countyscore
40.4
County Score
Health 66.1Weather & Climate 64Water Quality 63

County Report Card

About Clallam County, Washington

Clallam County Below National Average

Clallam County’s composite score of 40.4 is approximately 10 points below the national median of 50.0. This reflects the unique economic and environmental pressures of the Olympic Peninsula.

Trailing the Washington State Average

The county sits below the Washington state average of 44.1. While it offers scenic beauty, its livability metrics are constrained by environmental risks and housing costs.

Favorable Taxes and Health Outcomes

A Tax Score of 58.5 and a modest 0.742% effective tax rate are major benefits for residents. The county also performs well in healthcare with a score of 66.1.

High Environmental Risk and Safety Needs

Environmental vulnerability is the county's weakest point with a Risk Score of 10.3. Public safety also presents challenges, scoring just 14.9 on the index.

A Haven for Healthy Retirees

Clallam is best for retirees or those with portable incomes who prioritize healthcare and low property taxes. Residents should be prepared for the environmental risks associated with its coastal geography.

2040608010058.525.114.966.142.661.810.36364Tax58.5Cost25.1Safety14.9Health66.1Schools42.6Income61.8Risk10.3Water63Weather6440.4/100
This county
National avg
2 above average4 below average

Clallam County DNA

Foverall

How Clallam County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Clallam County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Health (66.1/100) but notably weak in Safety (14.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
58.5
Cost
25.1-22.9
Safety
14.9-40.1
Health
66.1+16.099999999999994
Schools
42.6-11.399999999999999
Income
61.8+10.799999999999997
Risk
10.3-36.7
Water
63
Weather
64+8
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$385,600

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,110/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$385,600/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$44,400/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum5.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $67,999/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

16.8

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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 Clallam County with Lassen County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Jefferson County
Washington
48.6
San Juan County
Washington
55.5
Island County
Washington
50.7
Kitsap County
Washington
40.1
Mason County
Washington
40.1
Grays Harbor County
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36.2
Thurston County
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37.7
Snohomish County
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41.7

Deep Dives

Clallam County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Clallam County

via TaxByCounty

Clallam rate below national median

Clallam County's effective tax rate of 0.742% sits slightly below the national median of 0.761%, placing it in the 45th percentile. The median property tax of $2,860 falls within range of the national median of $2,690, despite higher home values at $385,600.

Below-average taxation in Washington

Clallam County ranks 13th among Washington's 39 counties for effective tax rate, below the state average of 0.761%. With a median property tax of $2,860, it sits slightly below the state median of $3,028.

Competitive with western Washington peers

Clallam's 0.742% rate is favorable compared to Cowlitz (0.813%) and well below Clark County (0.836%), making it attractive on the Olympic Peninsula. The county offers relatively light tax burden for the Puget Sound region.

Around $2,860 annually on median home

A typical Clallam County home valued at $385,600 incurs an annual property tax of approximately $2,860. Both mortgage-holding and mortgage-free homeowners face nearly identical taxes, around $2,860.

Appeal if assessment seems high

Waterfront and scenic properties in Clallam County sometimes see inflated assessments that don't match actual market sales. If your property tax seems disproportionate to comparable sales nearby, filing an appeal is a straightforward way to potentially save money.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clallam County

via CostByCounty

Clallam County faces tighter affordability squeeze

Clallam County's 19.6% rent-to-income ratio exceeds both the national average and Washington's state average of 18.8%. At $1,110 monthly rent against a median household income of just $67,999, Clallam residents spend a larger share of earnings on housing than peers elsewhere.

Among Washington's most expensive rental markets

Clallam County ranks near the bottom of Washington's affordability scale with a 19.6% rent-to-income ratio. Its median rent of $1,110 runs $92 above state average, while median household income lags behind most peer counties.

Higher costs than most other sample counties

Clallam County's $1,110 rent exceeds Adams ($901), Asotin ($994), and Columbia ($944), matching affordability pressures in more expensive regions. At $385,600 median home value, Clallam also prices above most neighbors except Chelan.

Renters stretched more than homeowners

Clallam renters spend 19.6% of income on housing, compared to 17.9% for homeowners—one of the few counties where renters face greater burden. At $67,999 median household income, Clallam households face affordability constraints on both fronts.

Clallam requires careful budget planning

Before relocating to Clallam County, compare these housing costs—among the state's highest—against your current expenses and prospective income. The peninsula location and lifestyle may justify higher payments for some, but budget-conscious relocators should explore more affordable alternatives.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clallam County

via IncomeByCounty

Clallam County trails national income average

At $67,999, Clallam County's median household income runs 9% below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the lower-middle income tier nationally. Per capita income of $40,133 slightly exceeds the national average, suggesting concentrated wealth among smaller populations.

Below-average earnings in Washington

Clallam County's median household income of $67,999 lags the Washington state average of $76,363 by $8,364. The county ranks among the state's lower-earning regions, reflecting limited major employers and reliance on seasonal tourism and government jobs.

