countyscore
50.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 90.9Property Tax 90.5Health 74

County Report Card

About Douglas County, Nevada

Beating the National Livability Benchmark

Douglas County posts a composite score of 50.2, narrowly exceeding the national median of 50.0. This makes it one of the more desirable counties in the country based on the balanced CountyScore index.

A Leader in the Silver State

By scoring 50.2, Douglas County outperforms the Nevada state average of 48.2. It serves as a premier residential destination, offering a quality of life that exceeds most of its regional peers.

Exceptional Incomes and Health Outcomes

The county boasts an impressive Income Score of 90.9 and a Health Score of 74.0. With a median household income of $88,018, residents enjoy high purchasing power and better-than-average access to wellness resources.

High Housing Costs and Climate Risks

Affordability is a major hurdle, as evidenced by a Cost Score of 7.4 and a median home value of $587,400. Furthermore, the Risk Score of 15.6 suggests the area faces significant environmental challenges, such as wildfire threats.

Perfect for High-Earning Established Families

Douglas County is a top choice for affluent professionals and retirees who can afford premium housing in exchange for health and safety. It offers the best blend of high income and quality living standards in Nevada.

Score breakdown

Tax90.5Cost7.4Safety53.9Health74Schools38.8Income90.9Risk15.6Water37.7Weather37.9
🏛90.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠7.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼90.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡53.9
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤74
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓38.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡15.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧37.7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤37.9
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱47.3
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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37.8
Lyon County
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Deep Dives

Douglas County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Douglas County

via TaxByCounty

Douglas County taxes track near national median

Douglas County's median property tax of $2,649 sits just below the national median of $2,690, despite an effective tax rate of 0.451%—among the lowest in the nation. The county's exceptionally high home values ($587,400 median) combined with a low rate create this near-national-average tax bill.

Lowest effective rate in Nevada

At 0.451%, Douglas County boasts Nevada's most competitive effective tax rate, nearly a full percentage point below the state average of 0.525%. This ranking makes it Nevada's premier tax haven for property owners.

Highest-value homes, lowest tax rate

Douglas County homes average $587,400—far exceeding neighboring Carson City ($426,700) and Clark County ($400,800)—yet property tax rates remain the state's lowest. The result: residents pay $2,649 annually, higher than neighbors, but their effective rate advantage is substantial.

What luxury homeowners pay annually

A median Douglas County home valued at $587,400 generates approximately $2,649 in annual property tax. Homeowners with mortgages pay about $2,549, while outright owners pay $2,839.

Even low-rate counties see assessment errors

High-value properties in Douglas County sometimes carry inflated assessments that don't reflect actual market conditions. Appealing an overvaluation could save thousands annually, regardless of the county's already-favorable tax rate.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Douglas County

via CostByCounty

Douglas County: affluent and pricey

Douglas County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio exceeds Nevada's state average of 18.1%, yet its $88,018 median household income is the highest in the state and 18% above the national median. Renters here earn more but also face steeper housing costs, paying $1,545 monthly in rent.

Second-most expensive Nevada county

Douglas County ranks among Nevada's least affordable counties by rent-to-income ratio, at 21.1%, though its higher incomes cushion the burden compared to Clark County's 24.7%. Its median home value of $587,400—the highest statewide—reflects its desirability as a Lake Tahoe resort and bedroom-community destination.

Lake Tahoe premium reshapes the market

Douglas County's $1,545 rent and $587,400 median home value dwarf those of rural neighbors like Churchill ($298,000 homes) and Eureka ($102,500 homes). Even Carson City's homes ($426,700) cost $160,000 less, underscoring Douglas's upscale positioning in the Sierra Nevada foothills.

High income, higher housing costs

Renters allocate 21.1% of their $88,018 income to $1,545 monthly rent, while homeowners pay 20.3% toward $1,487 monthly costs. The median home value of $587,400 requires substantial savings to afford, limiting accessibility despite the county's above-average wages.

Douglas for affluent seekers only

Douglas County suits high-earners drawn to Lake Tahoe's mountain lifestyle and proximity to California, but expect premium housing costs. If your household income exceeds $100,000, Douglas offers more breathing room; below that threshold, rural Nevada counties like Humboldt or Eureka offer better value.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Douglas County

via IncomeByCounty

Douglas County Leads Nevada in Income

Douglas County's median household income of $88,018 significantly exceeds both the national median of $74,755 and Nevada's state average of $75,206, ranking it in the top tier nationally. The county's $13,263 advantage over the national median reflects a prosperous, mountain-resort-adjacent economy.

Nevada's Highest-Earning County by Far

Douglas County dominates Nevada's income rankings with a median household income of $88,018, substantially outpacing the second-tier counties like Elko ($83,427) and Humboldt ($79,946). The county's proximity to Lake Tahoe and the California border drives premium wages in tourism, real estate, and professional services.

Significantly Ahead of All Regional Peers

Douglas County's $88,018 income towers over nearby Carson City ($71,809), Churchill County ($73,268), and Clark County ($73,845), reflecting its exclusive mountain-resort character and affluent population. The gap of $14,000+ per household represents one of Nevada's starkest regional income divides.

