countyscore
56.5
County Score
Disaster Risk 94.1Property Tax 92.5Safety 81.5

County Report Card

About Camas County, Idaho

Healthy standing above national median

Camas County earns a composite score of 56.5, placing it well ahead of the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a stable environment with strong fundamental metrics.

Beating the state average

Camas outshines the Idaho state average of 52.2. It offers a balanced profile that combines rural stability with higher livability than many of its state neighbors.

Resilient and tax-friendly

The county is highlighted by a risk score of 94.1 and a safety score of 81.5, indicating a very secure community. A tax score of 92.5 further improves the financial outlook for local residents.

Income and water limitations

Economic growth is a hurdle, with an income score of 26.6 and a median household income of $55,536. A water score of 13.4 suggests that local utilities may require future investment.

A haven for quiet stability

Camas County is perfect for those seeking a low-risk, safe environment away from urban congestion. It suits individuals who value peace and low taxes over high-speed economic growth.

Score breakdown

Tax92.5Cost31.1Safety81.5Health51.5Schools38.5Income26.6Risk94.1Water13.4Weather37
🏛92.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠31.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼26.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡81.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤51.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡94.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧13.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱28.3
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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Deep Dives

Camas County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Camas County

via TaxByCounty

Camas taxes rank well below nation

Camas County's 0.422% effective tax rate significantly underperforms the national average, with median taxes of $1,050 representing just 39% of the national median of $2,690. This positions Camas in roughly the 28th percentile nationally—a compelling tax advantage.

Camas ranks lower-middle in Idaho

At 0.422%, Camas County sits below Idaho's 0.508% state average, placing it in the lower half of the state's tax rankings. The median home value of $248,900 keeps tax bills modest despite a slightly-below-average effective rate.

Camas offers middle-ground pricing

Camas's 0.422% rate places it between Boundary County (0.416%) and Butte County (0.504%), with median taxes ($1,050) falling between those two neighbors. Compared to Cassia County's $1,141 bill, Camas offers a $91 annual savings on similar property values.

Camas median tax: $1,050 yearly

A typical Camas County home valued at $248,900 generates annual property taxes of $1,050. With mortgage assessments, bills can reach $1,041, while outright owners average approximately $1,063.

Appeal assessments if values seem off

Camas County's rural character means assessment comparables may be limited, sometimes resulting in overvalued properties on tax rolls. Review your assessment against recent sales and file a protest if your property appears overassessed relative to the local market.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Camas County

via CostByCounty

Camas struggles with affordability stress

Camas County renters spend 21.4% of their modest income on rent—among the highest burdens in Idaho and well above healthy national ranges. With median income of $55,536, the county's 19-point income gap below the national median amplifies housing pressure.

Idaho's least affordable rental market

Camas's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio ranks dead last in Idaho, towering 4.6 points above the state average of 16.8%. At $992 monthly rent, Camas households sacrifice more of their paychecks to housing than virtually any other Idahoans.

Rent premium in an isolated county

Camas's $992 rent rivals or exceeds Bonneville ($1,054) and Bonner ($1,059), despite lower incomes and smaller population than both neighbors. The disparity reflects limited housing supply in this isolated central Idaho county, keeping rents persistently elevated.

Over one-fifth of income to rent

Camas households earn $55,536 while paying $992 in rent or $978 for ownership—meaning 21.4% of income vanishes to rental housing. Ownership costs are nearly as high as rent ($978), offering little relief for homebuyers in this constrained market.

Renters should bypass Camas County

Camas's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio makes it Idaho's least affordable option for renters—compare to Boundary ($867) or Butte ($525) and save thousands annually. If you're relocating with modest income, nearly any other Idaho county offers better affordability mathematics.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Camas County

via IncomeByCounty

Camas lags national income average

Camas County's median household income of $55,536 trails the national median of $74,755 by roughly 26%, placing it in the lower tier of American counties. This significant gap reflects limited economic diversification and employment opportunities in this rural county.

Below Idaho's county average

Camas's $55,536 household income falls $10,234 below Idaho's state average of $65,770, positioning the county in the lower third of Idaho's 44 counties. Per capita income of $29,735 also underperforms the state average of $32,503, indicating limited individual earning power.

Weakest link in central Idaho

Camas earns $12,255 less than nearby Butte County ($43,281)—wait, that's reversed; Butte is lower. Actually, Camas at $55,536 exceeds Butte but trails Cassia County ($67,042) by $11,506 and significantly lags Bonneville County ($76,646) by $21,110. The county ranks in the lower half among regional peers.

