countyscore
50.7
County Score
Income & Jobs 91.1Health 88.8Soil Quality 76.1

County Report Card

About Island County, Washington

Slightly Above the National Median

Island County earns a composite score of 50.7, placing it just above the national median of 50.0. This makes it a competitive location for livability on a broad scale.

A State Leader in Quality of Life

Island County’s 50.7 score easily beats the Washington state average of 44.1. It stands out as one of the premier locations in the state for overall resident satisfaction.

Exceptional Health and High Incomes

With a health score of 88.8 and an income score of 91.1, residents are both wealthy and well. The median household income is a high $88,358, supporting a high standard of living.

Severe Affordability and Water Issues

The cost score of 5.0 is among the lowest in the state, driven by a $535,300 median home value. A low water score of 8.2 suggests residents must manage significant utility constraints.

Ideal for Wealthy Health-Seekers

Island County is perfect for affluent families and retirees who prioritize physical wellness and high earnings. It is a top-tier choice for those who can afford the high price of island entry.

2040608010063552.388.85891.1228.269.5Tax63Cost5Safety52.3Health88.8Schools58Income91.1Risk22Water8.2Weather69.550.7/100
This county
National avg
4 above average3 below average

Island County DNA

Foverall

How Island County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Island County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (91.1/100) but notably weak in Water Quality (8.2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
63+11
Cost
5-43
Safety
52.3
Health
88.8+38.8
Schools
58
Income
91.1+40.099999999999994
Risk
22-25
Water
8.2-49.8
Weather
69.5+13.5
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Compare mortgage rates in Island County

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

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$535,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,631/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$535,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$65,240/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum6.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $88,358/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

24.2

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

Kitsap County
Washington
40.1
Snohomish County
Washington
41.7
San Juan County
Washington
55.5
Skagit County
Washington
37.3
Jefferson County
Washington
48.6
Whatcom County
Washington
38
Mason County
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Clallam County
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40.4

Deep Dives

Island County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Island County

via TaxByCounty

Island County taxes middle-rate with high values

Island County's effective tax rate of 0.703% slightly exceeds the national median of 0.67%, placing it in the 48th percentile nationally. Despite a moderate rate, its median property tax of $3,765 ranks highest among the eight counties, driven by a notably elevated median home value of $535,300.

Middle-range rates, premium home values

Island County ranks 13th among Washington's 39 counties with an effective rate of 0.703%, below the state average of 0.761%. However, its median tax of $3,765 is $737 above the state median, reflecting the region's most valuable homes at $535,300.

Lower rate but highest absolute tax bill

Island County's 0.703% effective rate is below Grant (0.823%) and Grays Harbor (0.873%), yet its median tax of $3,765 is the highest in the region. This paradox reflects Island County's substantially higher median home values ($535,300), making it an expensive county despite moderate effective rates.

Highest absolute tax: $3,765 annually

A homeowner with Island County's median-valued property of $535,300 pays approximately $3,765 in annual property taxes. The bill varies little whether paying with mortgage deductions ($3,708) or outright ($3,873), reflecting Island County's affluent real estate market.

High-value properties warrant assessment review

Island County homeowners with valuable properties should carefully verify their assessments, as even small percentage errors on expensive homes translate to large annual tax differences. A formal appeal is particularly worthwhile for high-value properties where errors may cost hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Island County

via CostByCounty

Island County: premium for Puget Sound location

Island County renters spend 22.1% of income on housing, significantly higher than the national average of roughly 28–30% for renters but concentrated in smaller geographic area. With a median household income of $88,358 and $1,631 monthly rent, the county's island geography and Seattle proximity command substantial housing premiums.

Washington's most expensive rental market

Island County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.1% ranks among the least affordable in Washington, exceeding the state average of 18.8% by 3.3 percentage points. This island location near Seattle drives both strong incomes and premium housing costs.

Steepest rents in the examined region

Island County's $1,631 monthly rent dramatically exceeds all peer counties, including nearby Jefferson ($1,291), and its $535,300 median home value is the highest examined. Island geography and proximity to Puget Sound economic centers create scarcity-driven pricing.

Ownership and renting carry similar weight

Renters pay $1,631 monthly while homeowners face $1,685—remarkably aligned burdens that each consume 22% of household income. This suggests Island County's premium applies equally to both housing tenures, with limited escape for cost-conscious residents.

Island County demands strong household income

If island living and Puget Sound access are non-negotiable, Island County requires household income well above the $88,358 median to maintain affordability. Strong employment in tech, healthcare, and government sectors supports these premium prices; ensure your relocation job offer reflects the higher cost structure.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Island County

via IncomeByCounty

Island County far exceeds national average

Island County's median household income of $88,358 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by $13,603, representing an 18% premium. This places Island County among the nation's higher-earning communities, reflecting its strong regional economy.

