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Los Angeles County, California — County Report Card

CA

#45 in California

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Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers MarketsView on Map
36.9
County Score
Income & Jobs 90.7Water Quality 66.5Property Tax 63.9

County Report Card

About Los Angeles County, California

LA's wealth masked by cost crisis

Los Angeles County scores 36.9, below both the national median of 50.0 and California's average of 40.9, despite boasting the highest median household income in this sample at $87,760. The county's severe housing crisis—median home values of $783,300 and gross rent at $1,893—overwhelms its economic strengths.

High incomes can't offset costs

LA ranks below California's average score of 40.9, demonstrating that extraordinary income (score: 90.7, national elite) cannot overcome the state's most extreme housing affordability crisis. The county's overall livability score reflects this painful contradiction.

World-class incomes and health care

Los Angeles County's income score of 90.7 is exceptional, with a median household income of $87,760 that rivals many wealthy counties nationally. Health care and environmental resources also rank strong at 63.1 and 66.5 respectively, supported by unparalleled medical infrastructure.

Housing unaffordable, safety weak

The cost score of 1.4 is among the nation's worst, making homeownership a near-impossible dream for average earners despite high salaries. Safety scores just 6.9, reflecting challenges that plague the region despite concentrated wealth.

For high earners tolerating housing crisis

Los Angeles County suits well-compensated professionals and established wealth willing to accept world-class living costs and modest safety for extraordinary income and cultural opportunity. It's a county where economic success is nearly required just to achieve middle-class housing stability.

2040608010063.91.46.963.153.990.7066.553.6Tax63.9Cost1.4Safety6.9Health63.1Schools53.9Income90.7Risk0Water66.5Weather53.636.9/100
This county
National avg
3 above average3 below average

Los Angeles County DNA

Foverall

How Los Angeles County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Los Angeles County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (90.7/100) but notably weak in Safety (6.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
63.9+11.899999999999999
Cost
1.4-46.6
Safety
6.9-48.1
Health
63.1+13.100000000000001
Schools
53.9
Income
90.7+39.7
Risk
0-47
Water
66.5+8.5
Weather
53.6
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Compare mortgage rates in Los Angeles County

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$783,300

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,893/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$783,300/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$75,720/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum8.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $87,760/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

14.0

per 100K

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

Explore this county

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Nearby counties

Orange County
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44.3
Ventura County
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44.3
San Diego County
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42.3
Santa Barbara County
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Kern County
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Riverside County
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San Bernardino County
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San Luis Obispo County
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Deep Dives

Los Angeles County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Los Angeles County

via TaxByCounty

LA County taxes reflect high property values

Los Angeles County's effective tax rate of 0.694% sits slightly below California's state average of 0.714%, but its median property tax of $5,438 more than doubles the national median of $2,690. The gap reflects LA County's sky-high median home value of $783,300, well above the national median of $281,900.

Second-highest taxes in California overall

Los Angeles County's median property tax of $5,438 ranks among the highest in California, exceeded only by the wealthiest coastal counties. Despite having a slightly lower effective rate than the state average, LA County's enormous property values create substantial annual tax bills.

Tax burden scaled to premium property values

LA County's $783,300 median home value far exceeds neighbors like Madera County ($367,700) and Merced County ($368,400), explaining why its $5,438 median property tax is 2–3 times higher. However, LA County's 0.694% effective rate is actually lower than many of these inland neighbors.

Los Angeles County property tax reality

A typical LA County homeowner with a $783,300 home pays approximately $5,438 in annual property taxes at the 0.694% effective rate. Adding mortgage-related assessments and voter-approved bonds can push the annual bill closer to $6,077 for financed properties.

LA County assessment errors are common

In a county with such high property values, even small assessment errors translate to significant annual tax savings through appeals. LA County homeowners experiencing declining home values or assessment inaccuracies can file appeals to correct overassessments and reclaim overpaid taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Los Angeles County

via CostByCounty

LA renters pay well above national average

Los Angeles County's 25.9% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds the national average, requiring renters to devote nearly one-quarter of household income to housing alone. Despite a strong median income of $87,760—$13,000 above the national median—LA's median rent of $1,893 still creates affordability pressures unknown to most American counties.

