countyscore
39
County Score
Income & Jobs 93.7Weather & Climate 75Property Tax 67.4

County Report Card

About Monterey County, California

Monterey barely misses national median

Monterey County's composite score of 39.0 falls 11.0 points below the national median of 50.0, placing it around the 32nd percentile. The gap reveals significant livability constraints despite the county's affluent coastal reputation.

Slightly below the California average

At 39.0, Monterey scores just below California's average of 40.9, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of the state's 58 counties. Strong pockets of wealth mask broader livability challenges.

High income and low risk define Monterey

Monterey boasts a median household income of $94,486 with an income score of 93.7, reflecting affluent coastal communities. Its risk score of just 1.3 indicates exceptionally low exposure to natural disasters, environmental hazards, or climate threats.

Housing affordability crisis dominates

Monterey's cost score of 1.8 reflects a severe housing affordability crisis, with median home values of $723,100 and gross rent of $1,995 monthly—among California's steepest. Safety concerns (score: 24.8) and water challenges (28.0) add to livability friction.

For the wealthy seeking coastal prestige

Monterey suits high-income families and retirees who can afford multi-million-dollar homes and prioritize scenic beauty and safety over economic diversity. First-time homebuyers and working families will struggle with the cost structure.

2040608010067.41.824.851.353.593.71.32875Tax67.4Cost1.8Safety24.8Health51.3Schools53.5Income93.7Risk1.3Water28Weather7539/100
This county
National avg
3 above average4 below average

Monterey County DNA

Foverall

How Monterey County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Monterey County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (93.7/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (1.8/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
67.4+15.400000000000006
Cost
1.8-46.2
Safety
24.8-30.2
Health
51.3
Schools
53.5
Income
93.7+42.7
Risk
1.3-45.7
Water
28-30
Weather
75+19
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$723,100

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,995/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$723,100/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$79,800/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum7.7x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $94,486/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

15.4

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
Compare Monterey County with Hall County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

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Rockingham County
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Delaware County
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Erie County
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38.9

Nearby counties

San Benito County
California
43.3
Santa Cruz County
California
41.6
Merced County
California
35.3
Santa Clara County
California
42.2
Stanislaus County
California
35.6
Kings County
California
38.2
San Mateo County
California
47.6
San Luis Obispo County
California
42.9

Deep Dives

Monterey County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Monterey County

via TaxByCounty

Monterey taxes well below national average

Monterey County's effective rate of 0.661% ranks among California's lowest and significantly undercuts the national median of 0.85%. Yet Monterey homeowners pay $4,782 annually—77% more than the national median of $2,690—because homes here average $723,100, nearly 2.6 times the national median value.

Monterey among lowest-taxed California counties

At 0.661%, Monterey boasts one of California's three lowest effective property tax rates, trailing the state average of 0.714% by a meaningful margin. This favorable rate gives Monterey residents an edge, though high home values still generate substantial tax bills statewide.

Monterey undercuts Napa and Orange County rates

Monterey's 0.661% effective rate beats Napa County (0.696%) and Orange County (0.666%) to the south, offering moderate tax relief in California's premium coastal corridor. Monterey homeowners save hundreds annually compared to equally valued homes in adjacent high-tax regions.

Median Monterey home costs $4,782 yearly in taxes

With a median home value of $723,100 and a 0.661% effective rate, Monterey homeowners pay roughly $4,782 in annual property taxes. With mortgage impounds, the figure climbs to $5,366; without them, it drops to $3,540.

Reassess if your home's value doesn't match sales

Monterey's booming coastal real estate market means assessments can lag behind rapid property appreciation—or sometimes overshoot actual market conditions depending on neighborhood trends. Comparing your assessed value to recent arm's-length sales nearby takes minutes and could unlock tax savings if your home is overvalued.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Monterey County

via CostByCounty

Monterey's coastline comes at a price

Monterey County's rent-to-income ratio of 25.3% exceeds the comfortable national threshold, despite the county's strong median household income of $94,486. Renters commit $1,995 monthly—more than a quarter of their earnings—to housing, reflecting the coast's premium value.

Pricier than most of California

Monterey County ranks above California's state average affordability line with a 25.3% rent-to-income ratio, compared to 22.4% statewide. Its median home value of $723,100 signals this is a high-demand coastal market, where Californians pay substantially for proximity to the Pacific.

Coastal premium versus valley relief

Monterey's median gross rent of $1,995 runs $360 higher than Nevada County's ($1,635) and $402 more than Placer County's ($1,991). Home values tell a similar story: Monterey's $723,100 median sits between Napa's ($838,800) and Nevada's ($602,800), marking it as a high-value coastal market.

Coastal living strains even solid incomes

Monterey renters dedicate 25.3% of their $94,486 income to rent ($1,995/month), while homeowners commit 26.5% to ownership ($2,087/month). Both figures exceed recommended thresholds, meaning Monterey households must carefully budget housing alongside other expenses.