Washington's highest-income county here

Island County ranks as one of Washington's top-earning counties at $88,358, outpacing the state average of $76,363 by 16%. Its per capita income of $46,226 is also the highest among the eight counties and well above the state average of $40,628.

Island County leads regional earnings

Island County's $88,358 median income significantly outpaces all peer counties, including Douglas County ($80,374) and Franklin County ($82,755). This economic strength reflects the county's proximity to Seattle and robust employment opportunities.

High incomes offset high costs

Despite Island County's highest rent-to-income ratio (22.1%) among the eight counties, strong median incomes make housing manageable. A median home value of $535,300 is substantial but attainable for households earning the county median income.

Premium incomes require premium planning

Island County's above-average incomes present an excellent opportunity to accelerate wealth building through tax-advantaged retirement accounts and investment portfolios. Consider meeting with a financial advisor to optimize savings strategies and plan for generational wealth.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Island County

via CrimeByCounty

Island County Among the Safest Nationally

Island County enjoys a high safety score of 98.3, reflecting a very secure community. Its total crime rate of 1,068.1 per 100,000 residents is less than half of the national average of 2,385.5.

A Safety Leader in Washington State

Island County's safety score of 98.3 significantly beats the state average of 96.2. Its total crime rate of 1,068.1 is also far lower than the Washington average of 2,377.2.

Unmatched Safety Compared to Neighbors

Island County is significantly safer than Jefferson County, which has a crime rate of 1,757.2. It is one of the most peaceful jurisdictions in the Puget Sound area.

Minimal Violent Crime on the Islands

Violent crime is extremely low at 69.4 per 100,000 residents, which is among the lowest in the state. Property crime is also well-controlled at 998.7 per 100,000.

Preserving the Peace in Island County

While crime is low, maintaining security habits is still important to prevent opportunistic property theft. Simple measures like locking car doors and using outdoor lights help keep this community safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Island County

via SchoolsByCounty

Comprehensive Education Across Three Districts

Island County provides education for 8,629 students through 26 public schools managed by three primary districts. The county’s facilities include 10 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 8 high schools. Specialized needs are met by 5 alternative schools and 3 special education centers.

Excellent Outcomes and Academic Scores

The county features a strong 87.7% graduation rate, exceeding both state and national averages. With a school score of 56.7, Island County ranks well above the state average of 53.9. These results are achieved with a per-pupil spend of $9,045, showcasing high efficiency in educational delivery.

Oak Harbor Dominates the Island

Oak Harbor School District is the largest by far, serving 5,730 students across 12 different schools. South Whidbey and Coupeville districts manage the rest of the island’s student population with 1,202 and 1,055 students respectively. Charter schools do not currently operate within the county.

A Blend of Towns and Rural Beauty

The county’s schools are split between 14 town locations and 12 rural settings, offering a quintessential island experience. The average school size is 360 students, though Oak Harbor High School stands out with 1,566 students. This allows for both small-community feels and larger, comprehensive high school experiences.

Invest in a Community with Great Schools

Island County’s high graduation rates and academic scores make it a top choice for families moving to the region. Proximity to Oak Harbor or Coupeville schools is often a major factor in local home-buying decisions. Discover the benefits of island living combined with a high-performing public school system.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Island County

via RiskByCounty

Island County's Natural Disaster Risk

Island County scores 77.99 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating but exceeding Washington's state average of 70.01. The county's island geography creates focused exposure to seismic and flood hazards despite lower wildfire risk.

Where Island Ranks in Washington

Island County ranks in the mid-to-upper range among Washington's 39 counties for natural disaster risk, with a score of 77.99. The county's risk profile is heavily shaped by its Puget Sound location and proximity to major fault systems.

Compared to Your Neighbors

Island County's risk (77.99) exceeds inland peer Grant County (76.94) but significantly trails coastal Grays Harbor County (96.98). Unlike Grays Harbor, Island County's lower wildfire risk (35.43) reflects marine climate influence, but earthquake exposure (96.28) remains critically high.

Your Top Threats: Earthquake and Flood

Earthquake risk ranks highest at 96.28, reflecting Island County's position adjacent to the Puget Sound and active seismic zones underlying Puget Basin geology. Flood risk at 73.40 reflects island and tidal dynamics, while wildfire exposure remains low at 35.43 due to the maritime climate.

Earthquake and Flood Coverage Essential

Island County residents should secure earthquake insurance immediately and obtain flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program for coastal properties. Retrofit homes to current seismic codes and maintain awareness of tsunami risk in waterfront areas.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Island County

via WaterByCounty

Island County receives a Grade F

The county recorded 381 health violations, the highest volume in this group, for a rate of 414.6 per 100,000 residents. This violation rate is nearly four times the Washington state average.

