55.4
County Score
Water Quality 86Schools 83.9Property Tax 72.4

County Report Card

About Westmoreland County, Virginia

Solid Performance Above National Median

Westmoreland County posts a 55.4 composite score, comfortably beating the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a solid performer with high marks in education and utility reliability.

Exceeding State Averages in Quality

The county’s 55.4 score puts it ahead of the Virginia average of 50.9. It offers a higher baseline quality of life than many of its rural peers in the Northern Neck region.

Elite Schools and Reliable Infrastructure

Education is a massive highlight, with a school score of 83.9 that far exceeds state norms. The county also maintains strong water infrastructure (86.0) and a very fair tax score of 72.4.

Pressure on Housing and Income

Housing affordability is the main pressure point, resulting in a cost score of 27.1. Despite these costs, household incomes remain modest at a median of $59,766, creating tight budgets for some.

Hidden Gem for Young Families

This county is a hidden gem for families who prioritize public education and reliable utilities. It is best for those who value a strong school system and are willing to pay a premium for coastal-adjacent living.

Score breakdown

Tax72.4Cost27.1Safety56.1Health42.6Schools83.9Income38.3Risk62.6Water86Weather63.2
🏛72.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty
🏠27.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty
💼38.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty
🛡56.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty
42.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty
🎓83.9
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty
62.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty
🌤63.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty
🪨30.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty
🌱31.2
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

Westmoreland County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Westmoreland County

via TaxByCounty

Westmoreland taxes beat national median

Westmoreland County's effective tax rate of 0.617% sits comfortably below the national median rate, delivering savings compared to most U.S. communities. On the national median home value of $281,900, this rate would yield about $1,739, but Westmoreland's median home of $244,000 results in $1,506 annually—nearly $1,200 less than the national median tax of $2,690.

Westmoreland ranks below Virginia average

Westmoreland County's effective rate of 0.617% trails Virginia's state average of 0.671%, positioning it as a relatively affordable county for property taxes. The county's median annual tax of $1,506 is 23% below the state median of $1,960, reflecting both modest tax rates and moderate home values.

Westmoreland sits comfortably in range

Westmoreland's 0.617% effective rate places it among the middle of comparable Virginia counties—above Sussex (0.541%) and Washington (0.514%), but below Surry (0.627%) and Warren (0.586%). Dollar-for-dollar, Westmoreland residents pay modestly compared to similar rural communities across Virginia.

Westmoreland averages $1,506 yearly

On the county's median home value of $244,000, homeowners pay approximately $1,506 in annual property taxes. With mortgage adjustments, that rises to $1,564, while owners without mortgages pay closer to $1,463.

Check your assessment, appeal if overvalued

Westmoreland homeowners should verify their property assessments align with current market values and can file free appeals if they believe valuations are too high. Successful appeals can result in refunds of taxes paid in prior years.

Cost of Living in Westmoreland County

via CostByCounty

Westmoreland: above-average housing burden

Westmoreland County's 19.9% rent-to-income ratio runs well above Virginia's state average of 18.6% and exceeds the national affordability threshold, with median rent at $991 monthly. The median household income of $59,766 falls significantly below the national average of $74,755, intensifying the housing cost squeeze.

Westmoreland faces notable affordability pressure

Westmoreland County ranks among the state's least affordable places, with a 19.9% rent-to-income ratio trailing only Virginia Beach (21.8%) and Waynesboro (20.7%). The combination of moderate rents and lower-than-average income creates sustained housing affordability challenges for residents.

Moderately priced, thinly budgeted

Westmoreland's $991 rent sits between Washington ($832) and Warren ($1,199), while $244,000 home values cluster mid-range across these counties. The county's affordability problem mirrors Waynesboro's: absolute housing costs aren't extreme, but resident incomes make them feel unaffordable.

Renters and owners equally strained

Renters spend $991 monthly (19.9% of income) while homeowners pay $1,087 for properties valued at $244,000—suggesting balanced pressure across both markets. At $59,766 median income, Westmoreland households sacrifice a higher percentage of earnings to housing than most peers.

Westmoreland: moderate costs, tight margins

Westmoreland offers neither the bargain pricing of Tazewell nor the earning power of Virginia Beach—it's a middle-ground with affordability challenges. Relocators should compare the 19.9% housing burden against higher-income counties like Warren ($84,331 median) to ensure financial stability.

Income & Jobs in Westmoreland County

via IncomeByCounty

Westmoreland income lags national standard

Westmoreland County's median household income of $59,766 falls short of the national median of $74,755 by $14,989, a 20.1% gap reflecting its rural, Eastern Shore location. The county ranks in the lower third of income distribution nationally.

