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District of Columbia, District of Columbia — County Report Card

DC

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
41.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 96.7Health 86.4Property Tax 77

County Report Card

About District of Columbia, District of Columbia

D.C. lags behind national livability average

The District's composite livability score of 41.3 falls notably below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the bottom half of all U.S. counties. This gap reflects a challenging mix of strengths and serious vulnerabilities that together pull down overall livability despite some standout metrics in income and health.

D.C. represents the full District landscape

As the only jurisdiction in the District of Columbia, this profile captures the entire region's livability picture, with a composite score of 41.3 matching the state average exactly. The lack of comparative county data within D.C. means this score reflects the unique demographics and policy environment of the nation's capital.

Elite incomes and strong tax structure

D.C. excels in income metrics, with a median household income of $106,287—far above the national average—and scores 96.7 on the Income dimension. The District also boasts a 77.0 Tax Score reflecting a low effective tax rate of 0.577%, and a solid 86.4 Health Score, indicating access to quality healthcare and wellness outcomes.

Housing affordability and safety are critical gaps

D.C.'s Cost Score of just 1.1 reveals a severe affordability crisis: median home values reach $724,600 and gross rent averages $1,900 monthly, pricing out working families. Safety and Risk dimensions score alarmingly low at 2.5 and 2.4 respectively, while school performance at 48.3 trails national expectations for a wealthy metro area.

Best for high-earners who can absorb housing costs

D.C. suits established professionals and affluent households who prioritize career opportunity and cultural amenities over affordability—but it's a tough fit for families seeking both safety and schools at reasonable cost. The District's livability depends heavily on income level: those earning six figures can access excellent health, tax, and income outcomes, while middle-income residents face compounded housing and safety challenges.

Score breakdown

Tax77Cost1.1Safety2.5Health86.4Schools48.3Income96.7Risk2.4Water69.3Weather58.8
🏛77
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠1.1
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼96.7
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡2.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤86.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡2.4
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧69.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨33.7
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱42.3
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

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Virginia
44.8
Alexandria city
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Falls Church city
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Prince George's County
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Fairfax County
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Fairfax city
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Montgomery County
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Manassas Park city
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Deep Dives

District of Columbia across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in District of Columbia

via TaxByCounty

D.C. taxes rank high nationwide

D.C.'s effective property tax rate of 0.577% sits well above the national median, placing the district in the upper tier of taxing jurisdictions. The median property tax here is $4,180 annually—56% higher than the national median of $2,690—reflecting both a stronger real estate market and steeper tax burden.

D.C. sets the standard alone

As the only jurisdiction in the District of Columbia, D.C. represents both its state average and its own benchmark at 0.577% effective rate. This rate is uniform across all properties in the district, making D.C. a single, unified tax jurisdiction.

D.C. stands apart regionally

D.C. operates as an independent jurisdiction without traditional neighboring counties, but its 0.577% rate reflects a major metropolitan area with higher property values and demand for services. Compared to surrounding suburban jurisdictions in Maryland and Virginia, D.C. maintains a competitive effective rate despite having the nation's highest median home values in its class.

Here's what homeowners pay yearly

A homeowner with a median-value property in D.C. ($724,600) pays approximately $4,180 in annual property taxes. For those with mortgages, the actual tax bill can reach $4,311 when financed through escrow, representing a significant annual cost on one of the nation's priciest real estate markets.

Many D.C. homeowners can appeal

Across the nation, thousands of homeowners are overassessed and successfully reduce their tax burden through appeals—and D.C. homeowners should know this option exists. If you believe your property valuation is too high, contacting D.C.'s Office of the Assessor about an appeal could lower your yearly tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in District of Columbia

via CostByCounty

D.C. Renters Pay More Than Most

District of Columbia renters spend 21.4% of their income on rent, matching the national benchmark but reflecting the capital's steep housing costs. With a median rent of $1,900/month against a median household income of $106,287 annually, D.C. residents earn significantly more than the U.S. average of $74,755—a 42% advantage that helps offset the nation's priciest urban rents.

D.C. Sets the Regional Standard

As the sole county in D.C., the district's 21.4% rent-to-income ratio represents both the state average and the regional baseline for housing affordability. This unique status means D.C. defines housing costs for the entire jurisdiction, with no other counties to compare against within the district's boundaries.