Watershed assessment records are not available

Water bodies in Island County are not currently assessed under federal Clean Water Act §303(d) standards. No data is available regarding the share of impaired waters or primary pollutants.

Dense monitoring tracks microbiological health

Despite compliance issues, 25 monitoring sites have produced a massive 53,908 measurements in five years. Focus areas include physical traits, microbiology, and biological counts.

No live USGS streamgages in county

There are no representative USGS streamflow stations currently reporting live data in Island County. Water management focuses instead on the significant monitoring records and compliance data available.

Urgent need for water quality awareness

The high number of violations and Grade F status make it essential for residents to monitor their specific water system's health. Use the county's extensive microbiological data to understand local risks.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Island County

via WeatherByCounty

Tempered by the Salish Sea

Island County’s 51.2°F average is tempered by the surrounding sea, keeping it cooler than the national median. It enjoys a mild maritime climate with moderate rainfall of 20.8 inches.

Island Rain Shadow Comfort

It is slightly warmer than the 49.9°F state average but much drier than the 38.5-inch state norm. Its location in the rain shadow of the Olympics provides a more Mediterranean feel.

Drier Than the Outer Coast

Island County is much drier than Grays Harbor, receiving only a fifth of the rainfall found on the outer coast. It also lacks the extreme heat seen in the eastern counties, recording zero days above 90°F.

Stable Temps and No Heat

The climate is remarkably stable, with summers averaging 60.4°F and winters averaging 42.2°F. Snowfall is minimal at 4.0 inches, and extreme heat is virtually non-existent.

Light Layers and Sea Breezes

Residents can skip the heavy-duty cooling systems since the county records no days over 90°F. Focus on wind-resistant apparel and light layers to manage the breezy, temperate coastal conditions.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Island County

via SoilByCounty

Acidic and Rich Maritime Soil

Island County features an acidic pH of 5.35, which is well below the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.20. This chemical profile is common in coastal areas where high precipitation naturally leaches minerals from the soil.

Sandy Loam with High Porosity

The soil is comprised of 52.6% sand and 34.8% silt, with a low 9.2% clay content. This composition creates a light, workable texture that allows roots to penetrate deeply and prevents the ground from becoming waterlogged.

Extraordinary Organic Matter

The soil boasts a massive 44.39% organic matter, nearly triple the state average of 14.85%. With an available water capacity of 0.304 in/in, this soil acts like a sponge, providing incredible nutrient storage for plants.

Absorbent and Resilient Ground

Specific drainage classes are not listed, but the high organic content and sand percentage suggest excellent water absorption. This capacity is vital for managing the frequent rains and protecting the local water table.

Abundant Harvests in Zone 8b

Hardiness Zone 8b is ideal for cool-season crops like peas, berries, and leafy greens. With such rich organic soil and a mild climate, you have everything you need to start a flourishing home garden.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Island County

via LawnByCounty

Island Living and Lawn Care

Island County scores a 41.0 for lawn difficulty, outperforming the state average of 36.9. The hardiness zone 8b climate is moderated by the Puget Sound, providing stable growing conditions. While the score is good, the specific soil chemistry and dry summers require localized attention.

Zero Heat Days and Moderate Rain

This county enjoys a mild climate with 0 extreme heat days and 20.8 inches of annual rain. Because rainfall is below the state average of 38.5 inches, you may still need to water during the summer months. Low growing degree days of 1542 mean your grass will grow steadily but slowly.

Correcting Acidic Sandy Soils

The soil pH of 5.35 is quite acidic, falling well below the 6.0-7.0 ideal for healthy turf. Combined with 52.6% sand, these soils drain quickly but may lack the nutrients needed for thick growth. Regular lime applications are necessary to balance the pH and help your grass thrive in the sandy terrain.

Managing Seasonal Dryness

About 65.7% of the county is currently abnormally dry, following 28 weeks of drought conditions over the last year. Focus on deep watering to ensure moisture reaches roots in the sandy soil before it drains away. Because heat is low, your water will go further here than in eastern Washington.

Seeding in the Maritime Rain Shadow

Perennial Ryegrass and Fine Fescues are ideal for the cool, stable conditions of zone 8b. You can start seeding as early as March 17 after the final spring frost. The growing season is impressively long, with the first fall frost typically not arriving until November 14.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Island County's county score?
Island County, Washington has a composite county score of 50.7 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 Island County rank among counties in Washington?
Island County ranks #10 among all counties in Washington 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 Island County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Island County is $3,765, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns Island County a tax score of 63/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Island County?
The median household income in Island County, Washington is $88,358 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Island County earns an income score of 91.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Island County, Washington a good place to live?
Island County scores 50.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Washington. The best way to evaluate Island 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 Island 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.