countyscore
45.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 91.5Health 86.3Property Tax 79.7

County Report Card

About Ada County, Idaho

Falling Short of the National Median

Ada County earns a composite score of 45.3, placing it slightly behind the national median score of 50.0. This score reflects a mix of high economic prosperity and significant urban challenges.

Trailing the Idaho State Average

Despite being the state's most populous hub, Ada's score of 45.3 sits below the Idaho state average of 52.2. Rapid growth creates a performance gap compared to many of its rural neighbors.

High Incomes and Strong Health Scores

The county excels with a standout Income Score of 91.5, supported by a median household income of $88,907. Residents also benefit from an impressive Health Score of 86.3 and a favorable Tax Score of 79.7.

Rising Costs and School Pressure

Rapid expansion has driven the Cost Score down to a low 9.2, with median home values reaching $476,000. Additionally, the county faces hurdles in school performance and environmental risk, scoring 7.2 and 12.2 respectively.

Ideal for High-Earning Professionals

Ada County is best suited for high-income earners who prioritize career opportunities and healthcare over housing affordability. It offers a sophisticated urban lifestyle for those who can navigate the high cost of entry.

Score breakdown

Tax79.7Cost9.2Safety47.8Health86.3Schools7.2Income91.5Risk12.2Water55.6Weather40.6
🏛79.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠9.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼91.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡47.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤86.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓7.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡12.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧55.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨61.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱58.3
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

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Deep Dives

Ada County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ada County

via TaxByCounty

Ada County taxes above national average

Ada County's effective tax rate of 0.555% sits well above the national median of 0.49%, placing it in the higher half of counties nationwide. The median property tax of $2,643 nearly matches the national median of $2,690, despite Ada County's median home value of $476,000 being 69% higher than the national median of $281,900.

Higher than most Idaho counties

At 0.555%, Ada County's effective tax rate exceeds Idaho's state average of 0.508% by 9%, ranking it above average among the state's 44 counties. The median tax bill of $2,643 is 73% higher than Idaho's statewide median of $1,529, reflecting both higher rates and Ada County's elevated property values.

Ada's tax burden in regional context

Ada County's 0.555% rate falls between Bannock County (0.718%) to the southeast and Bear Lake County (0.453%) to the north, representing a middle ground in the region. Among similar population centers in Idaho, Ada's effective rate and median tax bill are notably higher, driven by both rate and the county's strong real estate market.

What Ada County homeowners pay yearly

On a median home valued at $476,000, Ada County homeowners pay approximately $2,643 annually in property taxes. Owners with mortgages pay slightly less ($2,607), while those owning outright face $2,725—a difference reflecting assessment practices and exemption variations.

Consider appealing your Ada assessment

Many Ada County homeowners pay more than they should due to inflated assessments. If your property tax bill seems high relative to recent sales in your neighborhood, filing an appeal with the county assessor's office is free and can result in significant savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Ada County

via CostByCounty

Ada rents climb above national norm

Ada County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.8% exceeds the national benchmark, meaning renters here dedicate nearly a fifth of their earnings to housing. With a median household income of $88,907—well above the national median of $74,755—residents still feel the pinch of a tight rental market where median gross rent reaches $1,465 monthly.

Idaho's priciest county for renters

Ada County ranks as Idaho's most expensive rental market, with renters spending 19.8% of income on rent versus the state average of 16.8%. The median monthly rent of $1,465 significantly outpaces the statewide median of $919, reflecting the county's position as Idaho's economic hub.

Ada towers over surrounding counties

Ada County's median rent of $1,465 dwarfs neighboring Boise County ($854) and Bingham County ($845), a gap of over $600 monthly. Homebuyers face similar disparity: Ada's median home value of $476,000 stands roughly $50,000 higher than nearby Boise County's $424,100.

Renters and owners both feel the squeeze

Ada County renters spend $1,465 monthly while homeowners pay $1,401—nearly identical burdens on a median household income of $88,907. Combined with other expenses, housing consumes roughly 19.8% of renter income, leaving less room for savings and other necessities.

