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York County, South Carolina — County Report Card

SC

#16 in South Carolina

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
44.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 87Property Tax 86.4Health 65.8

County Report Card

About York County, South Carolina

Competitive with National Standards

York scores a 44.5 composite, which is slightly below the national median of 50.0. While it trails the national average, it remains a highly competitive option within the Southeast.

One of South Carolina's Top Performers

York outperforms the South Carolina average of 42.8, cementing its status as one of the state's premiere counties. It leverages its proximity to Charlotte to drive metrics higher than most of its neighbors.

A Local Financial Powerhouse

High Income (87.0) and Tax (86.4) scores make this a financial leader with a median household income of $83,060. The effective tax rate of 0.496% is the lowest among this group.

Rising Costs and Environmental Risks

Rapid growth has pushed the Cost score down to 13.3, as median home values have climbed to $322,700. High demand also impacts the Risk score, which sits at 11.3 due to regional factors.

Best for High-Earning Families

York is the top choice for high-earning professionals and families who want a suburban lifestyle with low taxes. It is the destination for those willing to pay a premium for housing to access a strong economy.

Score breakdown

Tax86.4Cost13.3Safety19.8Health65.8Schools43.6Income87Risk11.3Water61.3Weather62.3
🏛86.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠13.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼87
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤65.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓43.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡11.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧61.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62.3
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨17.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱39.7
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

Gaston County
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31.8
Chester County
South Carolina
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Mecklenburg County
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Cherokee County
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Cleveland County
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Lancaster County
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Union County
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Deep Dives

York County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in York County

via TaxByCounty

York has South Carolina's lowest tax rate

York County's 0.496% effective rate is the lowest among all six counties and ranks it in the bottom 25% nationally, well below the national median of 0.86%. The median property tax of $1,602 remains 60% below the national median of $2,690.

Notably below South Carolina average

At 0.496%, York's rate runs 9% lower than the state average of 0.542%, making it one of South Carolina's most tax-friendly counties. Despite collecting a higher median tax ($1,602 vs. state median of $939), the rate advantage is striking.

Clear winner in the six-county comparison

York's 0.496% rate beats all peers—Sumter (0.539%), Union (0.558%), Saluda (0.568%), Spartanburg (0.563%), and Williamsburg (0.662%). The advantage stems from both a favorable rate and higher median property values.

York homeowners pay $1,602 median annually

With the region's highest median home value of $322,700, York residents pay approximately $1,602 annually in property taxes—about $134 per month. Including mortgage escrow, the typical bill reaches $1,809 per year.

Even at low rates, appeal if overassessed

York County's favorable tax rate doesn't guarantee your specific property isn't overvalued. Review your assessment against comparable sales and request a free appeal if you believe your home is assessed above market value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in York County

via CostByCounty

York County offers above-average affordability

York County's 18.8% rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the national average, with renters paying $1,304 monthly on a median household income of $83,060. The county's strong median income makes even higher rents feel manageable compared to national norms.

York ranks among SC's most affordable counties

At 18.8%, York's rent-to-income ratio beats South Carolina's state average of 20.1%, placing it among the state's most affordable counties. Its median rent of $1,304 runs significantly above the state average of $945, yet York's income premium of $83,060 easily supports it.

York leads region in income and affordability

York County's $1,304 median rent is the highest in this cluster, yet its median household income of $83,060 vastly outpaces all neighbors—Spartanburg ($64,195), Saluda ($52,957), and Union ($41,200). This income advantage makes York's higher rents proportionally most affordable.

York households manage housing with ease

York renters pay $1,304 monthly while homeowners spend $1,277, both supported by a median household income of $83,060. At roughly 19% of household income, housing costs leave substantial room for savings, investment, and quality of life improvements.

York County: premium location, smart value

If you're relocating with above-average income, York County delivers the region's strongest affordability, with an 18.8% rent-to-income ratio and robust job market. Its $1,304 median rent and $322,700 median home value reflect a thriving county where higher incomes easily support higher housing costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in York County

via IncomeByCounty

York exceeds national income median

York County's median household income of $83,060 surpasses the U.S. median of $74,755 by 11%, the only county among these six to top the national benchmark. The county ranks as a genuine economic bright spot in South Carolina.

South Carolina's highest earner here

York County's $83,060 median household income leads all South Carolina counties examined, exceeding the state average of $57,006 by 46%. The county's per capita income of $43,442 also dominates the state average of $32,382.

York vastly outpaces regional peers

York's $83,060 median income substantially exceeds every neighboring county—Spartanburg ($64,195) to the north, Union ($41,200) to the west, and Chester to the south. The county's economic advantage is pronounced and consistent.

