countyscore
38.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 90Health 71.8Property Tax 56.1

County Report Card

About Mono County, California

Mono lags the national livability median

Mono County's composite score of 38.5 falls 11.5 points below the national median of 50.0, placing it around the 30th percentile nationally. This reflects significant livability trade-offs that affect overall quality of life.

Below California's county average

At 38.5, Mono scores just below California's state average of 40.9, ranking it in the lower half of the state's counties. The county faces livability headwinds compared to most other California communities.

Income and health are Mono's bright spots

With a median household income of $86,953 and an income score of 90.0, Mono punches well above its weight on earnings. Health scores of 71.8 further indicate residents enjoy solid wellness outcomes, likely benefiting from outdoor recreation and lower air pollution.

Housing costs and safety create real friction

Mono's cost score is just 3.5—among California's worst—with median home values reaching $514,300 and rents at $1,593 monthly. Safety scores plummet to 9.6, the lowest among these eight counties, signaling serious public safety concerns.

For high-earning outdoor enthusiasts only

Mono works best for wealthy outdoor enthusiasts who can absorb extreme housing costs and tolerate safety challenges in exchange for mountain living and excellent health outcomes. The county is not suitable for budget-conscious families or those prioritizing secure neighborhoods.

Score breakdown

Tax56.1Cost3.5Safety9.6Health71.8Schools51.4Income90Risk53.5Water28Weather51.5
🏛56.1
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠3.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼90
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡9.6
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤71.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓51.4
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡53.5
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧28
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤51.5
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱33.2
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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Deep Dives

Mono County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Mono County

via TaxByCounty

Mono's taxes outpace national average slightly

Mono County's effective tax rate of 0.765% nudges above the national median of 0.85%... actually sits slightly below, but its median tax bill of $3,936 exceeds the national median of $2,690. This reflects Mono's elevated home values: the median property here is worth $514,300, compared to the national median of $281,900.

Mono ranks mid-range among California counties

At 0.765%, Mono's effective rate sits above California's state average of 0.714%, placing it in the upper-middle tier of taxed counties statewide. Mono's median tax of $3,936 closely mirrors the state median of $4,045, making it fairly representative of the typical California property tax burden.

Mono taxes higher than mountain county peers

Mono's 0.765% rate exceeds neighboring Plumas County (0.721%) and Inyo County, reflecting Mono's desirable mountain and lake communities that command premium home prices. At $3,936 in median annual taxes, Mono homeowners pay substantially more than Modoc ($1,445) but less than high-value Sierra Nevada areas.

Median Mono home costs $3,936 yearly in taxes

A median home valued at $514,300 in Mono County generates approximately $3,936 in annual property taxes at the 0.765% effective rate. With mortgage impounds included, annual taxes rise to $4,364; without them, the base tax is $2,409.

Appeal if your assessed value seems too high

Mono's popularity with second-home buyers and vacationers means some properties are assessed above their actual market value, particularly in years following sales spikes. Homeowners should compare their assessor's value to recent comparable sales in their neighborhood—if there's a significant gap, filing an appeal typically costs nothing.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Mono County

via CostByCounty

Mono's incomes don't match housing costs

Mono County's rent-to-income ratio of 22.0% approaches the national danger zone, even though the county's median household income of $86,953 is 16% higher than the national average. Renters here spend $1,593 monthly on housing—nearly 22 cents of every earned dollar.

Right at California's affordability waterline

Mono County's 22.0% rent-to-income ratio sits just below California's state average of 22.4%, putting it squarely in the middle of the affordability pack. Despite higher-than-average incomes, the county's steep housing costs keep affordability tight.

Pricey mountain county, premium prices

Mono's median gross rent of $1,593 exceeds neighboring Nevada County ($1,635) by far less than its home values suggest—at $514,300, Mono homes cost less than Nevada's ($602,800). The rental market here reflects Mono's appeal as a mountain destination, pricing out many year-round residents.

Housing claims nearly half of income

Mono renters spend 22% of their $86,953 median income on rent ($1,593/month), while homeowners commit 29.5% to ownership costs ($2,141/month)—a severe burden. For homeowners especially, Mono's housing costs squeeze tight despite the county's relatively strong income levels.

Mono appeals to well-paid mountain lovers

If mountain living and outdoor recreation matter more than maximizing savings, Mono's higher incomes help offset steep housing costs. But renters and especially homebuyers should expect to dedicate a substantial share of earnings to housing here.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Mono County

via IncomeByCounty

Mono earns above the national median

Mono County's median household income of $86,953 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 16%, reflecting strong tourism and mountain community economies. This positions the county firmly in the upper-income tier nationally.

Nearly matches California's income average

Mono's median household income of $86,953 sits just shy of California's state average of $87,001, placing it right at the state's economic middle. The county's tourism-driven economy supports incomes comparable to much larger urban counties.

