countyscore
38.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 93.8Health 83.9Water Quality 69.5

County Report Card

About Clark County, Washington

Clark County Behind National Median

Clark County’s composite score of 38.2 places it below the national median of 50.0. High growth has brought economic gains but also significant cost and safety pressures.

Underperforming the Washington Average

Despite its large population, Clark County trails the state average score of 44.1. It ranks lower than many other urban Washington counties due to environmental and safety factors.

Exceptional Incomes and Health Services

Clark County excels with a 93.8 Income Score and an $83.9 Health Score. The median household income is a robust $94,948, supporting a high standard of medical care.

Crisis-Level Housing Costs and Safety

The Cost Score is a very low 4.3, with median rents hitting $1,668 per month. Safety and environmental risk also score in the single digits, indicating areas for improvement.

Perfect for High-Earning Families

Clark is a top choice for affluent families who value high-end healthcare and can leverage the $94,948 median income. It is less suited for those seeking a low-cost lifestyle or high safety rankings.

Score breakdown

Tax50.1Cost4.3Safety4.6Health83.9Schools49.4Income93.8Risk7.8Water69.5Weather62
🏛50.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠4.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼93.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡4.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤83.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓49.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡7.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧69.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤62
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨54
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱52.9
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 →
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Counties with similar scores

Kings County
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Franklin County
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Mississippi County
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Sacramento County
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Western Connecticut Planning Region
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Nearby counties

Multnomah County
Oregon
44.4
Cowlitz County
Washington
36
Columbia County
Oregon
43
Washington County
Oregon
41.2
Skamania County
Washington
57.8
Hood River County
Oregon
48.2
Clackamas County
Oregon
36.5
Yamhill County
Oregon
40.9

Deep Dives

Clark County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Clark County

via TaxByCounty

Clark among highest-taxed in nation

Clark County's effective tax rate of 0.836% exceeds the national median of 0.761%, placing it in the 57th percentile. At a median property tax of $4,080 on homes valued at $487,900, Clark County residents face some of the heaviest property tax burdens in the examined counties.

2nd highest rate in Washington

Clark County ranks 2nd among Washington's 39 counties for effective tax rate at 0.836%, well above the state average of 0.761%. Its median property tax of $4,080 is the highest among all examined counties, driven by elevated home values.

Significantly higher than nearby counties

Clark's 0.836% rate substantially exceeds neighboring Cowlitz (0.813%) and Clallam (0.742%), making it the priciest in the Southwest Washington region. The county's rapid growth has driven both home values and tax bills higher.

$4,080 yearly on typical Clark home

A median-valued Clark County home at $487,900 generates an annual property tax of $4,080, the highest among all counties examined. Homeowners with mortgages pay $4,036 annually, while those without mortgages pay $4,182.

High taxes make appeals worthwhile

With the highest median property taxes in the region, Clark County homeowners have the most to gain from a successful appeal. If your assessed value seems out of line with recent sales in your neighborhood, challenging the assessment could yield significant savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Clark County

via CostByCounty

Clark County's rent surge pressures affordability

Clark County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio stands significantly above both the national average and Washington's 18.8% state benchmark. At $1,668 monthly rent paired with a $94,948 median household income, Clark's affordability challenge stems from explosive housing cost growth rather than low earnings.

Least affordable county in this sample

Clark County ranks as the state's least affordable housing market in this analysis, with the highest rent-to-income ratio at 21.1%. Its median rent of $1,668 towers over state average at $1,202, reflecting the region's explosive growth and proximity to Portland, Oregon.

Far outpaces all comparable counties

Clark County's $1,668 rent dwarfs every peer, running $412 above Cowlitz County ($1,169) and over $700 above Adams County. Even with the highest median income in the sample at $94,948, Clark residents spend far more on housing relative to earnings.

Both renters and owners face sticker shock

Clark renters dedicate 21.1% of income to housing while homeowners commit 22.6%—the highest burdens in this sample by far. At $487,900 median home value, Clark prices exceed every comparable county, reflecting red-hot regional demand.

Clark County demands premium budget plans

Clark County's combination of high rents and home prices makes it the costliest market in this analysis. Relocators should carefully weigh whether job opportunities and lifestyle benefits justify nearly a quarter of income going toward housing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Clark County

via IncomeByCounty

Clark County leads peer income rankings nationally

At $94,948, Clark County's median household income runs 27% above the national median of $74,755, placing it among the nation's highest-earning counties. Per capita income of $46,391 further underscores robust economic opportunity throughout the region.

Highest-earning county in Washington state

Clark County ranks as Washington's top-earning county with a median household income of $94,948, exceeding the state average of $76,363 by $18,585. Per capita income of $46,391 also leads the state by 13.9%, reflecting Portland metro area prosperity spilling northward.

Commanding income advantage over all peers

Clark County's $94,948 median income far outpaces all comparison counties: $25,632 above Benton County, $34,841 above Chelan County, and $26,949 above Asotin County. The Vancouver region's integration with Portland's economy and tech-friendly business climate creates unprecedented local earning power.

