countyscore
40
County Score
Income & Jobs 96.9Property Tax 88.4Health 88.2

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Colorado

Jefferson lags national livability standard

Jefferson County's composite score of 40.0 falls well below the national median of 50.0, placing it in the 15th percentile nationally. This below-average ranking is surprising for such a major metropolitan area and reflects significant trade-offs in livability dimensions.

Below average despite metro status

Jefferson scores 40.0 compared to Colorado's state average of 51.2, ranking it in the lower portion of the state's counties. This poor showing for a major Denver suburb reflects acute housing affordability and safety challenges that offset strong income metrics.

High incomes and strong health outcomes

Jefferson's income score of 96.9 with median household income of $107,800 reflects the county's affluent, highly educated population. The health score of 88.2 indicates strong healthcare access and outcomes typical of a developed metropolitan area.

Severe housing costs and safety concerns

Jefferson's cost score of 2.9 represents a critical challenge, with median home values of $604,400 and gross rent at $1,792/month—among the nation's highest. The safety score of 8.5 and risk score of 5.1 raise urgent concerns about crime and disaster resilience that overshadow the county's economic strengths.

For wealthy professionals accepting trade-offs

Jefferson County suits high-income professionals and executives who can afford premium housing and accept significant safety and disaster risk in exchange for excellent incomes and healthcare. The county's livability is heavily dependent on personal wealth and risk tolerance rather than balanced community fundamentals.

Score breakdown

Tax88.4Cost2.9Safety8.5Health88.2Schools21.7Income96.9Risk5.1Water54Weather43.8
🏛88.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠2.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼96.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡8.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤88.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓21.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡5.1
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧54
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤43.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱36.6
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

Denver County
Colorado
33.8
Douglas County
Colorado
47.8
Broomfield County
Colorado
45.5
Boulder County
Colorado
43.4
Gilpin County
Colorado
47.9
Clear Creek County
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Arapahoe County
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Adams County
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Deep Dives

Jefferson County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Jefferson County

via TaxByCounty

Jefferson County taxes exceed national average

At 0.474%, Jefferson's effective tax rate exceeds the national median of 0.52% but sits in a middle-upper range at roughly the 65th percentile. Jefferson homeowners pay more in property taxes than most Americans relative to their homes' values.

Jefferson ranks among Colorado's highest taxed

Jefferson's 0.474% rate is the highest among Colorado's counties examined here and well above the state average of 0.393%, placing it around the 75th percentile statewide. Jefferson residents bear significantly heavier tax burdens than typical Colorado homeowners.

Jefferson's rate far exceeds mountain neighbors

Jefferson's 0.474% rate dwarfs Gilpin (0.23%), Grand (0.348%), and Gunnison (0.282%), reflecting Jefferson's more densely developed suburban/urban character versus rural mountain counties. The metro Denver county maintains the highest effective rate in this comparison group.

Median home: $2,867 annual property tax

With a median home value of $604,400, Jefferson County homeowners pay approximately $2,867 per year in property taxes. That's $177 above the national median tax bill despite homes being worth more than double the U.S. average.

Jefferson homeowners should appeal systematically

Large counties like Jefferson often miss assessment overvaluation issues across thousands of properties, making appeals especially worthwhile. With tax bills exceeding $2,800 annually, even modest percentage reductions yield significant savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson's wealth cushions housing costs

Jefferson County residents enjoy the state's highest median income at $107,800—44% above the national median—allowing them to absorb a rent-to-income ratio of 19.9%. Strong earnings put Jefferson among the nation's most economically resilient housing markets.

Colorado's most affluent county

Jefferson's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% sits just below Colorado's 20.2% state average, and its $107,800 median income far outpaces every other county examined. This combination of high income and moderate housing burden creates genuine affordability for residents.

Jefferson's income, not cheap rents

Jefferson's median rent ($1,792) is the state's highest, but residents earn enough ($107,800) to absorb it comfortably. Median home values ($604,400) are also highest, reflecting a wealthy county where affordability stems from income, not low costs.

High earners, high costs, solid balance

Renters in Jefferson spend $1,792 monthly (19.9% of $107,800 annual income), while owners pay $1,937 (21.6%)—both within healthy ranges. Strong household incomes ensure residents aren't squeezed by housing, even at premium price points.

Jefferson rewards high earners

Jefferson County offers Colorado's strongest job market and highest incomes, making it ideal if you can command competitive wages. If your income aligns with the county's $107,800 median, you'll find housing genuinely affordable despite higher absolute costs.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson dominates nation's income

Jefferson County's median household income of $107,800 towers 44% above the national median of $74,755. This commanding advantage places Jefferson among the most affluent counties in the United States, reflecting the county's strong role as a Denver metro employment hub.

Colorado's wealthiest county

Jefferson County's median household income of $107,800 is $33,008 above Colorado's state average of $74,792, making it the highest-earning county in the state. The county's proximity to Denver and concentration of tech, aerospace, and professional services jobs drive superior earnings.

