countyscore
48.2
County Score
Income & Jobs 85.9Schools 76.8Property Tax 75.6

County Report Card

About Hood River County, Oregon

Competing Near the National Median

Hood River County earns a 48.2 composite score, positioning it just below the national median of 50.0. It balances elite economic performance with significant cost-of-living challenges.

Exceeding the Oregon State Average

The county comfortably outperforms the Oregon average of 42.5. It is recognized as one of the state's most affluent and well-educated regions.

High Incomes and Elite Schools

Strong earners drive an income score of 85.9, supported by a median household income of $82,095. The school score of 76.8 is among the best in the region.

Extreme Housing Costs and Low Safety

A low cost score of 10.6 reflects a median home value of $571,200, which strains many budgets. Safety also ranks low at 16.1, signaling a area for community improvement.

Perfect for Families Prioritizing Education

This county is a premier choice for high-earning families who value top-tier schools. It is a location for those who view expensive housing as a trade-off for professional opportunity.

2040608010075.610.616.166.576.885.96849.350.5Tax75.6Cost10.6Safety16.1Health66.5Schools76.8Income85.9Risk68Water49.3Weather50.548.2/100
This county
National avg
5 above average2 below average

Hood River County DNA

Foverall

How Hood River County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Hood River County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (85.9/100) but notably weak in Safety (16.1/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
75.6+23.599999999999994
Cost
10.6-37.4
Safety
16.1-38.9
Health
66.5+16.5
Schools
76.8+22.799999999999997
Income
85.9+34.900000000000006
Risk
68+21
Water
49.3-8.700000000000003
Weather
50.5
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Compare mortgage rates in Hood River County

Whether buying or refinancing in Hood River County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$571,200

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,381/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$571,200/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$55,240/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum7.0x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $82,095/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

37.6

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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Nearby counties

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57.8
Wasco County
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32.3
Multnomah County
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44.4
Clackamas County
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Deep Dives

Hood River County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Hood River County

via TaxByCounty

Hood River taxes stay low despite high values

Hood River County's effective tax rate of 0.588% ranks in the bottom 15% of U.S. counties, offering a tax-friendly environment for its wealthy residents. The median home value of $571,200 generates $3,359 in annual taxes—above the national median of $2,690 in absolute dollars, but at a notably lower rate.

Oregon's lowest county tax rate

At 0.588%, Hood River boasts the lowest effective tax rate among all 36 Oregon counties, well below the state average of 0.775%. This favorable rate applies across the county's premium real estate market.

Lowest rate in Oregon's north

Hood River's 0.588% effective rate handily beats nearby Deschutes County (0.616%) and Jackson County (0.758%), making it the tax-friendliest county in north-central Oregon. The advantage compounds for affluent homeowners in this high-value market.

What $571,200 homes cost to own

Hood River homeowners pay $3,359 annually on a median home valued at $571,200. Mortgage holders and outright owners pay nearly identical amounts at $3,367 and $3,345 respectively.

Even low rates deserve verification

Hood River's favorable tax rate is an advantage, but assessments can still be wrong—especially in appreciating markets where recent comps may not reflect true market value. A simple appeal review costs nothing and could protect your bottom line.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Hood River County

via CostByCounty

Hood River: scenic views, moderate affordability

Hood River renters spend 20.2% of their income on housing, slightly above Oregon's state average and keeping pace with national norms despite premium location. With median household income of $82,095—above the national average—residents earn enough to absorb the $1,381 monthly rent while maintaining reasonable affordability ratios.

Scenic county with manageable housing stress

Hood River's rent-to-income ratio of 20.2% places it slightly above Oregon's state average of 19.4%, reflecting its reputation as an outdoor recreation destination. Rents of $1,381/month run $244 above the state median, yet the county's higher incomes keep affordability on the acceptable side.

Pricier than most, but less than Deschutes

Hood River's $1,381 rent falls below Deschutes County's steep $1,674 but exceeds Jackson ($1,310) and far outpaces Grant ($840). Home values of $571,200 rival Deschutes, positioning Hood River as one of Oregon's priciest real estate markets for both renters and buyers.

Rent and mortgages cost nearly the same

Hood River households earning $82,095 annually pay $1,381 in rent or $1,385 in owner costs—remarkably similar splits consuming about 20% of gross income. This balance reflects a mature, stable housing market where buying and renting remain economically comparable.

Premium pricing for river access and views

Hood River's scenic location and outdoor recreation come at a price: $1,381/month rent is steep but justified for many by proximity to skiing, windsurfing, and Columbia River Gorge hiking. Compare it to neighboring Deschutes ($1,674) if you're seeking similar amenities at slightly lower cost.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Hood River County

via IncomeByCounty

Hood River earns 10% above national median

Hood River County's median household income of $82,095 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by approximately $7,300. This advantage reflects strong tourism, agriculture, and outdoor recreation economies in Oregon's Columbia River Gorge.

Among Oregon's top earners

At $82,095, Hood River County ranks among the state's highest-income counties, well above Oregon's average of $69,965. Per capita income of $46,105 significantly surpasses the state average of $37,652.