Relocating? Ada offers job growth, but consider costs

Ada County attracts newcomers with strong incomes and opportunity, but housing costs demand serious budget planning. If affordability is your priority, exploring nearby Boise or Bingham counties could yield significant savings without sacrificing access to Ada's economic benefits.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ada County

via IncomeByCounty

Ada County earns well above the nation

At $88,907, Ada County's median household income runs 19% higher than the U.S. median of $74,755. This performance ranks Ada among the stronger-earning counties nationwide, driven largely by the Boise metro area's tech and professional services boom.

Idaho's income leader by a wide margin

Ada County's $88,907 median household income towers over Idaho's state average of $65,770—a gap of $23,137. No other Idaho county comes close to Ada's earning power, reflecting the region's economic dominance and job diversity.

Ada outpaces Boise and Bingham combined

Ada County's median income of $88,907 significantly exceeds neighboring Boise County ($77,349) and Bingham County ($76,842). The wealth concentration in the Boise metro area creates a stark contrast with surrounding rural counties.

Incomes stretch thin despite relative wealth

Ada County's 19.8% rent-to-income ratio suggests housing costs demand nearly one-fifth of median household earnings—above the 15% affordability threshold. With median homes priced at $476,000, the county's relative income advantage erodes quickly when housing is factored in.

Build on Boise's economic momentum

With strong household earnings and diverse employment opportunities, Ada County residents are well-positioned to invest in retirement accounts, education funds, and real estate diversification. Consider consulting a financial advisor to leverage the region's economic strength for long-term wealth building.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ada County

via CrimeByCounty

Ada County remains significantly safer than national averages

Ada County reports a total crime rate of 1172.2 per 100,000 residents, which is less than half the national average of 2,385.5. The county earns an impressive safety score of 98.1 out of 100. This indicates a very high level of security for the local community.

Regional safety matches state standards

The county's safety score of 98.1 sits just below the Idaho state average of 98.4. While Idaho is generally very safe, Ada's total crime rate of 1172.2 is slightly higher than the state average of 1027.1. This reflects the typical crime profile of a more populated urban center.

Higher crime rates than rural neighbors

Ada County faces more reported incidents than nearby Boise County, which maintains a lower rate of 883.6. However, its violent crime rate of 245.4 remains lower than the state average of 252.9. Residents experience a safe environment despite the higher population density.

Property crimes dominate local reports

Property crime accounts for the vast majority of incidents at 926.8 per 100,000 people. Violent crime stays low at 245.4, compared to the national rate of 369.8. These numbers suggest that while theft occurs, physical safety remains a strong point for the county.

Simple steps to secure your Ada County home

With property crime making up most local reports, basic security measures go a long way. Install motion-activated lights and ensure all entry points have reinforced locks. Staying aware of neighborhood activity helps maintain this high safety score.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ada County

via HealthByCounty

Ada County lives longer than most

At 79.7 years, Ada County's life expectancy outpaces the U.S. average of 76.1 years by nearly four years. Only 12.9% of Ada residents report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 17.8%, signaling stronger overall health outcomes across the county.

Idaho's healthiest county lives here

Ada County leads Idaho in life expectancy, beating the state average of 77.5 years by 2.2 years. The county's 12.9% poor/fair health rate ranks among the best in Idaho, reflecting above-average wellness across the region.

Ada outperforms every neighboring county

Ada's 79.7-year life expectancy far exceeds Boise County (79.1), Adams County (79.2), and Bear Lake County (77.9). With 89 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—the highest in this comparison group—Ada residents enjoy superior access to frontline medical care.

Healthcare access supports Ada's health

Ada's uninsured rate of 7.1% beats Idaho's 11.7% average, meaning more residents have coverage when they need care. With 414 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Ada leads the region in behavioral health resources, supporting both prevention and treatment.