Outearning all Colorado rivals

Jefferson's $107,800 median dramatically exceeds every other county profiled—nearly $19,000 more than Gilpin County's $88,654. The county's metropolitan position and economic diversity create unmatched earning power across Colorado.

Wealth in balance with costs

Jefferson's rent-to-income ratio of 19.9% keeps housing costs at a comfortable level despite the median home value of $604,400. Strong incomes fully support high housing costs while leaving room for savings and investments.

Strategic wealth building opportunity

Jefferson County households should maximize wealth-building strategies including maxed retirement accounts, diversified investments, and real estate portfolios. The county's high income levels create unique capacity for long-term financial independence planning.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Urban Challenges Influence Jefferson's Safety

Jefferson County has a total crime rate of 2,917.8 per 100,000, which exceeds the national average of 2,385.5. Despite this, it maintains a safety score of 95.4 out of 100. Eleven reporting agencies work across the county to manage public safety for its large population.

Jefferson Trails State Safety Averages

The county's safety score of 95.4 falls below the Colorado average of 97.1. Its total crime rate of 2,917.8 is also higher than the state average of 1,834.6. As a major metropolitan area, these figures reflect the complexities of urban and suburban crime trends.

Comparing Crime in the Denver Metro

Jefferson County faces higher property crime rates than its more rural neighbors in the mountains. Its property crime rate of 2,587.9 is higher than the national average of 2,015.7. This makes it a high-activity area for law enforcement compared to central Colorado.

Property Crime Drives Local Statistics

Property crime accounts for 2,587.9 incidents per 100,000, making it the primary concern for residents. Violent crime, at 329.9, remains slightly below the national average of 369.8. This suggests that while personal safety is generally stable, property theft is more frequent.

Prioritize Your Property Security

With property crime rates exceeding national norms, residents should invest in robust home security systems. Use high-quality cameras and secure all sliding glass doors and windows. Active community involvement in local crime prevention programs can help drive these numbers down.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jefferson County

via HealthByCounty

Jefferson County matches national health

At 78.9 years, Jefferson County's life expectancy nearly matches the U.S. average of 78.3 years and exceeds Colorado's 78.2-year state average. Just 12.6% report poor or fair health, reflecting a mid-range health profile for this large Front Range county.

Solid middle performer in Colorado

Jefferson County's 78.9-year life expectancy slightly exceeds Colorado's 78.2-year state average, while its 12.6% poor/fair health rate sits comfortably in the middle range of Colorado counties. As the state's largest county by population, this reflects a diverse and resilient community.

Behind mountain counties, ahead of struggling peers

Jefferson's 78.9-year life expectancy trails Grand (83.9 years) and Gunnison (82.9 years) by several years but significantly outperforms Huerfano (72.5 years). Its 12.6% poor/fair health rate exceeds mountain peers but beats Jackson and Kiowa counties.

Excellent provider access, strong coverage rate

Jefferson County boasts 88 primary care providers and 497 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among Colorado's best provider density. With just 6.3% uninsured, Jefferson residents have strong insurance coverage and robust access to both primary and mental health care.

Jefferson leading—ensure coverage stays strong

Jefferson's low uninsured rate and strong provider network show residents are engaged with healthcare. Review your coverage annually at healthcare.gov or your employer's plan portal to confirm your family maintains quality, affordable protection.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Massive Urban Education Hub

Jefferson County manages a vast educational empire of 173 public schools serving 80,552 students. The infrastructure is robust, including 105 elementary schools, 24 middle schools, 34 high schools, and several specialized facilities.

Efficient Operations in a Large System

Despite a lean per-pupil expenditure of $6,213—well below the state and national averages—the county maintains an 85% graduation rate. The system achieves a composite score of 49.2, keeping pace with broader state performance.

One District, Endless Choices

Jefferson County School District No. R-1 is the sole district, yet it offers immense variety including 27 charter schools. These charters account for over 15% of the total schools, catering to diverse educational preferences.

Suburban Living and Large Campuses

Schools here are primarily suburban and large, with an average enrollment of 474 students. Astravo Online Academy leads with 2,134 students, while traditional campuses like Lakewood High School serve over 1,800 students each.

Find Your Place in Jefferson Schools

With over 170 schools to choose from, Jefferson County offers unmatched variety for home buyers. Whether you seek a charter, a specialized academy, or a traditional high school, this county has a neighborhood that fits your educational needs.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jefferson County

via RiskByCounty

Jefferson County faces elevated national risk

With a composite risk score of 94.94, Jefferson County far exceeds the national average and earns a "Relatively High" rating. This suburban Denver county faces significant exposure across nearly all major hazard types.

Colorado's riskiest county overall

Jefferson's 94.94 score dwarfs Colorado's state average of 40.67, making it the state's highest-risk county by a substantial margin. Urban density combined with wildfire proximity creates compounded hazards.

