countyscore
48.6
County Score
Water Quality 86Health 82.1Income & Jobs 69.1

County Report Card

About Jefferson County, Washington

Near the Middle of National Rankings

Jefferson County achieves a composite score of 48.6, sitting just shy of the national median of 50.0. It offers a balanced profile that rivals many successful counties nationwide.

Stronger than the Washington Average

With a score of 48.6, Jefferson County outperforms the Washington state average of 44.1. It is a solid performer within the regional landscape.

Top-Tier Health and Water Quality

The county shines with a water score of 86.0 and a health score of 82.1. These factors contribute to a high quality of life and general well-being for the population.

Housing Costs and Safety Gaps

High real estate prices lead to a cost score of 18.4, with home values near $495,100. A safety score of 27.5 also indicates room for improvement in community security.

Best for Environmentally Conscious Families

Jefferson County is a great fit for those who value clean water and a healthy lifestyle above all else. It suits established residents who can manage higher housing costs in exchange for natural beauty.

Score breakdown

Tax60.1Cost18.4Safety27.5Health82.1Schools57.3Income69.1Risk35.6Water86Weather67.6
🏛60.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠18.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼69.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡27.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤82.1
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓57.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡35.6
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤67.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱48.4
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

Clallam County
Washington
40.4
Kitsap County
Washington
40.1
Mason County
Washington
40.1
Island County
Washington
50.7
Grays Harbor County
Washington
36.2
San Juan County
Washington
55.5
Thurston County
Washington
37.7
Snohomish County
Washington
41.7

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 above national average

Jefferson County's effective tax rate of 0.726% modestly exceeds the national median of 0.67%, placing it in the 50th percentile nationally. Its median property tax of $3,596 sits well above the national median of $2,690, driven by the region's second-highest median home value of $495,100.

Above-average rate, premium home values

Jefferson County ranks 16th among Washington's 39 counties with an effective rate of 0.726%, moderately above the state average of 0.761%. Its median tax of $3,596 ranks second-highest among the eight counties, reflecting both the rate and exceptionally valuable properties at $495,100.

Second-costliest county despite moderate rate

Jefferson County's 0.726% rate is lower than Grant (0.823%) and Grays Harbor (0.873%), yet its median tax of $3,596 is second only to Island County's $3,765. Like Island County, Jefferson's high taxes reflect premium home values rather than punitive effective rates.

Second-highest regional tax: $3,596 annually

A homeowner with Jefferson County's median-valued property of $495,100 pays approximately $3,596 in annual property taxes. Mortgage-related deductions lower this to $3,380, while outright owners face a higher burden of $3,784.

Expensive properties deserve assessment scrutiny

Jefferson County homeowners with properties valued near $495,000 should verify their assessments carefully, as valuation errors on high-value homes produce substantial tax consequences. Filing an appeal to challenge an inflated assessment is free and may save hundreds annually.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Jefferson County

via CostByCounty

Jefferson County: waterfront premium hits hard

Jefferson County renters spend 21.8% of income on housing, well above the national average of roughly 28–30% and among the highest examined. With a median household income of $71,143 and $1,291 monthly rent, the county's Olympic Peninsula waterfront location commands substantial housing costs.

Second-most expensive rental in Washington

Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.8% ranks among Washington's least affordable markets, exceeded only by Island County's 22.1%. This reflects both limited housing stock on the Olympic Peninsula and strong demand from affluent Seattle-area relocators.

Waterfront pricing steeper than inland peers

Jefferson County's $1,291 rent exceeds most central and eastern Washington counties, and its $495,100 median home value is second only to Island County at $535,300. Olympic Peninsula waterfront geography drives scarcity and pricing premium.

Homeownership offers modest cost relief

Renters pay $1,291 monthly while homeowners face $1,087—a notable $204 advantage that reflects Jefferson's rental scarcity relative to owned inventory. Homeowners enjoy roughly 18% housing burden while renters carry 22%, making ownership more accessible despite higher entry prices.

Jefferson for waterfront relocators with means

If Olympic Peninsula waterfront living justifies premium housing costs, Jefferson County offers access—but your household income needs to exceed the $71,143 median to maintain healthy affordability. Purchasing a home provides better long-term value than renting in this supply-constrained market.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Jefferson County

via IncomeByCounty

Jefferson nearly matches national median

Jefferson County's median household income of $71,143 falls just $3,612 short of the national median of $74,755. This near-parity reflects Jefferson's position as a moderate-income county aligned with broader U.S. economic conditions.

Near-average for Washington state

Jefferson County's $71,143 median income sits about 7% below Washington's state average of $76,363, placing it in the lower-middle range statewide. However, its per capita income of $49,853 is the second-highest among the eight counties, well above the state average of $40,628.

Jefferson comparable to Grant County

Jefferson County's $71,143 median income nearly mirrors Grant County ($71,115), making them economic peers in the moderate-income tier. Both counties significantly lag Island County ($88,358) but exceed rural counties like Ferry ($54,650).

