countyscore
40.3
County Score
Property Tax 97.5Cost of Living 57.4Disaster Risk 49.3

County Report Card

About Otero County, Colorado

Otero County significantly below national median

Otero County scores 40.3, placing it in the 32nd percentile nationally and well below the national median of 50.0. Critical weaknesses in safety, health, and water infrastructure severely limit livability despite affordable housing.

Colorado's most challenged livability county

Otero County ranks among the lowest in Colorado at 40.3, substantially below the state average of 51.2. It faces the most significant livability constraints among Colorado's 64 counties.

Affordability is Otero's primary advantage

Otero County boasts the best housing affordability in this analysis with a cost score of 57.4 and median home values of just $160,700 and rents at $796 monthly. The tax score of 97.5 (0.322% effective rate) further enhances financial accessibility.

Safety and water quality are critical concerns

Safety scores dangerously low at 10.1, and water infrastructure is nearly nonexistent at 0.5—critical public health issues. Health outcomes (25.0) and income potential (24.8, median $54,897) also rank among Colorado's worst.

Only for those prioritizing affordability

Otero County suits only those with minimal resources who can afford nowhere else, or investors seeking deeply discounted property. It is not recommended for families, retirees, or anyone prioritizing safety, health services, or water quality.

Score breakdown

Tax97.5Cost57.4Safety10.1Health25Schools27.5Income24.8Risk49.3Water0.5Weather35
🏛97.5
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠57.4
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼24.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡10.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤25
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓27.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡49.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧0.5
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤35
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨24.9
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱43.5
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

Otero County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Otero County

via TaxByCounty

Otero County offers lowest absolute tax burden

At 0.322%, Otero County's effective tax rate falls below Colorado's state average of 0.393% and far below national norms. The median annual tax of just $518 is the lowest among these eight counties and represents only 19% of the national median of $2,690.

Very low tax rate among Colorado counties

Otero County ranks in the lowest quartile of Colorado's 64 counties at 0.322%, well below the state average of 0.393%. The median tax bill of $518 represents just one-third of Colorado's $1,560 median.

Most tax-efficient property values in region

Otero County's 0.322% rate undercuts most southwestern peers, rivaling Montezuma (0.297%) and Ouray (0.277%) for efficiency. However, Otero's median home values of $160,700 are substantially lower, resulting in the lowest absolute tax bills across the region.

Median home costs about $518 annually

A typical Otero County home valued at $160,700 incurs roughly $518 in annual property tax at the current 0.322% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay $633, while those without mortgages pay $423.

Appeal if your assessment seems too high

Many Colorado property owners are overassessed relative to fair market value. Otero County residents can file a formal appeal with the county assessor if they believe their property tax bill doesn't reflect current market conditions.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Otero County

via CostByCounty

Otero County: Colorado's most affordable haven

Otero County renters spend just 17.4% of income on housing—among the lowest ratios in the nation and well below affordability concerns. At $54,897, median household income is 27% below the U.S. average, but rock-bottom rents of $796/month make housing genuinely accessible here.

Colorado's bargain-basement rents

Otero County's $796 median rent is the lowest in our sample and 37% below Colorado's state median of $1,253, creating extraordinary affordability. The 17.4% rent-to-income ratio matches top performers statewide despite wages significantly below state averages.

Dramatically cheaper than mountain counties

Otero's $796 rent undercuts every neighboring county in our sample by wide margins—Mineral ($903), Montezuma ($974), and Montrose ($1,120) all charge 12-40% more. Its median home value of $160,700 is also the lowest, reflecting Otero's position as Southeast Colorado's most economical market.

Minimal housing burden, low wages

Renters pay just $796/month and owners spend $831, among the nation's lowest absolute costs for housing. At $54,897 median income, housing represents roughly 17-18% of monthly earnings—leaving tight but sustainable budgets for residents with limited local wage growth.

Maximum affordability, limited opportunity

Otero County is ideal for retirees, remote workers, or those prioritizing bare-bones cost of living, with rents 36% below state average. Consider this against Mineral County for slightly better wages, or Montezuma County if seeking better income potential without major rent increases.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Otero County

via IncomeByCounty

Otero County Significantly Below U.S. Average

Otero County's median household income of $54,897 lags the national median of $74,755 by nearly $20,000, or 26%. This substantial gap reflects the county's limited economic base and dependence on agriculture and small-scale manufacturing.

Among Colorado's Lowest-Income Counties

Otero County ranks substantially below Colorado's $74,792 state median by $19,895, placing it in the lowest income quartile statewide. The county faces economic headwinds that limit wage growth and employment diversity.

Struggling Economy on Colorado Plains

Otero County's $54,897 income ranks lowest among its regional peers, trailing Morgan ($75,407) by over $20,000 and Montezuma ($63,005) by $8,000. A per capita income of just $28,634 indicates concentrated poverty and limited individual earning potential.

