countyscore
67.3
County Score
Property Tax 99Health 94.8Income & Jobs 88.2

County Report Card

About Ouray County, Colorado

Ouray County among nation's most livable

Ouray County scores 67.3, placing it in the 69th percentile nationally and well above the national median of 50.0. High incomes, excellent health, and robust safety create a compelling livability profile.

Colorado's third-most livable county

Ouray County ranks third among Colorado's 64 counties at 67.3, substantially above the state average of 51.2. Only two counties in Colorado deliver stronger overall livability.

Income, health, and safety excel

Ouray County shines with an income score of 88.2 (median $84,556), health score of 94.8, and safety score of 79.5. The tax score of 99.0 with a 0.277% effective rate is Colorado's best, and risk management at 82.3 is excellent.

Housing costs severely limit access

Despite all strengths, Ouray County's cost score of 22.3 reflects some of the highest housing prices in this analysis—median home values at $670,100 and rents at $1,398 monthly. Water infrastructure also needs attention at 8.3.

Perfect for affluent families seeking mountains

Ouray County is ideal for wealthy families and retirees prioritizing health, safety, and spectacular mountain living. It suits those with substantial resources who can navigate steep housing costs in exchange for exceptional quality of life.

Score breakdown

Tax99Cost22.3Safety79.5Health94.8Schools55.6Income88.2Risk82.3Water8.3Weather52.6
🏛99
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠22.3
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼88.2
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡79.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤94.8
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓55.6
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡82.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧8.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱35.7
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 →
Sponsored

Compare mortgage rates in Ouray County

Whether buying or refinancing in Ouray County, compare rates from top lenders to find the best deal.

See Today's Rates

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 Ouray County with Martin County →Share on X

Counties with similar scores

Martin County
Kentucky
Median income: $46,185
67.3
Cedar County
Nebraska
Median income: $73,977
67.3
Deuel County
South Dakota
Median income: $79,556
67.3
Pickett County
Tennessee
Median income: $44,591
67.3
Osage County
Missouri
Median income: $75,355
67.2
Perry County
Alabama
Median income: $34,368
67.4
Pope County
Illinois
Median income: $62,500
67.4
Casey County
Kentucky
Median income: $41,689
67.4

Nearby counties

San Juan County
Colorado
69.1
San Miguel County
Colorado
64.6
Hinsdale County
Colorado
72.1
Montrose County
Colorado
43
Dolores County
Colorado
60.8
Mineral County
Colorado
69.2
La Plata County
Colorado
45.4
Delta County
Colorado
40.8

Deep Dives

Ouray County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Ouray County

via TaxByCounty

Ouray County has lowest effective tax rate

At 0.277%, Ouray County boasts the lowest effective tax rate among these eight counties and significantly undercuts Colorado's state average of 0.393%. Despite the lowest rate, the median tax bill of $1,854 reflects the county's notably high median home value of $670,100.

Lowest tax rate in Colorado overall

Ouray County ranks as one of Colorado's absolute lowest-taxing counties at 0.277%, far below the state average of 0.393%. The median tax bill of $1,854 reflects luxury mountain real estate values rather than tax burden.

Tax-efficient mountain property rates

Ouray County's 0.277% rate is the lowest among all eight highlighted counties, beating even Montezuma (0.297%) and Otero (0.322%). The combination of minimal rates and ultra-premium property values makes Ouray distinctive in the regional landscape.

Median home costs about $1,854 annually

A typical Ouray County home valued at $670,100 incurs roughly $1,854 in annual property tax at the current 0.277% rate. Homeowners with mortgages pay $2,019, while those without mortgages pay $1,710.

Appeal if your assessment seems too high

Many Colorado property owners are overassessed relative to fair market value. Ouray 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 Ouray County

via CostByCounty

Ouray commands premium for high earners

Ouray County renters spend 19.8% of income on housing—just below the national average despite rents significantly above the national norm. The median household income of $84,556 is 13% above the U.S. average, reflecting a high-income mountain community where professional wages offset elevated costs.

