countyscore
40.2
County Score
Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 69.3Property Tax 66.2

County Report Card

About Whitfield County, Georgia

Trailing the National Median

With a composite score of 40.2, Whitfield County ranks below the national median of 50.0. Several environmental and safety factors contribute to this lower national standing.

Below the Georgia State Average

Whitfield's 40.2 score lags behind the state average of 46.7. It faces stiffer competition from neighboring counties with higher safety and health ratings.

Economic Stability and Tax Benefits

The county excels in tax efficiency with a score of 66.2 and maintains a decent income score of 51.3. Water quality is also a major high point, scoring 86.0.

Safety and Environmental Risks

Whitfield struggles with a safety score of 19.0 and a risk score of 18.5, indicating higher environmental vulnerability. Health outcomes also lag with a dimension score of 22.8.

Suited for Industry Workers

This county is a fit for workers in the manufacturing sector who prioritize steady incomes and tax breaks. It may be less attractive to those looking for high safety and environmental resilience scores.

2040608010066.248.71922.835.651.318.58669.3Tax66.2Cost48.7Safety19Health22.8Schools35.6Income51.3Risk18.5Water86Weather69.340.2/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Whitfield County DNA

Foverall

How Whitfield County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Whitfield County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Water Quality (86/100) but notably weak in Safety (19/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
66.2+14.200000000000003
Cost
48.7
Safety
19-36
Health
22.8-27.2
Schools
35.6-18.4
Income
51.3
Risk
18.5-28.5
Water
86+28
Weather
69.3+13.299999999999997
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Compare mortgage rates in Whitfield County

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$198,900

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$907/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$198,900/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$36,280/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum3.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $64,262/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

12.6

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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Nearby counties

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Georgia
61.1
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47.3
Gordon County
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Walker County
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Bradley County
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Deep Dives

Whitfield County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Whitfield County

via TaxByCounty

Whitfield taxes well below national median

Whitfield County's effective tax rate of 0.673% sits firmly in the bottom 10% nationally, offering significant relief compared to the typical American county. The median tax of $1,339 runs 50% below the national median of $2,690.

Whitfield ranks among Georgia's leanest

At 0.673%, Whitfield's effective rate beats the Georgia state average of 0.898% by a clear margin and places the county in the lower third of all Georgia counties. This reflects one of the state's lighter tax burdens.

Whitfield competitive in northwest Georgia

Whitfield's 0.673% rate undercuts most regional peers including Wilkinson (0.882%), Wilcox (1.058%), Worth (1.086%), and Wilkes (1.137%), though White County (0.661%) edges out slightly lower. Whitfield remains among the most affordable in its region.

Whitfield homeowners pay modest taxes

On the median home value of $198,900, Whitfield County residents pay approximately $1,339 annually—about $112 per month. Mortgage holders typically pay closer to $1,588 including escrow.

Request an assessment review today

Many Whitfield County homeowners unknowingly overpay due to outdated or incorrect assessments, leaving money on the table year after year. A free assessment appeal could reduce your already-reasonable tax bill even further.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Whitfield County

via CostByCounty

Whitfield Stays Below the National Norm

At 16.9%, Whitfield County's rent-to-income ratio is solidly below the national context, keeping housing costs manageable for a county with median household income of $64,262. The median rent of $907 aligns closely with Georgia's state average, making Whitfield a reasonable choice for renters statewide.

Affordable Housing for Georgia's Working Class

Whitfield County ranks in the affordable-to-moderate tier statewide with a 17.5% rent-to-income ratio below Georgia's 18.6% state average. The median home value of $198,900 positions Whitfield as accessible homeownership territory for middle-income families.

Whitfield Undercuts White County, Matches Regional Norms

Whitfield's $907 median rent is lower than White County's $1,015 but higher than rural neighbors Wheeler ($551) and Wilcox ($612), reflecting a mid-market position. Owner costs of $785 monthly put Whitfield competitively between smaller rural counties and growing mountain communities.

Under One-Fifth of Income Funds Housing

A Whitfield County household earning $64,262 annually dedicates roughly $907 to rent or $785 to mortgage, consuming 16.9% of gross income and leaving room for other financial goals. This favorable ratio reflects the county's strong employment base and moderate housing market.

Growing County With Solid Job Market Value

Whitfield County balances Northwest Georgia's economic opportunities with reasonable housing costs—your paycheck stretches further here than in adjacent mountain counties. Families relocating for industrial or manufacturing jobs will find 16.9% housing burden competitive with state norms.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Whitfield County

via IncomeByCounty

Whitfield Approaches National Average

Whitfield County's median household income of $64,262 trails the national median of $74,755 by 14%, yet remains solidly above the Georgia state average of $60,488. This upper-middle-income position reflects a diversified local economy with manufacturing and professional services.

Above Georgia's Median Income

With a median household income of $64,262, Whitfield exceeds Georgia's state average by $3,774 and ranks among the state's stronger-earning counties. The per capita income of $30,593 closely mirrors the state average of $31,115, indicating balanced household wealth distribution.

