countyscore
63.7
County Score
Property Tax 93.6Cost of Living 90.8Safety 90.6

County Report Card

About Baca County, Colorado

Baca exceeds national livability standard

Baca County scores 63.7, surpassing the national median of 50.0 and ranking in the upper 70th percentile nationally. The county's exceptional affordability and safety profiles drive a livability score that outperforms most American counties despite significant income constraints.

Top performer among Colorado counties

Baca ranks well above Colorado's state average of 51.2 with a score of 63.7, placing it among the state's strongest-performing counties overall. This distinction is particularly notable given the county's minimal economic resources.

Affordability, safety, and low taxes shine

Baca County stands out nationally for housing affordability with a cost score of 90.8, median rents of just $490 per month, and an effective tax rate of 0.407%. The county also excels in safety (90.6) and risk resilience (76.9), creating an exceptionally secure and economical environment.

Income and water availability lag

The county's median household income of $40,380 generates an income score of just 3.1—the lowest in this dataset—while water availability is critically constrained with a score of 1.6. These limitations reflect the county's rural character and economic dependency on agriculture.

Ideal for retired and self-sufficient residents

Baca County suits retirees with fixed incomes, remote workers, and those seeking an exceptionally affordable, safe rural community without reliance on local employment. The county's affordability advantage is unmatched but requires acceptance of limited income opportunities and water scarcity.

Score breakdown

Tax93.6Cost90.8Safety90.6Health29.6Schools30Income3.1Risk76.9Water1.6Weather39.5
🏛93.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠90.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼3.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡90.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤29.6
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓30
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡76.9
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧1.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤39.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨25.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.3
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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Texas County
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Deep Dives

Baca County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Baca County

via TaxByCounty

Baca taxes among America's lowest

Baca County's effective rate of 0.407% falls in the bottom 20% of U.S. counties, well below the national median of 0.52%. The median property tax of just $496 is 82% lower than the national median of $2,690.

Below-average burden statewide

Baca County's effective rate of 0.407% slightly exceeds Colorado's average of 0.393%, but its median tax of $496 is less than one-third the state median of $1,560. The county's rural character and lower home values keep taxes minimal.

Low taxes across southeastern plains

Baca County's 0.407% rate is slightly above Bent County (0.386%) but both operate at the lower end of the Colorado spectrum. The sparse population and agricultural economy of the southeastern plains keep property taxes exceptionally low.

What your $122k home costs

A median-valued home in Baca County at $122,000 generates approximately $496 in annual property taxes. With mortgage tax deductions factored in, your effective cost rises to $670 per year.

Appeal if value seems inflated

Even in Baca County's low-tax environment, overassessed properties exist—farmers and ranchers should verify valuations against recent comparable sales. An appeal is free and could preserve further savings on already modest tax bills.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Baca County

via CostByCounty

Colorado's most affordable county

Baca County residents spend just 14.6% of income on rent—the lowest ratio among all eight counties and well below the national affordability threshold of 22%. Despite a median household income of only $40,380, residents enjoy genuine housing affordability on the southeastern plains.

Lowest cost in Colorado sample

Baca County's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio decisively beats Colorado's 20.2% state average, while median rents of $490/month run 61% below the state average of $1,253. This rural county offers the most breathing room in housing budgets across the state's sample.

Plains affordability champion

Baca's $490 median rent costs $364 less than Bent County's $854 and nearly $1,400 less than Adams County's $1,713. Even home values of $122,000 remain the lowest analyzed, making Baca the entire region's affordability leader.

Housing is genuinely affordable

A Baca County household earning the median $40,380 annually spends just $490/month on rent, consuming only 14.6% of income—leaving substantial resources for other needs. Homeowners fare similarly well at $608/month, meaning housing costs barely strain family budgets here.

Stretch your paycheck furthest

Relocating to Baca County means your income goes furthest; $490 rent on a $40,380 salary leaves room to save and invest. If you value affordability and rural plains living over urban amenities, Baca offers unbeatable housing costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Baca County

via IncomeByCounty

Baca County faces severe income gap

Baca County's median household income of $40,380 is 46% below the national median of $74,755, placing it among America's lowest-income rural counties. This significant shortfall reflects the challenges of agricultural-dependent, sparsely populated communities in eastern Colorado.

Lowest-income county in Colorado

Baca County ranks dead last among Colorado's 64 counties with a median household income of just $40,380, less than 54% of the state average of $74,792. The county's economy relies almost entirely on ranching and agriculture, limiting income diversity and growth prospects.

Poorest of the rural southeast

Baca's $40,380 median household income is lower than nearly all neighboring rural counties, though slightly above the severe poverty of some Panhandle regions. Bent County ($49,194) offers one of few higher-income comparisons in the immediate area.