Keep Ada healthy—verify your coverage

Even though Ada leads Idaho in insurance rates, 7.1% of residents remain uninsured and vulnerable to medical debt. Visit healthcare.gov or Idaho's state marketplace to confirm your coverage and explore plans that fit your family's needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ada County

via SchoolsByCounty

Idaho’s Educational Hub in Ada County

Ada County supports a massive educational network with 151 public schools serving 79,677 students. This infrastructure includes 82 elementary schools and 35 high schools distributed across 25 different districts. It is the most robust school system in the state, catering to nearly 80,000 learners.

Evaluating Performance and Investment in Boise

The county reports a 79.1% graduation rate, which trails both the state average of 83.6% and the national benchmark of 87%. Local spending stands at $5,490 per pupil, significantly lower than the national average of $13,000. These figures result in a composite school score of 44.5, reflecting challenges in matching national performance levels.

Major Districts and Charter Options

Joint School District No. 2 is the regional powerhouse, managing 61 schools and 39,496 students. The Boise Independent District follows with 22,809 students across 51 schools. Families also have access to 27 charter schools, which make up nearly 18% of the county's total educational offerings.

A Mix of Urban and Suburban Campuses

Education here feels distinctly metropolitan, with 127 of the 151 schools located in city or suburban settings. Large campuses define the experience, as Mountain View High School leads the way with 2,462 students. The average school size of 535 students is the highest in the region, reflecting the county's dense population.

Finding Your Home in the Capital Region

With over 150 schools to choose from, Ada County offers diverse options for families prioritizing education in their home search. Explore the varied neighborhoods near top districts like West Ada or Boise Independent to find the right fit for your student. School quality remains a primary driver for real estate value in this fast-growing Idaho hub.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ada County

via RiskByCounty

Ada County faces well above-average disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 87.75, Ada County ranks in the relatively moderate category—significantly higher than the national average of 50. This elevated score reflects the county's exposure to multiple hazard types, particularly wildfire and earthquake risks that far exceed typical American counties.

The riskiest county in Idaho by far

Ada County's composite risk score of 87.75 towers above Idaho's state average of 38.51, making it the most disaster-prone county in the state. This 2.3x multiplier over the state baseline reflects Ada's unique geography and its role as Idaho's urban and economic hub.

Ada far exceeds risk in surrounding counties

Ada County's score of 87.75 dwarfs neighboring Boise County (48.92) and Adams County (39.57), which sit near or below the state average. The dramatic difference underscores Ada's distinct exposure profile compared to its more rural neighbors.

Wildfires and earthquakes dominate your risk

Ada County faces a wildfire risk score of 98.25 and an earthquake risk of 88.23—both among the highest in the nation. Floods also pose serious concern with a risk score of 89.82, making multi-hazard preparedness essential for Ada County residents and businesses.

Comprehensive coverage is critical for Ada

Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes wildfire and earthquake damage—coverage gaps that can be financially devastating in Ada County. Residents should urgently explore wildfire, earthquake, and flood insurance options, and ensure emergency preparedness plans address all three major hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ada County

via WeatherByCounty

Ada County matches national temperature averages

The county's average annual temperature of 52.8°F aligns almost perfectly with the national median. This creates a semi-arid climate that balances high-desert warmth with distinct seasonal shifts.

Idaho's warmest pocket of activity

Ada County is significantly warmer than the Idaho average of 46.5°F, making it one of the state's mildest regions. This warmth supports the capital's growth but brings more intense summer heat than most of the state.

Warmer and drier than mountain neighbors

With only 13.1 inches of annual precipitation, Ada is much drier than neighboring Boise County. It averages nearly 8 degrees warmer than its northern neighbors, serving as the Treasure Valley's heat center.

Hot summers and manageable winters

Residents face 53 days of extreme heat above 90°F, far exceeding the state norm. Winters remain relatively mild with an average January temperature of 32.3°F and a modest 37.5 inches of snowfall.

