countyscore
40.8
County Score
Property Tax 97.9Health 49.3Disaster Risk 48.7

County Report Card

About Delta County, Colorado

Below national average, needs attention

Delta County's composite score of 40.8 falls below the national median of 50.0 by 9.2 points, placing it in the 41st percentile nationally. The county faces more livability challenges than typical American counties, suggesting residents navigate notable trade-offs in daily life.

Bottom tier in Colorado performance

Delta scores 10.4 points below Colorado's state average of 51.2, ranking among the state's lowest-performing counties on overall livability. The county faces the most systemic challenges of this eight-county sample, with weakness concentrated in multiple critical areas.

Tax efficiency and risk management

Delta's strongest dimension is tax score (97.9) with an exceptionally low effective rate of 0.310%, among Colorado's best. The county also demonstrates reasonable risk management (48.7) and maintains some cost accessibility (29.7) despite challenges, with median home value of $318,000.

Safety, health, and schools are critical gaps

Delta faces severe challenges in safety (25.5), health (49.3), and school quality (17.5)—the lowest among these eight counties. With limited healthcare options, weak K-12 education, and public safety concerns, the county presents substantial barriers for families and health-conscious residents.

Only suitable for tax-focused early retirees

Delta County appeals narrowly to early retirees with substantial savings who prioritize ultra-low taxes over nearly all other factors. The county's serious deficits in safety, healthcare, and education make it unsuitable for working families, young adults, or anyone requiring robust public services—only those financially independent and willing to accept significant daily-life challenges should consider it.

Score breakdown

Tax97.9Cost29.7Safety25.5Health49.3Schools17.5Income33.8Risk48.7Water10.3Weather36.7
🏛97.9
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠29.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼33.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡25.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤49.3
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓17.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡48.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧10.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤36.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱29.3
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

Mesa County
Colorado
38.5
Montrose County
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43
Garfield County
Colorado
43.7
Gunnison County
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Ouray County
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Pitkin County
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San Miguel County
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Rio Blanco County
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Deep Dives

Delta County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Delta County

via TaxByCounty

Delta's tax rate well below national median

Delta County's effective rate of 0.310% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.370%, placing it in roughly the 30th percentile. On a $318,000 median home, residents pay $986 annually—less than 37% of the national median property tax of $2,690.

Colorado's lowest-tax counties

Delta's 0.310% rate ranks among Colorado's lowest, sitting well below the state average of 0.393%. The county's median tax of $986 falls below the state average of $1,560, offering a relatively light burden for western slope residents.

Western slope advantage

Delta's 0.310% rate matches Costilla County's and ranks favorably among western slope counties. This western Colorado county provides one of the state's most tax-friendly property environments.

Median home costs $986 yearly

On Delta's $318,000 median home, annual property taxes run approximately $986. Mortgage holders pay $1,014, while those without mortgages pay $950.

Appeal if overassessed

Many Colorado property owners are overassessed relative to market value and can appeal their valuations to save hundreds annually. If you believe your home is assessed too high, your county assessor's office can walk you through the process.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Delta County

via CostByCounty

Delta offers solid mid-range affordability

Delta County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.2% slightly exceeds the national average, though the county's median income of $58,330 falls below the national median. This western slope county presents moderate affordability challenges for middle-income households.

Above state average but manageable

Delta's 22.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Colorado's state average of 20.2%, placing it in the less affordable tier of counties. The median rent of $1,080 exceeds Colorado's median by $173, reflecting growing demand in the region.

Western slope pricing takes the middle

Delta's $1,080 median rent falls between rural eastern counties (Cheyenne, Conejos at ~$850) and mountain counties (Chaffee at $1,514), reflecting its position as a growing western slope center. Home values at $318,000 remain more moderate than mountain counterparts.

Rent claims over one-fifth of income

On a median household income of $58,330, Delta renters spend $1,080 monthly—22.2% of earnings—reflecting tight but manageable budgets. Homeowners dedicate 19.1% of income to monthly costs, making ownership competitive with renting.