Mono competes with mountain peers

Mono's $86,953 median income trails higher-earning Napa ($108,970) and Orange ($113,702) counties but exceeds nearby Nevada County ($84,905) and rural Modoc ($56,648). The county's mountain location supports solid incomes despite its small population.

Housing costs strain Mono households

Mono's 22% rent-to-income ratio signals tight housing affordability, with median home values reaching $514,300—more than double the county median income. Households earning the county median spend a significant share of income on housing compared to national norms.

Plan carefully around housing costs

Despite solid incomes, Mono residents face elevated housing expenses that limit discretionary savings, making financial planning essential. Households should prioritize down-payment strategies and refinancing opportunities to free up cash for wealth-building investments.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Mono County

via CrimeByCounty

Mono County Faces Higher National Crime Rates

Mono County reports a total crime rate of 2,821.7 per 100k, which is higher than the national average of 2,385.5. Its safety score of 95.5 indicates a more active landscape for local law enforcement.

Slightly Below the California Safety Average

Mono's safety score of 95.5 falls just below the state average of 96.3. Its crime rate is also higher than the state average of 2,355.2 per 100k, partly due to the high volume of seasonal visitors.

A More Active Profile Than Rural Peers

Mono experiences more property crime than neighbors like Modoc, with a rate of 2,413.2 per 100k. This trend is common in mountain counties where vacation homes are frequent targets for theft.

High Property Crime Impacts Local Safety

The property crime rate of 2,413.2 exceeds the national average of 2,015.7, making it the primary safety concern. Conversely, violent crime is moderate at 408.5 per 100k, which is closer to the national benchmark.

Securing Your Mountain Home

With property crime being the most prevalent issue, smart locks and alarm systems are essential for Mono homeowners. Protecting seasonal rentals with outdoor cameras can prevent crimes of opportunity.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Mono County

via HealthByCounty

Mono's health data shows anomaly

Mono County reports a life expectancy of 93.5 years, far exceeding the U.S. average of 78.5 years—a figure that warrants cautious interpretation given Mono's small population. The 16.4% poor/fair health rate suggests self-reported health may not align with the published longevity figure.

Life expectancy claim needs verification

Mono's reported 93.5-year life expectancy significantly outpaces California's 78.5-year average, an unusual gap that likely reflects data collection or population size limitations. The 16.4% poor/fair health rate is more typical of the state, suggesting the longevity figure may not be fully representative.

Mono's numbers stand out

Mono's 93.5-year life expectancy is an outlier compared to neighboring Alpine and Inyo counties, and far exceeds Modoc's 74.6 years. With 83 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Mono has moderate provider density but fewer mental health specialists than most peers.

Uninsured rate above state average

At 10.3%, Mono's uninsured rate is notably higher than California's 7.2%, meaning about 1 in 10 residents lack health coverage. With 83 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, access is moderate, though the mountain geography may create travel barriers for some.

Get insured in Mono County

If you're uninsured, Covered California and Medicaid expansion options are available to help close the coverage gap. Connect with local enrollment assistance to explore plans that fit your needs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Mono County

via SchoolsByCounty

High-Altitude Education in Mono

Mono County maintains 14 public schools across 4 districts, catering to a total enrollment of 1,529 students. The system is diverse for its size, featuring 5 elementary schools, 1 middle school, and 7 high schools to serve scattered mountain communities.

Strong Scores and Robust Spending

With a composite school score of 56.9, Mono County outperforms the California state average of 56.0. The county spends $10,800 per pupil, which is over $2,000 more than the state average, helping support an 80.8% graduation rate.

Mammoth Unified Serves the Majority

Mammoth Unified is the largest district, enrolling 1,118 students across its 4 schools, while Eastern Sierra Unified covers more ground with 6 schools. There are currently no charter schools in Mono, reflecting a commitment to established district-led education.

Vibrant Schools in a Wilderness Setting

The average school size is 127 students, set primarily in rural (8) and town (6) locales. Mammoth Elementary is the largest hub with 529 students, contrasting with Lee Vining Elementary, which serves exactly 100 students.

Education Meets Adventure in Mono

If you value above-average school scores and a lifestyle surrounded by nature, start your home search in Mammoth Lakes or the Eastern Sierra. The county's high per-pupil spending makes it an attractive destination for families prioritizing school resources.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Mono County

via RiskByCounty

Mono: Below Average U.S. Risk Profile

Mono County's composite risk score of 46.50 earns a relatively low rating and sits well below the national average. This high-elevation, sparsely populated county experiences fewer disaster impacts than most American regions.

Low Risk Within High-Risk California

Mono's score of 46.50 is substantially lower than California's state average of 88.72, ranking it among the state's safer counties. Its eastern Sierra location puts it outside California's primary earthquake and flood zones.

Safer Than Mountain Region Peers

Mono ranks lower than Plumas County (86.39) and significantly below the coastal and central valley counties surrounding the Sierra. Its remote location and lower population density contribute to reduced overall exposure.

