countyscore
56.6
County Score
Property Tax 99Disaster Risk 75.8Cost of Living 74.9

County Report Card

About Huerfano County, Colorado

Huerfano moderately exceeds national baseline

Huerfano County's composite score of 56.6 surpasses the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 63rd percentile nationally. While this indicates above-average livability, the profile is driven more by affordability than income or opportunity.

Solid standing within Colorado

Huerfano scores 56.6 compared to Colorado's state average of 51.2, placing it above the midpoint of Colorado's county performance. This reflects strength in cost dimensions that offset weaker income and health metrics.

Exceptional affordability and low taxes

Huerfano's most striking feature is its cost score of 74.9, with median home values of just $256,700 and gross rent at $739/month—among Colorado's most affordable. The tax score of 99.0 with a 0.275% effective rate ensures minimal tax burden for residents.

Income and health gaps require attention

Huerfano's income score of 18.9 with median household income of $52,139 reflects limited economic opportunities and job diversity. The health score of 41.0 and water score of 4.9 indicate significant healthcare access and water resource challenges that affect quality of life.

Suits budget-conscious retirees and remote workers

Huerfano County appeals to retirees on fixed incomes, remote workers, and those prioritizing affordability above all else. Prospective residents should be prepared for limited local employment, healthcare access challenges, and water scarcity, but will benefit from some of Colorado's lowest housing costs and property taxes.

204060801009974.932.24157.318.975.84.948.4Tax99Cost74.9Safety32.2Health41Schools57.3Income18.9Risk75.8Water4.9Weather48.456.6/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Huerfano County DNA

Foverall

How Huerfano County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Huerfano County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Property Tax (99/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (4.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
99+47
Cost
74.9+26.900000000000006
Safety
32.2-22.799999999999997
Health
41-9
Schools
57.3
Income
18.9-32.1
Risk
75.8+28.799999999999997
Water
4.9-53.1
Weather
48.4
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$256,700

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$739/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$256,700/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$29,560/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum4.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $52,139/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

14.4

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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Alamosa County
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Pueblo County
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Fremont County
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Colfax County
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Deep Dives

Huerfano County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Huerfano County

via TaxByCounty

Huerfano's rate is far below national average

At 0.275%, Huerfano's effective tax rate sits well below the national median of 0.52%, ranking it in approximately the 18th percentile. Huerfano residents enjoy some of the lowest property tax burdens in the United States.

Huerfano ranks low among Colorado counties

At 0.275%, Huerfano's rate sits notably below Colorado's 0.393% state average, placing it in roughly the 28th percentile among the state's 64 counties. The county offers clear tax advantages compared to state norms.

Huerfano compares well to regional peers

Huerfano's 0.275% rate beats Kiowa County (0.580%, significantly higher) but sits near Hinsdale (0.293%) and other southern Colorado counties. Regional tax rates show considerable variation across this rural area.

Median home: $707 annual property tax

With a median home value of $256,700, Huerfano homeowners pay approximately $707 per year in property taxes. That's among the lowest annual tax bills in the state—less than $1,000 annually even on homes valued near the national average.

Even low-income areas deserve assessment review

Rural Colorado counties like Huerfano sometimes have outdated or inconsistent assessments relative to actual property values. Filing a tax appeal costs nothing and can identify legitimate overvaluation that warrants adjustment.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Huerfano County

via CostByCounty

Huerfano: Colorado's affordability leader

Huerfano County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% is among the lowest in the nation, and rents average just $739 monthly. Though median income ($52,139) trails the national average significantly, Huerfano's ultra-low housing costs make it exceptionally affordable.

Most affordable county in Colorado

Huerfano's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% ranks it well below Colorado's 20.2% state average, making it the state's affordability standout. The county's $739 median rent is also the lowest across all Colorado counties examined.

Huerfano rents far below peers

At $739, Huerfano's median rent is dramatically lower than any mountain county neighbor, from Hinsdale ($1,099) to Gunnison ($1,191). Median home values ($256,700) are correspondingly low, making both renting and buying exceptionally affordable.

Ultra-low costs, ultra-low income

Renters in Huerfano spend just $739 monthly (17.0% of a $52,139 income), while owners pay $684—leaving significant income for other needs. This is the county's strength: true affordability for those willing to accept lower local wages.

Huerfano for remote workers

If you earn income outside Huerfano—via remote work, retirement, or freelance—this county offers unmatched affordability. Compare your current housing costs to Huerfano's 17% rent-to-income ratio; you may find dramatic monthly savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Huerfano County

via IncomeByCounty

Huerfano's income falls well short

Huerfano County's median household income of $52,139 runs 30% below the national median of $74,755. This significant gap places Huerfano among lower-income counties nationally, reflecting limited economic opportunities in this rural southern Colorado region.

Bottom tier of Colorado counties

Huerfano's median household income of $52,139 is $22,653 below Colorado's state average of $74,792, ranking it among the state's lowest-earning counties. Economic challenges from coal industry decline and population loss have reduced local earning potential.