Below Virginia's income benchmark

At $59,766, Westmoreland County's median household income trails Virginia's state average of $74,957 by 20.2%, placing it among the lower-income counties in the state. Economic opportunities remain limited compared to urban and Northern Virginia regions.

Income slightly above lowest performers

Westmoreland's $59,766 income edges above Waynesboro ($56,364) but trails Sussex County ($62,821) by $3,055. The county faces substantial income disparities compared to higher-earning localities like Warren County ($84,331).

Housing costs consume notable income share

Westmoreland's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% is among the highest in the sample, indicating housing expenses absorb a significant portion of household earnings. The median home value of $244,000 creates affordability tension for households at the $59,766 median income level.

Building stability in rural Westmoreland

With median household income at $59,766, Westmoreland residents should prioritize financial foundations: establishing emergency savings, reducing high-interest debt, and maximizing employer retirement match programs. Community investment and skills training initiatives can help unlock income growth pathways over time.

Safety in Westmoreland County

via CrimeByCounty

High National Safety in Westmoreland

Westmoreland County boasts an impressive safety score of 98.4, far exceeding the national average. Its total crime rate of 1,006.5 per 100,000 is less than half the national rate of 2,385.5.

One of Virginia’s Safest Counties

The county’s total crime rate of 1,006.5 is significantly lower than the Virginia average of 1,728.8. Its safety score of 98.4 is also well above the state average of 97.3.

Regional Superiority in Public Safety

Westmoreland is safer than many of its Virginia peers, including Williamsburg and Virginia Beach city. Three local agencies report these statistics, confirming a consistently low-crime environment.

Understanding Local Crime Dynamics

While total crime is low, the violent crime rate of 276.0 is actually higher than the state average of 229.7. Conversely, property crime is exceptionally low at just 730.5 per 100,000 residents.

Protecting Your Westmoreland Home

Despite high safety scores, the elevated violent crime rate suggests staying aware of your surroundings. Installing a modern home security system can provide an extra layer of protection for your family.

Health in Westmoreland County

via HealthByCounty

Westmoreland matches U.S. health average

At 75.3 years, Westmoreland County residents live nearly at parity with the U.S. average of 74.5 years, a solid foundation. However, 21.8% report poor or fair health, and the county's 9.9% uninsured rate is the highest in this group.

Life expectancy solid, coverage a concern

Westmoreland's 75.3-year life expectancy tops Virginia's 75.1-year state average by 0.2 years, yet its 9.9% uninsured rate dramatically exceeds the state average of 7.9%. This gap suggests health is fragile and coverage barriers may prevent residents from sustaining their modest longevity advantage.

Westmoreland's coverage crisis stands out

Westmoreland's 75.3-year life expectancy compares favorably to Surry (75.6 years) and Waynesboro (73.6 years), but its 9.9% uninsured rate far exceeds all peers. The county also lags on providers: just 21 primary care and 16 mental health per 100K, among the lowest in this group.

Few providers, highest uninsured rate

Westmoreland's 21 primary care providers per 100K and 16 mental health providers per 100K represent severe resource scarcity even for a rural county. At 9.9% uninsured—the highest in this group—nearly one in ten residents cannot access these already-limited providers.

Coverage is urgent for Westmoreland

With the region's highest uninsured rate at 9.9% and the fewest healthcare providers, Westmoreland residents face a critical access crisis. Check Virginia Medicaid and marketplace eligibility immediately—getting covered is your first step toward protecting your health in a medically underserved community.

Schools in Westmoreland County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Rural Network Focused on Growth

Westmoreland County supports 2,135 students across six public schools, ranging from primary to high school levels. The county's education landscape is divided between two distinct school districts. The infrastructure includes three elementary schools, one middle school, and two high schools to serve this coastal community.

Exceptional Graduation Rates Outpace the Nation

Westmoreland boasts an impressive 96.5% graduation rate, significantly higher than both the state average of 89% and the national average of 87%. The county spends $8,630 per pupil, which is nearly $700 more than the Virginia average. This investment is reflected in a high composite school score of 60.5, well above the national median.

Two Districts Serving Coastal Students

Westmoreland County Public Schools is the larger provider with 1,561 students, while Colonial Beach Public Schools serves 574 students. No charter schools operate in the county, maintaining a focus on traditional public education. These two districts provide localized governance for the county's varied residential areas.

Small Schools with a Rural Heart

The county features a mix of four rural and two town-based schools, where the average enrollment is just 356 students. Westmoreland High is the largest campus with 486 students, while Montross Middle provides a smaller community feel for 309 students. Families here enjoy the benefits of smaller class sizes and close-knit school environments.