LA ranks among California's priciest markets

Los Angeles County's 25.9% rent-to-income ratio sits above California's state average of 22.4%, placing it in the state's costlier half. With a median rent of $1,893—up 17% from the state average—LA remains a premium market even by California's expensive standards.

LA's rents dominate the Southern California coast

Los Angeles County's median rent of $1,893 significantly exceeds inland alternatives like Madera County ($1,307) and San Bernardino-area counties, reflecting LA's global appeal and coastal premium. The county's economic gravity pulls up housing costs across the broader region.

LA housing claims one-quarter of all income

Los Angeles renters pay $1,893 monthly while homeowners shoulder $2,390, amounts that reflect the county's world-class economy and limited housing supply. At a median household income of $87,760, LA's housing costs still consume $25,900 annually in rent alone, straining even above-average earners.

LA demands high income to afford comfortably

Moving to Los Angeles requires confidence in earning above the county median—renters and buyers here compete fiercely for limited housing, driving prices upward. If relocating, budget for $1,893+ rent or $2,390+ monthly ownership costs and ensure your income trajectory justifies the premium.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Los Angeles County

via IncomeByCounty

Los Angeles outearns most American counties

Los Angeles County's median household income of $87,760 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 17%, reflecting its status as a major economic and employment hub. The county ranks in the top third nationally despite California's high cost of living.

Los Angeles edges out California's income average

At $87,760, Los Angeles County's median household income is just 1% above California's state average of $87,001, placing it squarely in California's middle tier. The county benefits from diverse industries and access to high-wage employment sectors.

LA's income dominates surrounding Southern California

Los Angeles County ($87,760) substantially outearns comparable urban regions in California, though specific neighbor data is limited in this set. The county's size, economic diversity, and major employer base drive income above statewide averages.

Housing remains a major cost burden despite higher incomes

Los Angeles County residents spend 25.9% of income on rent—hitting the affordability ceiling—while median home values of $783,300 require dual high-income households. Despite above-average earnings, housing costs consume a larger share of household budgets than recommended.

LA residents should maximize income gains wisely

With median incomes above national levels, Los Angeles County households have capacity for aggressive investing and wealth-building, but housing costs demand careful planning. Diversifying investments, maximizing retirement contributions, and exploring remote work flexibility can help build lasting wealth despite high living costs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Los Angeles County

via CrimeByCounty

LA Crime Rates Exceed National Averages

Los Angeles County reports a total crime rate of 3,123.0 per 100,000, significantly higher than the national average of 2,385.5. The county holds a safety score of 95.1, indicating higher risk levels than many other regions.

Safety Rank Trails California State Average

The county's safety score of 95.1 is lower than the California average of 96.3. With 118 reporting agencies, the high volume of data reflects the complex challenges of the state's most populous county.

LA Crime Levels Similar to Merced

The total crime rate in Los Angeles County (3,123.0) is comparable to Merced County's rate of 3,075.9. Both counties face similar public safety pressures that outpace the state average.

Property Crimes Drive High Local Totals

Property crime dominates the landscape at 2,506.9 incidents per 100,000 residents, far exceeding the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime also remains high at 616.1, compared to a national average of 369.8.

Proactive Security for Los Angeles Residents

Given high property crime rates, investing in monitored security systems is a practical necessity. Visible deterrents like security signage and cameras can significantly reduce the risk of home burglary.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Los Angeles County

via SchoolsByCounty

The Massive Scale of LA Education

Los Angeles County hosts a staggering 2,233 public schools across 401 districts, educating over 1.3 million students. The infrastructure is vast, including 1,315 elementary schools and 508 high schools. This massive system accounts for nearly a quarter of all students in California.

