countyscore
45.7
County Score
Water Quality 86Weather & Climate 65.2Health 52.5

County Report Card

About Pacific County, Washington

Pacific County sits below the national median

With a composite score of 45.7, Pacific County trails the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a mix of high environmental vulnerability and strong natural resources.

Performing slightly above the Washington state average

Pacific County's composite score of 45.7 exceeds the Washington state average of 44.1. This places the county in the top half of the state for overall livability despite national trends.

Strong water quality and low tax rates

The county excels with a water score of 86.0 and a tax score of 51.4, indicating reliable utilities and a manageable tax burden. The effective tax rate is notably low at 0.821%.

Environmental risks and affordability hurdles

A low risk score of 7.3 highlights significant exposure to natural hazards like coastal flooding. Additionally, the cost score of 40.9 reflects challenges in housing affordability compared to rural peers.

A budget-friendly choice for coastal living

With median rents at $962, this county is ideal for those prioritizing clean water and low costs over environmental stability. It serves as a practical option for retirees or remote workers.

Score breakdown

Tax51.4Cost40.9Safety42.8Health52.5Schools41.5Income46.1Risk7.3Water86Weather65.2
🏛51.4
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠40.9
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼46.1
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡42.8
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤52.5
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓41.5
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡7.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧86
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤65.2
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱40.4
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

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Grays Harbor County
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Columbia County
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Mason County
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Deep Dives

Pacific County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Pacific County

via TaxByCounty

Pacific County taxes above US median

Pacific County's effective tax rate of 0.821% exceeds the national median of 0.750%, placing it in the 58th percentile nationally. The median property tax here is $2,250, modestly below the national median of $2,690, reflecting lower home values in the region.

Above-average rate for Washington

At 0.821%, Pacific County's effective rate ranks above Washington's state average of 0.761%, placing it in the upper tier of the state's 39 counties. The county's median tax of $2,250 is notably lower than the state median of $3,028.

Higher than nearby Pend Oreille

Pacific County's 0.821% rate exceeds Pend Oreille County's 0.665% but lags Skagit County's 0.824%. Property taxes here average $2,250, making the county relatively affordable compared to more urbanized regional neighbors.

Expect $2,250 on median home

On Pacific County's median home value of $274,000, you'll pay approximately $2,250 annually in property taxes. Homeowners with mortgages pay slightly higher at $2,497 due to escrow requirements.

Challenge your assessment today

Many Pacific County homeowners are overassessed, and the county allows regular assessment appeals. A professional review could lower your property's assessed value and reduce your annual tax bill.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Pacific County

via CostByCounty

Pacific County's Housing Affordability

At 18.5%, Pacific County's rent-to-income ratio sits nearly identical to the national median, meaning renters here spend roughly the same share of earnings on housing as Americans nationwide. With a median household income of $62,350—about 17% below the national average of $74,755—Pacific County offers modest housing costs that roughly track with lower regional incomes.

More Affordable Than Most Washington

Pacific County ranks among Washington's most affordable counties, with a rent-to-income ratio of 18.5% that beats the state average of 18.8%. Median rent of $962/month falls $240 below the state median of $1,202, making it a relative bargain in a state where housing costs have surged.

Pacific County vs. Regional Peers

Pacific County's $962 median rent undercuts nearby Pierce County ($1,722) by 44%, though Pierce households earn 55% more annually. Against Skamania County to the south, Pacific sits in the middle: Skamania's rent runs $62 higher, but with a $27,735 income advantage, the math favors Skamania renters.

Where Your Income Goes

Pacific County renters spend 18.5% of income on rent ($962/month), while homeowners dedicate 12.1% to mortgage and owner costs ($843/month). The median home value of $274,000 remains one of the state's lowest, keeping both rental and ownership within reach for working families.

