CountyScore

Alameda County

California · CA

#54 in California
53.3
County Score

County Report Card

About Alameda County, California

Alameda scores near the national median

With a composite score of 49.2, Alameda County sits just below the national median of 50.0, placing it at the 48th percentile nationwide. This puts the county right in the middle of the livability spectrum across America, neither a clear winner nor a struggling community. The score reflects a county in transition, with distinct strengths and challenges offsetting each other.

Below average for California overall

Alameda's 49.2 score falls notably short of California's 61.3 state average, ranking it in the lower half of the state's 58 counties. Among its Bay Area peers, Alameda faces more housing affordability pressure than many comparable regions. This gap reflects the county's struggle with cost-of-living challenges despite strong income levels.

Tax relief and strong household earnings

Alameda excels with an exceptionally low tax burden—a score of 80.8 reflects an effective tax rate of just 0.762%. The county's median household income of $126,240 ranks among California's highest, giving residents strong purchasing power relative to most Americans. These financial advantages make Alameda attractive for professionals and established families seeking tax efficiency.

Housing costs strain affordability

With a cost score of just 21.3, Alameda faces a critical affordability crisis: the median home value of $1,057,400 and monthly rent at $2,318 are among California's highest. This means high-earning households still struggle with housing as a percentage of income, limiting opportunity for middle-income families. Data on safety, health, schools, and water quality remain unavailable but will provide important context for livability decisions.

For affluent professionals seeking tax savings

Alameda County suits high-income earners and established professionals who can absorb housing costs and prioritize tax efficiency over affordability. The county's strong incomes and low tax rate create a niche appeal for dual-income households and business owners. However, those seeking affordable housing or middle-income stability should explore alternatives in less expensive California regions.

Score breakdown

5 dimensions have live data. 3 more coming as vertical sites launch.

Tax80.8Cost21.3SafetyComing SoonHealth82.1SchoolsComing SoonIncome65.8Risk0.2WaterComing Soon
🏛80.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠21.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼65.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡Coming Soon
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
❤82.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓Coming Soon
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
⚡0.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧Coming Soon
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncomeincomebycounty.com
Compare Alameda County with another county →

Counties with similar scores

San Francisco County
California
53.3
Median income: $141,446
Williamson County
Texas
53.3
Median income: $108,309
Menominee County
Wisconsin
53.3
Median income: $59,528
Ocean County
New Jersey
53.4
Median income: $86,411
Brazoria County
Texas
53.1
Median income: $95,155

Deep Dives

Alameda County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 5 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Alameda County

via TaxByCounty

Alameda's taxes dwarf national average

Alameda County homeowners pay an effective tax rate of 0.762%, nearly three times the national median of 0.25%. At this rate, Alameda ranks in the 85th percentile nationally—among the highest-taxed counties in America.

Above average within California

Alameda's 0.762% effective rate exceeds California's state average of 0.714%, placing it in the upper tier among the state's 58 counties. Alameda homeowners pay $8,061 in median annual taxes, well above the state median of $4,045.

Higher taxes than Bay Area peers

Alameda's 0.762% rate outpaces nearby Contra Costa County (0.831%) and exceeds most inland neighbors like Amador (0.695%) and Alpine (0.684%). The Bay Area pattern reflects both high property values and special districts serving wealthy regions.

Typical Alameda home costs $8,061 yearly

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $1,057,400 pays approximately $8,061 in annual property taxes. Add mortgage interest deduction benefits and total tax liability climbs to $9,108 when mortgaged.

Challenge your assessment if overvalued

Many Alameda County homeowners are unaware they can appeal their assessed values—especially after market shifts. A successful appeal could reduce your annual tax burden significantly; the county reassesses periodically, but you can file an appeal independently.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Alameda County

via CostByCounty

Alameda's rent burden rivals the nation's

Alameda County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.0% matches the national affordability crisis nearly point-for-point. With a median household income of $126,240—69% higher than the U.S. median—residents still dedicate over one-fifth of earnings to rent, a sign that housing costs have outpaced wage growth even for high earners.

Better than most of California

Alameda's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio sits just below California's state average of 22.4%, placing it in the more affordable half of the state's 58 counties. The median rent of $2,318 runs $700 higher than the state average, but stronger incomes make it a relative bargain for the Bay Area.

The Bay Area affordability spectrum

Alameda renters pay $936 more per month than Amador County residents ($2,318 vs. $1,380), but carry nearly identical rent-to-income burdens (22.0% vs. 20.3%) thanks to higher median incomes. Compared to neighbor Contra Costa County, Alameda's rents are marginally cheaper ($2,318 vs. $2,322) despite similar income levels.