Maintaining Quality Across a Giant System

The county's graduation rate stands at 86.4%, closely trailing the state average of 87.5%. Investment is slightly above the state norm, with per-pupil spending at $9,002 compared to the California average of $8,762. The county's school score perfectly matches the state average of 56.0.

Los Angeles Unified and Charter Diversity

Los Angeles Unified is the clear leader, managing 785 schools and 426,268 students. The county also embraces school choice, with 366 charter schools representing 16.4% of all campuses. Long Beach Unified and Pomona Unified add to the diversity, serving 65,129 and 21,326 students respectively.

A Mix of Urban and Suburban Life

Education here is primarily defined by suburb and city locales, which host 1,146 and 1,060 schools respectively. Average school size is 596 students, but campuses like Granada Hills Charter can reach up to 5,869 students. This variety ensures that families can find everything from massive high schools to specialized neighborhood campuses.

Navigating the LA School Real Estate Market

With over 400 districts, finding the right home in Los Angeles County often starts with researching local school boundaries. Whether you prefer the suburbs of Downey or the urban energy of Long Beach, school quality remains a primary driver of home values. Use the county's diverse educational landscape to guide your next move.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Los Angeles County

via RiskByCounty

LA County faces the highest risks

Los Angeles County scores a perfect 100.0 on the composite risk scale, rating "Very High"—the worst performance among all U.S. counties measured. The county faces extreme exposure across every major disaster category except hurricanes.

California's most at-risk county

Los Angeles County ranks 1st in composite disaster risk across all California counties, far exceeding the state average of 88.7 and dominating every risk comparison. Its scale, density, and geographic exposure create unmatched vulnerability.

Far riskier than surrounding areas

Los Angeles County's 100.0 score dramatically exceeds all neighboring counties, including Ventura and San Bernardino, reflecting its massive population, extended coastline, and fault-line exposure. No peer county approaches LA's risk concentration.

Earthquake, wildfire, and flood threats

Los Angeles County faces perfect or near-perfect scores in earthquake risk (100.0), wildfire risk (99.9), and flood risk (100.0), creating a perfect storm of natural hazards. Tornado risk (97.7) adds a fourth significant threat, making LA the nation's most comprehensively exposed county.

Maximum insurance and preparedness

LA County residents must secure earthquake insurance, dedicated wildfire coverage, and robust flood insurance to protect their homes against the county's extreme, multi-hazard risk profile. Establish emergency plans and secure your home's structural integrity against all four major threats.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Los Angeles County

via WaterByCounty

High population maintains low per-capita violation rate

Los Angeles County earns a B grade, recording 268 health violations over the last five years. Despite the high raw number, the violation rate is just 2.7 per 100,000 people, significantly better than the state average of 49.1. The massive scale of the water system presents unique management challenges.

Historical pollutants continue to impair local watersheds

The 2022 assessment shows that 51.6% of water bodies in the county are impaired, exceeding the state average of 37.2%. Pathogens and legacy chemicals like PCBs and DDT remain the primary causes of these impairments. These pollutants persist in the environment long after their initial introduction.

Massive data collection tracks microbiological health

Monitoring agencies maintain 223 sites across the county, generating 123,255 measurements in the last five years. This intensive effort focuses on microbiological and physical characteristics to ensure public safety in a densely populated area. The volume of data reflects the high stakes of urban water management.

San Gabriel River flows hit critical lows

The USGS gauge on the San Gabriel River currently records a flow of only 10 cfs. This is a mere 6% of the long-term mean, signaling extreme low-flow conditions for this drainage area. Such diminished flows can concentrate pollutants and stress local aquatic habitats.

Address legacy contaminants and extreme low flows

Widespread impairment from PCBs and DDT suggests residents should follow all local fish consumption advisories. The current extreme low flow in the San Gabriel River may impact natural filtration and ecosystem health. Residents should continue to support urban runoff reduction programs to protect local beaches.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Los Angeles County

via WeatherByCounty

A perennially warm coastal giant

Los Angeles County's annual average of 63.7°F is significantly warmer than the national median. This consistent warmth attracts millions, though it remains drier than many eastern coastal regions.

