countyscore
43
County Score
Income & Jobs 83.7Lawn Care 82.9Health 74.3

County Report Card

About Calaveras County, California

Calaveras modestly outpaces national average

Calaveras County's composite score of 43.0 sits below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 40th percentile nationally. It reflects California's broader livability constraints despite solid regional strengths.

Above California average for livability

At 43.0, Calaveras ranks above California's state average of 40.9, landing in the upper-middle tier of the state's 58 counties. It's a solid performer on the state livability map.

Schools and incomes anchor stability

Calaveras achieves a strong school score of 65.3, outperforming most California counties, paired with a median household income of $79,877 and respectable tax efficiency (0.714% rate). Health outcomes (74.3) also exceed many rural peers.

Water and safety merit attention

The county's water score of 40.6 reflects moderate water stress or quality concerns typical of Sierra foothills regions, while a safety score of 19.9 suggests elevated crime relative to California's safest counties. Housing remains moderately costly at $441,800 median home value.

Ideal for school-focused families seeking nature

Calaveras appeals to families valuing strong schools, mountain scenery, and working-class stability without premium coastal prices. Those requiring abundant water, top-tier safety, or proximity to major job hubs should explore alternative counties.

Score breakdown

Tax61.7Cost6Safety19.9Health74.3Schools65.3Income83.7Risk13.4Water40.6Weather56.4
🏛61.7
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠6
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼83.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡19.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤74.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓65.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡13.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧40.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤56.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱82.9
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Calaveras County

Whether buying or refinancing in Calaveras County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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
Compare Calaveras County with Santa Barbara County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Santa Barbara County
California
Median income: $95,977
43
Montrose County
Colorado
Median income: $66,072
43
Suffolk County
Massachusetts
Median income: $92,859
43
Dakota County
Minnesota
Median income: $105,212
43
Phelps County
Missouri
Median income: $55,427
43
Columbia County
Oregon
Median income: $86,359
43
Bennett County
South Dakota
Median income: $44,569
43
Orleans County
Vermont
Median income: $66,426
43

Nearby counties

Amador County
California
41.8
El Dorado County
California
49.8
Tuolumne County
California
41.7
Alpine County
California
51.2
San Joaquin County
California
33.1
Sacramento County
California
38.3
Mariposa County
California
43.9
Stanislaus County
California
35.6

Deep Dives

Calaveras County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Calaveras County

via TaxByCounty

Calaveras taxes 2.9× national average

Calaveras County's effective tax rate of 0.714% is nearly three times the national median of 0.25%, placing it in the 82nd percentile nationwide. Even this rural Sierra county imposes property taxes well above the American norm.

Exactly at California's state average

Calaveras County's 0.714% effective rate matches California's state average precisely, placing it squarely in the middle tier among all 58 counties. At $3,154 median annual taxes, Calaveras residents pay about 22% less than the state median of $4,045.

Mid-range among foothill peers

Calaveras's 0.714% rate sits above Alpine (0.684%) and Amador (0.695%) but below several Bay Area neighbors like Alameda (0.762%). The county occupies a moderate position within the broader regional landscape.

Calaveras median property tax: $3,154

A typical Calaveras County home valued at $441,800 costs approximately $3,154 annually in property taxes. Mortgaged properties add roughly $240 in annual obligations, totaling $3,396 when including mortgage-related assessments.

Appeal your assessment to lower taxes

Calaveras County homeowners who believe their assessments exceed fair market value can file appeals with the assessor's office. Many properties go uncontested; a successful challenge could reduce your annual burden significantly.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Calaveras County

via CostByCounty

Calaveras taxes renters harder than the nation

Calaveras County's rent-to-income ratio of 24.3% exceeds the national average by 2.3 percentage points, making it one of California's affordability laggards despite a median income of $79,877. Renters spend $1,615 monthly—a cost that commands nearly one-quarter of gross household earnings, leaving families stretched thin.