Mountain premium meets high wages

Ouray County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.8% sits slightly below Colorado's state average of 20.2%, despite median rents of $1,398—12% above the state median. This apparent paradox reflects Ouray's status as a high-earner enclave where incomes substantially outpace state norms.

Highest rents, highest incomes

Ouray's $1,398 monthly rent is the highest in our sample—39% above Montrose ($1,120) and 56% above Mineral ($903)—yet its $84,556 median income also tops all peers except Park County. This premium market attracts affluent professionals willing to pay for mountain living and outdoor amenities.

Steep costs, compensated by wages

Renters pay $1,398/month while homeowners spend $950 on median homes valued at $670,100—revealing a market where ownership dramatically undercuts renting. At $84,556 income, housing represents 16-20% of monthly earnings, sustainable only for high-wage earners or asset-rich buyers.

Premium mountain living for professionals

Ouray County suits high-income remote workers or professionals seeking alpine living with above-average wages to match above-average costs. Compare this against Montrose County (lower rents, similar ownership value) or Park County (higher incomes, even steeper rents) based on your income and lifestyle priorities.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Ouray County

via IncomeByCounty

Ouray County Outearns Most Americans

Ouray County's median household income of $84,556 tops the national median of $74,755 by $9,801, placing residents well above the U.S. middle class. The county's tourism, outdoor recreation, and second-home economy drive higher household earnings.

Leads Colorado's Mountain Counties

Ouray County's $84,556 income ranks well above Colorado's state median of $74,792 by nearly $10,000, placing it in the upper quartile statewide. The county's scenic alpine setting and tourism appeal attract wealthy residents and seasonal visitors.

Wealthy Mountain County in Regional Context

Ouray County's $84,556 income significantly surpasses all regional neighbors, trailing only Park County ($95,450) in the mountain west. Its per capita income of $53,914 is the highest in the region, reflecting concentrated affluence and professional-class residents.

Housing Costs Substantial at Nearly 20%

Despite high incomes, Ouray County's rent-to-income ratio of 19.8% reflects elevated home prices—median values reach $670,100. This means even well-earning residents dedicate significant income to housing in this exclusive alpine community.

Advanced Wealth Strategies for Affluent Residents

Ouray County's high earners should maximize tax-advantaged retirement accounts ($23,500 401(k) limit, $6,500 IRA) and explore alternative investments. Consider consulting a fee-only financial advisor about wealth diversification, estate planning, and charitable giving strategies.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Ouray County

via CrimeByCounty

A National Leader in Public Safety

Ouray County boasts an impressive safety score of 99.2, one of the highest in the country. Its total crime rate of 486.2 per 100,000 is nearly five times lower than the national average.

One of Colorado's Safest Havens

Ouray's crime rate of 486.2 is far below the state average of 1,834.6. It consistently ranks as a premier choice for residents seeking a high level of public security.

Outperforming Its Regional Neighbors

Ouray County is even safer than nearby Montrose and Montezuma, reporting a fraction of their crime rates. It serves as a benchmark for safety in the San Juan Mountains.

Detailed Breakdown of Low Crime Rates

Violent crime is extremely rare at 40.5 per 100,000, while property crime sits at 445.7. These figures indicate a peaceful environment with very few criminal incidents.

Preserving the Peace in Ouray

In a county this safe, security is about maintaining the status quo. Continue basic practices like securing vehicles and homes to keep Ouray's numbers among the state's best.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Ouray County

via HealthByCounty

Ouray County's exceptional longevity stands out

At 85.4 years, Ouray County residents live 5.1 years longer than the U.S. average of 80.3 years, making it one of America's longevity leaders. The 12.2% poor/fair health rate falls well below the national average of 18%, demonstrating that Ouray residents not only live longer but report substantially better health.