Strong showing in north-central Oregon

Hood River households earn $5,545 less than Deschutes County ($87,640) but substantially more than Jackson County ($71,443) and Jefferson County ($73,051). The county's scenic appeal and outdoor recreation draw both visitors and well-paid workers.

Housing costs squeeze tight margins

At 20.2% of income, Hood River's rent-to-income ratio sits precisely at the affordability threshold, and median home values of $571,200 test household budgets. Even high incomes feel stretched when housing dominates the balance sheet.

Invest beyond your Gorge home

With strong incomes but high housing costs, Hood River residents should aggressively fund retirement accounts and diversified investments outside real estate. Consider maxing out 401(k) contributions and exploring low-cost index funds to build wealth independent of local property values.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Hood River County

via CrimeByCounty

Balanced Safety in the Gorge

Hood River County’s total crime rate of 2,315.9 per 100K sits just below the national average of 2,385.5. This performance gives the county a solid safety score of 96.3.

Exactly at State Average

The county’s safety score of 96.3 matches the Oregon state average exactly. Four reporting agencies effectively manage safety in this popular tourist and agricultural hub.

Competitive Regional Security

Hood River is safer than neighboring Gilliam County but faces more property crime than rural Grant. It maintains a secure profile despite high seasonal visitor traffic.

Property Crime is Main Focus

Property crime sits at 2,165.7 per 100K, while violent crime remains low at 150.2. This suggests that theft and burglary are the primary concerns for local law enforcement.

Guard Your Outdoor Gear

With high property crime rates, residents should ensure that expensive recreation equipment is locked away. Installing motion lights and smart locks can significantly reduce your risk of theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Hood River County

via SchoolsByCounty

One Unified District for Excellence

Hood River County operates a streamlined system of eight schools all contained within a single county-wide district. This focused infrastructure serves 3,605 students through five elementary, two middle, and one high school.

Leading the State in Performance

The county boasts an elite 92% graduation rate and a school score of 61.0, both far exceeding state and national averages. This success is fueled by a healthy $9,969 per-pupil expenditure.

The Hood River County SD Model

By operating as a single district, Hood River County SD manages all 3,605 students with consistent standards. Unlike many neighbors, the county has no charter schools, focusing all resources on its eight traditional public campuses.

Town and Country Balance

The locale is evenly split with four schools in town and four in rural areas, reflecting the county's geographic diversity. Hood River Valley High is the central hub for older students, with a significant enrollment of 1,209.

Premier Schools for Homebuyers

With some of the highest graduation rates in Oregon, Hood River County is a top destination for education-minded families. Buying a home here offers guaranteed access to a high-performing, well-funded school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Hood River County

via RiskByCounty

Hood River: Low Risk Challenged by Seismic Activity

Hood River County's composite score of 32.06 places it well below the national average, indicating very low overall disaster exposure. However, earthquake risk of 75.57 significantly exceeds most U.S. counties, reflecting the county's position near major tectonic zones. The very low rating masks this substantial seismic vulnerability.

Low-Risk County with Notable Earthquake Threat

Hood River's 32.06 composite score sits far below Oregon's state average of 63.43, ranking it among the state's safer communities. Yet its 75.57 earthquake risk substantially exceeds most Oregon counties, creating unique vulnerability to ground shaking. Wildfire (94.78), flood (30.44), and tornado (6.55) risks complete a diverse hazard profile.

Safer Than Deschutes, Riskier Than Gilliam

Hood River faces slightly higher overall risk than Grant (32.12) but substantially less than Deschutes (84.92) and Jackson (92.53). Its earthquake risk of 75.57 significantly exceeds all neighbors including Deschutes (83.05), reflecting unique geological exposure. Wildfire vulnerability aligns with eastern Oregon patterns, while flood and tornado risks remain minimal.

Earthquake and Wildfire: Dual Primary Threats

Earthquake risk of 75.57 represents Hood River's most distinctive hazard, while wildfire at 94.78 creates a secondary but substantial concern. Flood risk of 30.44 adds moderate exposure, particularly in river valleys and drainage areas. Tornado activity remains negligible at 6.55, providing minimal threat.

Earthquake Insurance Critical for Hood River

Hood River residents should prioritize earthquake insurance given the county's distinctive seismic vulnerability of 75.57. Wildfire coverage is equally essential, as standard homeowners policies typically exclude fire damage from natural wildfires. Verify flood insurance if your property sits in designated zones along the Hood River or other waterways.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Hood River County

via WaterByCounty

Room for Improvement in Water Compliance

Hood River County holds a D grade with four health violations over the last five years. While the violation rate of 17.5 per 100,000 is better than the state average of 65.5, it indicates localized failures in safety standards. Consistent monitoring is necessary to prevent these violations from recurring.

Official Impairment Data Currently Unavailable

The county's water bodies have not yet been assessed under the federal Clean Water Act §303(d). Without these ATTAINS records, it is difficult to quantify exactly what share of local streams fail environmental standards. Residents must rely on state-level data and local conservation groups for health signals.

Pesticide and Organic Compound Surveillance

At 22 monitoring sites, 27,305 measurements have been recorded over the last five years. The primary focus of these efforts is on organics, pesticides, and microbiological contaminants. This specific tracking is vital for an area with significant agricultural and forest land.

