countyscore
72.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 99Property Tax 98.5Schools 97

County Report Card

About Hinsdale County, Colorado

Hinsdale ranks well above national median

Hinsdale County's composite score of 72.1 substantially exceeds the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 91st percentile nationally. This exceptional performance places Hinsdale among the nation's most livable rural counties.

Top-performing Colorado county

Hinsdale's score of 72.1 far surpasses Colorado's state average of 51.2, ranking it among the state's best-performing counties. This high standing reflects exceptional strength in schools, safety, and risk management despite smaller scale.

Exceptional schools and safety record

Hinsdale's school score of 97.0 is among the nation's highest, and its risk score of 99.0 reflects an exceptionally safe environment with minimal natural hazards. The tax score of 98.5 and safety score of 77.1 further reinforce the county's outstanding livability fundamentals.

Limited incomes and moderate health access

Median household income of $64,327 is modest and reflects the county's rural character and limited job diversity. The health score of 60.4, while not poor, suggests healthcare access challenges typical of very small mountain counties.

Best for families prioritizing education

Hinsdale County is ideal for families with school-age children, retirees, and those seeking an exceptionally safe, tight-knit community with outstanding schools. The trade-off is a smaller economy and moderate healthcare options, requiring residents to be self-sufficient or willing to travel for specialized services.

Score breakdown

Tax98.5Cost38.2Safety77.1Health60.4Schools97Income51.4Risk99Water86Weather50.4
🏛98.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠38.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼51.4
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡77.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤60.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓97
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡99
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤50.4
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱30
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

San Juan County
Colorado
69.1
Mineral County
Colorado
69.2
Ouray County
Colorado
67.3
Rio Grande County
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Archuleta County
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San Miguel County
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La Plata County
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Dolores County
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Deep Dives

Hinsdale County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Hinsdale County

via TaxByCounty

Hinsdale ranks in lowest national quartile

At 0.293%, Hinsdale's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.52%, placing it in approximately the 22nd percentile. Hinsdale homeowners have significantly lower tax bills than the typical American property owner.

Hinsdale sits just below Colorado's state average

Hinsdale's 0.293% rate falls slightly below Colorado's 0.393% state average, positioning it around the 33rd percentile among the state's 64 counties. The county offers modest tax advantages compared to statewide norms.

Hinsdale compares favorably to nearby counties

Hinsdale's 0.293% rate sits between Grand County (0.348%, higher) and Gunnison County (0.282%, lower), making it a middle option in Colorado's mountain tax landscape. All three counties maintain below-average state rates.

Median home: $1,286 annual property tax

With a median home value of $438,800, Hinsdale homeowners pay approximately $1,286 per year in property taxes. That's $1,404 less than the national median tax bill on a home worth 56% more than the U.S. average.

Assessment challenges exist in remote areas

Remote mountain counties like Hinsdale sometimes struggle with consistent assessment practices, creating opportunities for appeals. Homeowners should compare their assessed value to recent local sales to identify potential overvaluation.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hinsdale County

via CostByCounty

Hinsdale's low income, affordability trade-off

Hinsdale County residents earn a median of $64,327—14% below the national median of $74,755—but their rent-to-income ratio of 20.5% stays near affordable levels. Lower incomes offset by lower absolute rents keep housing accessible, though overall earning power is constrained.

Middle-ground affordability in state

Hinsdale's rent-to-income ratio of 20.5% sits essentially at Colorado's state average of 20.2%, placing it squarely in the state's affordability middle. The county's below-average income, however, limits overall economic mobility.

Hinsdale's lower costs, lower wages

Hinsdale's median rent ($1,099) and median home value ($438,800) are the lowest among nearby mountain counties like Gunnison and Grand. Yet Hinsdale also has the lowest median income ($64,327) of the region, indicating a less robust local economy.

Affordable housing, tight budgets

Renters in Hinsdale spend $1,099 monthly (20.5% of income), while owners pay $792—the county's most affordable ownership option regionally. However, the median income of $64,327 means residents have less disposable income after housing costs than wealthier neighbors.

Hinsdale for budget-conscious movers

Hinsdale offers Colorado's lowest housing costs, but the trade-off is a smaller local job market and lower wages. Consider it if you have remote income or are retiring on a fixed income; otherwise, explore neighboring counties with stronger employment options.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hinsdale County

via IncomeByCounty

Hinsdale lags national income norm

Hinsdale County's median household income of $64,327 falls $10,428 below the national median of $74,755. This 14% gap reflects the county's rural character and limited employment diversity outside mining and outdoor recreation.

Below Colorado's state average

Hinsdale County's median household income is $10,465 below Colorado's state average of $74,792, placing it in the lower-middle tier of state counties. The county's small, dispersed population and limited economic base constrain earning potential.

Rural mountain income challenges

Hinsdale's $64,327 median lags nearby Gunnison County ($77,358) and Gilpin County ($88,654), though it exceeds more isolated counties. Limited job diversity and seasonal employment patterns in this high-altitude county create income constraints.

