countyscore
37.4
County Score
Disaster Risk 76.8Water Quality 60.1Income & Jobs 54.7

County Report Card

About Adams County, Washington

Adams County Trails National Livability Median

Adams County earns a composite score of 37.4, placing it well below the national median of 50.0. This ranking suggests the county faces more significant livability challenges than the average American county.

Falling Short of Washington Averages

The county's 37.4 score sits nearly seven points below the Washington state average of 44.1. It ranks as one of the lower-scoring counties in the state's agricultural heartland.

Low Environmental Risk and Stable Income

The county's greatest asset is its environmental stability, evidenced by a high Risk Score of 76.8. Residents also benefit from a solid Income Score of 54.7 and a median household income of $65,042.

Safety and Health Improvements Needed

Public safety is a primary concern with a score of 3.5, while healthcare access lags at 35.9. These metrics, combined with a School Score of 39.7, indicate a need for expanded community services.

A Fit for Environmentally Conscious Budgeters

This county is best for those prioritizing low natural disaster risk and affordable housing, with median rents at just $901. It appeals most to residents who are comfortable with a more rugged, rural infrastructure.

Score breakdown

Tax50Cost45.3Safety3.5Health35.9Schools39.7Income54.7Risk76.8Water60.1Weather40.9
🏛50
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠45.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼54.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡3.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤35.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓39.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧60.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤40.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨34.3
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱34.2
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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Nearby counties

Franklin County
Washington
34.4
Grant County
Washington
32.8
Walla Walla County
Washington
37
Columbia County
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44.8
Whitman County
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Benton County
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Lincoln County
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Garfield County
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Deep Dives

Adams County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Adams County

via TaxByCounty

Adams taxes run slightly high nationally

Adams County's effective tax rate of 0.837% sits above the national median of 0.761%, placing it in the 58th percentile across U.S. counties. The median property tax here is $2,104, compared to the national median of $2,690, reflecting lower home values in the county.

10th highest rate in Washington

Adams County ranks 10th among Washington's 39 counties for effective tax rate, above the state average of 0.761%. At $2,104 in median property tax, the county sits below the state median of $3,028.

Higher than most regional peers

Adams County's 0.837% rate exceeds neighboring Asotin (0.800%) and Benton (0.788%), though it trails Columbia County's 0.865%. Among similar rural counties in eastern Washington, Adams sits in the upper tier for tax burden.

$2,104 annual tax on typical home

A median-valued home in Adams County at $251,300 generates an estimated annual property tax of $2,104. Homeowners with a mortgage typically pay $2,612 annually, while those without pay $1,755.

Check if you're overassessed

Many homeowners across Washington counties are unaware they may be overassessed on their property value. If your home feels undervalued compared to recent sales in your area, a tax appeal could reduce your annual bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Adams County

via CostByCounty

Adams County beats national affordability

At 16.6%, Adams County's rent-to-income ratio sits well below the national average, making it one of the more affordable corners of Washington. Renters here spend roughly $901 monthly on housing—far less than the national median—while earning a median household income of $65,042.

Most affordable rental market in Washington

Adams County offers the best rent-to-income ratio in the state at 16.6%, compared to Washington's 18.8% average. Its median rent of $901 undercuts the state average of $1,202 by more than $300 per month.

Cheaper than nearby Asotin County

Adams County renters pay $901 monthly versus $994 in neighboring Asotin County, saving nearly $1,100 annually on rent. Both counties offer better value than the state average, but Adams edges out its eastern neighbor on affordability.

Renters and owners share the load

Adams County renters spend 16.6% of income on housing, while homeowners commit 15.5% to monthly ownership costs. The median home value of $251,300 remains well below the state's pricier counties, making both rental and ownership pathways accessible.

Considering a move? Adams delivers value

If affordability tops your relocation checklist, Adams County's combination of low rents, moderate home prices, and strong rent-to-income ratios makes it a compelling option. Compare these numbers to your current county—you may find significant monthly savings waiting here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Adams County

via IncomeByCounty

Adams County earns below national average

At $65,042, Adams County's median household income falls 13% short of the national median of $74,755. This places the county in the lower-income tier nationally, suggesting residents have less purchasing power than the typical American household.

Ranking fifth lowest among Washington counties

Adams County's median income trails the Washington state average of $76,363 by $11,321. Among the state's 39 counties, Adams ranks near the bottom, indicating limited earning opportunities compared to wealthier regional neighbors.

Lagging nearby agricultural and rural counties

Adams earns $4,065 less than neighboring Columbia County ($71,528) and $6,486 less than Asotin County ($69,107). The county's rural, agricultural focus contributes to lower average incomes relative to more diversified regional economies.

Housing costs manageable despite lower earnings

At 16.6%, Adams County's rent-to-income ratio sits comfortably below the 30% affordability threshold, meaning renters spend roughly one-sixth of income on housing. The median home value of $251,300 remains accessible compared to state averages, though wages would need to rise to improve overall economic stability.