Strong affordability and wealth building

York's rent-to-income ratio of 18.8% sits comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, providing financial breathing room for households. The median home value of $322,700 reflects both higher property values and stronger purchasing power among residents.

York: Maximizing above-average income

York households enjoy incomes above the national average, positioning them well for aggressive wealth building through diversified investments. Maximize 401(k) contributions, explore additional investment accounts, and consider real estate or small business ventures to compound financial advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in York County

via CrimeByCounty

York County remains safer than average

With a total crime rate of 2,088.1 per 100K, York County is safer than the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a strong safety score of 96.7.

York ranks high for state safety

York’s safety score of 96.7 is significantly higher than the South Carolina average of 95.4. Its crime rate is also much lower than the state-wide average of 2,920.8.

Leading neighbor counties in public safety

York is safer than Spartanburg, which reports a crime rate of 2,747.5 per 100K. The county maintains a more secure profile than most of its Upstate and Piedmont neighbors.

Violent crime is notably low

The violent crime rate is just 292.6 per 100K, well below both the state and national averages. Property crime stands at 1,795.5, also beating the national benchmark of 2,015.7.

Maintaining a secure local community

York County’s low rates are a point of pride, but property theft is still the most common issue. Homeowners can help 14 reporting agencies by utilizing smart home security technology.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in York County

via HealthByCounty

York leads with exceptional health outcomes

York County's life expectancy of 76.3 years surpasses the U.S. average of 68.4 years by 7.9 years, placing it among the healthiest communities nationally. Its 15.2% poor or fair health rate ranks well below the national average of 21%, indicating a robust population health profile. With 48 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 202 mental health providers per 100,000, York has excellent healthcare infrastructure.

South Carolina's health champion

York County's 76.3-year life expectancy outpaces South Carolina's 72.5-year average by 3.8 years—the highest advantage among the six counties studied. Its 8.9% uninsured rate is significantly better than the state average of 11.6%, the second-best in the region. York ranks decisively at the top of South Carolina's health performance.

Outpacing the entire region

York's 76.3-year life expectancy exceeds every other county examined, surpassing Union by 7.3 years and Williamsburg by 5.9 years. Its 48 primary care providers per 100,000 rank solidly, and its 202 mental health providers per 100,000 lead the entire region. York's 8.9% uninsured rate is the lowest among all six counties, ensuring broad coverage.

Healthcare access as regional model

York County's 48 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 202 mental health providers per 100,000 create exceptional access to both routine and behavioral health care. The 8.9% uninsured rate—the region's lowest—means most residents have coverage and can readily access care. York residents enjoy short wait times, convenient appointments, and a strong safety net of services.

Maintain your competitive advantage

York County's low uninsured rate of 8.9% reflects strong coverage, but that last 9% shouldn't be left behind. If you're uninsured or thinking about coverage options, visit HealthCare.gov to ensure you're locked into the best plan for your family. Keeping coverage current helps you maintain access to the excellent providers and services available in York County.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in York County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Powerhouse Education System

York County hosts a robust network of 67 public schools, serving an impressive 51,652 students across 4 districts. The county features a diverse infrastructure of 38 elementary schools, 15 middle schools, and 11 high schools.

Leading the State in Outcomes

York County's 89.7% graduation rate significantly beats both state and national averages. With a composite school score of 53.4 and per-pupil spending of $7,031, the county demonstrates a high return on its educational investments.

High-Growth Districts and Charters

York 04 (Fort Mill) and York 03 (Rock Hill) are the largest districts, collectively educating over 34,000 students. The county also offers 4 charter schools, making up 6.0% of the school landscape and providing additional options for families.

From Urban Centers to Rural Outposts

The county offers a diverse locale mix including 27 rural, 20 city, and 15 suburban schools. Large enrollment is common here, with Clover High leading the pack at 2,685 students and an overall county average of 795 students per school.

Find a Home Near Elite Schools

Top-performing districts like York 04 and York 02 are primary drivers for the local real estate market. Researching homes in Rock Hill or Fort Mill can place your family near some of the highest graduation rates in South Carolina.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in York County

via RiskByCounty

York faces above-average natural disaster risks

York County's composite risk score of 88.68 places it in the "Relatively Moderate" category, above the national average for disaster exposure. The county's vulnerability spans multiple hazard types, from tornadoes to floods.

Among South Carolina's highest-risk counties

York's 88.68 score ranks it well above the state average of 70.75, making it one of the more hazard-exposed counties in South Carolina. Only a handful of counties statewide face comparably elevated disaster risks.

Riskier than Union, comparable to Spartanburg

York's 88.68 risk score exceeds Union County (58.21) by 30 points while matching the elevated risk profile of neighboring Spartanburg County (90.65). The county's upstate location and terrain expose it to significant tornado and flood hazards.

