countyscore
54.8
County Score
Property Tax 93.1Water Quality 86Health 64.5

County Report Card

About Adams County, Idaho

Outperforming the National Median

Adams County secures a composite score of 54.8, comfortably exceeding the national median of 50.0. This ranking highlights the county's success in providing a stable and affordable quality of life.

Beating the Idaho State Average

The county's overall score of 54.8 is higher than the Idaho state average of 52.2. It stands out as a strong performer among Idaho’s rural jurisdictions.

Low Taxes and Excellent Water

Adams County boasts a near-perfect Tax Score of 93.1 thanks to a very low effective tax rate of 0.413%. A Water Score of 86.0 and a Cost Score of 55.1 further enhance its livability profile.

Limited Income and School Options

The county struggles with an Income Score of 36.7, reflecting a median household income of $59,286. School performance also remains a challenge with a score of 21.8.

A Haven for Budget-Conscious Nature Lovers

This county is a perfect fit for individuals or families who value environmental quality and low taxes over high-stakes career growth. It offers a peaceful lifestyle for those who find wealth in their surroundings rather than their paychecks.

2040608010093.155.145.964.521.836.760.58628.8Tax93.1Cost55.1Safety45.9Health64.5Schools21.8Income36.7Risk60.5Water86Weather28.854.8/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Adams County DNA

Foverall

How Adams County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Adams County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (93.1/100) but notably weak in Schools (21.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
93.1+41.099999999999994
Cost
55.1
Safety
45.9-9.100000000000001
Health
64.5+14.5
Schools
21.8-32.2
Income
36.7-14.299999999999997
Risk
60.5+13.5
Water
86+28
Weather
28.8-27.2
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$327,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$823/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$327,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$32,920/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum5.5x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $59,286/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

108.7

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

Washington County
Idaho
56.8
Valley County
Idaho
54.3
Gem County
Idaho
54.9
Baker County
Oregon
36.3
Wallowa County
Oregon
63.9
Payette County
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49.3
Boise County
Idaho
57.3
Union County
Oregon
43.2

Deep Dives

Adams County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Adams County

via TaxByCounty

Adams County taxes well below national level

Adams County's effective tax rate of 0.413% ranks significantly below the national median of 0.49%, placing it in the lower half of U.S. counties. With a median property tax of just $1,351 compared to the national median of $2,690, Adams County offers one of the most affordable tax burdens in the country.

One of Idaho's lowest tax counties

At 0.413%, Adams County's effective tax rate falls below Idaho's state average of 0.508% by 19%, ranking it among the state's most tax-friendly counties. The median tax payment of $1,351 is 12% below the state average of $1,529, making it a relative bargain within Idaho.

Adams rates low in the region

Adams County's 0.413% rate is among the lowest in its region, significantly below Bannock County (0.718%) to the southeast and only slightly higher than Boise County (0.370%) to the southwest. For homeowners seeking low tax burden, Adams represents an attractive regional option.

Adams County annual tax estimate

On a median home valued at $327,300, Adams County homeowners pay an estimated $1,351 per year in property taxes. Those with mortgages pay slightly more ($1,672), while outright owners pay less ($1,063), reflecting variations in assessment and exemption eligibility.

Review your Adams assessment anyway

Even in low-tax Adams County, some homeowners may still be overassessed. Taking 30 minutes to compare your assessed value against recent comparable sales could uncover assessment errors worth challenging with the county assessor.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Adams County

via CostByCounty

Adams rents are affordable by national measure

Adams County's rent-to-income ratio of 16.7% sits just below the national standard, with residents spending $823 monthly on a median household income of $59,286. Though income here lags the national median of $74,755 by $15,469, renters achieve respectable affordability through lower-cost housing.

Adams among Idaho's most affordable counties

Adams County's 16.7% rent-to-income ratio matches Idaho's state average of 16.8%, placing it squarely in the middle of the affordability pack. At just $823 monthly, median rent runs $96 below the statewide median, offering relief for lower-income households.

Adams balances low income with low costs

Adams County's median rent of $823 undercuts neighboring Bannock County ($879) and Benewah County ($853) by modest margins, though incomes here are 8-13% lower. Homebuyers benefit from median values around $327,300, competitive with the broader region.

Housing takes 16.7% of already-tight budgets

With a median household income of just $59,286, Adams County residents allocate $823 monthly to rent and $811 to ownership costs—reasonable percentages on limited resources. The trade-off: lower absolute housing costs mean less income stress, but overall earning power constrains household finances.

Adams offers rural affordability for budget-conscious movers

If you're prioritizing affordability over urban amenities, Adams County delivers housing costs well below state and national norms. The challenge is economic opportunity; weigh housing savings against potential income limitations before making the move.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Adams County

via IncomeByCounty

Adams County lags far behind national earnings

At $59,286, Adams County's median household income trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by nearly $15,500. This 21% shortfall places the county well below national norms, reflecting limited economic opportunities in this rural region.

Among Idaho's lowest-earning counties

Adams County's $59,286 median falls more than $6,400 below Idaho's state average of $65,770. The county ranks near the bottom of Idaho's income ladder, constrained by its small population and agricultural base.