Delta suits remote-work relocators

This growing western slope county balances reasonable housing costs ($1,080 rent, $318,000 home values) with small-town amenities and outdoor access. Delta works well for remote workers and families seeking affordable Colorado living outside mountain resort areas.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Delta County

via IncomeByCounty

Delta trails national income by meaningful margin

Delta County's median household income of $58,330 lags the U.S. median of $74,755 by approximately $16,425—a 22% shortfall. The gap reflects Delta's reliance on agriculture, small manufacturing, and limited professional services employment.

Below-average income for Colorado

Delta County's $58,330 median household income runs nearly $16,500 below Colorado's state average of $74,792, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of Colorado's 64 counties. Agricultural employment and modest manufacturing define the county's modest income profile.

Delta underperforms mountain corridor peers

Delta's $58,330 income significantly trails Clear Creek ($96,667), Chaffee ($70,909), and Custer ($72,700)—all mountain counties with stronger tourism or mining bases. Delta's western slope location and agricultural focus limit earning opportunities compared to the central mountains.

Moderate housing costs ease Delta affordability

Delta residents dedicate 22.2% of median household income to rent—slightly elevated but still manageable—with median home values at $318,000. Housing remains reasonably priced relative to the state, easing the burden on the $58,330 median income.

Delta families should prioritize consistent investing

Households earning $58,330 can build wealth by automating monthly investments into employer 401(k)s and Roth IRAs, even at modest contribution levels. Starting early with disciplined, consistent investing—regardless of current income—creates substantial long-term security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Delta County

via CrimeByCounty

Delta County Aligns with National Safety

Delta County holds a safety score of 97.1, with a total crime rate of 1,834.9 per 100K. This remains safer than the national average of 2,385.5 incidents per 100K.

Mirroring the Colorado Average

The county's safety score of 97.1 and total crime rate of 1,834.9 almost perfectly match the Colorado state averages. Five reporting agencies provide a comprehensive look at the county's safety landscape.

High Activity Relative to Rural Neighbors

Delta County has more reported crime than nearby Custer County, which reports 1,269.2 per 100K. This higher rate likely reflects its larger population centers and more active reporting agencies.

Low Violence but High Property Crime

Violent crime is very low at 83.4 per 100K, far below the national 369.8. However, property crime is higher at 1,751.5, making it the primary concern for local residents.

Prioritize Property Protection Strategies

Since property crime drives the local rate, residents should utilize smart locks and camera systems. These tools are effective at deterring the theft and vandalism that characterize most local incidents.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Delta County

via HealthByCounty

Delta's health lags U.S. average

At 76.0 years, Delta County residents live 2.3 years less than the U.S. average of 78.3 years. With 17.9% reporting poor or fair health, the county experiences above-average health challenges.

Below Colorado's health benchmark

Delta County's 76.0-year life expectancy falls 2.2 years short of Colorado's 78.2-year average, placing it in the state's lower half. The 17.9% poor/fair health rate exceeds most Colorado counties, signaling concentrated health stress.

Western slope struggles

Delta's 76.0-year life expectancy exceeds the rural southeast counties but trails mountain regions like Chaffee (81.0 years) and Clear Creek (83.6 years). The county maintains stronger provider capacity than isolated counties—63 primary care and 227 mental health providers per 100K—yet health outcomes remain below state average.

Highest uninsured rate in dataset

Delta County's 12.0% uninsured rate is the highest among the eight counties and significantly above Colorado's 9.7% average. Despite having more providers than rural counties, one in eight residents lack insurance coverage, limiting their care access.

Uninsured rate demands action

Delta's high uninsured rate means families are at risk—you could be next. Visit Colorado's health marketplace now to find affordable coverage and protect your household.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Delta County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Infrastructure for the Western Slope

Delta County features a robust network of 18 public schools serving 4,592 students. The system includes eight elementary, three middle, and six high schools, providing diverse options for all ages. Two charter schools operate within the county, accounting for roughly 11% of the total school choices.