Monterey for those who demand the coast

Monterey's stunning Carmel coastline and farmland appeal justify premium prices for those seeking coastal California living. But renters and buyers should anticipate tight housing budgets and consider whether the coastal lifestyle aligns with your financial priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Monterey County

via IncomeByCounty

Monterey incomes rank well nationally

Monterey County's median household income of $94,486 exceeds the U.S. median of $74,755 by 26%, placing it among the nation's higher-earning counties. This reflects a diverse economy anchored by agriculture, tourism, and professional services.

Above average for California

At $94,486, Monterey's median household income surpasses California's state average of $87,001 by roughly $7,500 per household. The county ranks solidly in the upper half of California counties by income.

Monterey holds strong regional position

Monterey's $94,486 income trails only Placer ($114,678), Orange ($113,702), and Napa ($108,970) among these eight counties, positioning it as a mid-tier earner. The county's agricultural and tourism base supports incomes comparable to many California coastal communities.

Housing costs bite deep in Monterey

Monterey's 25.3% rent-to-income ratio is among the highest across these counties, with median home values of $723,100 consuming a quarter of household income. Families earning the median must carefully budget to afford homeownership in this market.

Leverage income for long-term gains

Monterey's above-average incomes provide a foundation for wealth-building despite high housing costs, especially for households with two earners or professional salaries. Residents should explore down-payment assistance programs and tax-advantaged retirement accounts to accelerate savings.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Monterey County

via CrimeByCounty

Monterey County Boasts Strong Safety Ratings

Monterey County maintains a high safety score of 97.0, faring better than many regions across the country. The total crime rate of 1,869.3 per 100k is well below the national mark of 2,385.5.

Outperforming California State Safety Averages

The county's safety score of 97.0 sits above the California state average of 96.3. Its total crime rate of 1,869.3 is also significantly lower than the statewide average of 2,355.2.

A Stable Profile on the Coast

Monterey shows a more favorable safety profile than many high-density California counties. Its property crime rate of 1,448.1 is disciplined, reflecting effective local law enforcement across 17 agencies.

Property Safety Offsets Violent Crime Rates

Violent crime in Monterey is 421.2 per 100k, which is slightly higher than the national average of 369.8. However, the property crime rate is low at 1,448.1, keeping the overall community risk manageable.

Vigilance for Coastal Homeowners

Even with strong safety scores, visible security measures like doorbell cameras discourage package theft. Residents should continue to focus on securing entry points to maintain these high safety standards.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Monterey County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Vast Network of Monterey Schools

Monterey County supports a massive educational framework of 151 public schools serving 75,189 students across 34 districts. This includes 84 elementary schools and 31 high schools, reflecting the significant geographic and population diversity of the Central Coast.

Graduation Rates Near State Benchmarks

The county's graduation rate of 86.8% nearly matches both the national (87%) and California (87.5%) averages. While the per-pupil expenditure of $8,795 is slightly above the state average, the composite school score of 55.7 sits just below the state mark.

Major Districts and Charter Options

Monterey Peninsula Unified is the largest district with 9,227 students, followed closely by Salinas City Elementary. Charter schools represent a modest part of the landscape, with 8 schools making up 5.3% of the total county count.

From Urban Centers to Rural Valleys

Attending school here varies by locale, with 50 suburban and 45 urban campuses complementing 27 rural schools. The average school size is 533 students, though Alisal High operates at a much larger scale with 2,852 enrolled.

Find Your Home Near Monterey Schools

Whether you prefer the suburban feel of Monterey or the urban energy of Salinas, there is a school district to match your family's needs. Use school performance data as your guide to finding the perfect property in this scenic county.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Monterey County

via RiskByCounty

Monterey: High Risk Compared to Nation

Monterey County's composite risk score of 98.73 ranks it as relatively high and well above the national average. This coastal agricultural region faces significant exposure to earthquakes, floods, wildfires, and even tornadoes.

Among California's Highest-Risk Counties

Monterey scores 98.73—nearly 10 points above California's state average of 88.72—placing it in the upper tier of state risk. Its position on the coast and atop the San Andreas Fault zone makes it particularly vulnerable.

Riskier Than Most Regional Peers

Monterey's score of 98.73 exceeds neighboring San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz counties in overall composite risk. Its combination of coastal exposure, seismic activity, and wildland interface creates compounding hazards.

Earthquake, Flood, and Fire All Major Threats

Monterey faces an exceptional earthquake risk of 99.40, the highest of any hazard, paired with flood risk of 97.30 and wildfire risk of 98.66. Even tornado risk is elevated at 28.66, well above most California counties.

Comprehensive Coverage Is Non-Negotiable

Monterey homeowners should secure earthquake insurance, flood insurance (especially in coastal and low-lying areas), and wildfire/fire protection. These three hazards account for the bulk of your county's risk; standard homeowners policies will not cover earthquake or flood damage.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Monterey County

via WaterByCounty

Critical Compliance Deficits in Monterey County

Monterey County faces a severe Water Quality Grade of F due to 332 health violations over five years. The violation rate of 75.5 per 100,000 residents is significantly higher than the state average of 49.1.

Monterey Watershed Health Mirrors State Average

Of the 131 assessed water bodies, 36.6% are classified as impaired in the 2022 reporting cycle. The primary environmental stressors for these waters are abnormal pH levels, toxicity, and high turbidity.