Income pressured by highest housing costs

Despite leading income figures, Clark County shows the highest rent-to-income ratio at 21.1% with a median home value of $487,900—the priciest in this county set. Strong wages support homeownership, but residents must budget carefully as rapid population growth drives continuous property cost increases.

Leveraging premium earnings for wealth building

Clark County's exceptional income positions residents to aggressively pursue wealth-building strategies: maximize 401(k) and HSA contributions, invest in real estate, and diversify portfolios. Consult fee-only financial advisors to optimize tax strategies and capitalize on Portland metro economic momentum.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Clark County

via CrimeByCounty

Clark County experiences higher crime volume

Clark County has a total crime rate of 3610.3 per 100K, which is significantly above the national average of 2,385.5. However, it still maintains a respectable safety score of 94.3. This indicates that while crime is present, the community remains relatively secure overall.

Trailing behind the state safety average

Clark County's safety score of 94.3 falls below the Washington state average of 96.2. Additionally, its crime rate of 3610.3 is much higher than the state-wide average of 2377.2. Rapid population growth often contributes to these higher statistical benchmarks.

Higher crime rates than rural neighbors

Clark County sees more crime than neighboring Cowlitz County, which has a rate of 2909.0. Being a major population center near Portland, it faces unique urban pressures that smaller neighbors do not. Nine different reporting agencies work together to address these regional challenges.

Property crime is the primary concern

Property crime sits at 3264.3 per 100K, while violent crime is 346.0. The violent crime rate is actually lower than the national average of 369.8, which is a positive sign for personal safety. Theft and property damage remain the most frequent issues for residents.

Fortifying your property against theft

With high property crime rates, investing in home surveillance and alarm systems is a wise choice. Secure your vehicles and never leave valuables in plain sight to reduce the risk of break-ins. Collective vigilance among neighbors can help drive these local crime numbers down.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Clark County

via HealthByCounty

Clark County outperforms national health

At 78.6 years, Clark County residents live 0.3 years longer than the U.S. average of 78.3 years. With only 13.5% reporting poor or fair health—well below the national 18% rate—Clark residents demonstrate strong perceived health status and wellness engagement.

Among Washington's healthiest counties

Clark County's 78.6-year life expectancy exceeds Washington's 78.1-year state average by 0.5 years. At 6.9%, the uninsured rate ranks among the lowest in the state—nearly 2.1 percentage points below the state average of 9.0%—reflecting excellent health insurance penetration.

Regional leader in health outcomes

Clark County's 78.6-year life expectancy leads all comparison counties, outpacing Benton County (77.8 years) and significantly exceeding Cowlitz County (75.1 years). With 76 primary care providers and 472 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Clark's provider infrastructure is robust and accessible.

Exceptional coverage and provider access

Clark County's 6.9% uninsured rate is among Washington's lowest, meaning nine of ten residents have health insurance coverage. With 76 primary care providers per 100,000 residents and strong mental health infrastructure, Clark residents enjoy reliable access to preventive care, early treatment, and behavioral health support.

Maintain your coverage advantage

Clark County's high insurance enrollment rates contribute to its strong health outcomes and lower uninsured rate. If your coverage changes, renew promptly on Healthcare.gov to maintain access to the county's strong provider network and keep preventive care on track.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Clark County

via SchoolsByCounty

Extensive Education Network in Southwest Washington

Clark County features a massive educational infrastructure of 147 public schools serving 75,212 students across 11 districts. The county supports 64 elementary, 26 middle, and 33 high schools, including 16 alternative and eight special education facilities. It is one of the most comprehensive school systems in the Pacific Northwest.

High Performance and Strategic Investment

The county boasts an 84.5% graduation rate, exceeding the Washington state average of 81.4%. Per-pupil spending is $8,847, and the overall school score of 54.6 outperforms both the state and national medians. These metrics indicate a well-performing system that effectively translates funding into student success.

Evergreen and Vancouver Districts Dominate

Evergreen School District is the largest with 22,591 students, followed closely by Vancouver School District with 22,003. Together with Battle Ground, these three districts serve over 57,000 students. Currently, 0% of schools in the county are charter-based, maintaining a strong traditional public school tradition.

Urban and Suburban Campus Life

The county offers a mix of 61 city and 55 suburban schools, with an average enrollment of 519 students. Union High School is the largest campus, hosting 2,021 students in a modern, high-capacity setting. Families can choose between large metropolitan schools and smaller rural schools in the county's northern reaches.

Invest in Homes Near Top Schools

Camas and Evergreen districts are top choices for families prioritizing graduation rates and extracurricular depth. High-performing schools like Union and Camas High are significant drivers for local real estate demand. Finding a home in Clark County often starts with selecting one of its 11 dedicated school districts.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Clark County

via RiskByCounty

Clark County ranks among most hazardous

Clark County's composite risk score of 92.24 is the highest in Washington and well above the national average, placing it in the relatively moderate risk category. Residents face substantial exposure to multiple natural disasters that require comprehensive preparedness.

