countyscore
44.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 98Health 79.9Water Quality 71.5

County Report Card

About Orange County, California

Orange County slightly below national median

Orange County's composite score of 44.3 trails the national median of 50.0 by 5.7 points, placing it around the 44th percentile. Despite its urban economy and prestige, the county faces meaningful livability constraints.

Above California average, among the best

At 44.3, Orange County beats California's state average of 40.9 by 3.4 points, ranking it solidly in the upper tier of California counties. This reflects the region's economic strength and resources.

Exceptional income, health, and schools

Orange County shines with a median household income of $113,702 and income score of 98.0, combined with health and school scores of 79.9 and 67.3. Water score of 71.5 is the highest among these eight counties, indicating superior environmental quality.

Housing affordability at crisis level

Orange County's cost score of just 0.4 reflects one of California's most severe affordability crises, with median home values of $915,500 and rent of $2,352 monthly. Safety score of 16.4 also indicates moderate public safety concerns.

For wealthy families prioritizing excellence

Orange County suits affluent families seeking top-tier schools, excellent health care, and strong job markets in a suburban setting. The county is realistically accessible only to households earning well above $150,000 annually.

Score breakdown

Tax66.8Cost0.4Safety16.4Health79.9Schools67.3Income98Risk0.2Water71.5Weather58.8
🏛66.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠0.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼98
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡16.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤79.9
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓67.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡0.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧71.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤58.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱24.2
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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Nearby counties

Los Angeles County
California
36.9
San Diego County
California
42.3
Ventura County
California
44.3
Riverside County
California
37.2
San Bernardino County
California
33.7
Kern County
California
27.8
Santa Barbara County
California
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Imperial County
California
33.7

Deep Dives

Orange County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Orange County

via TaxByCounty

Orange County taxes moderate despite high values

Orange County's effective rate of 0.666% sits comfortably below the national median of 0.85%, yet homeowners pay $6,096 annually—more than double the national median of $2,690. This reflects Orange County's extreme home values: the median property is worth $915,500, more than 3.2 times the national median.

Orange County among California's lowest tax rates

At 0.666%, Orange County ranks among the three lowest effective property tax rates in California, well below the state average of 0.714%. Despite this favorability, Orange County's median tax of $6,096 is the highest among all eight counties surveyed, purely because of exceptional home values.

Orange County taxes lowest among coastal peers

Orange County's 0.666% rate undercuts both Napa (0.696%) and Monterey (0.661%), though all three coastal premium markets cluster tightly in the lowest-tax tier. However, Orange's median home values ($915,500) exceed all peers, generating the region's largest median tax bills.

Median Orange County home costs $6,096 yearly

A median home valued at $915,500 in Orange County generates approximately $6,096 in annual property taxes at the 0.666% effective rate. With mortgage impounds, annual taxes climb to $6,733; without them, the base tax is $4,432.

High-value homes deserve reassessment reviews

Orange County's booming real estate market means assessments can fall behind rapid appreciation or occasionally overshoot market conditions in downturn years. For homes valued above $500,000, a professional assessment review comparing your county record to recent sales in your specific neighborhood can identify thousands in potential savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Orange County

via CostByCounty

Orange County: Expensive even for California

Orange County's rent-to-income ratio of 24.8% sits firmly above the national affordability threshold, despite a county median household income of $113,702—the highest in this eight-county set. Renters here commit $2,352 monthly—nearly a quarter of earnings—to housing in Southern California's premier coastal market.

One of California's priciest counties

Orange County's 24.8% rent-to-income ratio exceeds California's 22.4% state average, ranking among the state's most expensive housing markets. Its median home value of $915,500 stands as the highest in this comparison, reflecting Orange County's desirability as a coastal employment and lifestyle hub.

Orange County's coastal premium dominates

Orange County's median gross rent of $2,352 tops all comparison counties except nothing—it's the highest here—while its $915,500 median home value also leads the set. Even Napa County, with comparable incomes, offers cheaper rents and homes, underscoring Orange County's unique demand.

Top incomes still stretched thin

Orange County renters spend 24.8% of their $113,702 income on rent ($2,352/month), while homeowners commit 27.0% to ownership costs ($2,556/month). Even with the county's highest median incomes, housing absorbs more than a quarter of earnings—a substantial ongoing burden.

Orange County for committed coastal dwellers

Orange County delivers beaches, jobs, and world-class schools—but demands six-figure household income to achieve comfortable housing affordability. If Southern California coastal living ranks non-negotiable in your priorities, Orange County's premium reflects genuine scarcity; otherwise, consider whether the price aligns with your values.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Orange County

via IncomeByCounty

Orange County ranks among nation's richest

Orange County's median household income of $113,702 soars 52% above the U.S. median of $74,755, establishing it among America's highest-earning counties. The county's defense, aerospace, and technology sectors drive exceptional income levels.