Colorado's healthiest county by far

Ouray County's 85.4-year life expectancy leads Colorado by 7.2 years and ranks among the nation's best; the county also posts the lowest 12.2% poor/fair health rate compared to Colorado's 16% average. An uninsured rate of just 5.8%—2 percentage points below Colorado's already-strong 9.7%—ensures residents can access the county's robust health infrastructure.

Outpacing all neighboring mountain counties

Ouray County's 85.4-year life expectancy dramatically exceeds Montrose (77.9), Gunnison (78.5), and San Miguel counties, establishing it as a regional longevity beacon. The county's 79 primary care providers per 100,000 residents ensures accessible frontline care, while 251 mental health providers per 100,000 support the county's strong mental health infrastructure.

Excellence across insurance, providers, and wellness

Only 5.8% of Ouray County residents lack insurance—the lowest rate in Colorado—and the county offers 79 primary care and 251 mental health providers per 100,000, ensuring coordinated, accessible care. This combination of universal coverage and robust providers has created a community where residents live long, healthy lives.

Ouray residents: keep coverage current and strong

With exceptional health outcomes and near-universal coverage, Ouray County should celebrate its success while ensuring no one slips through the cracks. If you're uninsured or underinsured, visit Colorado.gov/PEAK to explore coverage options and maintain the county's outstanding health trajectory.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Ouray County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-Scale Education with Big Results

Ouray County features a highly personalized educational environment with only 6 schools serving 509 students. These schools are split between two districts, Ridgway and Ouray, ensuring a high level of community involvement.

Top-Tier Funding and High Scores

Ouray County leads the region with a school score of 57.4 and a per-pupil expenditure of $10,008. The graduation rate of 85.0% remains well above the Colorado state average of 83.1%.

Ridgway and Ouray Districts Compared

The Ridgway School District is the larger of the two, educating 332 students across three campuses. Both districts focus exclusively on traditional public education with no charter schools in the county.

Purely Rural and Highly Personal

Every school in Ouray County is classified as rural, creating an incredibly tight-knit atmosphere. The average school size is just 85 students, with Ridgway Elementary being the largest campus at 151 students.

Small-Town Charm and Superior Schools

Ouray County is perfect for families seeking tiny class sizes and high per-student investment. Look for homes in Ridgway or Ouray to give your children a truly personalized educational experience.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Ouray County

via RiskByCounty

Ouray County's Risk: Well Below National Average

Ouray County's composite risk score of 17.72 places it in the "Very Low" category, roughly one-third the national average natural disaster risk. The county's small, mountainous geography and limited development create one of Colorado's safest natural disaster profiles.

Among Colorado's Lowest-Risk Counties

Ouray County's composite score of 17.72 ranks it among Colorado's safest counties, well below the state average of 40.67. Only Mineral County scores lower, reflecting Ouray's remote San Juan Mountains location and sparse population.

Significantly Safer Than Surrounding Counties

Ouray County's 17.72 score stands well below neighboring Montrose (49.01) and Montezuma (47.61) counties, roughly one-third their risk levels. This dramatic difference reflects Ouray's higher elevation, smaller population, and lower exposure to flood and tornado hazards.

Wildfire Your Primary Risk; Earthquake Secondary

Wildfire risk at 71.85 is Ouray County's highest hazard score, reflecting forest coverage in the San Juan Mountains, though overall county risk remains very low. Earthquake risk (27.93) ranks second, while tornado (2.64) and flood (24.68) risks are minimal.

Wildfire Coverage Recommended Despite Low Risk

Even in low-risk Ouray County, homeowners in or near forested areas should add wildfire coverage to their policies, as standard homeowners insurance excludes this peril. Earthquake insurance is optional given your county's 27.93 earthquake score, but worth evaluating if your home is older or in a seismic zone.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Ouray County

via WeatherByCounty

Ouray chills well below US average temperatures

Ouray County's 44.5°F annual temperature sits 3.0°F below the U.S. median of 47.5°F, confirming its alpine mountain character. Its 21.3 inches of annual precipitation exceed the national average substantially, making it Colorado's wettest mountain enclave.