Low Flow Conditions on the Hood River

The Hood River at Tucker Bridge is currently flowing at 455 cfs, only 47% of its long-term mean. This substantial drop for the 279 square mile drainage area suggests drought-like conditions in the basin. Reduced flows can heighten the concentration of contaminants like the pesticides being monitored.

Mitigating Risks During Low Flow Periods

With river flows at less than half their usual volume and a history of health violations, residents should remain cautious. The monitoring of pesticides and organics is a key signal that these substances are present in the watershed. Consider using water filters that specifically target organic compounds and chemicals.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Hood River County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool Temperatures and Moderate Moisture

Hood River County's 49.5°F average temperature is slightly cooler than the national median. Its 33.2 inches of annual precipitation is closer to the national average than many of its eastern neighbors.

Mirroring the Oregon State Average

The county's 49.5°F average is just below the Oregon state average of 50.5°F. Similarly, its 33.2 inches of annual precipitation is nearly in line with the state average of 37.4 inches.

Wetter and Cooler than Gilliam

Hood River is much wetter than Gilliam County to the east, receiving 33.2 inches of rain compared to Gilliam's 11.7 inches. It is also slightly cooler, averaging 49.5°F versus Gilliam's 51.7°F.

Significant Snow with Mild Summers

The county sees a substantial 35.5 inches of snow each year, with winter temperatures averaging 35.4°F. Summers are mild, featuring only 17 days over 90°F and a July average of 66.4°F.

Winter Sports and Rain Prep

With 35.5 inches of snow, residents should be prepared for winter road conditions and frequent shoveling. A versatile wardrobe including rain shells and winter coats is necessary for the variable precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Hood River County

via SoilByCounty

Famous Orchard Soils

Despite its agricultural fame, specific pH and taxonomic data for Hood River are missing from this report. Nationally, a pH of 6.5 is preferred, while Oregon's state average is 5.26. Understanding your specific acidity is the first step to a healthy harvest.

The Foundation of the Valley

Texture data including sand, silt, and clay percentages is currently unavailable. This region is known for volcanic influences that typically provide good structure for deep-rooted trees. Perform a jar test to see your own soil's unique layers of sediment.

High Potential for Growth

Local organic matter and water capacity data are unlisted, but the state's 29.41% average highlights Oregon's fertility. Orchardists here have long relied on rich soils to produce world-class fruit. Consistent organic additions will keep your backyard soil as productive as the local farms.

Drainage for Healthy Roots

No dominant drainage class is recorded, which is critical for the fruit trees that define the area. Excess water can lead to root diseases, so checking your site's porosity is essential. Ensure your garden has the right slope to handle the region's rainfall.

Apples, Pears, and More

Zone 7b is world-renowned for pome fruits and berries. The climate and soil combination is ideal for a productive home orchard or a lush perennial garden. Plant your first fruit tree this season and join the county's long agricultural tradition.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Hood River County

via LawnByCounty

Favorable Conditions in Hood River

Hood River County boasts a lawn difficulty score of 51.4, indicating it is easier to grow turf here than in most of the nation. This score far exceeds the Oregon state average of 38.9, thanks to a balanced 7b hardiness zone. Most turf varieties will flourish here with standard maintenance practices.

Ideal Rainfall and Moderate Heat

The county receives 33.2 inches of annual precipitation, placing it perfectly within the 30-50 inch ideal range for lawns. With only 17 extreme heat days—fewer than the state average of 23—your grass is less likely to suffer from summer scorch. The 1,931 growing degree days support a healthy, manageable growing pace.

Checking Your Local Soil Health

While specific county-wide soil metrics are unavailable, the region's lush landscape suggests generally productive soil. You should still test for pH to ensure it falls within the 6.0 to 7.0 range for optimal grass health. Proper drainage is key, especially given the healthy 33.2 inches of annual rainfall.

Smart Water Use Despite Good Rain

The county spent 27 weeks in drought over the last year, and 100.0% of the area is currently abnormally dry. Even with good annual rainfall, summer dry spells require efficient irrigation to keep lawns vibrant. Using rain barrels or smart timers can help you manage these seasonal shifts effectively.

A Reliable Growing Window

Perennial Ryegrass and Fine Fescue are excellent choices for the 7b hardiness zone in Hood River. Your typical growing season begins after the last spring frost on May 13 and lasts until mid-October. Planting in late spring allows for quick establishment during the most temperate part of the year.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hood River County's county score?
Hood River County, Oregon has a composite county score of 48.2 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 Hood River County rank among counties in Oregon?
Hood River County ranks #7 among all counties in Oregon 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 Hood River County, Oregon?
The median annual property tax in Hood River County is $3,359, with an effective tax rate of 0.59%. This earns Hood River County a tax score of 75.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Hood River County?
The median household income in Hood River County, Oregon is $82,095 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Hood River County earns an income score of 85.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Hood River County, Oregon a good place to live?
Hood River County scores 48.2/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #7 in Oregon. The best way to evaluate Hood River 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 Hood River County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

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