countyscore
49.8
County Score
Income & Jobs 96.6Health 94Lawn Care 75.9

County Report Card

About El Dorado County, California

El Dorado nearly matches national livability baseline

With a composite score of 49.8, El Dorado County sits just below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the middle tier nationally. This near-perfect alignment masks dramatic variation within the county's dimensions, revealing both elite strengths and significant gaps.

Strong performer in competitive California market

El Dorado's score of 49.8 significantly exceeds California's state average of 40.9, ranking it in the upper tier among the state's 58 counties. This positions the county as a genuine livability outlier within a state where most counties cluster below the national median.

Wealthy, healthy community with solid schools

El Dorado residents earn a median household income of $106,190—far above state and national norms—with an outstanding health score of 94.0 and solid education infrastructure (score: 62.5). The county also maintains a favorable effective tax rate of just 0.704%, easing the burden on high earners.

Housing cost and safety squeeze the livability score

The median home value of $640,500 and gross rent of $1,626/month produce a cost score of just 3.2, among the lowest in the state and the primary drag on overall livability. Safety concerns also register with a modest score of 40.1, reflecting modest property and violent crime rates.

Affluent families seeking excellent health care

El Dorado suits high-income professionals and families who can absorb steep housing costs in exchange for exceptional income stability, outstanding health outcomes, and low tax burden. It is less suitable for price-sensitive buyers, renters, or those prioritizing safety metrics.

Score breakdown

Tax62.8Cost3.2Safety40.1Health94Schools62.5Income96.6Risk8.6Water57.1Weather45.6
🏛62.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠3.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼96.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡40.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤94
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓62.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡8.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧57.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤45.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱75.9
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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Deep Dives

El Dorado County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in El Dorado County

via TaxByCounty

El Dorado taxes rank high nationally

El Dorado's effective tax rate of 0.704% sits just below the state average of 0.714%, placing it in the upper half of U.S. counties. The median property tax here is $4,510—68% higher than the national median of $2,690—reflecting both higher home values and California's tax structure.

Middle of the pack in California

Among California's 58 counties, El Dorado ranks roughly in the middle for effective tax rates. Its median property tax of $4,510 exceeds the state average of $4,045, driven by a median home value of $640,500 that's well above most California counties.

Higher taxes than Sierra Nevada peers

El Dorado's 0.704% rate edges out nearby Inyo County (0.707%) and Glenn County (0.647%), but trails Fresno County (0.746%) to the south. Home values here are notably higher than regional neighbors, pushing annual tax bills well above surrounding foothill communities.

Expect $4,510 per year in property taxes

A median El Dorado home valued at $640,500 generates an estimated annual property tax bill of $4,510. Homeowners with mortgages may pay slightly more at $4,947 due to escrow arrangements, while those without mortgages pay closer to $3,470.

Consider a property tax assessment appeal

Many El Dorado homeowners may be overassessed relative to recent market sales in their neighborhoods. A formal appeal to the county assessor's office costs nothing to file and can result in significant annual savings if your home's assessed value exceeds its fair market value.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in El Dorado County

via CostByCounty

El Dorado beats national affordability

Renters in El Dorado County spend just 18.4% of income on housing, well below the national norm and significantly better than California's 22.4% average. With a median household income of $106,190—42% above the national median of $74,755—El Dorado residents have more breathing room in their budgets than most Americans.

Among California's most affordable

El Dorado County ranks as one of California's most housing-friendly markets, with a rent-to-income ratio of 18.4% compared to the state average of 22.4%. This advantage reflects both strong local incomes and relatively moderate housing costs for the region.

Sierra foothill affordability edge

El Dorado's median rent of $1,626 is comparable to neighboring Alpine and Amador counties, but its significantly higher median income of $106,190 makes housing more affordable here than in surrounding mountain communities. Renters pay 18.4% of income toward housing versus over 20% in most adjacent counties.

Where El Dorado incomes go

El Dorado renters dedicate about $1,626 monthly to rent while homeowners face $2,190 in monthly ownership costs, with a median home value of $640,500. The median household income of $106,190 absorbs these costs comfortably, leaving 18.4% for housing and 81.6% for other expenses.

Consider El Dorado for stability

If you're relocating from a high-cost coastal area, El Dorado offers genuine affordability without sacrificing income potential—the county's $106,190 median income suggests strong job prospects. Compare this against similarly-priced homes in neighboring counties to see how El Dorado's wage advantage translates to real financial relief.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in El Dorado County

via IncomeByCounty

El Dorado outearns most American households

At $106,190, El Dorado's median household income runs 42% above the national median of $74,755. This places the county among the top earners nationwide, reflecting strong regional economic conditions and a skilled workforce.

A top earner in California

El Dorado's median income of $106,190 significantly exceeds California's state average of $87,001—a difference of nearly $19,200 per household. The county ranks in the upper echelon of California's 58 counties for household earnings.

El Dorado leads neighboring Sierra foothills

El Dorado's $106,190 median household income towers over nearby Inyo County ($72,432) and the Central Valley neighbors Fresno County ($71,434) and Glenn County ($70,487). This income advantage reflects El Dorado's proximity to Sacramento and its more affluent residential character.