Washington's single highest-risk county

Clark County's score of 92.24 significantly exceeds Washington's state average of 70.01, ranking it as the state's most hazardous county by composite risk. The county faces notably greater disaster exposure than all but a few other Washington communities.

Riskier than adjacent counties

Clark County (92.24) faces more disaster risk than neighboring Cowlitz County (90.30) and substantially more than western Washington communities across the Cascades. Its lower-elevation position and proximity to seismic zones create exceptional hazard exposure.

Earthquakes, floods, and wildfires converge

Clark County experiences extreme earthquake risk (97.65), severe flood risk (92.56), and elevated wildfire risk (69.59), creating a uniquely hazardous environment. Tornado risk is also moderate at 31.27, making four distinct hazards significant concerns for residents.

Multi-hazard protection is critical

Clark County residents should maintain comprehensive disaster coverage including earthquake insurance, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, and wildfire protection. Given the county's status as Washington's highest-risk county, adequate insurance across all hazard categories is non-negotiable for financial security.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Clark County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild temperatures and high annual rainfall

Clark County averages 52.0°F, placing it near the national median for temperature. Its 44.0 inches of annual precipitation is well above the national average.

Warmer and wetter than most of Washington

At 52.0°F, the county is warmer than the state average of 49.9°F. Its 44 inches of rain also exceeds the state average of 38.5 inches.

Drier than its northern neighbor, Cowlitz

Clark County receives 44 inches of rain, which is significantly less than the 61.4 inches seen in Cowlitz. Both counties share a similar mild, maritime temperature profile.

Rainy winters and pleasant, temperate summers

July averages a comfortable 66.3°F with 12 days of heat over 90°F. Winters are wet and mild, averaging 40.1°F with only 1.1 inches of snow.

Manage the rain and light heat

Proper drainage and gutter maintenance are vital for the 44-inch rainfall. While summers are generally mild, the 12 days of extreme heat suggest having some cooling options available.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Clark County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Inceptisols of the Trough

Clark County is dominated by Inceptisols with a quite acidic pH of 5.43, well below the national median of 6.5. This cobbly silt loam profile is typical of the weathered landscapes in the southern Puget Trough.

Silt-Rich and Highly Workable

The soil is a mix of 30.2% sand, 46.1% silt, and 18.1% clay. This high silt content provides good workability and decent nutrient retention, though the clay adds some necessary structure for plant roots.

Healthy Matter and Water Storage

Organic matter is strong at 4.88%, more than double the national average of 2.0%. Available water capacity sits at 0.178 in/in, providing a solid foundation for plant health even during the dryer summer months.

Reliable Drainage for Development

These soils drain well and belong to hydrologic group B, making them excellent for residential development. Water moves through the profile efficiently, which prevents significant ponding during the heavy rainy season.

Blueberries and Rhodies in Zone 8b

Within hardiness zone 8b, your garden can flourish with everything from kale to figs. The acidic soil is particularly welcoming to blueberries and rhododendrons, so start planting your Pacific Northwest favorites today.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Clark County

via LawnByCounty

Clark County Leads in Lawn Ease

Clark County is a standout with a lawn difficulty score of 52.9, which is easier than both the state and national averages. Located in Zone 8b, the climate is highly favorable for maintaining lush turf with minimal stress. This makes it the most user-friendly county for lawn enthusiasts in this regional comparison.

Ideal Rainfall and Moderate Heat

The county receives 44 inches of rain annually, falling right in the 30-50 inch 'ideal' range for lawn health. While there are 12 extreme heat days, the overall climate is temperate with 2,109 growing degree days. This balance allows for consistent growth without the constant threat of scorching temperatures.

Acidic Soil Requires Attention

Clark County's soil pH is quite acidic at 5.43, well below the ideal range of 6.0-7.0. The cobbly silt loam is well-drained but will likely require lime applications to neutralize acidity and unlock nutrients. Its 18.1% clay content helps with nutrient retention but requires monitoring to prevent compaction.

Navigating Occasional Dry Stretches

Despite its high score, 82.9% of Clark County is currently abnormally dry. The county saw 29 weeks of drought over the past year, reminding homeowners that summer irrigation is still necessary. Focus on maintaining a taller grass height during these dry weeks to shade the soil and retain moisture.

Optimal Growth in Zone 8b

With a frost-free window from April 26 to October 18, you have a solid season for establishing new turf. Zone 8b is ideal for Perennial Ryegrass and Tall Fescue blends that can handle both the wet winters and dry summers. Late summer is the prime time to overseed for a thick, resilient lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Clark County's county score?
Clark County, Washington has a composite county score of 38.2 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 Clark County rank among counties in Washington?
Clark County ranks #25 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 Clark County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Clark County is $4,080, with an effective tax rate of 0.84%. This earns Clark County a tax score of 50.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Clark County?
The median household income in Clark County, Washington is $94,948 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Clark County earns an income score of 93.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Clark County, Washington a good place to live?
Clark County scores 38.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #25 in Washington. The best way to evaluate Clark 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 Clark 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.