Leading the state in warmth

At 63.7°F, Los Angeles sits five degrees above the California state average of 58.7°F. It is one of the state's warmer counties, driven by its southern latitude and diverse topography.

Drier than the California average

The county receives just 16.1 inches of rain annually, nearly 10 inches less than the California average of 25.8 inches. This semi-arid climate is even more pronounced when compared to the wetter northern coast.

Fifty-one days of intense sun

Summer temperatures average 73.4°F, but residents face 51 days of extreme heat exceeding 90°F annually. Winters are exceptionally mild, with a January average of 54.3°F and virtually no snow at 0.1 inches.

Prioritize efficient cooling and water

With 51 extreme heat days, high-efficiency HVAC systems are a standard requirement for comfort. Low-water landscaping is also a smart move given the county's low 16.1-inch annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Los Angeles County

via SoilByCounty

Complex Urban Soil Varieties

Comprehensive county-wide soil pH and taxonomic data are currently unavailable for this diverse urban and coastal landscape. Los Angeles likely fluctuates around the state average pH of 6.34 depending on proximity to the mountains or coast. Local testing is essential for navigating these varied micro-climates.

Varied Textures Across the Basin

Data on the specific percentages of sand, silt, and clay is limited for the broader county area. In urban settings, composition can change dramatically from one neighborhood to the next. Understanding your local mix is key to determining how quickly your yard drains after a storm.

Targeting the State Average Fertility

Specific organic matter levels for Los Angeles are not yet recorded in this dataset. For reference, California averages 3.30% organic matter and 0.141 in/in for water capacity. Urban soils often benefit from added organic material to improve growing potential.

Managing Runoff in an Urban Environment

Dominant drainage and hydrologic group data are unavailable, though paved surfaces significantly impact local hydrology. Gardeners should prioritize permeable surfaces to assist with natural groundwater recharge. Observing your property’s response to irrigation will reveal its unique drainage characteristics.

Subtropical Potential in Zone 10b

Located in USDA Hardiness Zone 10b, Los Angeles supports year-round gardening of citrus, avocados, and succulents. The mild winters allow for a vast array of exotic and native plants to flourish. Start your Mediterranean-style garden today to enjoy a perpetual harvest.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Los Angeles County

via LawnByCounty

Steep Challenges for LA Lawns

Maintaining a lawn in Los Angeles is a steep climb, reflected in a low difficulty score of 20.9. This is significantly tougher than the California state average of 51.3 due to persistent water scarcity in Zone 10b.

High Heat and Low Precipitation

The region receives just 16.1 inches of rain annually, well below the 30-50 inches required for natural lawn health. With 5,215 growing degree days and 51 extreme heat days, grass requires constant intervention to survive.

Prep Your Soil for Success

Regional soil specifics are not currently recorded in the database, though urban areas often struggle with compacted ground. Local testing is highly recommended before investing in expensive sod or seed treatments.

Managing Significant Drought Pressure

The county endured 37 weeks of drought over the past year, highlighting a critical need for water-wise landscaping. Use smart irrigation controllers and consider drought-tolerant turf alternatives to manage these arid conditions.

Warm-Season Varieties Rule the South

St. Augustine and Zoysia grass are top performers in the hot Zone 10b environment. The long growing season extends until the first frost in late December, giving you a massive window for establishment.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Los Angeles County's county score?
Los Angeles County, California has a composite county score of 36.9 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 Los Angeles County rank among counties in California?
Los Angeles County ranks #45 among all counties in California 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 Los Angeles County, California?
The median annual property tax in Los Angeles County is $5,438, with an effective tax rate of 0.69%. This earns Los Angeles County a tax score of 63.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Los Angeles County?
The median household income in Los Angeles County, California is $87,760 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Los Angeles County earns an income score of 90.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Los Angeles County, California a good place to live?
Los Angeles County scores 36.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #45 in California. The best way to evaluate Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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.