Earthquake Risk Rises With Elevation

Earthquake risk is Mono's highest hazard at 88.99, reflecting its proximity to the Sierra Nevada fault systems and volcanic zones. Wildfire risk also scores high at 91.16, driven by extensive forests and dry conditions.

Earthquake Coverage Is Essential Here

Homeowners in Mono should prioritize earthquake insurance given the county's 88.99 seismic risk score. Bundle wildfire coverage as well, since high-elevation forests increase exposure to large fires.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Mono County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cold Mountain Stronghold

Mono County is one of the coldest spots in the country with an annual average of just 43.9°F. This is well below the national median, placing it firmly in a subalpine climate category.

One of California's Coldest Regions

The county’s average temperature sits nearly 15 degrees below the California state average of 58.7°F. Despite its mountain status, its 17.0 inches of precipitation remains below the state average of 25.8 inches.

Colder Than Its Sierra Neighbors

Mono County is notably chillier than Nevada County, which averages 48.0°F. While its neighbor to the north is wetter, Mono specializes in cold, dry air and high-elevation extremes.

Endless Snow and Mild Summers

Winters are dominated by 65.1 inches of snow and a frigid January average of 27.6°F. Summer heat is almost non-existent here, with only 4 days reaching 90°F annually.

Gear Up for Serious Snow

Heavy-duty heating systems and snow removal equipment are vital for the long, snowy winters. Residents rarely need air conditioning as summer averages remain a comfortable 60.7°F.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Mono County

via SoilByCounty

The Mystery of High Sierra Soils

Mono County lacks a recorded dominant taxonomic order and pH in this federal soil survey. Knowing your soil's acidity relative to the national 6.5 median is crucial for selecting the right mountain plants. Local testing can reveal the specific chemical identity of your high-altitude land.

Composition Data for the Eastern Sierra

Specific percentages for sand, silt, and clay are not currently available for this county. These three components dictate whether soil drains rapidly or holds onto moisture throughout the day. Gardeners in this region typically look for a balanced mix to support plant health in thin mountain air.

Potential for Growth in Rugged Terrain

There are no recorded values for organic matter or water capacity for this area in the current dataset. California averages 3.30% organic matter and 0.141 in/in available water capacity. Adding compost can help local soils better mimic these productive state-wide levels.

Understanding Water Flow in Mono

The federal survey does not list a dominant drainage class or hydrologic group for this county. This data is usually the primary guide for managing runoff and choosing the right irrigation tools. Local experience with the rocky terrain is essential for any successful planting or construction.

Gardening Success in Zone 6b

The county's 6b hardiness zone is perfect for mountain-hardy flowers and cold-season vegetables. These soils can produce beautiful results when paired with plants that tolerate cool nights. Embrace the high-altitude challenge and start a garden with resilient, frost-tolerant species.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Mono County

via LawnByCounty

Mono's Tough High-Altitude Turf

With a lawn difficulty score of 33.2, Mono County is significantly more challenging for grass than the national median of 50.0. The high-altitude environment and USDA Hardiness Zone 6b climate create a restrictive growing environment. Homeowners here must work much harder than the average Californian to keep a lawn thriving.

Cool Temps and Low Energy

A low growing degree day count of 1,357 means grass grows much slower here than in warmer coastal counties. While there are only 4 extreme heat days per year, the 17.0 inches of precipitation is well below the 30-inch ideal for turf. Expect a very short growing season that requires patience and careful water management.

Acknowledge the Missing Soil Data

Specific soil texture and pH data are not currently available for Mono County's rugged terrain. Because mountain soils often vary wildly in drainage and acidity, a professional soil test is your best first step. Proper amendments will be critical to support growth given the county's low annual temperatures.

Navigating Persistent Dry Spells

The region faced 32 weeks of drought over the past year, highlighting the need for water-wise landscaping. While current conditions show 0% severe drought, the historical volatility suggests installing high-efficiency irrigation. Mulching around the edges of your lawn can help keep the ground cool and retain what little moisture is available.

Timing the Short Sierra Summer

Kentucky Bluegrass and Perennial Ryegrass are the standard choices for these cool 6b winters. Since frost dates can be unpredictable in the mountains, wait for consistent soil warmth before seeding or laying sod. Focus on establishing strong roots during the peak summer months to survive the long, cold winters.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mono County's county score?
Mono County, California has a composite county score of 38.5 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 Mono County rank among counties in California?
Mono County ranks #38 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 Mono County, California?
The median annual property tax in Mono County is $3,936, with an effective tax rate of 0.77%. This earns Mono County a tax score of 56.1/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Mono County?
The median household income in Mono County, California is $86,953 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Mono County earns an income score of 90/100 on CountyScore.
Is Mono County, California a good place to live?
Mono County scores 38.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #38 in California. The best way to evaluate Mono 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 Mono County with other counties side by side.

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Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.