Far riskier than all neighboring counties

Jefferson's 94.94 score vastly exceeds nearby Gilpin County (6.36), Gunnison County (44.97), and all other neighbors. Its position at the western edge of the Denver metro makes it uniquely exposed.

All hazards pose significant threats

Jefferson faces exceptionally high wildfire risk (99.52), tornado risk (96.50), flood risk (93.45), and earthquake risk (84.03)—all well above state and national norms. This multi-hazard exposure requires comprehensive preparation.

Comprehensive coverage is non-negotiable

Jefferson County residents must secure wildfire, flood, and earthquake coverage through riders or separate policies—standard homeowner insurance won't suffice. Given the county's exceptional risk profile, full coverage across all major hazards is essential.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

Jefferson runs 14° cooler than U.S. median

Jefferson County's 47.7°F annual temperature sits 14 degrees below the U.S. median of 61.7°F, reflecting its high-elevation location near Denver's western foothills. Its 19.8 inches of annual precipitation exceed both the state average (16.0 inches) and national average (15.2 inches), making it Colorado's wetter mountain region.

Slightly above Colorado's average

At 47.7°F, Jefferson County runs 1.7 degrees above Colorado's state average of 46.0°F, ranking it in the warmer half of the state's 64 counties. Its 21 extreme heat days annually place it solidly above mountain peers but well below the eastern plains.

Mountain buffer between highlands and plains

Jefferson (47.7°F) sits warmer than the extreme-cold Gunnison and Jackson counties but cooler than the plains-influenced Kiowa and Kit Carson counties to the east. At 21 extreme heat days, Jefferson experiences notably more hot weather than alpine neighbors but far less than eastern counties.

Moderate winters, warm summers, occasional extremes

January averages 30.5°F and July reaches 69.4°F, creating a 39-degree swing with 21 days above 90°F annually. Jefferson receives 95.9 inches of snow yearly, requiring serious winter infrastructure but far less than high-mountain counties.

Balance mountain snow with summer cooling needs

Jefferson residents need reliable heating for winter snowpack (95.9 inches annually) and standard air-conditioning for 21 hot summer days. Spring and fall transition planning is critical for outdoor recreation, with May-September offering prime windows for hiking, water activities, and construction work.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

Front Range Soil Identity

This county lacks specific digital records for soil taxonomy and pH levels. The varied landscape ranges from prairie to foothills, likely creating a mosaic of soil types.

Undefined Textural Ratios

Sand, silt, and clay percentages are not recorded in this dataset. These proportions are vital for understanding how the soil will drain and support heavy structures.

Productivity and Organic Matter

Available water capacity and organic matter data are currently unlisted. Gardeners should test their soil locally to see how it compares to the 2.18% state average for organic matter.

Variable Drainage Patterns

The hydrologic group and drainage class for Jefferson County are not documented here. Proper drainage is a key concern for the county's many residential and agricultural developments.

Diverse Growth in Zone 6a

Hardiness Zone 6a supports a wide range of plants, from garden vegetables to ornamental shrubs. The relatively mild climate allows for successful harvests of tomatoes and peppers.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

Manageable Lawn Care Near Denver

Jefferson County scores a 36.6 on lawn difficulty, placing it right near the Colorado state average of 37.4. While it is more challenging than the national average, it offers a more balanced environment than high-mountain counties. This zone 6a area is a popular place for traditional residential turf.

Warm Summers and Average Rain

The county receives 19.8 inches of precipitation annually, which is higher than the state average but lower than ideal lawn levels. With 21 extreme heat days and 2221 growing degree days, the grass grows quickly and requires consistent maintenance. Be prepared to water frequently during the hot July weeks when temperatures often exceed 90°F.

Preparing Front Range Soils

Specific soil data for the county is limited, but Front Range soils often contain heavy clay that requires aeration. You should focus on improving drainage and testing pH levels to ensure they stay within the 6.0-7.0 range. Adding organic matter is the most effective way to break up clay and improve lawn health.

Severe Drought Across the County

Jefferson County has spent 32 weeks in drought this year, and 100% of the area currently experiences severe drought conditions. Implementing water-wise practices, such as mowing at a higher setting to shade the soil, is essential for survival. Deep watering once or twice a week is more effective than daily light sprinkling in this climate.

A Long Window for Growth

In zone 6a, you have a generous growing season starting after the last frost on May 8. You can continue maintenance and seeding projects until the first fall frost around October 3. Tall Fescue is a highly recommended choice for this area due to its ability to handle the local heat and drought.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Colorado has a composite county score of 40 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 Jefferson County rank among counties in Colorado?
Jefferson County ranks #55 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 Jefferson County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $2,867, with an effective tax rate of 0.47%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 88.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Colorado is $107,800 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 96.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Colorado a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 40/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #55 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Jefferson 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 Jefferson 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.