Consider Pacific for Value

If you're weighing relocation, Pacific County offers genuine affordability: your rent dollar stretches further here than in most Washington counties, and home ownership remains achievable without a six-figure income. Compare these costs to higher-income counties like Snohomish or Pierce to see how much your monthly budget could improve.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Pacific County

via IncomeByCounty

Pacific County lags national income levels

Pacific County's median household income of $62,350 trails the U.S. median of $74,755 by 16.6%. While below the national average, the county ranks among roughly 1,200 U.S. counties in the lower-middle income tier, reflecting its rural character and smaller wage-earning base.

Below-average earnings in Washington

Pacific County ranks 28th out of 39 Washington counties by median household income, falling short of the state average of $76,363. The $13,013 gap underscores income disparities across Washington's urban-rural divide.

Similar income to regional peers

Pacific County's $62,350 median income closely mirrors nearby Pend Oreille County ($63,750) but trails Skagit County ($85,474) and Snohomish County ($107,982). The county earns more than Spokane County ($73,513), reflecting regional variation in job markets and industry mix.

Rent remains manageable for most

At 18.5%, Pacific County's rent-to-income ratio sits below the 30% affordability threshold, suggesting housing costs are sustainable for median earners. However, the median home value of $274,000 represents 4.4 years of median income, making homeownership a longer-term financial commitment.

Build financial security now

Pacific County residents earning the median $62,350 should prioritize establishing an emergency fund and exploring employer retirement plans to build long-term wealth. With housing costs manageable, channeling savings into diversified investments positions households for greater financial resilience.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Pacific County

via CrimeByCounty

Pacific County Outperforms National Safety Averages

Pacific County maintains a total crime rate of 1,290.8 per 100,000 residents, which is significantly lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This performance earns the county a safety score of 98.0 out of 100. The area remains one of the more secure regions in the United States based on 2022 data.

Exceeding Washington's Average Safety Standards

The county's safety score of 98.0 sits comfortably above the Washington state average of 96.2. With five reporting agencies, Pacific County demonstrates a lower overall crime footprint than many of its more populated counterparts across the state.

Comparing Safety Along the Coast

Pacific County's crime rate of 1,290.8 is considerably lower than the state average of 2,377.2 per 100,000 people. It offers a more tranquil environment compared to the higher-traffic corridors found in neighboring coastal counties.

Low Rates for Violent and Property Crime

Violent crime in Pacific County stands at 158.1 per 100,000, which is less than half the national average of 369.8. Property crime also remains low at 1,132.7, suggesting a generally safe environment for both people and their possessions.

Maintaining Security in Pacific County

While crime rates are low, residents can further reduce risks by installing motion-sensor lighting and smart cameras. Staying vigilant and participating in local neighborhood watch programs helps keep this coastal community safe.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Pacific County

via HealthByCounty

Pacific County lags behind national health

At 76.1 years, Pacific County's life expectancy falls 2.4 years below the U.S. average of 78.5 years. Nearly 19% of residents report poor or fair health, compared to the national average of 17.9%, signaling higher chronic disease burden in this Southwest Washington community.

Below average among Washington counties

Pacific County ranks in the lower half statewide for life expectancy, trailing Washington's 78.1-year average by 2 years. The county's 18.7% poor/fair health rate exceeds most peer counties in the state, reflecting persistent health challenges.

Struggles compared to regional peers

Neighboring Thurston and Lewis counties both outperform Pacific on life expectancy metrics. Pacific's primary care provider density of 21 per 100,000 is less than half the regional average, creating real barriers to preventive and routine care access.

Insurance gaps and provider scarcity

Nearly 10% of Pacific County residents lack health insurance, slightly above Washington's 9% state average. With only 21 primary care doctors per 100,000 people, residents often face long waits and travel times for basic medical services.

Get health coverage that fits your life

If you're among the 1 in 10 uninsured Pacific County residents, now's the time to explore your options. Visit Healthcare.gov or contact a local enrollment assistant to find a plan that works for your family and budget.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Pacific County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Coastal Network of Small Schools

Pacific County supports 2,827 students through a network of 18 public schools across six districts. The infrastructure features a balanced mix of six elementary schools and six high schools, including three alternative learning programs.