Building financial security in Adams County

With moderate housing costs, Adams County residents have opportunity to prioritize savings and retirement planning. Start with automatic contributions to employer 401(k) plans and explore community credit union services to build wealth despite current income constraints.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Adams County

via CrimeByCounty

Adams County crime rates exceed national average

Adams County reports a total crime rate of 3886.8 per 100K, significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this disparity, the county maintains a solid safety score of 93.9 out of 100. This score reflects a community that, while facing challenges, still provides a relatively secure environment for residents.

Falling just behind the state average safety

With a safety score of 93.9, Adams County ranks slightly below the Washington state average of 96.2. The local crime rate of 3886.8 also sits above the state average of 2377.2 per 100K. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor these trends to align the county more closely with state-wide safety goals.

Comparative safety within the region

Adams County's total crime rate of 3886.8 per 100K mirrors its neighbor, Benton County, which sits at 3879.8. Both counties face higher crime volumes than many of their rural peers in Eastern Washington. This regional trend highlights shared public safety challenges across the central plains.

Property crime drives local statistics

Property crime makes up the bulk of local incidents, reaching 3565.7 per 100K residents. Violent crime is relatively low at 321.1, which actually falls below the national average of 369.8. This means the primary concern for most residents remains theft and burglary rather than physical harm.

Prioritizing home and property security

Since property crime is the leading local safety issue, residents should focus on securing high-value assets. Installing smart lighting and reinforced locks can significantly deter opportunists looking for easy targets. Vigilant neighbors remain the best defense against property theft in Adams County.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Adams County

via HealthByCounty

Adams County lags on life expectancy

At 77.0 years, Adams County residents live about 1.3 years shorter than the U.S. average of 78.3 years. One in four residents (25.2%) report poor or fair health, well above the national poor/fair health rate of 18%, signaling deeper health challenges across the community.

Below Washington's health benchmark

Adams County's 77.0-year life expectancy trails Washington's 78.1-year state average by 1.1 years. The 25.2% poor/fair health rate ranks among the state's highest, indicating Adams County faces outsized health burden compared to peers statewide.

Struggling versus regional peers

Adams County's life expectancy of 77.0 years is 2.3 years below neighboring Benton County (77.8 years) and 2.3 years below Chelan County (79.3 years). With just 34 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Adams has the fewest of any comparison county, limiting immediate access to routine care.

Uninsured rate nearly half again higher

At 13.2%, Adams County's uninsured rate is 4.2 percentage points above Washington's 9.0% average, leaving more than 1 in 8 residents without health coverage. With only 34 primary care providers and 197 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, finding available appointments requires travel and persistence.

Check your coverage options now

If you're one of the 13.2% of Adams County residents without insurance, explore plans on Healthcare.gov or contact a local navigator at a community health center. Coverage can mean earlier care, lower emergency room bills, and better health outcomes for you and your family.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Adams County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Small but Growing Rural Network

Adams County manages a network of 17 public schools serving 5,410 students across five distinct districts. The infrastructure includes seven elementary, three middle, and five high schools, supported by two alternative learning facilities. This rural setup ensures that education is decentralized across the county's major agricultural hubs.

Challenges in Graduation and Funding

The county's graduation rate stands at 76.6%, trailing both the Washington state average of 81.4% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Per-pupil expenditure is $8,585, which is lower than the state's $9,250 and significantly below the national average of $13,000. These metrics contribute to a composite school score of 49.9, reflecting a need for further investment.

Othello Leads the County Enrollment

Othello School District is the county's primary educational provider, managing nine schools and 4,751 students. Smaller districts like Ritzville and Lind serve fewer than 400 students each. There are currently no charter schools operating within the county boundaries.

Town Centers and Rural Classrooms

Schools are split between nine rural settings and eight town locations, with an average school size of 318 students. Othello High School is the largest campus with 1,333 students, while local elementary schools maintain a more intimate feel. The district landscape transitions quickly from small-town hubs to vast agricultural expanses.

Find Your Home in Othello

Families looking for a close-knit community often settle near the large Othello School District campuses. Access to local high schools and middle schools remains a top priority for home buyers in this region. Explore residential options in Ritzville or Othello to stay connected to the local education system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Adams County

via RiskByCounty

Adams County faces very low disaster risk

With a composite risk score of 23.22, Adams County ranks well below the national average and sits in the very low risk category. This means residents experience substantially lower exposure to natural hazards compared to most American counties.

Among Washington's safest counties

Adams County's composite score of 23.22 sits far below Washington's state average of 70.01, placing it among the state's lowest-risk counties. Residents enjoy protection from multiple hazard types that pose greater threats in other parts of Washington.

Safer than surrounding counties

Adams County's risk profile (23.22) is significantly lower than Benton County to the south (87.09) and Chelan County to the north (90.87). The county benefits from a relatively benign natural hazard environment compared to its more mountainous and flood-prone neighbors.