Steady Results on a Lean Budget

The county's graduation rate of 83% perfectly mirrors the Colorado state average of 83.1%. Academic performance is maintained despite a per-pupil expenditure of $6,167, which is lower than the state and national averages. The school score of 48.0 suggests a solid foundation with room for growth compared to the state median.

Unified Excellence in District 50

Delta County Joint District No. 50 manages all 18 schools and 4,592 students in the region. This unified district approach allows for shared resources across the county’s various towns. The district also supports three alternative schools to ensure every student has a pathway to graduation.

A Blend of Towns and Trails

The county offers a mix of 11 town-based schools and 7 rural schools, reflecting its varied landscape. The average school size is 255 students, with Delta High School being the largest at 628. Schools like Garnet Mesa Elementary (488 students) provide a mid-sized, suburban feel within a rural county.

Diverse Options for Every Family

Delta County offers a wide variety of school sizes and settings, from town-based high schools to rural primary campuses. Families appreciate the choice between traditional, charter, and alternative education within one district. Explore the Western Slope real estate market to find a home near these community-focused schools.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Delta County

via RiskByCounty

Delta County's composite risk exceeds national average

Delta scores 51.27 on composite risk, placing it in the relatively low category but above the nation's typical exposure. The western Colorado county faces a meaningful combination of multiple natural hazards.

Above Colorado's average on all fronts

Delta's 51.27 composite score significantly exceeds Colorado's 40.67 state average, ranking it in the upper half of the state's 64 counties. The county faces greater-than-typical hazard exposure for Colorado.

Highest-risk county in western Colorado region

Delta (51.27) has similar composite risk to Chaffee County (51.11) but notably higher earthquake risk at 68.29. Both western counties face substantially more hazard exposure than safer surrounding areas.

Earthquake, wildfire, and flood create triple threat

Delta's earthquake risk of 68.29, wildfire risk of 86.74, and flood risk of 69.59 all rank among the highest in Colorado. These three hazards account for the county's elevated overall risk profile.

Multi-hazard insurance strategy is essential

Secure separate flood insurance immediately—standard homeowners policies exclude it, yet your flood risk is 69.59. Verify wildfire and earthquake coverage, and consider seismic retrofits for older structures in this higher-risk county.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Delta County

via WeatherByCounty

Delta: Western Slope Valley Climate

At 50.2°F, Delta County is approximately 0.7 degrees below the U.S. median of 49.5°F, placing it squarely in the nation's middle-temperature tier. Its 13.4 inches of annual precipitation fall somewhat below the national median of 15.2 inches, creating a semi-arid valley climate. This western Colorado county reflects the transition between the Rockies and the arid Great Basin.

Delta: Moderate Climate on Western Slope

Delta County's 50.2°F average is 4.2 degrees above Colorado's state average of 46.0°F, ranking it among the warmer counties while still cooler than the eastern plains. Its 13.4 inches of precipitation fall below the state average of 16.0 inches, reflecting the western slope's drier climate. The county's location in the Palisade and Parachute valleys gives it a distinctive warm-arid character.

Warmest Valley on Western Slope

Delta County (50.2°F) is notably warmer than Montrose County to the south (49.1°F estimated) and significantly warmer than high-elevation counties like Ouray and San Juan to the south. Its 44 extreme heat days are fewer than the plains counties but more than mountain neighbors, reflecting its valley location. The county is cooler than Cheyenne and Crowley counties to the east but warmer than alpine zones.

Moderate Heat, Moderate Snow

Delta County experiences 44 days per year above 90°F—a moderate heat load—with July averaging 73.8°F and January dropping to 27.5°F. Annual snowfall totals 40.5 inches, moderate for western Colorado and concentrated in winter months from November through March. The summer-to-winter swing of 46 degrees demands versatile preparation.