Housing costs stretch budgets

With a rent-to-income ratio of 20.5%, housing takes a significant portion of Hinsdale incomes, consuming one in five earnings dollars. The median home value of $438,800 represents a considerable financial commitment relative to household earnings.

Prioritize financial stability first

Hinsdale households should focus on building emergency reserves before aggressive investing, given income volatility in rural areas. Consider diverse income streams and remote work opportunities to supplement primary employment earnings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hinsdale County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety in Hinsdale County

Hinsdale County achieves a nearly perfect safety score of 99.1, one of the highest in the country. The total crime rate of 548.9 per 100,000 is a quarter of the national average. Because these stats come from a single reporting agency, they represent a small but highly secure sample.

One of Colorado's Safest Jurisdictions

Hinsdale's safety score of 99.1 far outpaces the Colorado state average of 97.1. Its total crime rate of 548.9 is substantially lower than the state's average of 1,834.6. This indicates that Hinsdale is among the premier safe havens in the state.

Setting the Standard for the Region

Compared to nearby counties, Hinsdale reports some of the lowest crime figures in the Rockies. Its violent crime rate of 109.8 is among the lowest recorded in Colorado. Residents benefit from a level of isolation and community oversight that naturally deters crime.

Minimal Incidents Across All Categories

Violent crime is extremely rare, with only 109.8 incidents per 100,000 people. Property crime is also minimal at 439.1, compared to the national average of 2,015.7. These numbers highlight a community where major criminal incidents are infrequent events.

Protect Your Peace of Mind

While crime is rare in Hinsdale, basic precautions like locking doors and windows are still recommended. In small communities, knowing your neighbors is a powerful tool for monitoring unusual activity. Maintaining these simple habits ensures the county remains a safe place to live.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Hinsdale County

via HealthByCounty

Hinsdale health data shows limited visibility

Hinsdale County's life expectancy data isn't publicly available, making national comparison difficult—a common challenge for very small, rural counties. The 11.5% poor/fair health rate suggests general wellness similar to Colorado's healthier counties, though more recent data would clarify the picture.

Small county, outsized uninsured challenge

While Hinsdale's life expectancy isn't reported, its 11.5% poor/fair health rate compares favorably to state health trends. However, 13.7% of residents lack health insurance—well above Colorado's 9.7% state average—suggesting coverage gaps in this isolated mountain community.

Mountain community with coverage gaps

Hinsdale's 13.7% uninsured rate exceeds nearby Grand County (10.3%) and Gunnison (6.9%), indicating the smallest mountain county struggles most with insurance access. Its 11.5% poor/fair health rate falls between healthier neighbors and more vulnerable counties like Huerfano.

Mental health strength, provider data limited

Hinsdale has 261 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—robust support for behavioral health—but primary care provider data isn't available, reflecting the county's tiny population. The 13.7% uninsured rate is the county's most pressing healthcare challenge.

Reach out to close Hinsdale's coverage gap

With 13.7% of residents uninsured, Hinsdale families should prioritize finding coverage. Contact Colorado's Division of Insurance or visit healthcare.gov to explore Medicaid, marketplace plans, or community health center resources available in your area.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Hinsdale County

via SchoolsByCounty

Ultra-Small Schooling in Lake City

Hinsdale County features one of the most intimate educational settings in the state with just a single public school. This lone facility serves 81 students across all grade levels from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

High Investment for Every Student

The county invests $13,446 per pupil, surpassing the national average and nearly doubling the state average of $7,447. While graduation data for the small student cohort is not publicly listed, the school maintains a composite score of 44.4.

The Lake City Community Model

Hinsdale County School District No. Re-1 is the sole provider of public education here, with no charter alternatives. The district focuses entirely on the Lake City Community School, which houses the county's entire student population.

A Truly Rural Learning Environment

Attending school here means being part of a 100% rural setting where every student is known by name. With only 81 students in the entire building, the Lake City Community School offers an unparalleled level of individualized attention.

Discover a Close-Knit Community

For families seeking an escape from crowded suburban schools, Hinsdale County offers a unique, high-investment micro-schooling experience. Research homes near Lake City to join a community where education is personal and deeply valued.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hinsdale County

via RiskByCounty

Hinsdale County ranks safest nationwide

With a composite risk score of just 1.02, Hinsdale County is among America's lowest-risk counties for natural disasters. Its "Very Low" rating reflects minimal exposure to the full spectrum of hazards.

Colorado's safest county by far

Hinsdale's 1.02 score is dramatically lower than Colorado's state average of 40.67, making it the state's safest county overall. High elevation and sparse development contribute to this exceptional safety profile.

Dramatically safer than surrounding counties

Hinsdale's 1.02 score vastly undercuts neighboring Gunnison County (44.97) and Grand County (50.19). Its isolated, high-altitude location provides natural protection unavailable to lower-elevation neighbors.