Among California's least affordable counties

Calaveras ranks in California's bottom third for affordability with a 24.3% rent-to-income ratio, significantly above the state average of 22.4%. The median rent of $1,615 approaches the state median, yet lower median income ($79,877) creates an affordability squeeze for working families.

Calaveras rents climb the foothill ladder

Calaveras's $1,615 median rent runs $235 higher than Amador's $1,380 and $476 higher than Colusa's $1,139, yet with lower income than Amador. The rent-to-income ratio of 24.3% ranks worse than every mountain neighbor except Butte, signaling a regional affordability trouble spot.

Housing dominates Calaveras budgets

Renters pay $1,615 monthly and owners pay $1,590—combined housing costs consume roughly 49% of a $79,877 annual income. This leaves families competing for every dollar in their remaining 51% of earnings, with little cushion for medical emergencies or job loss.

Calaveras best for higher earners

If you earn $90,000+ and seek Sierra foothills charm, Calaveras's $441,800 homes and outdoor recreation justify the rent-to-income squeeze. For those earning under $80,000, compare Amador or Colusa for meaningfully lower housing burdens on similar salaries.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Calaveras County

via IncomeByCounty

Calaveras inches above national income

Calaveras County's median household income of $79,877 exceeds the US median of $74,755 by 7%, reflecting solid middle-class earnings in this Gold Country community. The county supports a mix of retirees, agricultural workers, and recreational tourism employees.

Below California's income benchmark

At $79,877, Calaveras' median household income falls about 8% short of California's $87,001 state average. The county's per capita income of $41,078 trails the state's $43,669, indicating less concentrated wealth.

Similar foothills income profile

Calaveras' $79,877 median income closely resembles neighboring Amador County's $81,526, both small Sierra foothill communities with comparable economic structures. Together they represent the stable middle-income tier of rural California.

Housing costs moderately affordable

Calaveras' 24.3% rent-to-income ratio and median home value of $441,800 require substantial household commitment, pushing housing affordability to the upper range. Residents allocate roughly a quarter of income to housing, similar to struggling rural counties.

Build stability in Gold Country

Calaveras households averaging $79,877 can establish financial stability through disciplined saving and strategic retirement contributions despite moderate housing costs. Focus on debt reduction and emergency funds before exploring investment diversification.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Calaveras County

via CrimeByCounty

Calaveras County Outperforms National Safety

Calaveras County maintains a total crime rate of 2,082.2 per 100,000, well below the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a strong safety score of 96.7.

Safer than the California Average

The county’s safety score of 96.7 is higher than the state average of 96.3. Its total crime rate of 2,082.2 is also lower than the California average of 2,355.2 per 100,000.

Favorable Comparison to Regional Neighbors

At 2,082.2 crimes per 100,000, Calaveras is safer than neighbor Alpine County (2,376.3) and nearly identical to Amador (2,117.0). Six local agencies contribute to this data, confirming a lower-than-average crime profile.

Violent Crime Trends Above National Average

While property crime is low at 1,519.5 per 100,000, the violent crime rate of 562.7 is higher than the national average of 369.8. Property crime levels are notably lower than the national property average of 2,015.7.

Defending Your Calaveras Property

Homeowners should focus on high-visibility security to maintain the county's low property crime levels. Installing smart lighting and alert systems provides peace of mind in this relatively safe community.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Calaveras County

via HealthByCounty

Calaveras exceeds national average

Calaveras County residents live an average of 78.8 years, surpassing the U.S. average of 76.1 years by 2.7 years and slightly above California's 78.5 state average. A 17.4% poor/fair health rate is better than the national average of 18%, indicating solid health outcomes for a rural county. Calaveras punches above its weight for a small, mountain-based community.

Slightly above state baseline

With a 78.8-year life expectancy, Calaveras edges above California's state average of 78.5 years, placing it in the upper-middle tier of state counties. Its 17.4% poor/fair health rate is below the state median, signaling relatively good health outcomes. Calaveras demonstrates that rural counties can achieve health parity with the state average.