Low Housing Costs Provide Some Relief

Otero County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% is exceptionally low, with residents dedicating just one-sixth of income to housing. Median home values of $160,700 are the most affordable in the state, offering genuine homeownership opportunity despite modest incomes.

Prioritize Financial Stability and Education

Otero County residents should establish emergency reserves of at least 6 months given income volatility and limited local opportunities. Invest in skills development, trade certifications, and remote work capabilities to increase earning potential beyond county boundaries.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Otero County

via CrimeByCounty

Otero County Faces Higher Crime Trends

Otero County reports a total crime rate of 2,771.8 per 100,000, which exceeds the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 95.6, highlighting areas for improvement.

Comparing Otero to State Averages

The county's crime rate is significantly higher than the Colorado average of 1,834.6 per 100,000. Local law enforcement manages a higher volume of incidents than many other rural counties.

Safety Variations in the Region

Otero reports more activity than neighbors like Morgan or Montrose counties. Residents experience nearly double the crime rate seen in mountain counties like Ouray or Park.

High Property Crime Impacts Scores

Property crime is the driving force here, reaching 2,518.8 per 100,000 residents. The violent crime rate of 253.0 remains closer to the state average of 232.1.

Prioritizing Home Security in Otero

Given the high property crime rate, robust home security systems are highly recommended. Securing valuables and using alarm systems can significantly reduce personal risk.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Otero County

via HealthByCounty

Otero County faces severe health challenges

At 71.9 years, Otero County residents live nearly 8.4 years less than the U.S. average of 80.3 years—one of the starkest gaps in Colorado. The 25.6% poor/fair health rate far exceeds the national average of 18%, indicating widespread chronic disease and significant health struggles across the community.

Colorado's lowest life expectancy county

Otero County's 71.9-year life expectancy ranks last among Colorado counties, falling 6.3 years below the state average of 78.2 years. The 25.6% poor/fair health rate represents the worst health outcomes in the state, signaling a health crisis that demands urgent community attention.

Trailing all neighboring counties significantly

Otero County's 71.9-year life expectancy lags Pueblo, Huerfano, and Las Animas counties by 5 or more years each, marking a distinct health disadvantage in southeastern Colorado. Despite higher mental health provider availability (441 per 100,000), the county's 70 primary care providers per 100,000 remain insufficient for the population's severe health burden.

Limited insurance gaps but severe health crisis

Though Otero County's 10% uninsured rate is close to state average, the real crisis is the 25.6% of residents reporting poor or fair health—poverty, limited economic opportunity, and social isolation compound disease burden. With 70 primary care providers and 441 mental health providers per 100,000, the infrastructure exists, but residents need support accessing care and addressing root health drivers.

Secure your health coverage and care plan

While most Otero County residents have insurance, the county's 25.6% poor/fair health rate signals that coverage alone isn't enough—residents need proactive, coordinated care. Ensure your family has current coverage through Colorado.gov/PEAK, and ask your doctor about chronic disease programs and mental health support available in your community.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Otero County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Network of Local Districts

Otero County operates 15 public schools across six different districts, serving 3,038 students. This network includes seven elementary schools and six high schools, emphasizing localized control for its various communities.

Outperforming State Averages in Graduation

Otero County boasts an 85.7% graduation rate, which is higher than the Colorado state average of 83.1%. This performance is achieved with a per-pupil expenditure of $6,624 and results in a school score of 50.5.

La Junta Schools Lead District Growth

East Otero School District No. R1 is the largest district, serving 1,355 students. All 15 schools in the county are traditional public institutions, as no charter schools are currently active in the area.

Intimate Learning in Town Settings

Nine schools are located in towns while six are rural, offering an average school size of 203 students. La Junta Jr/Sr High School is the largest in the county, yet it remains relatively small with 539 students.

High-Achieving Schools in Otero County

If graduation rates are your top priority, Otero County's performance makes it a standout choice in the region. Explore housing options in La Junta or Rocky Ford to join these successful school communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Otero County

via RiskByCounty

Otero County: Moderate Risk, Above National Average

Otero County's composite risk score of 50.73 exceeds the national average, earning a "Relatively Low" rating with meaningful exposure to multiple hazard types. The county's location in southeastern Colorado creates unique combinations of wildfire, earthquake, flood, and tornado risks.

Above-Average Risk for Colorado

Otero County's score of 50.73 ranks it above Colorado's state average of 40.67, placing it in the higher-risk tier statewide. This reflects the county's diverse hazard exposure across wildfire, flood, tornado, and seismic zones.

Higher Tornado Risk Than Eastern Neighbors

Otero County's tornado risk (33.27) is notably lower than neighboring Morgan County (66.54) to the north but higher than mountain counties to the west. Its wildfire risk (75.92) aligns with the broader southwestern Colorado pattern affecting both Montezuma and Montrose counties.