Income gap reflects geographic isolation

Clallam County's $67,999 trails Adams County by $1,043, underperforming most comparison counties except those in the state's poorest regions. The Olympic Peninsula location contributes to economic isolation and fewer high-wage employment opportunities than more connected regions.

Housing affordability challenged by home costs

Clallam County shows the highest rent-to-income ratio at 19.6% among these counties, approaching the affordability warning threshold despite median household income pressures. The median home value of $385,600 reflects coastal demand, making housing increasingly strained relative to local wages.

Building resilience in a tight-budget economy

Clallam County residents should prioritize emergency funds and debt reduction before aggressive investing, given tighter income-to-expense ratios. Explore affordable housing programs, credit counseling, and employer retirement benefits to establish financial stability and gradual wealth accumulation.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clallam County

via CrimeByCounty

Clallam County aligns with national safety

Clallam County reports a total crime rate of 2400.0 per 100K, placing it right in line with the national average of 2,385.5. The county maintains a strong safety score of 96.2. This balance suggests a stable environment despite the challenges typical of coastal regions.

A perfect match for state averages

With a safety score of 96.2, Clallam County exactly matches the average safety score for the state of Washington. Its total crime rate of 2400.0 is slightly higher than the state average of 2377.2. Overall, the county represents the typical safety profile for the Pacific Northwest.

Safer than many western neighbors

Clallam County is significantly safer than Cowlitz County, where the crime rate reaches 2909.0. Compared to other coastal or timber-reliant counties, Clallam maintains a very competitive safety profile. It remains a regional leader in keeping crime rates manageable.

Violent crime stays below national levels

Violent crime in Clallam County is 297.4 per 100K, notably lower than the national average of 369.8. Property crime accounts for 2102.6 incidents, which is the primary driver of local statistics. Residents are encouraged to stay alert to property theft, which is the most common risk.

Simple steps for a safer home

Since property crime is the most frequent issue, home security systems and cameras are highly effective. Marking personal property and joining local watch groups can further deter theft in residential areas. These proactive steps help maintain the county's stable safety ranking.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Clallam County

via SchoolsByCounty

Olympic Peninsula School Infrastructure

Clallam County maintains 28 public schools for 9,432 students across six districts. The infrastructure is unique, featuring nine 'other' category schools—including online and alternative options—alongside nine elementary and seven high schools. This variety addresses the geographic challenges of the peninsula's diverse terrain.

High Spending Despite Performance Gaps

Per-pupil expenditure is robust at $9,769, notably higher than the Washington state average of $9,250. However, the graduation rate currently sits at 52.1%, which is significantly lower than the 87.0% national benchmark. This disparity contributes to a composite school score of 39.6.

Port Angeles and Sequim Lead

Port Angeles School District is the largest with 10 schools and 3,534 students, while Sequim serves 2,602 students. The Quillayute Valley School District hosts the Insight School of Washington, a large virtual high school with 1,556 students. No brick-and-mortar charter schools currently operate in the county.

Town-Centered Schools with Rural Reach

With 21 schools located in town settings and seven in rural areas, the average school size is 337 students. Large campuses like Port Angeles High and Sequim High serve as the social hubs for their respective communities. The presence of nine alternative or specialized schools highlights a focus on non-traditional learning paths.

Find a Peninsula Home Near Schools

Many homebuyers focus on the Sequim School District for its community-oriented elementary and middle schools. Port Angeles also offers established neighborhoods within walking distance of central campuses like Port Angeles High. Choosing a home here means joining a community that prioritizes accessible, town-based education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clallam County

via RiskByCounty

Clallam County faces moderate natural hazards

With a composite risk score of 89.73, Clallam County ranks well above the national average in the relatively moderate risk category. The county's Olympic Peninsula location creates a distinct hazard profile shaped by geographic and tectonic features.

Third-highest risk in Washington

Clallam County's score of 89.73 ranks it among Washington's most hazardous counties, trailing only Clark (92.24) and Chelan (90.87). The county significantly exceeds the state average of 70.01, placing residents in the upper tier of state disaster risk.

Most hazardous on the Olympic Peninsula

Clallam County (89.73) faces considerably more risk than surrounding counties in western Washington, reflecting its unique geographic position and proximity to seismic zones. Its exposure significantly outpaces more sheltered communities across the Puget Sound.

Earthquakes and floods are primary threats

Clallam County residents face extreme earthquake risk at 98.06 and substantial flood risk at 75.00, making these the county's defining hazards. Wildfire risk (39.73) and tornado risk (11.96) are secondary concerns relative to these two dominant threats.

Earthquake coverage is absolutely essential

Clallam County's extreme earthquake risk score of 98.06 makes earthquake insurance a critical investment for all homeowners in the county. Additionally, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program should be a priority given the county's significant flood risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Clallam County

via WaterByCounty

Clallam County maintains a Grade B for water

Four health violations occurred over the last five years, resulting in a rate of 4.7 per 100,000 residents. This performance is significantly better than the Washington state average of 113.4.