Plan for Valley Sun and Winter Snow

Residents need functional air conditioning for 44 annual days above 90°F, plus adequate heating for winter lows around 27°F and 40.5 inches of seasonal snow. The valley's dry air (13.4 inches annual precipitation) requires attention to landscape irrigation and indoor humidification during winter heating. Outdoor recreation peaks in spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) when temperatures sit in the comfortable 60–70°F range; summer activities are best scheduled for early morning or evening.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Delta County

via SoilByCounty

Orchard-Friendly Western Soil

Specific pH and taxonomic records for Delta County are not currently provided in the dataset. As a premier agricultural hub, the soil likely matches or exceeds the state average pH of 7.29. These soils support some of the most productive fruit-growing operations in the Rockies.

Silty River Valley Textures

Sand and clay percentages are unrecorded, but the area is famous for its rich silty loams. These textures offer a perfect balance of moisture retention and root aeration for perennial crops. The soil workability is highly valued by the region's many commercial orchardists.

Proven Agricultural Success

While specific organic matter data is missing, the state average of 2.18% is likely a minimum baseline here. Available water capacity is also unmapped, but the success of local vineyards and orchards points to high fertility. Amending with organic compost further enhances this productive land.

Managed Irrigation Systems

Drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not currently specified for Delta County. Local agriculture relies on complex irrigation networks to manage the naturally well-draining valley soils. Effective water application is the secret to the county's high-quality produce.

Colorado's Fruit Basket

Enjoying a milder USDA Hardiness Zone 6b, this county is ideal for peaches, cherries, and grapes. The warmer climate and fertile valleys offer the best growing conditions in the state. Plant an orchard or a backyard garden to take advantage of this exceptional western slope environment.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Delta County

via LawnByCounty

Delta County: Colorado's Most Challenging Turf

Delta County has a lawn difficulty score of 29.3, making it the most challenging area in this group and well below the state average of 37.4. Even though you are in a warmer Zone 6b, the combination of aridity and soil conditions creates a tough environment. Keeping a green lawn here requires significantly more work than the national median of 50.0 suggests.

Managing Moderate Heat and Low Rainfall

You receive only 13.4 inches of annual precipitation, which is below the state average and far from the 30-50 inches lawns prefer. With 44 extreme heat days and 2,835 growing degree days, your grass will grow quickly but also dry out fast. The season starts early in May and extends into October, giving you a long period of active maintenance.

The Importance of Local Soil Testing

With no centralized soil data for Delta County, your first step should be a professional soil analysis. Many areas in this region deal with high alkalinity or heavy clay that can stunt grass growth and prevent water penetration. Identifying your soil's drainage class is vital to avoid wasting water during those 44 extreme heat days.

Surviving a Year-Long Drought Cycle

Delta County has been in drought for all 53 weeks of the past year, with 100% of the area currently classified as abnormally dry. Even with a 6b hardiness zone, the constant moisture deficit is your biggest obstacle to a healthy lawn. Use deep-soaking irrigation methods to reach the roots and minimize water loss to evaporation.

Selecting Resilient Grass for 6b

In Zone 6b, you have the flexibility to grow heat-tolerant Tall Fescue or even some warm-season varieties like Buffalo grass. Your planting window opens on May 3rd, and you have until October 9th before the first frost hits. Given the 29.3 difficulty score, prioritize drought-tolerant species that can handle the persistent dry conditions of the Western Slope.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Delta County's county score?
Delta County, Colorado has a composite county score of 40.8 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 Delta County rank among counties in Colorado?
Delta County ranks #50 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 Delta County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Delta County is $986, with an effective tax rate of 0.31%. This earns Delta County a tax score of 97.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Delta County?
The median household income in Delta County, Colorado is $58,330 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Delta County earns an income score of 33.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Delta County, Colorado a good place to live?
Delta County scores 40.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #50 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Delta 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 Delta County with other counties side by side.

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