Adams trails neighboring Gem and Valley

Adams County's median income of $59,286 underperforms nearby counties with more diverse economies. The rural character and limited employment diversity create earning challenges for households across the region.

Housing remains affordable in Adams

At 16.7%, Adams County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 15% affordability threshold. With median home values around $327,300, housing remains one of the few economic bright spots for residents managing limited incomes.

Maximize savings despite modest earnings

Lower housing costs in Adams County create an opportunity to prioritize emergency savings and retirement contributions. Even on modest incomes, building consistent savings habits and exploring employer retirement plans can compound into meaningful wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Adams County

via CrimeByCounty

Adams County scores high on national safety scales

Adams County achieves a high safety score of 98.1, far exceeding the national baseline for security. Its total crime rate of 1209.7 per 100,000 residents is much lower than the U.S. average of 2,385.5. Life here is statistically much safer than in the average American county.

Tracking slightly above the Idaho average

The county's total crime rate of 1209.7 is higher than the Idaho state average of 1027.1. Because a single agency provides all data, these figures offer a concentrated look at local law enforcement activity. The safety score of 98.1 remains competitive with the statewide average of 98.4.

Comparing safety in central Idaho

Adams County has a higher total crime rate than neighboring Boise County, which sits at 883.6. Its violent crime rate of 313.6 also exceeds the state average of 252.9. These variations are common in rural areas with smaller population bases.

Breakdown of local safety incidents

Property crimes make up 896.1 incidents per 100,000 residents, while violent crimes stand at 313.6. While the violent crime rate is higher than the state average, it remains lower than the national average of 369.8. Most reports involve non-violent property issues.

Stay vigilant in rural Idaho

Protecting your property is essential since theft accounts for most local crime reports. Consider joining a neighborhood watch or installing smart cameras to monitor your residence. Small preventative actions keep Adams County safe for everyone.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Adams County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Education in Adams County

Adams County maintains a very intimate school landscape with only 3 public schools serving a total of 515 students. Two districts manage this small network, which includes one elementary school, one high school, and one K-12 facility. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county.

Higher Spending in a Rural Context

The county invests $7,023 per pupil, which exceeds the Idaho state average of $6,288 but remains below the national $13,000 mark. Despite this investment, the graduation rate sits at 75.0%, trailing the national average by 12 points. This gives the county a school score of 45.7, slightly below the state median.

Council and Meadows Valley Districts

The Council District is the larger of the two providers, educating 373 students across two schools. Meadows Valley District operates a single PK-12 school that serves the remaining 142 students in the county. Without charter options, these two districts provide the entirety of public education for local residents.

The 100% Rural School Experience

Every school in Adams County is classified as rural, offering a quiet and personalized learning environment. Council Elementary School is the largest campus with just 207 students, while Meadows Valley School serves as a small K-12 community hub. The average school size is just 172 students, ensuring tight-knit connections between teachers and families.

Discover Rural Life Near Local Schools

Families seeking a small-town atmosphere will find Adams County's rural campuses highly welcoming. When researching homes in Council or New Meadows, the local school is often the heart of community life. Consider the benefits of tiny class sizes and a rural pace when choosing your next home here.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Adams County

via RiskByCounty

Adams County has below-average disaster risk

At 39.57, Adams County's composite risk score sits well below the national average of 50, earning a 'very low' rating. This favorable position reflects relatively balanced hazard exposure, though wildfire remains a notable concern in this rural mountain county.

Safest county in Idaho by composite risk

Adams County's score of 39.57 sits just above Idaho's state average of 38.51, making it one of the state's lowest-risk counties. Its 'very low' rating is the most favorable classification in the state, driven by exceptionally low tornado and earthquake risks.

Adams is among Idaho's safest counties

Adams County's 39.57 score rivals the safety of Bear Lake County (6.58) and exceeds Benewah County (19.88), positioning it as a relatively secure region. Only a handful of Idaho counties match this low-risk profile.

Wildfire is your primary natural hazard

Adams County's wildfire risk score of 96.72 is exceptionally high, standing as the county's dominant threat despite its overall 'very low' composite rating. Flood risk (35.88) and earthquake risk (37.37) are both well below state and national averages, making wildfire preparedness the key priority.

Wildfire insurance should be your focus

Standard homeowners policies don't cover wildfire damage—a critical gap in Adams County where wildfire risk is extreme. Residents should secure dedicated wildfire insurance or rider coverage and maintain defensible space around structures, while flood and earthquake coverage can be lower priorities.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Adams County

via WaterByCounty

Pristine Drinking Water Compliance Record

Adams County maintains a perfect A grade for drinking water compliance with zero health violations recorded over the last five years. This performance puts the county well ahead of the state average violation rate of 207.0 per 100,000 people.

Watershed Assessment Findings

Approximately 31.7% of assessed water bodies in the county fail to meet Clean Water Act standards as of the 2022 cycle. Temperature and sedimentation are the leading causes of impairment, though the county fares better than the state average impairment rate of 41.6%.

Local Water Monitoring Footprint

A robust network of 19 monitoring sites has produced 2,799 measurements in the past five years. Biological counts and fish health data lead the research efforts, providing a clear picture of the local aquatic ecosystem.