Strong income supports comfortable living

With a 18.4% rent-to-income ratio, El Dorado households spend a modest portion of earnings on housing—well below the 30% affordability threshold. The median home value of $640,500 remains accessible to the county's higher income earners, though it signals premium real estate prices.

Build on your income advantage

El Dorado's above-average household income creates room to save and invest for long-term wealth. Consider maximizing retirement accounts, diversifying investments, and consulting a financial advisor to compound your earnings advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in El Dorado County

via CrimeByCounty

El Dorado Beats National Safety Averages

El Dorado earns an impressive safety score of 97.8, reflecting its status as a secure community. Its total crime rate of 1,364.5 per 100,000 residents is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

Outperforming the California Safety Average

The county's safety score of 97.8 outperforms the California state average of 96.3. Seven different reporting agencies coordinate to maintain this high standard of public security.

A Safer Alternative to Regional Neighbors

Compared to the state average total crime rate of 2,355.2, El Dorado remains much safer for residents. Its crime rate is less than half that of Kern County, which sits at 4,050.8.

Understanding the Local Crime Breakdown

Violent crime is low at 273.8 per 100,000, while property crime accounts for 1,090.7 incidents. Most reported activity involves theft rather than physical harm to individuals.

Maintaining a Secure Household

Residents should secure entry points and consider smart monitoring systems to deter opportunistic property theft. Community vigilance helps maintain El Dorado's status as a top-tier safe haven.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in El Dorado County

via HealthByCounty

El Dorado outlives most Americans

Residents here live to 80.6 years on average—nearly 5 years longer than the U.S. average of 76.1 years. Only 13.2% report poor or fair health, well below the national rate of 18%, signaling a healthier population overall.

Leading California in longevity

El Dorado's 80.6-year life expectancy ranks among the state's best, outpacing California's 78.5-year average by 2.1 years. The county's low poor/fair health rate of 13.2% also beats the state trend, reflecting stronger overall health outcomes.

Healthier than Sierra Nevada peers

El Dorado residents live significantly longer than neighboring Inyo County (76.6 years) and outlying rural counties, and report better health than Humboldt County (75.8 years). The county's primary care density of 76 per 100,000 supports this advantage, though mental health providers at 438 per 100K remain below state benchmarks.

Insurance and access working well

At 5.2%, El Dorado's uninsured rate is the lowest among these eight counties and well below California's 7.2% average. With 76 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, people here have relatively easy access to routine medical care—a key ingredient in maintaining that high life expectancy.

Keep health coverage strong

Even though most El Dorado residents have insurance, nearly 1 in 20 remain uninsured. Visit CoveredCA.com to explore options and stay protected against unexpected health costs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in El Dorado County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Mountainous Education Infrastructure

El Dorado County supports 33,316 students across a network of 68 public schools and 24 individual districts. The landscape includes 34 elementary schools and 11 high schools, providing a comprehensive pipeline from kindergarten through graduation. Over 19% of these institutions are charter schools, offering diverse educational pathways for local families.

Superior Graduation Rates Above State Averages

The county boasts an impressive 93.3% graduation rate, significantly outpacing the California average of 87.5% and the national mark of 87.0%. While per-pupil expenditure sits at $7,327—lower than the state average of $8,762—the county maintains a school score of 56.0. This indicates high academic efficiency despite more modest local investment per student.

Leading Districts and Charter Options

Buckeye Union Elementary is the largest district, serving 4,259 students across nine different schools. Large-scale charter schools like Cottonwood and Sky Mountain Charter each enroll over 2,000 students, representing a significant portion of the county's specialized educational landscape. El Dorado Union High also manages major campuses like Oak Ridge High, which serves 2,516 students.

Rural Roots and Mid-Sized Classrooms

The educational experience here is primarily rural, with 33 schools situated in rural settings and another 19 in towns. Schools average 505 students each, ranging from massive campuses like Cottonwood to much smaller localized facilities. This mix ensures that families can find both large comprehensive high schools and intimate rural learning environments.

Put Down Roots Near Top Schools

High graduation rates make El Dorado County an attractive destination for families seeking academic success. Explore homes in the Buckeye Union or Lake Tahoe Unified districts to secure a spot in some of the region's most established systems. School quality remains a primary driver for home values in these sought-after Sierra Foothill communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in El Dorado County

via RiskByCounty

El Dorado's moderate risk above national baseline

El Dorado County scores 91.41 on the composite risk scale, placing it in the 'Relatively Moderate' category and above the national average. While the county faces real hazard exposure, most residents have manageable disaster preparation needs. This rating reflects a balanced risk profile across multiple natural hazard types.

Moderate among California's 58 counties

El Dorado's composite risk score of 91.41 exceeds California's average of 88.72, positioning it in the mid-to-upper range of state counties. The county ranks above several neighbors and statewide peers despite facing significant wildfire exposure. This above-average rating warrants proactive disaster preparedness from residents and local officials.