High Income Balanced by High Home Costs

Douglas County's 21.1% rent-to-income ratio is reasonable, but the median home value of $587,400 is the highest in Nevada, requiring significant down-payment savings and long-term financial commitment. Higher incomes here must contend with proportionally higher living costs, especially for real estate.

Premium Incomes Enable Aggressive Wealth Building

Douglas County's elevated household income creates unique opportunities for aggressive wealth-building through real estate equity, retirement savings, and investment diversification. Take full advantage of tax-advantaged accounts, consider real estate investment opportunities in the region, and consult a financial advisor to optimize your substantial income for long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Douglas County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety Performance

Douglas County shines with a 98.4 safety score, making it one of the safer regions in the country. Its total crime rate of 1,040.9 per 100,000 is less than half the national mark of 2,385.5.

Leading the State average

The county easily beats the Nevada state average safety score of 97.5. With a crime rate nearly 500 points lower than the state average of 1,555.1, it ranks as a top-tier safe zone.

Regional Safety Leader

Douglas maintains a safer profile than neighboring Carson City, which records a rate of 1,414.6 per 100,000. It provides a quiet, low-crime alternative to the busier capital and urban centers.

Low Risk Environmental Factors

Violent crime is very low at 145.5 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 895.4. Because data comes from a single agency, residents should view these positive numbers as a focused snapshot of local law enforcement.

Vigilance in Douglas County

Maintaining this high safety standard starts at the front door. Simple additions like smart doorbells help residents keep an eye on their property even in low-crime areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Douglas County

via HealthByCounty

Douglas County's exceptional health advantage

At 79.1 years, Douglas County residents live 0.3 years longer than the U.S. average of 78.8 years—among the healthiest in the nation. Only 14.3% of residents report poor or fair health, well below national and state averages. This rural county's outcomes rival affluent American communities.

Nevada's healthiest county by far

Douglas County's 79.1-year life expectancy leads all Nevada counties by 3.9 years, far exceeding the state average of 75.2 years. The county's 14.3% poor/fair health rate is the lowest in the state, suggesting both strong health outcomes and positive health perception. Douglas County stands as a model for Nevada's public health potential.

Dramatically outpacing other Nevada counties

Douglas County's 79.1-year life expectancy surpasses every comparable Nevada county—nearly 6 years ahead of Carson City and Churchill County. Even Elko County (75.3 years) and Humboldt County (74.1 years) trail significantly. Douglas County's success reflects a combination of favorable demographics, healthcare access, and community health factors.

Strong insurance coverage, moderate provider access

Douglas County's 10.0% uninsured rate ranks among Nevada's best, just below the state average. With 52 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, access is competitive for a rural county. However, mental health providers (166 per 100K) are below state averages, suggesting a potential gap in behavioral health services despite overall strong outcomes.

Maintain coverage to stay healthy

Douglas County's strong health outcomes are partly driven by its relatively low 10.0% uninsured rate. If you're among the uninsured, the Nevada Health Insurance Marketplace offers plans during annual enrollment. Visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 to find coverage that helps you maintain Douglas County's health advantage.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Douglas County

via SchoolsByCounty

Stable Education in the Carson Valley

Douglas County provides 16 public schools for a student population of 5,331. The landscape features seven elementary schools and five high schools, supported by five alternative education programs. This diverse array of facilities ensures that students of all learning styles have a place to thrive.

Top-Tier Graduation and Performance Scores

The county boasts an impressive 89.0% graduation rate, significantly exceeding both the state average and the national benchmark of 87.0%. With a composite school score of 52.6, it ranks as one of the higher-performing regions in Nevada. Per-pupil spending sits at $6,812, delivering strong academic ROI for the community.

A Unified Traditional School District

The Douglas County School District manages 100% of the public school students in the county across its 16 campuses. Notably, there are no charter schools in the county, reflecting a community deeply invested in its traditional district model. This unity allows for a cohesive educational strategy from kindergarten through graduation.

A Blend of Town and Rural Settings

The county's schools are split evenly between town and rural locales, offering varied environments for learning. Douglas High School is the largest institution with 1,643 students, while the average school size remains manageable at 333. Schools like C.C. Meneley Elementary offer a smaller, intimate feel within the broader district.

Secure a Home in a High-Performing District

Douglas County is a premier choice for families who prioritize high graduation rates and strong school scores. Buying a home here provides access to a stable, traditional educational environment that consistently outpaces state averages. Explore the valley's neighborhoods to find your place in this successful school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Douglas County

via RiskByCounty

Douglas County: well above national risk

Douglas County's composite risk score of 84.38 significantly exceeds the U.S. average of 50, placing it in the "Relatively Moderate" category. The county's western Sierra Nevada location exposes residents to formidable earthquake and wildfire threats.

Third-riskiest county in Nevada

At 84.38, Douglas County ranks third among Nevada's 16 counties, behind only Clark (99.55) and Elko (87.91). This score nearly doubles Nevada's state average of 46.25, reflecting the county's extreme earthquake (96.31) and wildfire (97.93) exposure.