Low costs offset low income

Baca County's 14.6% rent-to-income ratio is the state's lowest, meaning housing consumes remarkably little of earnings despite low incomes. The median home value of just $122,000 makes homeownership highly affordable, providing financial stability in an otherwise challenging economic environment.

Affordable housing enables savings

Despite Baca County's low median income of $40,380, the exceptionally low cost of living—especially housing at $122,000—creates opportunities for even modest-income households to save. Prioritize building any emergency fund possible, explore low-cost retirement savings options, and consider skill-building investments to improve long-term earning potential.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Baca County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety Levels in Baca

Baca County features a remarkably low total crime rate of 171.6 per 100,000, dwarfing the national average of 2,385.5. This results in an elite safety score of 99.7.

One of Colorado's Safest Areas

The county's safety score of 99.7 far exceeds the state average of 97.1. Three reporting agencies contribute to this data, confirming that Baca is among the safest places in Colorado.

Safest Among Rural Peers

Baca County’s total crime rate of 171.6 is a fraction of the state average of 1,834.6. Residents here experience a level of security that is rare even in other rural counties.

Zero Reported Property Crime

The violent crime rate stands at 171.6 per 100,000, while property crime is reported at 0.0. This unusual data point suggests that while minor conflicts may occur, theft is virtually non-existent.

Community Awareness is Key

In a small community with zero property crime, knowing your neighbors is the best security system. Keep track of unusual activity and continue to support local safety initiatives.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Baca County

via HealthByCounty

Baca faces critical health and life expectancy crisis

At 69.8 years, Baca County residents live nearly 9.5 years shorter than the U.S. average of 79.3 years—the lowest life expectancy of any Colorado county in this analysis. More than 1 in 5 Baca residents (21.7%) report poor or fair health, signaling a widespread public health emergency that demands immediate intervention.

Baca's health crisis far exceeds state norms

Baca's 69.8-year life expectancy falls a devastating 8.4 years below Colorado's 78.2-year average, representing the state's most challenged health environment. The county's poor/fair health rate of 21.7% exceeds the state's typical rates by a significant margin, indicating deep structural health and poverty challenges.

Baca's crisis towers over all surrounding counties

Baca's 69.8-year life expectancy and 21.7% poor/fair health rate represent a catastrophic gap compared to Bent County (74.8 years, 22.8%)—the next-lowest counties. Only 57 primary care providers per 100K serve Baca's sparse population, leaving many residents far from consistent medical care.

Extreme rural isolation worsens health outcomes

Baca County is one of Colorado's most remote and economically distressed counties, with a median household income below $35,000 and severe provider shortages. The combination of poverty, isolation, provider scarcity, and limited mental health support (30 providers per 100K) creates a perfect storm for preventable disease and early mortality.

Baca residents: coverage is your lifeline

Baca's 9.1% uninsured rate may seem low, but for one of Colorado's poorest counties, healthcare access remains a critical barrier. Colorado's Medicaid expansion and marketplace subsidies are vital—visit CoverColorado.com or call 1-844-CO-HEALTH to ensure every Baca family gets covered.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Baca County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Learning in Rural Colorado

Baca County serves 648 students across 11 public schools, including 5 elementary and 5 high schools. These facilities are distributed across 5 different school districts, emphasizing local community control.

Navigating Challenges in Rural Outcomes

The graduation rate of 75.0% is below both state and national averages. However, the county invests $7,654 per pupil, which is slightly higher than the Colorado state average of $7,447.

Community Hubs in Springfield and Walsh

Springfield School District No. Re-4 is the largest in the county, educating 304 students. There are no charter schools in Baca County, as traditional public schools serve as the primary community centers.

Ultra-Rural Environments and Tiny Classes

Every school in the county is classified as rural, with a very small average size of 59 students. Springfield Elementary is the largest campus with 169 students, offering highly personalized attention for every child.

Quiet Living with Personalized Schooling

Prospective residents often look to Springfield or Walsh for properties that offer a classic rural lifestyle. Small school sizes in these districts provide a unique, community-integrated environment for growing families.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Baca County

via RiskByCounty

Baca County ranks among America's safest regions

Baca County scores just 23.16 on the composite risk scale, placing it far below both Colorado's state average (40.67) and national hazard exposure. This very low rating reflects minimal vulnerability across most disaster types.

One of Colorado's lowest-risk counties statewide

With a composite score of 23.16, Baca ranks among the safest counties in Colorado, facing less than half the state's average disaster exposure. Few Colorado counties enjoy comparable protection from natural hazards.