California's second-highest county income

Orange County's median household income of $113,702 exceeds California's state average of $87,001 by $26,701, ranking it second among the state's most affluent counties. Only a handful of California counties match Orange's wealth concentration.

Orange County leads peer group

Orange's $113,702 median income ranks second among these eight counties, trailing only Placer ($114,678) by less than $1,000. The county's size and economic diversity establish it as a regional income powerhouse.

Even high earners face housing pressure

Orange County's 24.8% rent-to-income ratio and median home values of $915,500 reveal that even top-tier incomes struggle with housing affordability. Families must dedicate nearly a quarter of gross income to housing in this competitive market.

Orange County's wealth-building potential

With median per capita income of $52,816 and dual-earner households common, Orange County residents enjoy strong capacity for investment beyond housing. Affluent households should prioritize diversified portfolios, educational savings plans, and tax-efficient investment strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Orange County

via CrimeByCounty

Orange County: Safe Suburban Living

Orange County maintains a solid safety score of 96.4. Its total crime rate of 2,287.0 per 100k is lower than the national average of 2,385.5, reflecting its status as a safe metro area.

Aligning with California Safety Averages

Orange County matches the California safety score average of 96.3. However, its violent crime rate of 282.5 is much better than the state average of 469.1 per 100k.

Safer Than Urban Neighbors

Orange County frequently reports lower violent crime rates than neighboring Los Angeles or Riverside counties. A network of 44 reporting agencies works diligently to maintain this competitive edge in public safety.

Property Crimes Drive Local Statistics

Violent crime is exceptionally low at 282.5 per 100k, while property crime is the primary concern at 2,004.5. This property crime rate is almost exactly in line with the national average.

Preventing Suburban Property Theft

In a large suburban county, package theft is a common issue for residents. Using smart doorbells and secure delivery boxes can effectively mitigate these frequent property risks.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Orange County

via HealthByCounty

Orange County's health advantage

Orange County residents live to 81.3 years on average, outpacing the U.S. average of 78.5 years and reflecting strong population health. At just 16.2% reporting poor or fair health, Orange County boasts one of the healthiest populations in this cohort.

Orange County exceeds state norms

At 81.3 years, Orange County's life expectancy beats California's 78.5-year average, signaling sustained wellness across the region. The 16.2% poor/fair health rate is among the lowest in the state, reflecting effective health management.

Orange County leads Southern California

Orange County's 81.3-year life expectancy exceeds neighboring San Diego, Los Angeles, and Ventura counties, positioning it as a regional health leader. With 100 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Orange County ensures robust primary care access.

Strong coverage and care access

At 7.3%, Orange County's uninsured rate is nearly in line with California's 7.2% state average, ensuring most residents have coverage. With 100 primary care providers and 400 mental health providers per 100,000 residents, Orange County delivers solid healthcare infrastructure.

Orange County: get covered today

If you're among Orange County's uninsured, Covered California and Medicaid expansion offer affordable options tailored to your needs. Call 1-800-300-1506 or visit getcovered.ca.gov to explore plans in your area.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Orange County

via SchoolsByCounty

Massive Scale in Orange County Schools

Orange County boasts a massive education system with 636 public schools and 69 districts serving over 441,000 students. The infrastructure is robust, featuring 409 elementary schools, 87 middle schools, and 108 high schools.

Elite Performance and Efficient Spending

Orange County delivers an exceptional 91.2% graduation rate, far surpassing the state average of 87.5%. Its school score of 57.8 is among the highest in the region, achieved with a lean per-pupil expenditure of $8,701.

Suburban Powerhouse Districts

Capistrano Unified and Santa Ana Unified are the largest districts, each serving roughly 40,000 students. The county also hosts 40 charter schools, including the massive California Connections Academy with over 5,100 students.

Large Campuses in Suburban Settings

With 338 suburban schools, the average campus size is a significant 705 students. Large high schools like Fountain Valley and Santa Ana High serve over 3,100 students each, offering vast extracurricular and academic programs.

Live Near Orange County's Top Schools

Families flock to Orange County for its high-performing suburban districts and record-breaking graduation rates. Exploring homes in Irvine, Huntington Beach, or Mission Viejo places you in some of the most sought-after school zones in the nation.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Orange County

via RiskByCounty

Orange County: Highest Risk in Nation

Orange County's composite risk score of 99.81 ranks it as very high—essentially at the maximum risk level across all U.S. counties. This densely populated coastal region faces earthquake, wildfire, flood, and tornado hazards simultaneously.

California's Most Dangerous County

Orange County's score of 99.81 is the highest in California and towers over the state average of 88.72. Its combination of 10+ million residents, coastal location, seismic activity, and wildland-urban interface creates extraordinary vulnerability.

Riskier Than Any Surrounding County

Orange County's 99.81 score far exceeds Los Angeles (in similar ranges), Ventura, and San Diego counties. Its dense urbanization in high-hazard zones amplifies overall risk compared to less-populated neighbors.