Prioritize cooling and summer hydration

Investing in high-efficiency HVAC systems is essential to handle the two months of frequent 90-degree days. Water-wise landscaping helps residents maintain properties during the dry 13.1-inch annual rainfall cycle.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ada County

via SoilByCounty

Stony Soils with Neutral pH

Ada County's soil shows a slightly alkaline pH of 6.81, which sits just above the national median of 6.5 and exceeds the Idaho state average of 6.04. The terrain features a dominant texture of stones and boulders, making it more rugged than typical valley farmland. This mineral-rich environment requires specific management to ensure uniform plant growth.

Silt and Sand Dominance

The local mix contains 38.3% sand and 43.0% silt, balanced by a relatively low 15.7% clay content. This silt-heavy profile provides a fine texture that holds some nutrients while the sand ensures the ground doesn't become overly compacted. It offers moderate workability, though the low clay means it lacks the natural binding seen in heavier soils.

High Organic Matter, Low Water Capacity

Organic matter stands at 4.04%, which is double the national average of 2.0% but significantly lower than the Idaho state average of 27.53%. With an available water capacity of 0.162 in/in, these soils hold less moisture than the state benchmark of 0.269 in/in. Gardeners should expect to irrigate more frequently to sustain healthy crop growth during dry spells.

High Infiltration and Fast Drainage

Hydrologic Group A classification indicates high infiltration rates and a low runoff potential across the county. While specific drainage class data is unavailable, the Group A status and stony texture suggest that water moves quickly through the soil profile. This is ideal for avoiding root rot but requires careful nutrient management to prevent leaching.

A Garden Oasis in Zone 7a

Located in Hardiness Zone 7a, Ada County is perfect for growing everything from lavender and grapes to heat-loving tomatoes. The well-draining soil and warmer climate provide an excellent foundation for a productive home garden. Start by adding compost to boost water retention and jumpstart your growing season.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ada County

via LawnByCounty

Ada County Beats the National Average

Ada County earns a lawn difficulty score of 58.3, making it significantly easier to maintain turf here than the Idaho state average of 33.3. While it sits comfortably above the national median of 50.0, the Zone 7a climate still requires specific local knowledge to thrive. Residents benefit from more favorable growing conditions than most of their neighbors across the state.

Intense Summer Heat Requires Precision Watering

With 53 extreme heat days annually, Ada County far exceeds the state average of 30 days over 90°F. The 13.1 inches of annual precipitation falls well short of the 30-50 inches ideal for lawns, making supplemental irrigation essential. A robust 3,173 growing degree days ensures a long season, provided you can mitigate the dry summer peaks.

Rocky Foundations with Near-Perfect Chemistry

Your soil boasts a pH of 6.81, which sits perfectly within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for nutrient uptake. While the chemistry is excellent, the texture is complicated by 38.3% sand and a high presence of stones and boulders. You may need to screen for large rocks and incorporate organic matter to improve the 15.7% clay base.

Short Drought Spells in a Dry Landscape

Despite 100% of the county currently facing abnormally dry conditions, you only saw four weeks of drought over the past year. Deep, infrequent watering early in the morning helps grass roots dive deeper to survive the 13.1 inches of meager annual rainfall. Mulching clippings back into the lawn also helps preserve vital soil moisture during the high-heat months.

Start Seeding After the April Frost

Tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass are reliable choices for the Zone 7a climate in Boise and surrounding areas. Aim to seed or sod after the last spring frost on April 30th to take advantage of the warming soil. You have a long window for establishment before the first fall frost arrives around October 22nd.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ada County's county score?
Ada County, Idaho has a composite county score of 45.3 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 Ada County rank among counties in Idaho?
Ada County ranks #35 among all counties in Idaho 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 Ada County, Idaho?
The median annual property tax in Ada County is $2,643, with an effective tax rate of 0.56%. This earns Ada County a tax score of 79.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ada County?
The median household income in Ada County, Idaho is $88,907 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ada County earns an income score of 91.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ada County, Idaho a good place to live?
Ada County scores 45.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #35 in Idaho. The best way to evaluate Ada 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 Ada 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.