Competing With the Metro Area

D.C.'s $1,900 median rent positions it at the premium end of the greater Washington metro, where surrounding Maryland and Virginia counties range considerably lower. The district's median home value of $724,600 reflects a capital city premium that outpaces most regional neighbors, making D.C. homeownership particularly competitive.

Housing Eats 25% for Owners

Renters in D.C. dedicate 21.4% of income to rent, while homeowners shoulder a steeper 29% of median household income ($2,563/month) toward mortgage and ownership costs. The gap illustrates that while the district attracts high earners with six-figure median incomes, housing—both rented and owned—commands a significant share of local budgets.

Weighing D.C.'s Housing Trade-offs

If you're considering a move to the nation's capital, weigh the 42% income advantage against premium housing costs that mirror those of other major metros. D.C.'s affordability story isn't about cheap rent—it's about whether high earning potential justifies the premium you'll pay to live where power and opportunity concentrate.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in District of Columbia

via IncomeByCounty

D.C. earns 42% above the nation

The District's median household income of $106,287 towers 42% above the national median of $74,755, ranking D.C. among the wealthiest jurisdictions in the country. This disparity reflects D.C.'s concentration of federal workers, educated professionals, and high-earning service sectors that draw talent from across America.

The only county in its class

As the sole jurisdiction in the District of Columbia, D.C.'s median household income of $106,287 sets the state average by definition, making direct county-level comparisons within D.C. impossible. This unique status underscores D.C.'s position as an outlier in regional and national income rankings.

Outearning the Beltway region

D.C.'s $106,287 median household income significantly outpaces neighboring Maryland and Virginia counties, reflecting its role as the economic engine of the Mid-Atlantic region. The concentration of federal employment, lobbying firms, and multinational headquarters in the District creates an income premium unmatched by surrounding suburban areas.

Housing eats 21% of income

Despite strong household incomes, D.C. residents spend 21.4% of their income on rent—within the recommended 30% threshold but rising as the city's median home value reaches $724,600. The gap between high incomes and soaring housing costs means even well-paid workers face affordability pressures in competitive neighborhoods.

D.C. earners: invest your edge

With median household income running $31,532 ahead of the national average, D.C. residents have a unique opportunity to accelerate wealth-building through strategic investing and retirement savings. Financial advisors recommend D.C.'s high-earning households prioritize diversified portfolios and tax-advantaged accounts to protect gains against the District's rising cost of living.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in District of Columbia

via CrimeByCounty

DC's Safety Metrics Compared to National Norms

The District of Columbia reports a total crime rate of 4,404.9 per 100,000 residents, which sits significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Despite these reported incidents, the District maintains a calculated safety score of 93.0 out of 100.

Evaluating the District's Unique Safety Position

As a single-county jurisdiction, the District of Columbia matches its own state-level safety score of 93.0. The data is compiled from three reporting agencies that monitor the capital's complex urban landscape.

An Urban Profile in a Federal Hub

With a crime rate nearly double the national average, the District faces the high-density challenges common to major metropolitan centers. This rate of 4,404.9 per 100,000 residents highlights the intense activity and reporting requirements of the nation's capital.

Property Crimes Drive Local Incident Numbers

Property crime remains the primary concern in the District, with 3,585.8 incidents per 100,000 people compared to the national rate of 2,015.7. Violent crime also trends above national figures, recording 819.1 incidents per 100,000 residents.

Strengthening Residential Security in the District

Because property crime rates are notably higher than national benchmarks, residents should prioritize home security and neighborhood awareness. Taking proactive steps to secure your property helps mitigate the risks associated with the District's dense urban environment.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in District of Columbia

via HealthByCounty

D.C. Life Expectancy Meets National Average

The District's life expectancy of 76.5 years matches the national average, meaning residents live about as long as Americans overall. However, 12.8% of D.C. residents report poor or fair health—slightly below the national rate of roughly 13%—suggesting comparable health challenges across the board.