Struggling with regional peers

Huerfano's $52,139 median trails all nearby counties, including Hinsdale ($64,327), Kiowa ($56,389), and Jackson ($41,809). The county faces steeper economic headwinds than most Colorado mountain and plains communities.

Lower costs but tight budgets

Huerfano's rent-to-income ratio of 17.0% is favorable, and the median home value of $256,700 is affordable by state standards. However, lower absolute incomes limit discretionary spending and savings capacity for most households.

Build income skills and education

Huerfano residents should prioritize education and skills training to boost earning potential, as local income growth lags the state. Online education, vocational training, and remote work opportunities can help households access higher-wage employment.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Huerfano County

via CrimeByCounty

Huerfano Maintains Solid Safety Margins

Huerfano County reports a safety score of 97.5, which is well above the national median. Its total crime rate of 1,595.1 per 100,000 is much lower than the national average of 2,385.5. Two reporting agencies provide consistent data for this rural region.

Exceeding the State Safety Average

The county's safety score of 97.5 slightly exceeds the Colorado average of 97.1. Additionally, its total crime rate of 1,595.1 is lower than the state average of 1,834.6. This performance shows Huerfano is managing public safety effectively relative to the rest of Colorado.

Comparative Safety in Southern Colorado

Huerfano County offers a more secure environment than many of its neighbors in southern Colorado. Its violent crime rate of 188.5 is notably lower than the state average of 232.1. This makes it a relatively safe choice for residents in this part of the state.

Analyzing the Crime Composition

Property crime accounts for the bulk of local incidents at 1,406.6 per 100,000 residents. However, this is still significantly lower than the national property crime rate of 2,015.7. Violent crime remains relatively infrequent, reflecting a stable local community.

Smart Security for Rural Living

Maintaining property security in Huerfano is key to keeping the county safe. Use smart locks and perimeter lighting to protect outbuildings and main residences from theft. Being part of a neighborhood watch can further enhance security in more rural areas.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Huerfano County

via SchoolsByCounty

Growing Minds in Huerfano County

Huerfano County supports 729 students across 5 public schools and two distinct districts. The education network includes three elementary schools and two high schools, serving a mix of rural and town communities.

Top-Tier Graduation and High Scores

With a 90% graduation rate, Huerfano County significantly exceeds the Colorado average of 83.1%. The county also maintains a strong 55.7 composite school score, well above the national median, while spending $8,008 per pupil.

District Variety and Charter Options

Huerfano School District Re-1 is the largest, serving 491 students across 3 schools. One of these is the Gardner Valley School, a charter that represents 20% of the county's total school offerings.

Balanced Town and Country Settings

Schools range from town centers to rural outposts, with an average enrollment of just 146 students per school. Peakview School is the largest with 244 students, while the Gardner Valley charter offers a smaller environment with 76 students.

Secure a High-Quality Education

Huerfano County is a standout choice for families due to its high graduation rates and strong composite school scores. Explore residential opportunities in this area to benefit from a high-performing rural school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Huerfano County

via RiskByCounty

Huerfano faces low but real risk nationally

With a composite risk score of 24.24, Huerfano County falls below the national average and earns a "Very Low" rating. However, it carries meaningful exposure to wildfire and flood hazards regionally.

Below-average risk for Colorado

Huerfano's 24.24 score sits comfortably below Colorado's state average of 40.67, placing it in the safer tier of Colorado counties. This reflects its rural, lower-elevation character relative to mountain counties.

Safer than most, but not the safest

Huerfano's 24.24 score ranks it safer than Jefferson County (94.94) and Grand County (50.19), but riskier than neighboring Kiowa County (3.79). Regional variations reflect differences in fire exposure and flood exposure.

Wildfire is Huerfano's dominant concern

Wildfire risk (87.56) is exceptionally high for a county with low overall risk, dominating Huerfano's hazard profile. Flood risk (47.87) ranks second, while tornado and earthquake risks remain minimal.

Prioritize wildfire coverage for this county

Despite the county's overall low risk, Huerfano residents should ensure wildfire protection through dedicated riders or separate policies. Properties in or near forested areas face concentrated wildfire exposure and warrant premium coverage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Huerfano County

via WaterByCounty

Critical Violation Rate Triggers Grade F

Huerfano County struggles with a grade F and a staggering 45 health violations over five years. The violation rate of 786.4 per 100,000 residents is nearly triple the Colorado average.

Zinc and Cadmium Challenge Water Quality

Approximately 31.3% of the county's 96 assessed water bodies are impaired according to the 2022 reporting cycle. Arsenic, zinc, and cadmium are the primary pollutants affecting local watershed health.

Inorganic Metals Targeted in Sampling Efforts

The county's monitoring footprint includes 25 sites with 2,330 measurements recorded over the last five years. Data collection focuses mostly on inorganic metals and nutrient levels.