High home values strain affordability

Jefferson County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.8% indicates housing affordability pressure, particularly for renters. A median home value of $495,100 represents a substantial commitment relative to median incomes, requiring careful financial planning.

Balance lifestyle with long-term goals

Jefferson County households should prioritize building wealth despite elevated housing costs by maximizing retirement contributions and exploring investment opportunities. A financial advisor can help balance current lifestyle needs with future financial security in this affluent coastal county.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Jefferson County

via CrimeByCounty

Jefferson County Offers High Security

Jefferson County earns a safety score of 97.2, indicating it is safer than most of the country. The total crime rate of 1,757.2 per 100,000 is well below the national average of 2,385.5.

Stronger Safety Than the Washington Average

Jefferson's safety score of 97.2 sits comfortably above the state average of 96.2. Its total crime rate is also significantly lower than the Washington average of 2,377.2.

Comparing Jefferson to Island and Douglas

Jefferson County's crime rate of 1,757.2 is higher than Island County's 1,068.1. However, it remains a safer option than Franklin County, which reports a rate of 2,983.7.

Violent Crime Remains Low

The violent crime rate is 163.6 per 100,000, which is roughly half the national average. Property crime makes up most of the reports at ,1593.6 per 100,000 residents.

Maintaining a Secure Jefferson County

With property crime as the primary factor, residents should focus on securing homes and outbuildings. Visible security signage and well-lit entryways are effective ways to deter occasional theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Jefferson County

via HealthByCounty

Jefferson County thrives in health metrics

At 80.1 years, Jefferson County residents live 2.3 years above the U.S. average of 77.8 years, and just 13.9% report poor or fair health—well below the national average of 19.1%. The county demonstrates strong health outcomes and wellness across its population.

Among Washington's finest health outcomes

Jefferson County's 80.1-year life expectancy exceeds Washington's average of 78.1 years by 2.0 years, and its 13.9% poor/fair health rate is significantly better than the state average. The county ranks in the top tier of Washington counties for overall health performance.

Health leader in the Peninsula region

Jefferson County's 80.1-year life expectancy and 13.9% poor/fair health rate both outpace nearby Grays Harbor County (74.6 years, 18.8%) by significant margins, though Island County slightly edges it out at 80.8 years and 13.3%. Jefferson County solidifies a health-strong corridor on the Olympic Peninsula.

Strong coverage plus excellent provider access

Jefferson County's 7.9% uninsured rate is below the state average of 9.0%, while primary care access is robust at 83 providers per 100,000 residents and mental health services are abundant at 531 per 100,000. The combination of high coverage rates and accessible providers supports the county's excellent health outcomes.

Sustain Jefferson County's health momentum

With strong coverage and excellent outcomes, Jefferson County is a model—but if you're among the 7.9% uninsured, the Washington Health Plan Finder makes enrollment simple. Staying covered ensures you maintain access to the primary and mental health care that contributes to your county's leading health performance.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Jefferson County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Town Learning in Jefferson County

Jefferson County manages 13 public schools across five districts, serving a total student population of 2,763. The infrastructure consists of 6 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 3 high schools. Four alternative schools also provide diverse learning pathways for students in the area.

High Graduation Rates and Solid Scores

The county achieves an 87.3% graduation rate, which is higher than the state average and matches the national benchmark. Jefferson County spends $9,034 per pupil, contributing to a strong school score of 56.5. This score places the county well ahead of the Washington state average of 53.9.

Port Townsend and Chimacum Leading Districts

Port Townsend School District is the largest, educating 1,206 students in four schools. Quilcene and Chimacum districts also serve the region, with Quilcene managing the county's largest school, a PK-8 alternative program with 496 students. There are no charter schools present in the county.

Intimate Rural and Town Classrooms

With 10 rural schools and only 3 town-based schools, the educational experience here is quiet and personalized. The average school size is just 230 students, ensuring that educators can focus on individual student needs. The largest traditional facility is Port Townsend High School, which enrolls 377 students.

Settle Near Top-Performing Rural Schools

Jefferson County is a prime location for those seeking a high-quality education in a small-town or rural setting. Homebuyers often target the Port Townsend or Chimacum areas to stay close to the county's core academic institutions. Enjoy the peace of the Olympic Peninsula with the assurance of strong local school performance.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Jefferson County

via RiskByCounty

Jefferson County's Natural Disaster Risk

Jefferson County scores 64.38 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating and sitting below Washington's state average of 70.01. The county's lower overall exposure reflects its Olympic Peninsula location and reduced earthquake and flood risks compared to Puget Sound peers.

Where Jefferson Ranks in Washington

Jefferson County ranks in the lower-middle range among Washington's 39 counties for natural disaster risk, with a score of 64.38 below the state average. The county's risk profile is notably safer than most Puget Sound and coastal counties.