All Hazards Present Critical Threats

Orange County faces extreme risk across all measurable hazards: earthquake (99.87), wildfire (99.81), flood (99.81), and an unusually high tornado risk of 83.72 for California. This multi-threat environment is unique in the state.

Mandatory Comprehensive Insurance Coverage

Orange County homeowners must carry earthquake insurance, flood insurance (especially in coastal and low-lying areas), and standard fire coverage—this is not optional. With the state's highest composite risk of 99.81, gaps in any category expose you to potentially catastrophic loss.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Orange County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistently Warm and Sunny

Orange County’s 65.3°F annual average is much higher than the national median. It offers a classic semi-arid Mediterranean climate that stays warm year-round.

One of the Warmest in California

At 65.3°F, the county is significantly warmer than the state average of 58.7°F. It is also quite dry, receiving only 12.3 inches of rain compared to the 25.8-inch state average.

Drier and Warmer Than the North

Orange County is nearly 6 degrees warmer than Napa County on average. It receives less than half the rainfall of the northern wine country, emphasizing its Southern California desert-edge nature.

Perpetual Summer

Winters are exceptionally mild with a January average of 57.8°F and zero snow. Summers bring 29 days of heat above 90°F, concentrated mostly in the inland valleys.

Protect Against the Sun

Energy-efficient cooling and sun protection are vital for the 29 annual extreme heat days. With only 12.3 inches of rain, drought-tolerant landscaping is the standard for local homeowners.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Orange County

via SoilByCounty

The Coastal Soils of Orange County

Dominant taxonomic and pH data for this urbanized county is missing from the current federal dataset. Comparing your garden soil to the national median pH of 6.5 can help you determine which plants will thrive. Local soil testing is the best way to uncover the specific chemical identity of your land.

Understanding Local Texture and Drainage

Current records do not include specific percentages for sand, silt, or clay in Orange County. These measurements are the primary indicators of whether your yard will drain quickly or hold water after a storm. Residents often find a variety of soil types across the county's coastal and canyon landscapes.

Soil Health in a Coastal Climate

This county lacks recorded values for organic matter and water capacity in this dataset, but the state average for organic matter is 3.30%. Improving your soil with quality mulch and compost can help you reach these state-wide fertility goals. Healthy soil is the foundation for a beautiful Southern California landscape.

Hydrology in an Urban Landscape

There is no dominant drainage class or hydrologic group listed for Orange County in these federal records. This information is vital for managing urban runoff and ensuring proper landscape irrigation. Local engineering and soil reports remain the best source for this critical property data.

Tropical Potential in Zone 10b

Orange County's 10b hardiness zone allows for the cultivation of tropical fruits and year-round flowers. From citrus to succulents, the mild climate provides endless possibilities for the home gardener. Start planting today to take advantage of one of the longest growing seasons in the country.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Orange County

via LawnByCounty

The Challenge of Orange County Turf

Orange County presents a significant challenge with a lawn difficulty score of just 24.2. This is less than half of the national average, largely due to the arid 10b hardiness zone. Homeowners must be highly intentional with species selection and irrigation to maintain any green space here.

High Energy in a Dry Climate

The massive 5,603 growing degree days mean grass wants to grow year-round, but only 12.3 inches of rain falls annually to support it. This is well below the 30-inch ideal, requiring constant supplemental watering. With 29 extreme heat days, the sun is a persistent factor that demands heat-tolerant turf varieties.

Analyzing Your Coastal Soil

Detailed soil data for this area is currently missing from the regional database. Because coastal soils can be sandy or contain high salt levels, a professional analysis is vital before planting. Improving your soil's ability to hold water is the most important prep work you can do for an Orange County lawn.

Navigating 37 Weeks of Drought

Orange County suffered through 37 weeks of drought over the past year, though it is currently in a recovery phase. To succeed here, you must use drought-resistant grasses and smart irrigation that targets roots directly. Water only in the early morning to minimize the high evaporation rates caused by 5,600+ growing degree days.

Warm-Season Grasses are Mandatory

In Zone 10b, warm-season varieties like St. Augustine or Bermuda grass are the most sustainable choices. These types thrive on the intense solar energy and handle the low rainfall better than traditional cool-season mixes. Because the weather stays warm, you can plant nearly any time the soil is moist.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange County's county score?
Orange County, California has a composite county score of 44.3 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 Orange County rank among counties in California?
Orange County ranks #12 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 Orange County, California?
The median annual property tax in Orange County is $6,096, with an effective tax rate of 0.67%. This earns Orange County a tax score of 66.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Orange County?
The median household income in Orange County, California is $113,702 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Orange County earns an income score of 98/100 on CountyScore.
Is Orange County, California a good place to live?
Orange County scores 44.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #12 in California. The best way to evaluate Orange 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 Orange 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.