Lack of Live Flow Data Signal

There is currently no representative USGS streamgage providing live data for Huerfano County's primary waterways. This lack of real-time flow data makes drinking water compliance the most critical signal for local residents.

Prioritize Filtration Amid High Violation Rates

Given the high violation rate, residents should prioritize home water testing and high-quality filtration systems. Public awareness of heavy metals like arsenic and cadmium is essential for protecting long-term health.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Huerfano County

via WeatherByCounty

Huerfano runs 13° cooler than U.S. average

Huerfano County's 48.8°F annual temperature sits 13 degrees below the U.S. median of 61.7°F, placing it firmly in a temperate high-elevation climate. Its 15.5 inches of precipitation match the national average, but 71.4 inches of annual snowfall keeps winters substantial.

Mid-pack Colorado county climate

At 48.8°F, Huerfano runs 2.8 degrees warmer than Colorado's state average of 46.0°F, ranking comfortably in the middle of the state's 64 counties. This puts it notably milder than high-mountain peers but cooler than the state's warmest eastern plains counties.

Warmest of the southern tier

Huerfano (48.8°F) sits warmer than Jackson, Gunnison, and Hinsdale counties to the north but cooler than the even warmer Kiowa and Kit Carson counties to the east. At 18 extreme heat days annually, Huerfano experiences significantly more hot weather than its mountain neighbors but far less than the eastern plains.

Moderate winters, warm summers, rare extremes

January averages 31.4°F and July reaches 69.3°F—a 38-degree spread that feels more balanced than mountain counties. Huerfano experiences 18 days above 90°F annually and 71.4 inches of snow, making it transitional between mountain and plains climates.

Plan for spring snowmelt and summer sun

Huerfano residents should invest in standard residential HVAC systems and spring drainage management for snowmelt runoff, plus occasional air-conditioning for summer peaks. Summer outdoor recreation peaks in June-September, while winter requires adequate snow removal and four-wheel-drive readiness for March-April transitions.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Huerfano County

via SoilByCounty

Diverse Transition Zone Soils

Detailed records for pH and soil taxonomy are currently unavailable for this county. The transition from plains to peaks likely results in a wide range of soil identities.

Textural Data Not Documented

We lack specific sand, silt, and clay percentages for Huerfano's soil. These ratios are critical for determining if the soil will hold moisture or drain too quickly for crops.

Unknown Fertility Benchmarks

Organic matter data is missing, making it difficult to compare Huerfano to the 2.18% state average. Without water capacity figures, irrigation planning requires local site testing.

Drainage Profiles are Unlisted

The hydrologic group and drainage class remain unrecorded in this dataset. Understanding local runoff is essential for any construction or gardening project in this varied terrain.

Potential for Zone 6a

A Hardiness Zone of 6a offers a longer growing season than many neighboring mountain counties. This allows for a broader variety of fruits and vegetables if soil amendments are used.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Huerfano County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging Turf Care in Zone 6a

Huerfano County presents a difficult lawn care environment with a score of 30.9, well below the state average. While its hardiness zone 6a is milder than some neighbors, it remains far more challenging than the national median. You will need a strategic approach to manage the heat and dry conditions found here.

Hotter Days and Dry Air

Huerfano sees 18 extreme heat days per year, combined with a relatively dry 15.5 inches of annual precipitation. With 2296 growing degree days, grass grows much more aggressively than in high-mountain counties. This increased growth rate means your lawn will require more frequent mowing and significant supplemental watering.

Amendments for Arid Soils

Though specific soil data is missing, the local arid environment often results in alkaline soil that may need sulfur for pH balance. You should prioritize adding compost to help the soil retain what little moisture falls from the sky. Regular soil testing is the best way to determine which nutrients your specific patch of land lacks.

Year-Round Drought Conditions

The county has struggled with 53 weeks of drought over the last year, with 12.1% of the area in severe drought. To protect your investment, use deep-root watering techniques and consider tall fescue for its natural drought resistance. Be mindful of local water restrictions that often accompany these long-term dry cycles.

Maximize the Growing Season

Take advantage of your zone 6a climate by seeding after the last frost on May 27. You have a relatively long season until the first fall frost on October 4, providing ample time for new grass to establish. Heat-tolerant cool-season blends or even some warm-season grasses may perform well in this environment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Huerfano County's county score?
Huerfano County, Colorado has a composite county score of 56.6 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 Huerfano County rank among counties in Colorado?
Huerfano County ranks #24 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 Huerfano County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Huerfano County is $707, with an effective tax rate of 0.28%. This earns Huerfano County a tax score of 99/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Huerfano County?
The median household income in Huerfano County, Colorado is $52,139 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Huerfano County earns an income score of 18.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Huerfano County, Colorado a good place to live?
Huerfano County scores 56.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #24 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Huerfano 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 Huerfano County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

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.