Coldest tier in Colorado's coldest counties

At 44.5°F, Ouray ranks among Colorado's coldest counties, running 1.5°F below the state average of 46.0°F. Only Park County and Pitkin County run significantly colder, all high-elevation mountain bastions.

Mountain fortress amid warm plains counties

Ouray (44.5°F) sits 4.3°F cooler than Montezuma (48.8°F) and 8.0°F colder than Otero (53.5°F), its dramatic elevation advantage creating a true alpine climate. Its 126.9 inches of annual snowfall dwarf neighboring lowland counties' totals, reflecting extreme precipitation captured at altitude.

Freezing winters, cool summers, extreme snow

Ouray's summer average of just 63.4°F includes only 4 days reaching 90°F—among the lowest in the state. Winters plummet to 26.1°F average with 126.9 inches of snow annually, making it one of America's snowiest inhabited counties and a true mountain winter destination.

Heavy snow removal and extreme cold gear

Residents face 127 inches of annual snowfall, requiring industrial snow removal equipment, reinforced roofing, and year-round avalanche awareness. Winter gear investment is non-negotiable; heating systems must run continuously, and outdoor planning requires either summer-only scheduling or specialized alpine equipment.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Ouray County

via SoilByCounty

Rugged San Juan Chemistry

Ouray County's dramatic vertical landscape currently lacks comprehensive digital soil taxonomic data. Local pH levels likely vary wildly between acidic forest floors and alkaline limestone outcrops compared to the 6.5 national median.

Skeletal Mountain Textures

Official sand, silt, and clay percentages are unavailable for this county. Most usable soil is found in narrow valleys and is characterized by high rock content and varying degrees of glacial till.

Fertility in the High Country

Specific organic matter and water capacity data are missing for this region. To match the state organic matter average of 2.18%, local gardeners often rely on forest-derived mulch and mountain-specific composting.

Steep Slope Hydrology

While formal drainage classes are not listed, the county's extreme topography ensures rapid runoff into the Uncompahgre River. Managing drainage is a critical first step for any building project or garden terrace.

The Switzerland of America

Ouray County is in Hardiness Zone 5b, which is perfect for cool-weather flowers and hardy root crops. Focus on early-maturing varieties to beat the swift arrival of mountain autumns.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Ouray County

via LawnByCounty

Standard Mountain Lawn Conditions

Ouray County sits near the state average with a lawn difficulty score of 35.7. While maintaining turf here is more difficult than the national average, the Zone 5b climate is suitable for many hardy mountain grasses.

Wet and Cool Growing Seasons

At 21.3 inches, Ouray receives more annual rain than most of Colorado, though it still falls short of ideal lawn needs. Only 4 days of extreme heat and a low 1,638 growing degree days mean grass grows slowly and stays cool.

Preparing High-Altitude Soil

Specific soil metrics are not currently available, but high-altitude terrains often contain rocky or heavy mineral components. Testing your soil for a pH within the 6.0 to 7.0 range is vital for ensuring nutrient absorption.

Managing Dryness Despite Rain

Despite higher rainfall, the county has experienced 53 weeks of drought over the last year. With 100% of the area currently abnormally dry, consistent irrigation remains necessary to keep lawns healthy.

Success in Zone 5b

Fine Fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass are the top choices for this cooler Zone 5b climate. Aim to seed your lawn after the last frost on May 18 to ensure healthy growth before the autumn chill arrives.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ouray County's county score?
Ouray County, Colorado has a composite county score of 67.3 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 Ouray County rank among counties in Colorado?
Ouray County ranks #4 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 Ouray County, Colorado?
The median annual property tax in Ouray County is $1,854, with an effective tax rate of 0.28%. This earns Ouray County a tax score of 99/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Ouray County?
The median household income in Ouray County, Colorado is $84,556 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Ouray County earns an income score of 88.2/100 on CountyScore.
Is Ouray County, Colorado a good place to live?
Ouray County scores 67.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #4 in Colorado. The best way to evaluate Ouray 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 Ouray 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.