Wildfire is your primary concern

Wildfire risk registers at 85.21 in Adams County, making it the dominant natural hazard threat despite the county's overall low composite score. Earthquake risk (64.57) presents a secondary concern, though flood and tornado risks remain minimal at 34.32 and 7.19 respectively.

Prioritize wildfire and earthquake coverage

While Adams County's overall risk is low, homeowners should ensure adequate wildfire insurance and earthquake coverage given those hazards' elevated scores. Standard homeowners policies don't cover earthquake or wildfire damage, requiring separate endorsements or dedicated policies to protect your investment.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Adams County

via WeatherByCounty

Adams County mirrors national temperature trends

With an annual average of 49.8°F, Adams County sits slightly below the national median for temperature. Its semi-arid climate receives just 11.4 inches of precipitation, making it significantly drier than most American counties.

A dry outlier in Washington state

The county's average temperature nearly matches the state average of 49.9°F. However, its 11.4 inches of rainfall is a fraction of the 38.5 inches Washington typically sees annually.

Warmer and drier than northern neighbors

Adams County experiences more extreme heat than nearby regions, recording 33 days over 90°F annually. This makes it significantly warmer during the summer than neighbors like Chelan to the northwest.

Distinct seasons with hot, dry summers

Summers are intense with July averages hitting 71.0°F, while winters remain chilly at 32.2°F. The county sees a modest 15.1 inches of snowfall, concentrated in the brief winter months.

Prepare for heat and dust

High-efficiency cooling is a priority here given the 33 days of extreme heat each year. Residents should also invest in dust mitigation for the home due to the low annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Adams County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Aridisols of the High Desert

Adams County features alkaline Aridisols with a pH of 7.35, which is significantly higher than the national median of 6.5. This cobbly loam texture reflects the dry, rugged environment characteristic of eastern Washington.

A Gritty and Silt-Heavy Mix

The soil consists of 40.4% sand and 48.1% silt, creating a balanced but somewhat gritty profile. With only 8.6% clay, these soils are easy to work but may struggle to hold onto nutrients compared to heavier clay-based soils.

Managing Moisture in Dry Ground

Organic matter sits at 1.35%, falling below the state average of 14.85% and the national average of 2.0%. The available water capacity of 0.166 in/in indicates a need for careful irrigation to maximize growing potential in this thirsty soil.

Well-Drained Ground for Stable Use

These soils are well drained and belong to hydrologic group B, which helps prevent pooling during heavy rains. This efficient drainage makes the land suitable for both dryland farming and stable construction projects.

Hardy Crops for Zone 7a

In hardiness zone 7a, this soil supports robust wheat production and drought-tolerant perennials. Start your garden with native species or install drip irrigation to help your vegetables thrive in this arid climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Adams County

via LawnByCounty

Adams County Faces Steep Lawn Challenges

Maintaining a lawn in Adams County is significantly tougher than the national average, reflected in its low difficulty score of 34.2. While it sits in Hardiness Zone 7a, the county tracks slightly below the Washington state average of 36.9 for ease of maintenance. Homeowners here must work harder to keep grass green compared to most of the country.

Low Rain and High Heat Intensity

Adams County receives just 11.4 inches of annual precipitation, which is less than a third of the state average of 38.5 inches. With 33 extreme heat days over 90°F annually, your mowing schedule must account for rapid moisture loss and potential heat stress. The 2,418 growing degree days suggest a vigorous but thirstier growing season than coastal neighbors.

Alkaline Soils and Fast Drainage

The local soil pH of 7.35 is slightly more alkaline than the ideal 6.0-7.0 range for most turfgrasses. This cobbly loam is well-drained but contains only 8.6% clay, meaning it does not hold moisture well during dry spells. You may need to apply sulfur to lower the pH and add organic matter to improve water retention.

Managing 37 Weeks of Annual Drought

With 100% of the county currently classified as abnormally dry, water conservation is a daily priority. The county spent 37 weeks in drought over the past year, making deep, infrequent watering essential for root health. Focus on early morning irrigation to minimize evaporation during the high-heat months.

Seeding for the High Desert Climate

The best time to seed or sod is typically after the last frost on May 7 or before the first frost on October 10. Hardiness Zone 7a favors drought-tolerant species like Fine Fescue or Turf-type Tall Fescue. Start your lawn prep in early fall to take advantage of cooler temperatures and the brief window of natural moisture.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adams County's county score?
Adams County, Washington has a composite county score of 37.4 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 Adams County rank among counties in Washington?
Adams County ranks #28 among all counties in Washington 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, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Adams County is $2,104, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Adams County a tax score of 50/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Adams County?
The median household income in Adams County, Washington is $65,042 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Adams County earns an income score of 54.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Adams County, Washington a good place to live?
Adams County scores 37.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #28 in Washington. 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.

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.