Second Highest in Its Region

Whitfield's $64,262 median income ranks second only to White County's $69,747, outperforming Worth ($57,201), Wilkes ($52,542), and Wilkinson ($46,673). This regional economic advantage reflects Whitfield's larger population and more diversified business community.

Balanced Housing Affordability

Whitfield's 16.9% rent-to-income ratio signals healthy housing affordability, with median home values at $198,900 reflecting solid middle-class investment potential. Residents can comfortably manage housing costs while building equity through homeownership.

Invest in Your Tomorrow

Whitfield's solid income base supports retirement planning, education savings, and moderate investment growth strategies. Explore employer 401(k) programs, IRAs, and local real estate opportunities to maximize your household's long-term financial security and wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Whitfield County

via CrimeByCounty

Whitfield County remains below national crime averages

The county reports a total crime rate of 2,122.6 per 100K, which is lower than the national average of 2,385.5. It currently holds a safety score of 96.6 out of 100. While safer than many urban areas, it faces more challenges than its rural neighbors.

Trailing the Georgia state safety average

Whitfield's safety score of 96.6 falls below the Georgia state average of 97.8. Its total crime rate is also higher than the state average of 1,412.9 per 100K. Seven reporting agencies are actively managing these higher-than-average state figures.

Higher incident rates than surrounding counties

Whitfield’s crime rate of 2,122.6 per 100K is significantly higher than White County’s rate of 1,033.2. Both property and violent crimes are more frequent here than in most adjacent Georgia counties. This higher volume reflects the more urbanized nature of the community.

Analyzing violent and property crime trends

Violent crime in Whitfield stands at 450.3 per 100K, which exceeds the national average of 369.8. Property crime is the largest factor, accounting for 1,672.3 incidents per 100K. These numbers indicate a need for both personal safety awareness and property protection.

Prioritizing home and personal security

Implementing smart home security and high-quality locks is a wise investment given the property crime rate. Ensure entry points are well-lit and consider joining a neighborhood watch program. Staying informed about local trends helps keep your family and belongings secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Whitfield County

via SchoolsByCounty

Large-Scale Education in North Georgia

Whitfield County manages a robust network of 33 public schools serving nearly 20,000 students. The system includes 19 elementary schools, six middle schools, and six high schools. This extensive infrastructure is split between two primary school districts.

Steady Investment and Performance Metrics

The graduation rate sits at 84.3%, slightly trailing the Georgia state average of 88.1%. Per-pupil spending is $7,398, which aligns closely with the state average of $7,405. The composite school score of 51.4 is near the national median, showing consistent academic output.

Two Districts Serving Different Communities

The Whitfield County district is the largest, serving 12,317 students across 22 schools. Dalton Public Schools manages 10 schools with a total enrollment of 7,675. There are no charter schools in the county, as the two traditional districts handle all student needs.

Diverse Urban and Rural Settings

Schools are spread across 14 rural, 11 city, and 8 suburban locales, offering a wide range of learning environments. Southeast Whitfield County High is the largest school with 1,492 students. The average school size is 606 students, providing a balance between large-scale resources and community focus.

Search Homes Near Top-Rated Schools

With 33 schools to choose from, families in Whitfield County can find neighborhoods that match their specific educational preferences. Whether you prefer a city school in Dalton or a rural setting in the county, school zones will likely influence your home search. Explore local real estate to find the right fit for your students.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Whitfield County

via RiskByCounty

Whitfield faces above-average national risk

Whitfield County's composite risk score of 81.49 significantly exceeds both Georgia's state average (39.49) and typical national risk levels, earning a relatively moderate rating. The county's location in Georgia's northwest corridor exposes it to multiple compounding hazards.

Among Georgia's highest-risk counties

Whitfield County ranks as one of the highest-risk counties in Georgia, substantially above the state average and among the most hazard-exposed areas in the entire state. Only a handful of Georgia counties face greater composite natural disaster risk.

Significantly riskier than all nearby counties

Whitfield County's 81.49 score far exceeds White County (45.74) to the east and Wheeler County (6.42) to the south. The county's northwestern location places it in Georgia's most hazard-prone region, with notably elevated exposure relative to neighboring areas.

Tornado risk is exceptionally high here

Whitfield County faces a tornado risk score of 93.99—among Georgia's highest and a critical concern for residents. Earthquake risk (90.65) and flood risk (75.54) also significantly exceed state averages, creating a multi-hazard environment requiring comprehensive preparation.

Multiple protections essential for this county

Whitfield County residents should ensure comprehensive homeowner's policies cover tornado, hail, wind, and flood damage—standard policies often exclude flood. Consider additionally reinforcing your home's structural integrity and maintaining updated documentation of assets for insurance claims in high-risk areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Whitfield County

via WaterByCounty

Top-Tier Drinking Water Compliance

Whitfield County holds a Water Quality Grade of A, with no health violations recorded in the EPA SDWIS database over five years. Its violation rate is 0.0 per 100,000 residents, contrasting sharply with the state average of 152.5. Local utilities consistently provide water that meets or exceeds federal safety benchmarks.