Healthier than immediate peers

Calaveras' 78.8-year life expectancy outpaces Amador (78.5 years) and matches the Sierra Nevada regional pattern, while its 17.4% poor/fair health rate is better than Amador (16.3%) and Colusa (24.0%). The county's mountain setting offers some health advantages—outdoor recreation and community cohesion—despite limited primary care. Calaveras competes favorably with comparable rural regions.

Thin primary care, sparse mental health

Calaveras has only 39 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—among California's sparsest—forcing patients to travel for routine care. Mental health providers are also limited at 232 per 100,000, leaving gaps in behavioral health access. The 6.9% uninsured rate slightly exceeds California's 7.2% average, adding complexity to healthcare access.

Secure coverage for Calaveras

Nearly 1 in 14 Calaveras residents lacks health insurance; year-round enrollment through Covered California and Medi-Cal can close this gap. Visit coveredca.com or contact Calaveras County's Human Services Agency for enrollment assistance. Even rural residents can access comprehensive coverage with the right support.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Calaveras County

via SchoolsByCounty

Strong Public Education in the Sierras

Calaveras County operates 23 public schools serving a total enrollment of 5,349 students. The infrastructure includes 11 elementary schools and 7 high schools, managed by 5 local districts. This lean system ensures a focused approach to education across the county's various communities.

Exceptional Graduation and Solid Scores

Students here excel with a graduation rate of 91.1%, significantly higher than the California average of 87.5%. The county’s school score of 57.3 also outperforms the state median. Spending per pupil is $8,468, keeping it competitive with state-level investment.

Calaveras Unified Directs Local Learning

Calaveras Unified is the largest district, overseeing 9 schools and 2,886 students. Charter schools have a small presence with only 2 campuses, representing about 8.7% of the county's total schools. Most families rely on the traditional district model, which is delivering high graduation results.

A Quiet, Rural Academic Environment

Life in Calaveras schools is predominantly rural, with 18 of the 23 schools located in country settings. Average school size is small at 233 students, though Calaveras High serves as a central hub with 746 students. This rural character fosters a community-centric atmosphere where students are well-known by staff.

Invest in a Community with Top Results

If you value high graduation rates and a peaceful rural setting, Calaveras County is an ideal place to call home. The county’s academic performance outshines many neighboring areas, making it a hidden gem for families. Explore local listings to find a home within these high-performing school boundaries.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Calaveras County

via RiskByCounty

Calaveras risk exceeds typical U.S. levels

Calaveras County's composite risk score of 86.61 ranks above the national average, reflecting its exposure to significant natural hazards. The relatively moderate rating masks concentrated threats from wildfire and earthquake that demand serious preparation.

Slightly below California's average exposure

Calaveras's score of 86.61 sits just beneath California's state average of 88.72, placing it in the moderate-risk band statewide. This positioning reflects the Sierra foothills' typical hazard profile—high wildfire risk tempered by lower tornado exposure.

Moderate risk amid variable regional landscape

Calaveras (86.61) faces higher risk than Amador (79.20) but lower than Butte (93.92), positioning it in the middle of the Sierra Nevada counties. Alpine's exceptional safety (10.56) remains a geographic outlier in the eastern region.

Wildfire and earthquake threaten most residents

Wildfire risk reaches 99.46 in Calaveras County, among the state's highest, while earthquake risk of 76.75 presents secondary but serious concern. Flood risk (77.58) rounds out the significant hazard trio requiring homeowner preparedness.

Secure wildfire and earthquake coverage first

Calaveras homeowners should prioritize earthquake insurance and separate wildfire coverage above all other policies. Flood insurance should also be considered in areas near rivers and creeks, as the county's topography channels water during heavy rain events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Calaveras County

via WeatherByCounty

A Temperate Climate Above National Medians

Calaveras County averages 56.4°F annually, making it slightly warmer than the national median temperature. It also receives 39.6 inches of rain, which is high by national standards.