Watershed impairment data is currently unavailable

Federal §303(d) assessments have not yet covered Clallam County's water bodies. No impaired percentages or specific contaminant causes are officially recorded in the ATTAINS system.

A massive monitoring network tracks coastal health

With 173 sites and 91,744 measurements, Clallam has the highest monitoring density in this group. Data collectors focus on physical, microbiological, and biological indicators.

Elwha River flows below long-term mean

The Elwha River near Port Angeles shows a current discharge of 1,070 cfs, which is 71% of its typical flow. Reduced flows can impact habitat and the concentration of natural minerals.

Leverage rich data for local protection

Residents are supported by an exceptionally dense monitoring network that tracks bacteria and biological health. While compliance is strong, be aware that lower river flows may alter source water characteristics.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clallam County

via WeatherByCounty

A cool, wet Pacific maritime climate

Clallam County stays cool with a 49.3°F annual average and heavy 58.7-inch precipitation. This is significantly wetter and cooler than the average American county.

Cooler summers than the state average

The county's average temperature of 49.3°F is just below the Washington average of 49.9°F. Its 58.7 inches of rain is nearly 20 inches higher than the state mean.

Wetter and milder than the interior

Clallam sees only one day of extreme heat annually, far fewer than inland counties. It receives 58.7 inches of rain, vastly out-precipitating the dry counties of eastern Washington.

Consistent moisture and very few extremes

Winters are mild at 39.9°F, while summers peak at a cool 60.8°F in July. The county only records about 2.9 inches of snow, as most precipitation falls as rain.

Invest in rain gear, not AC

With only one day of heat over 90°F, air conditioning is rarely a necessity. High-quality waterproof clothing and moisture control for homes are essential for the 58.7 inches of rain.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clallam County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Soils of the Peninsula

Clallam County's coastal soils lack specific pH and taxonomic data in these recent surveys. In this rainy climate, soils are often more acidic than the national 6.5 median due to heavy nutrient leaching from rainfall.

Olympic Mountain Influence

Exact percentages for sand, silt, and clay are currently unavailable. The proximity to the Olympic Mountains suggests a mix of stony and fine materials that affect how water moves through the ground.

Lush Growth and Natural Matter

No data exists for organic matter or water capacity in the current records. Local gardeners often find they have more natural organic matter than the 2.0% national average thanks to the region's lush, year-round vegetation.

Managing High Rainfall Drainage

Official drainage and hydrologic groups are not listed for this county. Given the extremely high rainfall, ensuring your garden beds aren't waterlogged is a top priority for any planting project.

Maritime Gardening in Zone 8b

Hardiness zone 8b offers a mild maritime climate perfect for cool-season greens and berries. The long, temperate season allows you to grow a wide variety of ornamentals and vegetables with very little frost risk.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clallam County

via LawnByCounty

Coastal Comfort for Clallam Lawns

Clallam County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 40.8, making it one of the easier places in Washington to keep a yard green. Its Hardiness Zone 8b status and mild maritime climate provide a significant advantage over the state average of 36.9. You will find that nature does much of the heavy lifting here.

High Rainfall and Cool Summers

With a generous 58.7 inches of annual precipitation, Clallam County far exceeds the state average of 38.5 inches. Extreme heat is almost non-existent, with only 1 day per year reaching 90°F. The low 1,311 growing degree days mean grass grows slowly and steadily, requiring less frequent mowing than in warmer regions.

Managing High Moisture in Soil

Specific soil data for pH and texture is currently limited, but the 58.7 inches of rain suggests a need for excellent drainage. In this wet environment, moss can often outcompete grass if the soil becomes too compacted or acidic. Regular aeration and monitoring for drainage issues will keep your lawn healthy and fungus-free.

The Most Resilient County in the Set

Clallam County is relatively drought-resilient, with only 23.3% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. It experienced just 28 weeks of drought in the past year, the lowest in this group. You can typically rely on natural rainfall for most of the year, though occasional summer watering may be needed.

A Long, Mild Growing Season

Your planting window opens after April 20 and stays favorable until the first frost on October 31. Zone 8b is perfect for cool-season grasses like Fine Fescue and Bentgrass that thrive in moist, temperate conditions. Start seeding in early spring to take advantage of the gentle rise in temperatures.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clallam County's county score?
Clallam County, Washington has a composite county score of 40.4 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 Clallam County rank among counties in Washington?
Clallam County ranks #21 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 Clallam County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Clallam County is $2,860, with an effective tax rate of 0.74%. This earns Clallam County a tax score of 58.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clallam County?
The median household income in Clallam County, Washington is $67,999 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clallam County earns an income score of 61.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clallam County, Washington a good place to live?
Clallam County scores 40.4/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #21 in Washington. The best way to evaluate Clallam 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 Clallam County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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