Lowest risk in the southeastern plains region

Baca (23.16) sits substantially below Bent County (5.63) to the west, making it one of the safest areas in eastern Colorado's plains region. The county's isolation and sparse development contribute to this favorable hazard profile.

Wildfire poses the only significant local threat

Wildfire risk of 80.76 stands out as Baca's primary concern, reflecting grassland conditions in this high plains county. Tornado risk (26.46) remains modest, and flood risk (6.39) is minimal—among the lowest in the state.

Basic coverage sufficient in this very safe county

Baca residents should ensure adequate wildfire insurance given the 80.76 risk score, but can deprioritize flood and earthquake coverage in this very low-hazard environment. Standard homeowner policies paired with wildfire awareness provide solid protection for this plains county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Baca County

via WeatherByCounty

Baca: High plains heat and dust

Baca County averages 53.7°F annually, running 7.7 degrees warmer than the U.S. median of 46°F. With only 17.1 inches of precipitation yearly and 68 days hitting 90°F or higher, Baca represents Colorado's hot, dry high-plains climate.

Colorado's hottest plains county

At 53.7°F, Baca ranks among Colorado's warmest counties, sitting 7.7 degrees above the state average of 46°F. It represents the extreme southeastern plains, where heat and dryness define the seasonal rhythm.

Baca leads the heat race

Baca (53.7°F) runs significantly warmer than nearby Chaffee County (45.5°F) and even warmer than neighboring Bent County (54.6°F). As a southeastern plains county, Baca sits at Colorado's hottest edge.

Searing summers, mild winters

Summer temperatures average 74.5°F while winters stay relatively mild at 34°F, with an intense 68 days per year reaching 90°F. Annual snowfall of just 23.9 inches reflects the dry plains pattern, with winter precipitation sparse and quick to melt.

Cool and conserve water

Residents face 68 extreme heat days annually, making air conditioning non-negotiable and efficient systems critical for both comfort and cost control. Water conservation is essential given the semi-arid climate; drought-resistant landscaping and careful outdoor planning during peak summer are practical necessities.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Baca County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline Soils in Southeast Colorado

Baca County records a pH of 7.50 and a soil score of 25.8, indicating some chemical challenges for sensitive crops. This pH is notably more alkaline than both the national median of 6.5 and the Colorado state average of 7.29.

Silty Soils for Easy Tilling

The soil contains 44.1% sand and 37.0% silt, a balance that supports diverse agricultural uses. With only 17.8% clay, the soil is generally easy to till and does not suffer from the extreme compaction seen in heavier clay regions.

Strong Water Retention Potential

Organic matter is low at 1.38%, trailing the national average of 2.0%. Despite this, the available water capacity of 0.143 in/in is higher than the state average, helping crops survive the region's frequent dry spells.

Adapting to Arid Conditions

No specific drainage or hydrologic group data is currently available for this county. Growers should monitor local field conditions after heavy rains to assess how effectively the silty-sand mix handles water infiltration.

Heat-Loving Crops for Zone 6b

This area falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, allowing for a long and productive growing season. It is a great environment for heat-loving crops like sorghum, corn, and peppers that thrive in alkaline conditions.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Baca County

via LawnByCounty

Navigating the High Heat of Baca

Baca County scores a 47.3 on the difficulty scale, making it one of the more manageable regions in Colorado despite its intense climate. This Zone 6b area requires a strategic approach to handle the high summer temperatures.

Sizzling Summers and Long Seasons

With 68 extreme heat days per year and 3,573 growing degree days, lawns here face some of the highest thermal stress in the state. The 17.1 inches of annual precipitation helps slightly, but heavy irrigation is needed to counteract the heat.

Managing Alkaline Soil Conditions

The soil pH is relatively high at 7.50, which is slightly more alkaline than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range. With 44.1% sand and 17.8% clay, homeowners should use sulfur-based amendments to help lower the pH for better grass health.

Relatively Stable Drought Outlook

Baca County has experienced only 15 weeks of drought over the past year, though 69.0% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Mulching lawn clippings back into the turf can help retain moisture and provide natural nutrients during dry periods.

Warm-Season Grasses for Baca

Because of the high heat, warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass can be successful here alongside traditional fescues. The long season runs from April 30th to October 13th, giving you plenty of time to establish a robust lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baca County's county score?
Baca County, Colorado has a composite county score of 63.7 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 Baca County rank among counties in Colorado?
Baca County ranks #9 among all counties in Colorado 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 Baca County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Baca County is $496, with an effective tax rate of 0.41%. This earns Baca County a tax score of 93.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Baca County?
The median household income in Baca County, Colorado is $40,380 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Baca County earns an income score of 3.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Baca County, Colorado a good place to live?
Baca County scores 63.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #9 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Baca 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 Baca 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.