Housing costs pinch household budgets

Camas's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% pushes toward the affordability threshold, meaning renters spend over one-fifth of income on housing. Combined with a median household income of $55,536, the county leaves residents with limited discretionary income for saving and investing.

Maximize income growth opportunities

Camas residents earning below county median should explore skills training and higher-wage career transitions to boost household income. Those meeting or exceeding the $55,536 median can benefit from automated savings plans and employer retirement matching programs to build wealth despite tight housing costs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Camas County

via CrimeByCounty

Camas County Ranks Among the Nation's Safest

Camas County features an elite safety score of 99.3. Its total crime rate of 441.3 per 100K is dramatically lower than the U.S. national average of 2,385.5.

Leading the Pack in Idaho Safety

Camas County significantly outperforms the state safety score average of 98.4. With only one agency reporting, the data suggests a very peaceful environment, though the small sample size warrants careful review.

Lower Crime Than Any Neighboring List

Camas County’s crime rate of 441.3 is the lowest among this group of Idaho counties. It is roughly 30% lower than Butte County and several times lower than Cassia County.

Minimal Violent and Property Incidents

Violent crime is rare at 88.3 per 100K, and property crime sits at a low 353.0. This translates to an incredibly safe environment where major incidents are infrequent.

Maintain Your Camas County Safety

Security in Camas County is largely about maintaining the status quo. Even in very safe areas, installing a doorbell camera can help keep your property secure while you are away.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Camas County

via HealthByCounty

Limited data, but signs of concern

Life expectancy data is not currently available for Camas County, making national comparisons difficult. However, the county's 15.0% poor or fair health rate suggests health outcomes broadly comparable to national averages for self-reported wellness.

Data gap hampers state comparison

Without life expectancy figures, Camas cannot be directly ranked against Idaho's 77.5-year state average. The 15.0% poor or fair health rate sits slightly better than many state peers, but the missing longevity metric leaves a critical gap in understanding Camas's true health standing.

Uninsured rate highest in the region

Camas's 14.0% uninsured rate is the highest among these eight counties, significantly exceeding Idaho's 11.7% average. This access barrier compounds any underlying health challenges the county faces.

Minimal healthcare infrastructure reported

Primary care and mental health provider data remain unavailable for Camas County, suggesting limited healthcare infrastructure or reporting challenges. The 14.0% uninsured rate creates a double burden: sparse provider networks paired with fewer residents able to pay for care.

Make coverage a family priority

With 1 in 7 Camas County residents uninsured—the highest rate in this group—seeking coverage is urgent. Visit healthcare.gov or contact local community health centers to explore options and connect your family to the limited services available.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Camas County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Learning in Fairfield

Camas County maintains a very small educational footprint with only two public schools serving 184 students. These schools, one elementary/junior high and one high school, are both managed by a single district.

High Investment Despite Graduation Challenges

Per-pupil expenditure is a robust $8,561, significantly higher than the Idaho average, yet the graduation rate sits at 75.0%. This reflects the unique challenges of a very small student body where single-student outcomes heavily influence overall percentages.

One District for Every Student

Camas County District manages the entire educational experience for the county’s 184 pupils. Without charter school alternatives, the local public district remains the singular focus for education and community activities in the area.

A Truly Rural Educational Experience

Both schools are situated in rural settings, with an average school size of only 92 students. The Camas County High School is particularly small, with just 65 students, ensuring every teenager receives personalized attention from staff.

Quiet Living Near Camas County Schools

Living in Camas County means being part of a school system where everyone knows your name. Prospective residents should consider the value of this personalized environment when looking for properties in the Fairfield area.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Camas County

via RiskByCounty

Camas ranks among America's safest

Camas County scores just 5.98 on composite risk, placing it in the very low category with minimal exposure to most hazards. Its high elevation and remote location shield it from major natural disaster threats.

Second-safest county in Idaho

At 5.98, Camas is nearly 85% below Idaho's state average of 38.51, making it one of only a handful of truly low-risk counties statewide. Only Butte County's 4.42 is lower.

Safer than all surrounding counties

Camas's 5.98 score contrasts sharply with Caribou's 7.22 and Cassia's 43.58, demonstrating the protected geography of central Camas County. Its isolation from major fault lines and fire corridors explains the dramatically lower risk.

Wildfire is Camas's only meaningful threat

Wildfire risk reaches 80.82, the only significant hazard in Camas County, while all other exposures are negligible—flood at 3.37, tornado at 1.72, and earthquake at 23.22. This concentrated risk simplifies emergency preparedness.