High-Performing Schools in a Scenic Setting

With graduation rates near the top of the state, Westmoreland County is an attractive choice for education-focused homebuyers. You can explore homes near high-performing sites like Cople Elementary or Washington District Elementary. This county proves that rural settings can deliver elite academic outcomes.

Disaster Risk in Westmoreland County

via RiskByCounty

Westmoreland below typical U.S. risk

Westmoreland County's composite risk score of 37.37 earns a Very Low national rating but exceeds median U.S. exposure levels slightly. The county faces moderate combined disaster hazards concentrated in specific threat categories.

Moderately elevated within Virginia

Westmoreland's score of 37.37 exceeds Virginia's state average of 33.27, placing it in the state's upper-middle risk range. The county faces notably more combined natural disaster exposure than most Virginia localities.

Riskier than Sussex, safer than Virginia Beach

Westmoreland (37.37) surpasses Sussex County (13.23) and Surry County (4.71) but trails Virginia Beach (57.86) substantially. Among its peer counties, Westmoreland represents moderate rather than extreme risk.

Hurricanes and flooding drive exposure

Westmoreland residents face significant hurricane risk (86.57) and substantial flood risk (64.80), the county's two dominant hazards. Earthquake exposure (47.46) and tornado risk (26.91) rank secondary, while wildfire (16.63) remains minimal.

Windstorm and flood coverage essential

Westmoreland homeowners should prioritize homeowners insurance with windstorm riders and obtain separate flood coverage, given the county's 86.57 hurricane and 64.80 flood risk scores. Waterfront property owners face particularly elevated exposure and should review coverage annually.

Soil Quality in Westmoreland County

via SoilByCounty

Sandy Entisols of the Potomac

Westmoreland County features Entisols, characterized by a dominant sand texture and a pH of 4.81. This acidity is significantly sharper than the national median of 6.5, typical of young, sandy coastal soils.

Light and Workable Sand

With 48.8% sand and 35.9% silt, the soil is very light and easy to till. The low clay content of 12.5% means the soil drains quickly, which is a benefit for roots but requires careful nutrient management.

Competitive Fertility Levels

The county boasts an organic matter level of 3.16%, which sits comfortably above the state average of 2.90%. This fertility is paired with an available water capacity of 0.144 in/in, ensuring a steady supply for crops.

Fast-Moving Coastal Hydrology

Specific drainage classes are not available, but the sandy Entisol classification implies that water moves through the profile rapidly. This reduces the risk of root rot but requires growers to watch for dry soil.

Coastal Favorites in Zone 7b

Hardiness zone 7b provides a long growing season for tomatoes and peppers. The sandy texture and healthy organic levels make this an ideal spot for a productive, well-drained kitchen garden.

Lawn Care in Westmoreland County

via LawnByCounty

Westmoreland's Tough Lawn Conditions

Westmoreland County faces a difficult score of 31.2, the most challenging in this group. Lawns in this Zone 7b area require significant effort to stay healthy compared to the 55.4 state average.

Managing Coastal Challenges

While specific temperature data is unavailable for this county, its location and difficulty score suggest a humid, stress-heavy environment. Homeowners must be vigilant against fungal diseases that thrive in coastal conditions.

Sandy and Acidic Soil Needs

The soil is notably acidic with a pH of 4.81 and a high sand content of 48.8%. With only 12.5% clay, this 'Sand' texture soil struggles to hold onto water and fertilizers without regular organic amendments.

Drought in the Northern Neck

The county is currently 100% abnormally dry after enduring 20 weeks of drought last year. Because sandy soil dries out quickly, installing a smart irrigation system is a wise investment for local lawns.

Choosing Rugged Grass Types

Warm-season grasses like Zoysia are often the best bet for these sandy, acidic conditions. While frost dates are not recorded, late spring is typically the safest time to start new growth in this region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Westmoreland County's county score?
Westmoreland County, Virginia has a composite county score of 55.4 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 Westmoreland County rank among counties in Virginia?
Westmoreland County ranks #49 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 Westmoreland County, Virginia?
The median annual property tax in Westmoreland County is $1,506, with an effective tax rate of 0.62%. This earns Westmoreland County a tax score of 72.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Westmoreland County?
The median household income in Westmoreland County, Virginia is $59,766 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Westmoreland County earns an income score of 38.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Westmoreland County, Virginia a good place to live?
Westmoreland County scores 55.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #49 in Virginia. The best way to evaluate Westmoreland 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 Westmoreland County with other counties side by side.