D.C. is the Entire Health Picture

The District functions as both a county and a state, making direct state comparisons inapplicable. With 76.5 years life expectancy and a 3.1% uninsured rate, D.C.'s metrics represent the full scope of the jurisdiction's health outcomes.

D.C. Stands Out for Provider Access

D.C. boasts 129 primary care providers per 100,000 residents—nearly double the rural national average of 70—reflecting its urban density and health infrastructure concentration. Mental health providers are even more abundant at 723 per 100,000, indicating robust behavioral health capacity for those seeking care.

Nearly Everyone in D.C. Has Coverage

Just 3.1% of D.C. residents lack health insurance, among the lowest uninsured rates in the nation and a sign of strong coverage initiatives. With nearly 130 primary care doctors per 100,000 residents and over 700 mental health providers per 100,000, most Washingtonians who are insured have ready access to providers.

Check Your Coverage Options Today

If you're among D.C.'s 3.1% uninsured, explore options through the District's health exchange or Medicaid program—both offering affordable pathways to care. Uninsured residents can also access community health centers throughout the District; visit findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov to locate one near you.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in District of Columbia

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Educational Network in the Nation's Capital

The District of Columbia manages a robust infrastructure of 243 public schools serving 91,306 students across 62 different districts. This landscape includes 145 elementary, 43 middle, and 41 high schools, creating a dense network of learning options throughout the city.

Investment and Outcomes in D.C. Schools

D.C. invests $11,959 per pupil, which is slightly below the national average of $13,000 but maintains a school score of 55.4 that exceeds the national median of 50.0. While the 73.3% graduation rate matches the state average, it still trails the national benchmark of 87.0%.

Charter Schools Lead the Way in D.C.

District of Columbia Public Schools is the largest provider with 50,131 students, yet charter schools represent 51.9% of all schools in the district. Major networks like KIPP DC and Friendship PCS serve over 11,000 students combined, offering significant alternatives to traditional district schools.

Urban Learning Environments with Diverse School Sizes

Every school in the District is located in a city setting, with an average school size of 377 students providing a relatively intimate urban experience. Enrollment varies significantly by campus, from the large 2,153-student Jackson-Reed High School to smaller specialized and alternative school settings.

Finding Your Future Home Near Top D.C. Schools

With over 50% of the city’s schools operating as charters, families have significant flexibility when choosing where to live and learn. Prospective homeowners should explore neighborhoods near high-performing hubs like Columbia Heights or the area surrounding Jackson-Reed High School to prioritize school quality in their home search.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in District of Columbia

via RiskByCounty

D.C. faces relatively high disaster risk

The District scores 97.58 on composite natural disaster risk, placing it well above the national average and in the "Relatively High" category. This elevated score reflects significant exposure to multiple hazard types, from earthquakes to hurricanes, that threaten the nation's capital.

D.C. is the only jurisdiction in its category

As the sole county-equivalent in the District of Columbia, D.C. sets its own benchmark with a composite risk score of 97.58. This score defines the state average, making D.C.'s risk profile the reference point for the region.

Surrounded by counties with lower risk profiles

While adjacent Maryland and Virginia counties typically score lower on composite risk, D.C.'s dense urban core and critical infrastructure create unique vulnerabilities. The District's risk rating reflects both its geography and the concentration of essential government and civilian assets.

Earthquakes and floods pose greatest threats

D.C. faces an earthquake risk score of 98.25—nearly at maximum—and flood risk of 97.42, making these the District's primary natural hazards. Tornadoes also present significant risk at 90.43, while hurricane exposure reaches 96.04, reflecting coastal proximity and the region's Atlantic hurricane season vulnerability.

Comprehensive insurance coverage is critical

Given D.C.'s elevated exposure to earthquakes, floods, and hurricanes, homeowners should verify that standard homeowner policies include earthquake and flood coverage—these are often excluded. Federal flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is available and recommended, especially for properties in flood-prone areas of the District.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in District of Columbia

via WeatherByCounty

Washington's Climate Trends Warmer than National Median

At 57.3°F, the District's average annual temperature sits roughly four degrees higher than the national median. This humid subtropical climate receives 47.1 inches of precipitation annually, significantly exceeding the U.S. average.