Significant Impairment in Assessed Streams

The 2022 assessment shows that 60.0% of the county's 40 water bodies are impaired, exceeding the state average of 48.4%. Fecal coliform and mercury in fish tissue are the leading causes for these Clean Water Act failures. These findings highlight ongoing challenges in managing local watershed health.

Extensive Water Quality Data Network

With 15 monitoring sites and 10,580 measurements recorded over five years, Whitfield County has one of the region's most documented watersheds. Sensors frequently track physical characteristics and inorganic compounds. This deep data pool provides a high-resolution view of local water quality trends.

Conasauga River Faces Severe Low Flow

Current discharge at the Conasauga River near Tilton is just 284 cfs, which is only 23% of its long-term typical flow. The mean for this time of year is usually 1,215 cfs, indicating a significant hydrologic deficit. Such low levels can stress aquatic life and impact industrial water intake.

Vigilance Required for Impaired Waterways

While tap water is safe, the high 60% impairment rate for local streams suggests residents should be wary of raw water contact. Fecal coliform and mercury are primary concerns in the Conasauga basin. Given that the river is currently at 23% of its usual flow, pollutants may be more concentrated than normal.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Whitfield County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Temperatures in North Georgia

Whitfield County features an annual average temperature of 60.9°F, which is slightly above the national median. The climate is mild, avoiding the most extreme heat of the deep South.

Cooler Than the Georgia Average

The county's 60.9°F average is about 3 degrees cooler than the Georgia state average of 63.7°F. Its location in the northern part of the state provides a more moderate climate than the coastal plains.

Warmer than the High Mountains

While cooler than the state average, Whitfield is warmer than White County, which sits at 57.0°F. It occupies a middle ground between the high mountains and the central Piedmont.

Moderate Seasonal Shifts

Summer brings 38 days of extreme heat with a July average of 79.1°F. Winters are cool but not freezing, with a December through February average of 43.1°F.

Plan for Humid Summers

Expect roughly five weeks of days over 90°F, requiring reliable air conditioning. The 41.0°F January average suggests a need for standard winter heating without the extreme cold found further north.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Whitfield County

via SoilByCounty

North Georgia's Soil Identity

Detailed taxonomic and pH data for Whitfield County is currently limited in these records. Growers should expect the typical Georgia acidity, which usually falls below the national median pH of 6.5.

Evaluating Texture and Workability

The exact proportions of sand, silt, and clay are unlisted for Whitfield County. In this region, soils often feature a mix that provides better nutrient retention than sandy coastal soils but may require more effort to till.

Water Capacity and Growth Potential

Local organic matter percentages are currently unavailable, though the state average is 1.83%. Improving your soil's available water capacity can help you outperform the state average of 0.114 in/in.

Hydrology in the Valley and Ridge

Specific drainage classes are not provided for the county's dominant soils. Site-specific observation is the best way to determine if your soil belongs to a group that drains quickly or holds water.

Planting Success in Zone 8a

Whitfield County is located in Hardiness Zone 8a, which supports a wide variety of ornamentals and vegetables. Whether you want to grow tomatoes or perennials, the climate here is ready for your garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Whitfield County

via LawnByCounty

Balanced Growing Conditions in Whitfield

Whitfield County earns a lawn difficulty score of 47.7, nearly matching the national average of 50.0 and outperforming the Georgia state average of 35.8. Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, the area provides a moderate environment that supports a variety of grass types. Consistent maintenance is the key to keeping your turf healthy in this transition zone.

Moderate Heat and Steady Growth

The area experiences 38 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly lower than the state average of 65. With 4,900 growing degree days, the climate provides ample energy for turf to recover from wear and tear. This lower heat stress makes Whitfield one of the more forgiving counties for lawn care in Georgia.

Prepping Your Whitfield Soil

Specific soil data for pH and texture are limited, but the region typically requires monitoring to ensure proper drainage. Because the climate is milder, managing soil compaction is a priority to keep roots oxygenated. Consider aeration in the spring to help your lawn absorb nutrients and water more efficiently.

Managing Severe Drought Challenges

Currently, 100% of the county sits in a severe drought stage, with 18 weeks of drought recorded over the last year. Even with fewer extreme heat days, you must prioritize watering to prevent the grass from going dormant prematurely. Use mulch mowers to return clippings to the soil, which helps retain precious moisture.

Maximize the 8a Growing Season

Zoysia and Bermuda grass thrive in Whitfield’s climate, offering great resilience against local drought. Your typical growing season begins after the last frost on April 2 and continues until the first frost on November 4. These dates give you a generous window to establish a thick, healthy lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Whitfield County's county score?
Whitfield County, Georgia 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 Whitfield County rank among counties in Georgia?
Whitfield County ranks #122 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 Whitfield County, Georgia?
The median annual property tax in Whitfield County is $1,339, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns Whitfield County a tax score of 66.2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Whitfield County?
The median household income in Whitfield County, Georgia is $64,262 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Whitfield County earns an income score of 51.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Whitfield County, Georgia a good place to live?
Whitfield County scores 40.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #122 in Georgia. The best way to evaluate Whitfield 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 Whitfield County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & 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.