Where the money goes in Alameda

Median renters spend $2,318 monthly while homeowners invest $2,899 toward mortgages—roughly equal burdens on a $126,240 annual income. Together, housing consumes roughly 44% of the typical household's gross earnings, leaving limited room for other expenses.

Considering Alameda? Compare wisely

If you earn above $120,000 annually, Alameda's affordability compares favorably to national norms, though homes averaging $1.06 million require substantial down payments. Explore Amador or Calaveras counties for 35–40% lower home prices while maintaining reasonable commute distances to the Bay Area job market.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Alameda County

via IncomeByCounty

Alameda far outpaces national income

Alameda's median household income of $126,240 towers 69% above the national median of $74,755, placing it among the wealthiest counties in America. This income edge reflects the county's concentration of tech workers, healthcare professionals, and financial service employees across the Bay Area.

Top tier among California counties

Alameda ranks among California's highest-income counties, exceeding the state average of $87,001 by $39,239 per household. The county's $63,442 per capita income also substantially outperforms California's $43,669 average.

Wealthier than Bay Area peer

Alameda's median income of $126,240 edges out nearby Contra Costa County at $125,727, both dominating their region. Together, these two counties represent the economic core of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Housing costs remain steep

Despite strong income, Alameda's 22% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $1,057,400 create affordability pressures even for high earners. Families here spend a significant share of income on housing, requiring strategic financial planning.

Build wealth beyond the paycheck

With household incomes averaging $126,240, Alameda residents have substantial capacity to invest in retirement accounts, diversified portfolios, and long-term wealth strategies. Consider consulting a financial advisor to maximize tax-advantaged savings and investment opportunities in your high-income household.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Health in Alameda County

via HealthByCounty

Alameda leads on longevity

Residents of Alameda County live to an average age of 82.0 years, nearly 6 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Only 15.1% report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 18%, signaling strong overall population health. These numbers place Alameda among the healthiest counties in America.

Best-in-state life expectancy

At 82.0 years, Alameda's life expectancy outpaces California's state average of 78.5 years by 3.5 years. The county ranks in the top tier statewide for health outcomes, with fewer residents reporting poor or fair health than the state median. This position reflects decades of investment in healthcare infrastructure and public health.

Outpacing Bay Area peers

Alameda's 82.0-year life expectancy edges out neighboring Contra Costa County (81.2 years) and significantly surpasses inland counties like Amador (78.5 years) and Calaveras (78.8 years). Its 15.1% poor/fair health rate is the lowest among comparable regional counties. This advantage reflects concentrated urban healthcare resources and higher median incomes across the Bay Area's core.

Strong coverage, abundant providers

Just 4.5% of Alameda residents lack health insurance—well below California's 7.2% state average and among the lowest uninsured rates in the nation. The county provides 112 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and 766 mental health providers per 100,000, giving patients robust access to preventive and behavioral health care. This high provider density means shorter wait times and more choice for routine and specialized care.

Already covered? Stay current.

With 95.5% of Alameda residents insured, the county has achieved near-universal coverage—but maintaining that protection matters. Covered California and Medi-Cal continue enrolling residents year-round. Visit coveredca.com or medi-cal.ca.gov to confirm your coverage or explore options if your circumstances have changed.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Disaster Risk in Alameda County

via RiskByCounty

Alameda's risk ranks far above national average

With a composite risk score of 99.78, Alameda County faces very high natural disaster risk—well above the national average. The county's rating places it among the most hazard-exposed areas in the United States, driven by earthquake, flood, and wildfire threats.

Among California's riskiest counties

Alameda's composite score of 99.78 exceeds California's state average of 88.72, ranking the county in the upper tier of risk across the state. This elevated exposure reflects the Bay Area's geological volatility and urban density in flood-prone areas.

Higher risk than nearby Contra Costa

Alameda (99.78) and neighboring Contra Costa County (99.49) are among the state's highest-risk counties, with nearly identical threat profiles. Both counties face severe earthquake and flood hazards that distinguish them from less-exposed inland neighbors like Amador (79.20).

Earthquakes and floods top your hazard list

Earthquake risk (99.97) and flood risk (99.68) dominate Alameda County's threat landscape, with wildfire risk at 97.71 also commanding attention. These three hazards require serious preparation and protection strategies for homeowners and renters alike.

Secure comprehensive earthquake and flood coverage

Standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover earthquake or flood damage in California. Alameda residents should prioritize earthquake insurance and flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or private carriers to protect against the county's dominant hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS — informational only.