The District Defines its Own Regional Baseline

As a single-jurisdiction federal district, Washington matches its state-level average of 57.3°F exactly. It serves as the primary meteorological benchmark for the dense urban core of the Mid-Atlantic region.

Urban Heat Differentiates DC from Neighbors

While neighboring Maryland and Virginia counties offer more tree canopy, the District's infrastructure often traps more heat than its suburban counterparts. This urban effect keeps city nights warmer than the surrounding Potomac River valley.

Sweaty Summers and Moderately Snowy Winters

The District endures 46 extreme heat days per year where temperatures top 90°F, peaking with a July average of 79.2°F. Winter remains relatively mild with 7.8 inches of annual snowfall and a January average of 35.2°F.

Prepare for High Humidity and Urban Heat

Residents should prioritize efficient cooling systems to combat the 46 annual days of extreme heat and high humidity. While snowfall is modest at 7.8 inches, the city's infrastructure often requires careful planning for even minor winter events.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in District of Columbia

via SoilByCounty

Acidic Ultisols Define the Capital's Ground

The District's soil consists primarily of Ultisols with a dominant silt loam texture. At 5.27, the average pH is significantly more acidic than the national median of 6.5, mirroring the regional baseline exactly.

A Balanced Mix of Sand and Silt

With 51.1% sand and 34.9% silt, this soil offers a gritty but workable texture for urban landscapes. The relatively low 13.4% clay content prevents heavy compaction while still providing enough structure for root stability.

Healthy Organic Matter for Urban Growing

Organic matter levels reach 2.30%, which exceeds the national average of 2.0%. Combined with an available water capacity of 0.154 in/in, the soil provides a steady, fertile foundation for city gardens and parklands.

Efficient Drainage Meets Dense Subsoil

The land is categorized as well-drained, yet it falls into Hydrologic Group C, indicating a slow rate of water transmission when saturated. This combination means surface water clears quickly, but the deeper layers may resist rapid infiltration during heavy storms.

Thriving in the Capital's Zone 7b

D.C.’s 7b hardiness zone is perfect for growing heat-tolerant greens, azaleas, and even fig trees in the acidic silt loam. Whether you are planting a community plot or a balcony box, the District's soil is ready for your next urban garden project.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in District of Columbia

via LawnByCounty

D.C. Lawns Face Higher Maintenance Hurdles

The District's lawn difficulty score of 42.3 sits well below the national average of 50.0, indicating a more challenging environment for turf. Within Hardiness Zone 7b, homeowners must manage a delicate balance of urban heat and variable seasonal shifts.

Ample Rain Meets Extreme Summer Heat

D.C. receives 47.1 inches of annual precipitation, which is perfect for growth but requires a rigorous mowing schedule. However, 46 days of extreme heat over 90°F and 4,277 growing degree days often push cool-season grasses to their physiological limits.

Acidic Silt Loam Needs Strategic Buffering

The local soil pH of 5.27 is significantly lower than the ideal 6.0 to 7.0 range, requiring lime applications to neutralize acidity. While the well-drained silt loam and 51.1% sand content prevent waterlogging, the high acidity can lock out essential nutrients for grass.

Managing Turf Through Frequent Dry Spells

With 32 weeks spent in drought conditions over the last year, 100% of the District is currently classified as abnormally dry. Deep, infrequent watering is essential to help roots reach down through the well-drained soil during these extended dry periods.

Best Grass Choices for the Capital

Tall fescue and Zoysia are top performers in this climate, provided you plant after the April 9 frost or in early autumn before November 8. Success in D.C. depends on correcting the soil pH early and choosing varieties that can handle the 46 days of intense summer heat.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is District of Columbia's county score?
District of Columbia, District of Columbia has a composite county score of 41.2 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 District of Columbia rank among counties in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia ranks #1 among all counties in District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia, District of Columbia?
The median annual property tax in District of Columbia is $4,180, with an effective tax rate of 0.58%. This earns District of Columbia a tax score of 77/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in District of Columbia?
The median household income in District of Columbia, District of Columbia is $106,287 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. District of Columbia earns an income score of 96.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is District of Columbia, District of Columbia a good place to live?
District of Columbia scores 41.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in District of Columbia. The best way to evaluate District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia 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.