Cooler and Snowier Than Most California

The county is cooler than the California state average of 58.7°F but significantly snowier. Its 36.2 inches of annual snowfall is a rarity in a state that averages much less.

The Cooler, Snowier Foothill Neighbor

Calaveras is cooler than neighboring Amador County by nearly 5 degrees. It also receives 36.2 inches of snow, whereas Amador receives only 0.3 inches.

Warm Summers Balanced by Snowy Winters

July averages a pleasant 73.4°F, though the county still records 44 extreme heat days. Winter is defined by 36.2 inches of snow and an average temperature of 43.1°F.

Winter Tires and Moderate Cooling Needed

Prepare for the 36.2-inch snow season with proper vehicle tires and heating. Homeowners should also plan for 44 days of heat over 90°F with efficient attic insulation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Calaveras County

via SoilByCounty

Foothill Foundations Awaiting Data

Calaveras County lacks specific taxonomic and pH data in our current records. While the national median is 6.5 pH, foothill soils often have unique mineral compositions that require localized testing. Knowing your pH is the first step to unlocking plant health.

Discovering Your Backyard Texture

There are no specific percentages for sand, silt, and clay provided for Calaveras County. These ratios dictate how well your soil drains and how easy it is to till. Residents should test their soil manually to determine the best amendment strategy.

Enhancing Foothill Soil Potential

With organic matter and water capacity data missing, we cannot compare Calaveras to the 3.30% state average. Adding organic amendments is a proven way to boost fertility and water retention in any garden bed.

Monitoring Runoff in the Foothills

Dominant drainage and hydrologic group data are currently unavailable for this county. Because Calaveras features sloped terrain, monitoring how water flows during winter rains is crucial for erosion control and plant health.

Sun-Drenched Success in Zone 9a

Calaveras County thrives in Hardiness Zone 9a, supporting a wide variety of fruit trees and perennials. This is a perfect environment to start a home vineyard or a productive vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Calaveras County

via LawnByCounty

The Gold Standard for Lawn Care

Calaveras County boasts an impressive lawn difficulty score of 82.9, making it one of the easiest places in the country to grow grass. This zone 9a county far exceeds both the national average of 50.0 and the state average of 51.3. The combination of moderate heat and solid rainfall creates an ideal environment for home landscaping.

Perfectly Balanced Growing Conditions

Annual precipitation reaches 39.6 inches, which is right in the sweet spot for healthy, lush turf. With 44 extreme heat days, the county stays cooler than the state average of 59, reducing summer stress on your grass. You will enjoy a long, productive season with 3,547 growing degree days helping your lawn thrive.

Support Your Soil's Potential

While specific soil data is not provided, the high lawn success score suggests a foundation that responds well to standard care. You should maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 to maximize the benefits of the county's abundant rainfall. Incorporating organic matter will help ensure your soil can handle the active growing season effectively.

Consistent Moisture and Resilience

Calaveras County has enjoyed zero weeks of drought over the past year and remains at 0% drought coverage today. This consistent moisture allows you to maintain a healthy lawn with less supplemental watering than your neighbors in the valley. High resilience means your turf is better prepared to handle any sudden shifts in the weather.

Ideal Timing for Calaveras Lawns

Both warm-season and cool-season grasses perform well here, though Tall Fescue is a versatile favorite for this climate. Your spring frost usually ends by May 7, with the first fall frost waiting until December 17. This creates a generous window for seeding or installing sod during the mild spring or autumn months.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Calaveras County's county score?
Calaveras County, California has a composite county score of 43 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 Calaveras County rank among counties in California?
Calaveras County ranks #19 among all counties in California 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 Calaveras County, California?
The median annual property tax in Calaveras County is $3,154, with an effective tax rate of 0.71%. This earns Calaveras County a tax score of 61.7/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Calaveras County?
The median household income in Calaveras County, California is $79,877 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Calaveras County earns an income score of 83.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Calaveras County, California a good place to live?
Calaveras County scores 43/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #19 in California. The best way to evaluate Calaveras 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 Calaveras 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.