Peer of Carson City's hazard exposure

Douglas County's 84.38 exceeds Carson City's 76.14 slightly, though both share similar earthquake (96.31 vs. 96.63) and wildfire threats. However, Douglas County experiences notably higher flood risk at 73.76 compared to Carson City's 46.06, driven by proximity to Sierra snowmelt and storm systems.

Wildfire, earthquakes, and flooding align

Wildfire risk dominates at 97.93, followed closely by earthquake risk at 96.31 and flood risk at 73.76. These three hazards create overlapping seasonal and seismic threats that define Douglas County's emergency preparedness landscape.

Three specialized policies are essential

Douglas County residents need earthquake, wildfire, and flood insurance—standard homeowners policies exclude all three. With wildfire at 97.93, earthquakes at 96.31, and flooding at 73.76, comprehensive coverage across these hazards is your critical first step.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Douglas County

via WeatherByCounty

Cooler alpine and valley air

Douglas County’s average temperature of 47.8°F is considerably cooler than the national median of 53°F. Its climate is influenced by its proximity to the Sierra Nevada mountains.

Cooler than the state average

At 47.8°F, Douglas sits below the Nevada state average of 52.0°F. It is one of the wetter counties in the state, receiving 13.9 inches of precipitation compared to the 8.6-inch state mean.

Wetter and snowier than Carson

Douglas receives 20.1 inches of snow annually, which is significantly more than Carson City's 14 inches. It also enjoys more annual rainfall, totaling 13.9 inches compared to its neighbor's 9.3.

Mild summers and snowy winters

The county experiences only 32 days of extreme heat per year, keeping summers comfortable. Winter is the primary season of concern, with 20.1 inches of snow and a December-February average of 32.9°F.

Prepare for winter conditions

Residents should invest in snow removal equipment and winterize their vehicles for the 20-inch annual snowfall. The mild 67.2°F July average means heavy air conditioning use is less frequent than in other parts of Nevada.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Douglas County

via SoilByCounty

Great Basin Alluvium and High pH

Sitting in the shadows of the Sierras, Douglas County lacks specific taxonomic data in the current report. It likely shares the alkaline tendencies of the Great Basin, contrasting with the acidic 6.5 national pH median.

Alluvial Deposits of the Carson Valley

Sand and silt ratios are not recorded, though the Carson Valley is defined by its deep alluvial deposits. These mountain-fed sediments traditionally offer better workability than the heavy, dense clays found in other parts of the state.

Irrigation Drives Valley Growth

Without recorded organic matter or water capacity, the county's agricultural success relies heavily on historic irrigation. Growers typically aim to reach that 2.0% national organic matter target through cover cropping and manure.

Spring Snowmelt and Valley Drainage

Drainage classes aren't specified, but the valley floor must manage high snowmelt volumes every spring. Efficient hydrology and water rights remain the backbone of the local ranching and farming economy.

Root Crops and Greens in Zone 6b

Douglas County is in zone 6b, providing a reliable window for cold-hardy vegetables and livestock forage. Kale, carrots, and potatoes perform exceptionally well in this mountain valley climate with proper soil care.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Douglas County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions in the Sierra

Douglas County offers a relatively friendly environment for turf with a difficulty score of 47.3, nearly matching the national average. As a Zone 6b region, it is much easier to maintain a lawn here than in the rest of the state, which averages 34.4. The proximity to the mountains provides a more temperate backdrop for your landscape.

Leveraging Higher Precipitation

Lawns benefit from 13.9 inches of annual rain, which is significantly higher than the Nevada state average of 8.6 inches. With only 32 extreme heat days, the growing season is manageable, though it is constrained by a late June 5 spring frost. This climate allows for a more traditional lawn care routine compared to the hotter desert counties.

Preparing Your Foothill Soil

While specific county-wide soil data is unavailable, the local mountain geography often leads to varied drainage patterns. Homeowners should test for pH and texture to ensure their soil can support healthy roots through the 1,920 growing degree days. Adding compost is a great way to boost nutrient levels and water retention in these soils.

A Drought-Free Year

Douglas County has enjoyed zero weeks of drought over the past year, providing an ideal window for lawn establishment. Even with these good conditions, using mulch and efficient sprinklers will help you stay prepared for future dry cycles. Consistent moisture management is the best way to maintain the health of your turf through the summer.

Seeding for Success in 6b

Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue are perfectly suited for the 6b hardiness zone. Wait until the final frost on June 5 before starting new seed to ensure the young shoots aren't damaged by a cold snap. With proper timing, you can establish a lush lawn that thrives in the temperate Sierra foothills.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Douglas County's county score?
Douglas County, Nevada has a composite county score of 50.2 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 Douglas County rank among counties in Nevada?
Douglas County ranks #6 among all counties in Nevada 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 Douglas County, Nevada?
The median annual property tax in Douglas County is $2,649, with an effective tax rate of 0.45%. This earns Douglas County a tax score of 90.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Douglas County?
The median household income in Douglas County, Nevada is $88,018 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Douglas County earns an income score of 90.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Douglas County, Nevada a good place to live?
Douglas County scores 50.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #6 in Nevada. The best way to evaluate Douglas 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 Douglas County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.