in.

Insurance unlocks Waynesboro's healthcare

At 8.8% uninsured, Waynesboro has a higher coverage gap than the state average—nearly one in eleven residents lacks protection. Visit Virginia's Health Insurance Marketplace today to find an affordable plan and start using the healthcare providers available in your city.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Waynesboro city

via SchoolsByCounty

A Concentrated Suburban School System

Waynesboro City manages a compact network of 7 public schools serving 3,041 students across one unified district. The infrastructure consists of four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school to support the city's youth. This suburban-focused system provides a streamlined educational path for local families.

Investing Above State Averages in Success

The city invests $8,326 per pupil, which exceeds the Virginia state average of $7,941 but remains below the $13,000 national benchmark. While the 82.0% graduation rate trails the national average of 87%, the county maintains a school score of 52.2. Educators continue to work toward bridging the gap to reach state-level performance standards.

Waynesboro City Public Schools at a Glance

Waynesboro City Public Schools operates as the sole district, overseeing all 3,041 enrolled students. There are currently no charter schools in the city, with 100% of students attending traditional public institutions. This single-district model ensures a consistent curriculum and resource allocation for all residents.

Suburban Learning in Mid-Sized Classrooms

Every school in the city is classified as suburban, creating a uniform environment with an average school size of 434 students. Waynesboro High is the largest hub with 905 students, while Berkeley Glenn Elementary offers a more intimate setting with 254 children. The consistent locale means families can expect similar neighborhood feels regardless of their specific school zone.

Settle Into a Suburban Education Community

Waynesboro offers a focused suburban school experience with investments that outpace many Virginia neighbors. Families moving here can find homes near centrally located campuses like Westwood Hills Elementary or Kate Collins Middle. Consider school proximity as a key factor when exploring the local housing market.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Waynesboro city

via RiskByCounty

Waynesboro among nation's safest areas

Waynesboro's composite risk score of 10.34 places the city among the safest U.S. communities for natural disasters, earning a Very Low national rating. The city benefits from significantly lower combined hazard exposure than typical American localities.

Virginia's second-safest locality

Waynesboro's score of 10.34 ranks second only to Surry County (4.71) among Virginia localities, well below the state average of 33.27. The city ranks among the safest places in the Commonwealth for disaster risk.

Safer than Warren, far safer than Washington

Waynesboro (10.34) significantly outperforms nearby Warren County (31.58) and Washington County (46.56) on composite risk. The city's natural disaster exposure ranks among the lowest in its region.

Earthquake and hurricane are minor concerns

Waynesboro residents face limited natural disaster exposure, with earthquake risk (48.25) and hurricane risk (61.37) representing the city's highest but still-modest scores. Flood (31.08) and tornado (16.41) risks remain very low, while wildfire (2.64) is negligible.

Basic homeowners insurance suffices

Standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for Waynesboro's exceptionally low disaster exposure. Annual policy review ensures coverage remains current without requiring specialized riders or separate flood insurance.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Waynesboro city

via WeatherByCounty

Classic Mid-Atlantic Climate Profile

Waynesboro city maintains an annual average temperature of 54.1°F, aligning closely with national temperate standards. This allows for a balance of snowy winters and warm summers.

Cooler and Drier than Average

At 1.8 degrees below the Virginia average, Waynesboro is one of the state's cooler urban centers. Its 45.3 inches of annual rainfall almost perfectly matches the statewide average of 45.7 inches.

Bridging the Mountain and Valley

Waynesboro is slightly warmer than neighboring Wythe County by about 1.5 degrees. It experiences 18 days of extreme heat, significantly more than its neighbors in the high mountains of Wise County.

Cold Winters and Brief Heat Waves

January is the coldest month with an average of 33.8°F, while July heats up to 74.5°F. Residents can expect about 18 days a year where temperatures top 90°F, requiring occasional reliance on cooling systems.

Versatile Wardrobes for Varying Seasons

The 18 days of extreme heat and 33.8°F January lows require both robust HVAC systems and heavy winter coats. Outdoor planning should account for the city's consistent rainfall, which totals 45.3 inches annually.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Waynesboro city

via SoilByCounty

Waynesboro’s Urban Soil Identity

Waynesboro features a soil pH of 5.12, reflecting a slightly more acidic profile than the state average of 5.23. The soil score of 35.4 indicates a solid middle-ground for gardening and landscaping potential.

A Sandy Loam Mix

The soil is comprised of 46.2% sand, 33.9% silt, and 16.7% clay. This balanced ratio offers a good compromise between drainage speed and the ability to hold onto fertilizer.

Healthy Soil Organic Matter

Organic matter levels in Waynesboro reach 3.50%, outperforming the state average of 2.90%. With a water capacity of 0.147 in/in, the city's soil is naturally well-equipped to support lush lawns and gardens.

Effective Drainage for City Living

Specific drainage classes are not currently available for this city area. However, the sandy-silt mix generally prevents standing water, making it a favorable environment for residential development.

Ready for Urban Gardening

While specific zone data is limited, Waynesboro's climate generally matches the Shenandoah Valley's versatility. The high organic matter makes this an inviting place to start a backyard vegetable patch or flower bed.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Waynesboro city

via LawnByCounty

Waynesboro's Steady Lawn Profile

Waynesboro earns a 56.5 difficulty score, making it slightly easier to manage than the average Virginia lawn. While specific hardiness data is limited, the city offers favorable conditions for regional turf.

Moderate Heat and Healthy Rain

The city experiences 18 extreme heat days, which is well below the state average of 28. Annual precipitation of 45.3 inches provides nearly all the water a standard lawn needs to thrive.

Sandy Loam Potential

The soil pH of 5.12 is on the lower side, suggesting a need for lime to unlock soil nutrients. With 46.2% sand, the ground drains well, preventing the standing water issues common in heavier clay soils.

Addressing Drought History

Waynesboro weathered 30 weeks of drought over the past year and is currently 100% abnormally dry. Consistent monitoring of soil moisture is necessary to keep lawns from entering dormancy during these periods.

Timing for the Shenandoah Valley

Tall fescue is a resilient choice for this area's 3419 growing degree days. Plan to seed after the April 21st frost or in early September to allow roots to establish before the October 23rd freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Waynesboro city's county score?
Waynesboro city, Virginia has a composite county score of 40.2 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 Waynesboro city rank among counties in Virginia?
Waynesboro city ranks #110 among all counties in 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 Waynesboro city, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Waynesboro city is $1,578, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns Waynesboro city a tax score of 66.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Waynesboro city?
The median household income in Waynesboro city, Virginia is $56,364 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Waynesboro city earns an income score of 28.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Waynesboro city, Virginia a good place to live?
Waynesboro city scores 40.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #110 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Waynesboro city 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 Waynesboro city 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.