Wildfire coverage recommended despite low overall risk

Although Camas is among America's safest counties overall, your 80.82 wildfire score means standalone wildfire insurance is still prudent for those in forested areas. Standard homeowners policies exclude this hazard entirely.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Camas County

via WeatherByCounty

One of the Nation's Coldest Counties

With an annual average temperature of 42.1°F, Camas County is among the coldest regions in the lower 48 states. It is also quite arid, receiving only 14.3 inches of precipitation annually.

Well Below Idaho's Average Temperature

Camas County's annual average of 42.1°F is over four degrees lower than the Idaho state average of 46.5°F. Its precipitation of 14.3 inches also falls short of the 17.0-inch state average.

Similar Temperature to Arid Butte County

Camas County mirrors the 42°F range found in Butte County, though it receives slightly more moisture at 14.3 inches. While snowfall data is unavailable, the 20.0°F winter average suggests significant freezing conditions.

Cold Winters and Moderate Summer Highs

Winters are long and cold, with a December-February average of 20.0°F and January hitting 18.7°F. Summers are pleasant with a July average of 66.5°F, though there are 18 days of extreme heat.

Focus on Extreme Cold Preparation

Robust home insulation and backup heating sources are essential for the 18.7°F January average. Residents should also prepare for 18 days of 90°F heat during the short but intense summer window.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Camas County

via SoilByCounty

The Camas Prairie Profile

Soil pH for Camas County is not specifically listed, but the state average of 6.04 points toward a slightly acidic soil profile. This is lower than the national median of 6.5, which may require specific fertilizers to balance nutrient availability. Local history suggests a rich soil legacy that benefits from these unique conditions.

Texture on the Prairie

Sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently unavailable for Camas County's agricultural lands. The ratio of these components dictates how much air and water reach plant roots, impacting overall crop yield. Simple ribbon tests can help local farmers identify their soil's dominant texture.

State-Wide Soil Wealth

Specific organic matter data for the county is missing, but Idaho's 27.53% average is exceptionally high compared to the 2.0% national average. This richness, paired with a state average water capacity of 0.269 in/in, provides a strong base for prairie ecosystems. These numbers highlight the potential for highly productive local fields.

Drainage in the Basin

With no specific drainage data available, Camas County residents must observe their own land's water behavior during heavy spring rains. Proper drainage prevents salts from accumulating and keeps roots from rotting in the prairie's unique topography. Understanding hydrology is key to maintaining long-term soil health and productivity.

Growing in Zone 6a

Camas County's zone 6a hardiness level is ideal for cool-season grains and hardy root vegetables. The climate supports a variety of flowering perennials that can withstand the cold winters and dry summers. Start your prairie garden this season with crops that love the Idaho sun.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Camas County

via LawnByCounty

Camas County's High-Elevation Challenges

Camas County has a lawn difficulty score of 28.3, which is below the Idaho state average of 33.3. Situated in a 6a hardiness zone, the area features a climate that is notably tougher than the national median of 50.0. Residents should expect a significant investment of time and resources to maintain healthy turf in this environment.

Cooler Temps but Very Dry

The county receives just 14.3 inches of annual precipitation, making irrigation mandatory for any traditional lawn. While 18 extreme heat days is relatively low, the 1,605 growing degree days suggest a shorter window for grass to actively grow. This climate favors cool-season grasses that can handle the low humidity and limited rainfall.

Check Your Soil Quality

Specific soil metrics are not available for Camas County in this dataset, so local testing is highly recommended before any major planting. High-elevation prairie soils can be variable, often requiring aeration and organic amendments to support dense root growth. Understanding your specific plot's drainage will prevent wasted water and nutrient runoff.

Managing the Dry Months

With 38 weeks spent in drought over the last year, Camas County currently sees 100% of its area in abnormally dry conditions. Efficient water use, such as drip irrigation for borders and smart controllers for turf, is vital. Aim to water deeply but infrequently to encourage roots to reach further into the soil for moisture.

Time Your Planting Perfectly

The frost-free window in Camas County is very short, beginning around June 16 and ending by September 14. Choose hardy cool-season varieties like Kentucky bluegrass and ensure you plant as soon as the spring frost risk passes. This narrow three-month window is your primary opportunity to establish a lawn before the cold returns.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Camas County's county score?
Camas County, Idaho has a composite county score of 56.5 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 Camas County rank among counties in Idaho?
Camas County ranks #15 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 Camas County, Idaho?
The median annual property tax in Camas County is $1,050, with an effective tax rate of 0.42%. This earns Camas County a tax score of 92.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Camas County?
The median household income in Camas County, Idaho is $55,536 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Camas County earns an income score of 26.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Camas County, Idaho a good place to live?
Camas County scores 56.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #15 in Idaho. The best way to evaluate Camas 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 Camas 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.