Tornadoes and floods top York's hazard list

Tornado risk (96.91) is York's most significant hazard—the highest among these six counties—followed by flood risk (90.17) and earthquake risk (85.18). Together, these three hazards create a multi-faceted vulnerability picture for county residents.

York homeowners need multi-hazard insurance strategy

Given York's exceptionally high tornado risk (96.91), robust wind/hail coverage is non-negotiable; flood insurance is equally essential given the county's 90.17 flood risk. Earthquake coverage should round out comprehensive protection for York residents facing the state's most active tornado environment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in York County

via WeatherByCounty

A warm but balanced subtropical climate

York County’s 60.9°F average temperature is nearly 8 degrees warmer than the national median. This climate provides a consistent humid subtropical environment with four distinct seasonal shifts.

Among the state's coolest counties

York sits nearly 2 degrees below the South Carolina average of 62.8°F, making it one of the cooler spots in the state. Its 44.0 inches of rain also falls below the state average of 48.9 inches.

Similar to Union with less heat

York is climatologically similar to Union County, but it experiences slightly fewer extreme heat days at 54 per year. It remains much cooler and drier than the coastal counties in the south.

Cooler winters and moderate snowfall

Winters are among the state's coolest with a 43.6°F average, while summers peak at a July average of 79.7°F. Snow is rare but possible, averaging just 1.4 inches per year.

Prioritize efficient home cooling

Energy-efficient cooling is essential for the 54 days of extreme heat each year. Since January averages 41.6°F, homeowners should also ensure pipes are protected against the region's occasional hard freezes.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in York County

via SoilByCounty

Typical acidity in York’s diverse landscape

York County's soil maintains a pH of 5.34, placing it slightly above the South Carolina average of 5.27. Like most of the state, this profile is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5.

A mix of sand and heavy silt

The soil contains 55.1% sand, 24.1% silt, and 15.0% clay. The higher silt content compared to neighboring counties provides a smoother texture and better nutrient-holding capacity than purely sandy soils.

Low organic matter with superior water storage

Organic matter is low at 0.76%, falling well behind the state average of 2.05%. However, the soil excels in water storage, with an available water capacity of 0.138 in/in that ranks highly against the state average of 0.115.

Drainage specifics remain unclassified

There is currently no dominant drainage class or hydrologic group listed for York County in the primary data. The balanced sand and silt levels suggest moderate drainage, but local site testing is recommended for any major construction or farming projects.

Gardening in the heart of zone 8a

York County is well-suited for hardy vegetables and perennial flowers that can handle the regional acidity. To boost the low 0.76% organic matter, residents should mix in compost or leaf mold to create a flourishing home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in York County

via LawnByCounty

York County Lawn Care Overview

York County’s lawn difficulty score of 39.7 places it above the state average but still below the national median of 50.0. Located in Hardiness Zone 8a, it offers a climate that supports both warm-season and some cool-season grasses with effort. However, recent weather trends have made consistency a challenge for local yards.

Lower Heat and Consistent Growth

York sees 54 extreme heat days a year, which is more manageable than the South Carolina average of 63. Annual precipitation is slightly lower at 44.0 inches, meaning homeowners may need to supplement more often than in other parts of the state. With 4929 growing degree days, grass has ample warmth to thrive from spring through fall.

Correcting Acidity in York’s Soils

The soil pH in York County averages 5.34, which is significantly below the 6.0 to 7.0 range preferred by most turf. The soil contains 55.1% sand and 15.0% clay, creating a texture that generally requires organic matter to hold onto water and nutrients. Regular lime applications are essential to prevent nutrient lockout caused by the high acidity.

Extended Drought Hits York County Hard

York has endured 33 weeks of drought over the past year, the highest in this group. Currently, 100% of the county is in severe drought, which places extreme stress on established lawns and makes new seeding risky. Smart irrigation controllers and drought-resilient grass species are highly recommended here.

Time Your Planting for Spring Success

The last spring frost typically occurs around March 31, giving you a green light for April planting. Bermuda grass is a top recommendation for York because it handles the 100% severe drought conditions better than most. Start your soil testing now to correct that 5.34 pH before the peak growing season arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is York County's county score?
York County, South Carolina has a composite county score of 44.5 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 York County rank among counties in South Carolina?
York County ranks #16 among all counties in South 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 York County, South Carolina?
The median annual property tax in York County is $1,602, with an effective tax rate of 0.50%. This earns York County a tax score of 86.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in York County?
The median household income in York County, South Carolina is $83,060 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. York County earns an income score of 87/100 on CountyScore.
Is York County, South Carolina a good place to live?
York County scores 44.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #16 in South Carolina. The best way to evaluate York 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 York 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.