Investing Above Average for Results

The county spends $9,387 per pupil, slightly exceeding the Washington state average of $9,250. However, the 70.4% graduation rate trails both the state and the 87% national benchmark, contributing to a composite school score of 48.4.

Ocean Beach Leads the Region

Ocean Beach School District is the county's largest provider, educating 1,033 students across six campuses. South Bend and Raymond districts follow, and families should note there are currently no charter schools in the county.

Small-Town Learning Environments

Attending school here feels personal, with an average school size of just 177 students across rural and town settings. Ilwaco High School is the largest campus with 296 students, while many other facilities serve significantly smaller cohorts.

Plant Roots Near Coastal Classrooms

Pacific County offers a unique opportunity for families seeking a close-knit educational community. Explore local real estate to find a home where small class sizes and personal attention are the standard.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Pacific County

via RiskByCounty

Pacific County's moderate disaster risk

Pacific County scores 92.75 on the composite risk scale, placing it well above Washington's state average of 70.01 and in the relatively moderate risk category nationally. This means Pacific residents face more frequent or severe natural hazard exposure than the typical American county. The county's risk profile reflects significant earthquake and flood threats concentrated in specific geographic areas.

Third-riskiest county in Washington

Among Washington's 39 counties, Pacific ranks third for overall disaster risk, trailing only Pierce and Snohomish counties. This elevated ranking is driven primarily by a 95.13 earthquake risk score—among the highest in the state—combined with substantial flood risk at 75.00. Most Washington counties score between 28 and 50 on the composite scale, making Pacific's 92.75 notably high.

Riskier than most Puget Sound neighbors

Pacific County's 92.75 score exceeds nearby Thurston County's risk level and is comparable to Skagit County (88.77), though both counties face different hazard mixes. Pacific's earthquake risk (95.13) is substantially higher than Skamania County's (87.09), reflecting its proximity to the Cascadia Subduction Zone. However, Pacific's wildfire risk (27.70) is much lower than mountain counties like Skamania (93.92).

Earthquakes and floods dominate here

Earthquake risk at 95.13 is Pacific County's defining threat, reflecting the region's location atop the Cascadia Subduction Zone where a major quake could trigger widespread damage and tsunami risk along coastal areas. Flood risk scores 75.00, particularly acute in river valleys and communities near the Willapa Hills and Chehalis River watershed. Tornado risk remains minimal at 7.25, so preparation should focus on seismic and flood resilience rather than storm shelters.

Earthquake and flood insurance essential

Pacific County homeowners should prioritize earthquake insurance, which is not included in standard homeowners policies and covers damage from ground shaking and liquefaction. Flood insurance is equally critical—standard homeowners policies don't cover flood damage, and nearly three-quarters of Pacific County's risk score reflects flood exposure. Review your property's flood zone status at FEMA's flood maps and consider retrofitting your home's foundation for seismic resilience.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Pacific County

via WeatherByCounty

A Cool and Damp Marine Climate

Pacific County maintains an average annual temperature of 50.5°F, sitting below the national median. This maritime climate is defined by its extreme moisture, recording a massive 94.5 inches of annual precipitation.

Warmer and Wetter than Washington Averages

The county's 50.5°F average annual temperature stays slightly above the Washington state average of 49.9°F. However, its rainfall is nearly triple the state average of 38.5 inches, making it one of the wettest regions in the Pacific Northwest.

A Coastal Standout for Rainfall

While neighboring inland counties see far less moisture, Pacific County's 94.5 inches of rain dwarfs Skamania's 95.8 inches in intensity relative to its coastal position. It stays significantly milder than eastern counties, with January temperatures averaging a comfortable 41.5°F.