Compared to Your Neighbors

Jefferson County's risk (64.38) is significantly lower than nearby Island County (77.99) and Grays Harbor (96.98), making it the safest in its coastal region. However, earthquake exposure at 95.01 remains substantial despite the county's favorable overall ranking.

Your Top Threat: Earthquake Risk

Earthquake risk dominates Jefferson County's hazard profile at 95.01, reflecting proximity to the Cascadia Subduction Zone and Juan de Fuca plate boundary. Flood risk (64.40) is moderate due to coastal and river conditions, while wildfire exposure remains low at 23.51 because of temperate rainforest climate.

Prioritize Earthquake Protection

Jefferson County residents should secure earthquake insurance as the primary disaster coverage and retrofit homes to current seismic standards. Verify flood insurance on properties near rivers and coastal areas, though earthquake preparedness is the higher priority.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Jefferson County

via WeatherByCounty

Cool and Damp Peninsula Life

Jefferson County averages 50.9°F, reflecting a cool maritime climate that sits below the national median. It is a land of extremes, with 52.5 inches of annual rain concentrated in its rainforest regions.

Wetter Than the State Norm

The county is slightly warmer than the state average of 49.9°F and significantly wetter than the 38.5-inch state mean. Most of this moisture falls as rain rather than snow along the Olympic Peninsula.

Rainy Even by Coast Standards

Jefferson receives significantly more rain than Island County but only about half the deluge seen in Grays Harbor. Snow is almost non-existent at 0.6 inches, far less than the totals in Eastern Washington.

Mild Summers and Wet Winters

Summers are cool and pleasant, averaging 61.4°F with only 2 days of extreme heat. Winters are mild and damp, with a January average of 40.9°F keeping frost at bay.

Rain Gear Over Snow Gear

Waterproof gear is a daily necessity for the 52.5 inches of rain, though snow shovels are rarely required. Home heating needs are moderate, and air conditioning is an optional luxury rather than a requirement.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Jefferson County

via SoilByCounty

Olympic Peninsula Soil Secrets

Specific taxonomic and pH data for Jefferson County is currently unrecorded in our dataset. Gardeners here typically work with soils shaped by glacial activity and the dense forest history of the Olympic Peninsula.

A Mix of Till and Timber

Data on sand, silt, and clay percentages is not available for this county. Local landscapes often feature a mix of rocky glacial till on the hills and silty organic deposits in the river valleys.

Hidden Nutrient Potential

Metrics for organic matter and water capacity are not currently listed for Jefferson County. In this region, high rainfall and thick forest cover usually lead to a high accumulation of organic material on the forest floor.

Navigating a High-Rainfall Zone

Official drainage and hydrologic group information is currently missing from the record. In this wet climate, site-specific drainage is a top priority for any construction project or home garden.

Maritime Gardening in Zone 8b

Hardiness Zone 8b allows for a wide variety of moisture-loving plants and cool-weather vegetables. Use the mild, temperate climate to your advantage and start cultivating your own Pacific Northwest food forest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Jefferson County

via LawnByCounty

Jefferson County's Ideal Coastal Climate

Jefferson County boasts a 48.4 lawn difficulty score, the highest in this group and significantly easier than the state average of 36.9. This score is nearly at the national median of 50.0, reflecting a very hospitable environment in hardiness zone 8b. The mild temperatures and consistent moisture make this a premier spot for turf.

Perfect Precipitation and Cool Summers

With 52.5 inches of annual rain, the county sits within the ideal range for healthy lawns without constant irrigation. Only 2 extreme heat days per year mean your lawn is unlikely to suffer from summer scorch. The climate supports a lush, green landscape with minimal intervention compared to other Washington regions.

Testing for Coastal Soil Health

Local soil pH and texture data are not available, so a custom soil test is your best first step. High rainfall in the Pacific Northwest often leads to more acidic soils, which may require lime to reach the 6.0-7.0 pH sweet spot. Proper aeration is recommended to ensure the ample rainfall doesn't lead to soil compaction.

Resilient Against Rare Dry Spells

Only 47.8% of the county is currently abnormally dry, and the region saw just 28 weeks of drought last year. Most years, the natural precipitation cycle is sufficient for established lawns. During unusually dry weeks, a light supplement of water will keep your turf from entering a protective dormancy.

A Long Window for Planting Success

Fine fescues and colonial bentgrass are perfect for the maritime 8b environment. You can begin seeding after the April 11 frost, enjoying a robust growing window that lasts through October 28. This long season allows for multiple opportunities to overseed and thicken your lawn.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Jefferson County's county score?
Jefferson County, Washington has a composite county score of 48.6 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 Jefferson County rank among counties in Washington?
Jefferson County ranks #12 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 Jefferson County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Jefferson County is $3,596, with an effective tax rate of 0.73%. This earns Jefferson County a tax score of 60.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Jefferson County?
The median household income in Jefferson County, Washington is $71,143 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Jefferson County earns an income score of 69.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Jefferson County, Washington a good place to live?
Jefferson County scores 48.6/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in Washington. 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.

ByCounty Network

🏛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.