Wildfire and Flood Top the List

Wildfire risk ranks highest at 75.92, reflecting Otero County's forested areas and dry conditions, while flood risk at 60.15 threatens properties in river valleys and drainage areas. Tornado risk (33.27) and earthquake risk (35.37) present secondary concerns.

Wildfire and Flood Coverage Critical

Otero County residents must add wildfire insurance to their policies, as it's not covered by standard homeowners plans, especially given your county's 75.92 wildfire score. Check FEMA flood maps for your property; if in a high-risk zone, flood insurance may be required.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Otero County

via WeatherByCounty

Otero is Colorado's hottest, driest county

At 53.5°F annually, Otero County runs 6.0°F warmer than the U.S. median of 47.5°F, marking it as distinctly hot for Colorado. Its 12.9 inches of annual precipitation rank it among America's driest counties, creating a harsh high-desert climate.

Hottest county in Colorado by far

Otero's 53.5°F average ranks it the warmest county in Colorado, a full 7.5°F above the state average of 46.0°F. No other Colorado county approaches its extreme heat profile, placing it in a climate class of its own.

Dramatically hotter than all regional peers

Otero (53.5°F) towers 5.3°F above Morgan County (49.0°F) to its north and 9.0°F above Ouray County (44.5°F) to its west. Its southeastern plains position creates a uniquely hostile climate within Colorado's otherwise moderate network.

Punishing heat, rare snow, perpetual dryness

Otero experiences 79 days of 90°F-plus heat annually—nearly triple Morgan County's total—with summer averages of 75.1°F. Winter highs barely dip below freezing at 32.4°F average, and just 23.2 inches of annual snowfall leaves the landscape exposed to intense summer radiation year-round.

Industrial-grade cooling and water conservation

With 79 extreme heat days and only 13 inches of rain yearly, residents need commercial-strength air conditioning and aggressive water conservation strategies. Drought-resistant xeriscaping is non-negotiable; outdoor activities require dawn or dusk timing, and reflective roofing or cooling systems become cost-saving priorities.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Otero County

via SoilByCounty

Alkaline River Valley Soils

Otero County has a notably alkaline average pH of 7.68. This level sits well above the national median of 6.5 and exceeds the Colorado state average of 7.29, requiring acid-loving plants to have specific amendments.

A Silty, Productive Mix

The composition is a balanced blend of 41.0% silt, 31.4% sand, and 26.7% clay. This high silt and clay content provides much better nutrient retention and structural stability than sandier neighboring counties.

Excellent Water Holding Potential

The available water capacity is 0.156 in/in, which beats the state average of 0.139. Although organic matter is low at 1.34%, the soil's ability to hold moisture makes it highly productive under irrigation.

Steady Moisture Management

With over 26% clay, these soils drain more slowly than sandy plains, providing a steady supply of water to crops. Farmers must monitor for compaction and salt accumulation, which are common in these silty valley floors.

Melon Capital Success

Otero's Zone 6a climate is world-famous for cantaloupes and watermelons. The warm nights and moisture-retentive soils make this a gardener's dream for heat-loving vine crops and pumpkins.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Otero County

via LawnByCounty

Beating the Average in Otero

Otero County offers a manageable environment with a lawn difficulty score of 43.5. This outperforms the Colorado average of 37.4, though it still presents more hurdles than the national median of 50.0.

Intense Summer Heat Waves

Lawns face a staggering 79 days of extreme heat, which is nearly triple the Colorado state average of 27 days. Combined with just 12.9 inches of rain, the high 3,609 growing degree days require diligent watering to avoid burnout.

Working with Alkaline Clay

The soil has a pH of 7.68 and a significant 26.7% clay content, which can lead to drainage issues and compaction. Regular aeration is recommended to help water and nutrients penetrate the soil effectively.

Relatively Stable Water Access

Only 52.7% of the county is currently abnormally dry, and there were just 14 weeks of drought over the past year. This relatively stable profile helps your grass survive the intense summer sun better than in neighboring counties.

Heat-Tolerant Varieties Win

Bermuda or Buffalo grass are ideal for the Zone 6a heat and clay-rich soil of Otero County. With a final frost date of April 30, you can start your lawn much earlier than most other Colorado residents.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Otero County's county score?
Otero County, Colorado has a composite county score of 40.3 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 Otero County rank among counties in Colorado?
Otero County ranks #53 among all counties in Colorado 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 Otero County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Otero County is $518, with an effective tax rate of 0.32%. This earns Otero County a tax score of 97.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Otero County?
The median household income in Otero County, Colorado is $54,897 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Otero County earns an income score of 24.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Otero County, Colorado a good place to live?
Otero County scores 40.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #53 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Otero 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 Otero 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.