Mild Summers and Rain-Soaked Winters

Summers are exceptionally temperate, with July highs averaging just 61.0°F and only 3 days of extreme heat per year. Winters are rarely frozen, seeing only 1.2 inches of annual snowfall while December through February averages remain above 41°F.

Prioritize Waterproofing Over Air Conditioning

With only 3 days above 90°F annually, cooling systems are a low priority compared to high-performance rain gear and home dehumidification. Residents should focus on gutter maintenance and moisture barriers to manage the nearly 8 feet of annual rainfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Pacific County

via SoilByCounty

A Coastal Identity Awaiting Discovery

Pacific County currently lacks specific soil pH and taxonomic data in our records. This makes it hard to compare against the national median pH of 6.5, though regional coastal soils often trend acidic. Local testing is the best way to determine your specific soil's chemistry.

Texture and Workability Data

Sand, silt, and clay percentages are currently unavailable for this coastal region. These ratios determine how easily you can till your garden and how well it retains nutrients. Understanding your local texture is the first step toward successful soil management.

Measuring Growing Potential

With no current data on organic matter or water capacity, we cannot compare Pacific County to the state average organic matter of 14.85%. Most coastal gardeners find that adding compost helps mimic the rich profiles found elsewhere in Washington. Knowing your water capacity is vital for long-term plant health.

Managing Water Movement

Drainage classes and hydrologic groups are not listed for this county, requiring on-site observation for builders and farmers. Good drainage prevents root rot and ensures stable foundations for new structures. Observe how quickly puddles disappear after a heavy Washington rain.

Thriving in Zone 9a

Pacific County enjoys a mild Hardiness Zone 9a, allowing for a remarkably long growing season. You can successfully grow cool-season vegetables like kale or even experiment with hardy fuchsias. Start your garden today and take advantage of the gentle coastal climate.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Pacific County

via LawnByCounty

Managing Turf in Coastal Pacific County

Pacific County earns a lawn difficulty score of 40.4, making it tougher than the national median of 50.0 but easier than the state average of 36.9. Gardeners here benefit from a mild USDA Hardiness Zone 9a, which protects roots from extreme freezes. However, the coastal dampness creates a unique set of maintenance challenges compared to inland neighbors.

Abundant Rain and Cool Summers

This county receives a massive 94.5 inches of annual precipitation, nearly double the upper limit of the 30-50 inch ideal range. With only 3 extreme heat days per year and 1,456 growing degree days, grass grows steadily but slowly. You will spend more time managing drainage and moss than worrying about heat stress or frequent mowing.

Navigating Coastal Soil Conditions

Local soil data is limited for this specific area, but the high rainfall typically leads to nutrient leaching and acidic conditions. Most coastal Washington lawns require regular aeration to combat compaction from heavy rains. You should test your specific plot to determine if lime is needed to balance the pH for optimal turf health.

Surprising Breaks in the Rain

Despite the high annual rainfall, Pacific County spent 26 weeks in drought conditions over the past year. While currently at 0% abnormal dryness, these seasonal shifts mean you cannot ignore irrigation entirely during the summer months. Focus on deep, infrequent watering during dry spells to encourage deep root growth.

Seeding for Success in Zone 9a

Perennial ryegrass and fine fescues thrive in this cool, moist environment. Aim to seed after the last spring frost on April 26 or before the first fall frost on October 22. These windows take advantage of natural moisture to help your new lawn establish itself before the heavy winter rains arrive.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pacific County's county score?
Pacific County, Washington has a composite county score of 45.7 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 Pacific County rank among counties in Washington?
Pacific County ranks #14 among all counties in Washington 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 Pacific County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in Pacific County is $2,250, with an effective tax rate of 0.82%. This earns Pacific County a tax score of 51.4/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Pacific County?
The median household income in Pacific County, Washington is $62,350 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Pacific County earns an income score of 46.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is Pacific County, Washington a good place to live?
Pacific County scores 45.7/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #14 in Washington. The best way to evaluate Pacific 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 Pacific 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.