Microbiological Monitoring Drives Monterey Data

Monitoring teams have logged 11,077 measurements across 61 sites in Monterey County. Data collection heavily emphasizes microbiological health and organics, providing a detailed look at agricultural and runoff impacts.

Salinas River Flow Drops Below Typical

The Salinas River near Spreckels is currently flowing at 65 cfs, representing only 19% of its long-term mean of 337 cfs. This low flow can exacerbate concentration levels of local pollutants and agricultural runoff.

Water Safety Strategies for Monterey Residents

Given the high frequency of health violations, residents should invest in certified drinking water filtration. High toxicity and pH issues in the watershed make professional annual tap water testing a vital precaution.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Monterey County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Coastal Living

Monterey County’s annual average of 57.7°F sits slightly above the national median. The Pacific influence creates a steady, temperate environment that avoids the extremes found inland.

Matching the California Standard

The county’s average temperature nearly mirrors the statewide average of 58.7°F. Its 19.9 inches of annual rainfall is slightly below the state norm of 25.8 inches, reflecting its central coast geography.

Cooler Than the Inland Valleys

Monterey stays cooler than neighbors like Napa County, which averages 59.5°F. This is primarily due to the marine layer that keeps July averages at a modest 64.2°F.

No Snow and Limited Heat

Snow is non-existent here, and winters remain mild with a January average of 51.0°F. The county only sees about 20 extreme heat days per year, mostly in the inland canyons.

Layering for the Marine Layer

The coastal fog makes layered clothing essential even in the height of summer. Because rainfall is limited to 19.9 inches, water-efficient landscaping is a common local priority.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Monterey County

via SoilByCounty

The Slightly Alkaline Coastal Ground

Monterey County features a soil pH of 6.64, which is slightly higher than the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile provides a stable foundation for the region's diverse and productive agricultural industry. While the taxonomic order is not recorded here, the soil remains a cornerstone of the local economy.

A Sandy Foundation for Growth

The soil contains 45.8% sand, 30.5% silt, and 21.9% clay. This sand-heavy mixture ensures rapid drainage but can make nutrient retention more challenging for local growers. Consistent organic amendments are often used to balance this texture for better farming results.

Fertility in the Salad Bowl

Organic matter in Monterey averages 2.50%, falling below the California state average of 3.30%. However, the available water capacity matches the state benchmark exactly at 0.141 in/in. This combination supports the intensive vegetable production that makes the region famous.

Managing High Runoff Potential

Belonging to hydrologic group D, Monterey's soil typically exhibits a high runoff potential when wet. This characteristic requires careful land management to prevent erosion and ensure water penetrates the root zone. Precise irrigation strategies are essential for both large farms and home gardens.

Thriving in Hardiness Zone 9b

Monterey's 9b zone is a premier environment for cool-season crops like artichokes and strawberries. The coastal climate and reliable water capacity create an ideal setting for year-round cultivation. Now is the perfect time to start a garden and enjoy the bounty of this rich agricultural heritage.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Monterey County

via LawnByCounty

Monterey's Favorable Coastal Conditions

Monterey County earns a lawn difficulty score of 54.5, making it easier to maintain turf here than in most of the country. The mild USDA Hardiness Zone 9b climate allows for a much longer growing season than inland neighbors. Your lawn benefits from moderate temperatures that stay consistently above the state average for ease of care.

Moderate Heat and Long Growing

The region sees 20 extreme heat days per year, which is significantly fewer than the California average of 59. While the 19.9 inches of annual precipitation is low, the 3,019 growing degree days provide plenty of energy for grass. The early February last frost date means you can start your lawn maintenance months ahead of higher-elevation counties.

Balanced Soil for Healthy Roots

The soil pH of 6.64 is nearly perfect for lawn health, falling right in the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. A texture of 45.8% sand and 21.9% clay provides a decent balance of drainage and nutrient holding capacity. Most homeowners will find they only need light organic amendments to keep the soil productive.

Preparing for Seasonal Dryness

Monterey County spent 32 weeks in drought over the past year, though it is currently clear of severe dry conditions. Since annual rainfall is roughly 10 inches below the ideal lawn threshold, water conservation remains a top priority. Use smart controllers to adjust for the coastal fog, which can naturally reduce evaporation rates.

Endless Growth in Zone 9b

Bermuda grass or Tall Fescue thrive in this climate, taking full advantage of the long growing season. You can safely start your lawn project after the first week of February when the risk of frost drops. The mild weather provides a wide window for establishing a lush, green carpet.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Monterey County's county score?
Monterey County, California has a composite county score of 39 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 Monterey County rank among counties in California?
Monterey County ranks #37 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 Monterey County, California?
The median annual property tax in Monterey County is $4,782, with an effective tax rate of 0.66%. This earns Monterey County a tax score of 67.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Monterey County?
The median household income in Monterey County, California is $94,486 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Monterey County earns an income score of 93.7/100 on CountyScore.
Is Monterey County, California a good place to live?
Monterey County scores 39/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #37 in California. The best way to evaluate Monterey 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 Monterey County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

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