Wildfire poses minimal but measurable risk

Even in the nation's safest county, wildfire risk (50.19) slightly outpaces other hazards, though at levels far below state norms. Flood, earthquake, and tornado risks are all exceptionally low.

Standard coverage likely sufficient here

Hinsdale County's exceptional risk profile means basic homeowner insurance typically provides adequate protection for natural disasters. Still, verify your policy includes wildfire coverage, as it remains the relative priority even in safe counties.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hinsdale County

via WeatherByCounty

Hinsdale's 38.6°F ranks among America's coldest

Hinsdale County sits 23 degrees below the U.S. annual temperature median of 61.7°F, with 38.6°F marking one of the nation's consistently frigid counties. Its 16.9 inches of annual precipitation slightly exceed the national average, but nearly all falls as snow in this high-mountain setting.

Third-coldest county in Colorado

At 38.6°F, Hinsdale ranks among Colorado's three coldest counties, roughly 7.4 degrees below the state average of 46.0°F. Only the highest peaks of mountain counties dip colder than Hinsdale's sustained alpine climate.

Snowiest of the mountain trio

Hinsdale (38.6°F) nestles between Gunnison County (36.8°F) and the slightly warmer La Plata County (45.2°F), but receives the heaviest snowfall at 107.7 inches annually. All three experience virtually zero extreme heat days, making them climate twins in the high peaks.

Extreme alpine cold, nearly no summer heat

Winter averages 17.8°F and January dips to 16.3°F, while July peaks at just 60.4°F, creating a 44-degree annual range with zero days above 90°F. Hinsdale receives 107.7 inches of snow yearly—the highest in this county cluster—meaning snow dominates eight months of the year.

Design for extreme snow and isolation

Hinsdale's residents require heavy-duty avalanche assessment for any construction, commercial-grade snow removal, and backup heating systems for extended winter outages. Summer recreation windows are compressed into July-August; outdoor activities, maintenance, and supply stockpiling must happen fast during the brief thaw.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hinsdale County

via SoilByCounty

Rugged Terrain, Missing Data

This remote county lacks recorded data for soil taxonomy and average pH. Most high-altitude Colorado soils trend more acidic than the state's 7.29 average due to coniferous influence.

Coarse and Fragmented Textures

Sand and clay percentages are not available in current records for Hinsdale. The dominant soil texture in these steep mountains is typically rocky and well-draining.

Building Soil from Scratch

Organic matter and available water capacity data are currently unrecorded. Growing success often depends on localized composting to improve fertility beyond the baseline mountain environment.

Hydrology Managed by Slopes

Official drainage classes and hydrologic groups are missing for this area. The extreme topography ensures that water moves quickly across the landscape rather than soaking in.

Zone 5a High-Altitude Gardening

Hardiness Zone 5a creates a challenging environment for traditional agriculture. Focus on native perennials and cold-hardy vegetables to ensure a successful mountain harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hinsdale County

via LawnByCounty

High Difficulty in Hinsdale County

Maintaining a lawn in Hinsdale County is a difficult task, evidenced by its low 30.0 difficulty score. This hardiness zone 5a region is significantly more demanding than the national median of 50.0. Homeowners must work harder than the average Coloradan to achieve a lush, green landscape.

Moderate Rain but No Heat

The county receives 16.9 inches of annual precipitation, which is slightly above the state average but still requires irrigation. With 905 growing degree days and zero days of extreme heat, the grass has a very steady, albeit slow, growth cycle. These conditions are easy on the grass during summer but limit the speed of recovery from damage.

Focusing on Local Soil Health

Specific soil metrics for Hinsdale are currently unavailable, but high-altitude soils are frequently nutrient-poor. You should conduct a local soil test to determine if your pH levels fall within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. Adding organic amendments is a standard practice to improve the texture and water-holding capacity of the ground.

A Year of Constant Drought

Hinsdale has faced 53 weeks of drought over the past year, with 23% of its area in severe conditions. Effective watering should happen in the early morning to minimize evaporation and maximize absorption. Using drought-tolerant grass species can help your lawn survive these extended periods without natural rainfall.

Watch the Late Spring Frosts

In zone 5a, select grass varieties like Creeping Red Fescue that can handle cold winters. The last spring frost typically occurs on June 15, while the first fall frost hits by September 17, leaving a tight window for lawn care. Plan your seeding or sodding for the late June period to ensure the soil is warm enough for growth.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hinsdale County's county score?
Hinsdale County, Colorado has a composite county score of 72.1 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 Hinsdale County rank among counties in Colorado?
Hinsdale County ranks #1 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 Hinsdale County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Hinsdale County is $1,286, with an effective tax rate of 0.29%. This earns Hinsdale County a tax score of 98.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hinsdale County?
The median household income in Hinsdale County, Colorado is $64,327 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hinsdale County earns an income score of 51.4/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hinsdale County, Colorado a good place to live?
Hinsdale County scores 72.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #1 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Hinsdale 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 Hinsdale 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.