Gage Availability and Streamflow

No representative USGS streamgage currently provides live flow data for Adams County. Residents should rely on drinking water compliance records and watershed assessments to gauge local water security.

Guidance for Adams County Residents

With a clean drinking water record, residents should focus on reducing runoff that contributes to sedimentation. Protecting shade-giving vegetation along streams can help mitigate the high water temperatures noted in federal assessments.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Adams County

via WeatherByCounty

A cooler high-elevation climate profile

At 45.3°F, Adams County averages nearly eight degrees cooler than the national median temperature. This reflects its position within the rugged transitions of the West Central Mountains.

Trailing the Idaho temperature average

The county sits slightly below the state average annual temperature of 46.5°F. It experiences a more traditional mountain climate compared to the warmer valleys to the south.

Higher precipitation than valley neighbors

Adams County receives 23.4 inches of annual precipitation, making it significantly wetter than Ada County. Its summer average of 65.7°F offers a much cooler escape than the nearby Treasure Valley.

Brisk winters and pleasant summers

Winter temperatures dip to a chilly average of 22.7°F in January. While local snowfall data is limited, the county still sees 39 days of heat above 90°F during the peak summer months.

Prepare for wet and variable weather

Reliable four-wheel drive and heavy winter gear are vital for the 24.9°F average winter lows. Property owners should manage drainage carefully to handle the 23.4 inches of annual rain and snowmelt.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Adams County

via SoilByCounty

A Rugged Mountain Soil Profile

Soil survey data for Adams County is currently limited, as the region transitions between rugged forest and river valley profiles. We lack specific pH and taxonomic data, though neighboring regions typically range from acidic to neutral. Local testing is the best way to determine your specific soil identity.

Unknown Mineral Ratios

Detailed records for sand, silt, and clay percentages are not currently available for this specific area. These ratios are critical for determining drainage and nutrient retention, so observing your soil's texture at home is a great first step. Sandy soils will feel gritty, while silty soils feel like flour.

Amending for Growing Success

Specific organic matter and water capacity metrics remain undocumented compared to the state's 27.53% organic average. Improving local garden beds with organic amendments ensures better success regardless of the baseline fertility. Adding compost helps bridge the gap between unknown native levels and the state benchmarks.

Observing Local Water Movement

Drainage classes and hydrologic groups have not been recorded for this county at this time. To understand your land's hydrology, observe how water moves on your specific plot after a rainstorm or heavy snowmelt. Quick-drying areas likely have high sand content, while pooling indicates higher clay or bedrock.

Hardy Crops for Zone 6a

Adams County sits in Hardiness Zone 6a, where cold-hardy vegetables and short-season fruits thrive. Focus on planting crops like kale, peas, and berries that can handle the cooler mountain temperatures. Utilizing raised beds can help you manage soil quality while the native terrain remains unmapped.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Adams County

via LawnByCounty

High-Altitude Challenges in Adams County

Adams County presents a tough environment with a lawn difficulty score of 29.7, falling below both the state and national averages. This Zone 6a region requires active management to overcome a harsh climate and limited growing resources. Success here depends on selecting hardy species that can survive cold winters and short summers.

Higher Rainfall Mitigates Summer Heat

Adams County receives 23.4 inches of annual precipitation, which is significantly higher than the Idaho average of 17.0 inches. However, 39 extreme heat days still stress turf, and a relatively low 1,981 growing degree days indicates a shorter window for grass to establish. While specific frost dates vary across the rugged terrain, the cool July average of 69.3°F favors cool-season grasses.

Preparing Your Land Without Detailed Data

Specific soil survey data for pH and texture is currently limited for this area, necessitating a private soil test before you plant. Understanding whether you have the rocky slopes or silty valleys typical of the region will determine your fertilization needs. Start with a baseline test to ensure you aren't fighting against unknown nutrient deficiencies or acidity.

Managing Long-Term Drought Stress

The county endured 38 weeks of drought over the last year, and 100% of the area remains abnormally dry. To protect your investment, prioritize drought-tolerant varieties that can survive on the 23.4 inches of natural rain. Implementing a cycle-and-soak irrigation method prevents runoff on sloped landscapes while ensuring deep root penetration.

Select Hardy Grasses for Zone 6a

Fine fescues and perennial ryegrass are excellent choices for the cooler temperatures and variable terrain of Adams County. Because specific local frost dates are unavailable due to elevation changes, monitor soil temperatures closely to time your spring seeding. Aim to plant when the soil consistently stays above 50°F to ensure high germination rates.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adams County's county score?
Adams County, Idaho has a composite county score of 54.8 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 Adams County rank among counties in Idaho?
Adams County ranks #18 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 Adams County, Idaho?
The median annual property tax in Adams County is $1,351, with an effective tax rate of 0.41%. This earns Adams County a tax score of 93.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Adams County?
The median household income in Adams County, Idaho is $59,286 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Adams County earns an income score of 36.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Adams County, Idaho a good place to live?
Adams County scores 54.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in Idaho. The best way to evaluate Adams 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 Adams 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.