Higher risk than inland valley neighbors

El Dorado's 91.41 score ranks higher than Glenn County (74.43) and Inyo County (79.33), but lower than neighboring high-risk counties like Kern (98.89) and Fresno (99.30). The county's earthquake and flood risks particularly exceed those of lower-risk inland neighbors. This positions El Dorado as a regional moderate-to-high risk area.

Wildfire and earthquake dominate El Dorado

Wildfire risk scores an extreme 99.71, making it the county's most pressing hazard—well above state average—while earthquake risk reaches 91.57. Flood risk also presents substantial exposure at 91.70, particularly relevant during wet winters in Sierra foothills communities. Together, these three hazards account for the county's elevated composite risk profile.

Secure wildfire and earthquake coverage now

El Dorado residents should prioritize home insurance that explicitly covers wildfire damage, given the county's extreme 99.71 wildfire score. Earthquake insurance—often sold separately from standard homeowners policies—is essential given the 91.57 earthquake risk score. Bundling these coverage types with flood insurance creates comprehensive protection against the county's three primary hazards.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in El Dorado County

via WeatherByCounty

A Transition from Valley to Peaks

El Dorado's average annual temperature of 53.8°F sits near the national median, reflecting its diverse terrain. The county receives 41.2 inches of annual precipitation, which is significantly higher than many interior U.S. regions.

Cooler Than the Golden State Average

At 53.8°F, the county remains cooler than the California state average of 58.7°F. This lower temperature profile is driven by its high-elevation Sierra Nevada mountains compared to the warmer Central Valley.

Wetter and Snowier Than Valley Neighbors

With 58.2 inches of annual snowfall, El Dorado is far wetter and colder than neighboring Sacramento County. It shares a rugged mountain climate profile with Placer and Alpine counties to its north and south.

Cold Winters and Pleasant Summers

Winters are cold with a 39.9°F average, while summers stay mild at 69.2°F. The county sees 48 extreme heat days above 90°F annually, which are concentrated mostly in its lower western foothills.

Prepare for Snow and Sun

Residents need robust heating systems and snow removal equipment to handle the nearly five feet of annual snowfall. High-efficiency cooling is also essential as summer temperatures still reach the 90s on nearly 50 days each year.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in El Dorado County

via SoilByCounty

A High-Altitude Mountain Profile

Specific pH and taxonomic data are currently unavailable for El Dorado County's rugged terrain. Without local measurements, it is difficult to compare this region to the national 6.5 pH median. We recommend local testing to determine if your soil leans acidic or alkaline.

Unknown Mineral Makeup

The specific percentages of sand, silt, and clay are not recorded in this dataset. These ratios determine how well your garden breathes and holds onto water. Gardeners should perform a simple jar test to identify their unique texture.

Assessing Growing Potential

Organic matter and water capacity data are missing for this county. These metrics are vital for reaching the state average organic matter level of 3.30%. Adding compost is a safe bet to improve any mountain soil profile.

Managing Sierra Water Flow

The dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups remain unlisted for this area. This information is key for planning home foundations and irrigation systems. Observe your land after a heavy rain to see how quickly the water clears.

Vibrant Mountain Harvests

Hardiness Zone 9b supports a wide variety of stone fruits and grapes. Even without specific soil data, the climate is excellent for productive orchards. Start your garden today and learn your soil's secrets through experience.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in El Dorado County

via LawnByCounty

Prime Conditions in El Dorado

El Dorado County boasts a high lawn difficulty score of 75.9, making it much easier to maintain than the national median of 50.0. In Hardiness Zone 9b, the environment supports healthy turf growth with significantly less effort than the California average of 51.3.

A Rainy Oasis in the Sierras

The county receives 41.2 inches of annual precipitation, which sits perfectly within the ideal 30-50 inch range for lawns. With only 48 extreme heat days, turf here avoids the scorching stress seen in lower-lying California counties.

Establishing a Strong Ground

While specific local soil composition data is limited, the region's diverse topography suggests checking for local drainage variations. Testing your specific yard for pH and texture is a smart first step toward a lush lawn.

Abundant Water for Thirsty Turf

El Dorado has recorded zero weeks in drought over the past year, providing a very stable environment for grass. Maintaining deep root systems now ensures your lawn remains resilient when future dry spells occur.

Start Growing This Spring

Tall fescue and Bermuda grass are excellent choices for Zone 9b's warm-temperate climate. Plan to seed after the last spring frost on April 26 to give your lawn plenty of time to establish before the November 21 fall frost.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is El Dorado County's county score?
El Dorado County, California has a composite county score of 49.8 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 El Dorado County rank among counties in California?
El Dorado County ranks #4 among all counties in California 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 El Dorado County, California?
The median annual property tax in El Dorado County is $4,510, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns El Dorado County a tax score of 62.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in El Dorado County?
The median household income in El Dorado County, California is $106,190 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. El Dorado County earns an income score of 96.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is El Dorado County, California a good place to live?
El Dorado County scores 49.8/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in California. The best way to evaluate El Dorado 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 El Dorado 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.