countyscore
73.3
County Score
Disaster Risk 99.2Property Tax 98.6Income & Jobs 79.8

County Report Card

About Rich County, Utah

A High-Performing National Leader

Rich County earns a composite score of 73.3, placing it significantly higher than the national median of 50.0. This score reflects a quality of life that exceeds the vast majority of counties across the United States. Residents enjoy a rare combination of financial security and environmental safety.

Outperforming the Utah Average

With a 73.3 overall score, the county far outpaces the Utah state average of 53.9. It maintains a competitive edge over regional neighbors by balancing high income potential with exceptionally low tax burdens. This performance establishes it as one of the most stable living environments in the state.

Elite Tax and Safety Ratings

The county boasts a near-perfect tax score of 98.6, driven by a remarkably low effective tax rate of 0.290%. Additionally, the risk score of 99.2 indicates that residents face very few natural or environmental hazards. High income levels, with a median of $76,875, further bolster household stability.

Resource and Utility Concerns

The water score of 7.0 serves as the primary challenge for this high-performing county. While most metrics are elite, this specific score suggests that water infrastructure or quality requires long-term attention. Improving this utility dimension would help the county achieve a near-perfect profile.

Perfect for Financially Conscious Families

Rich County is an ideal match for families and professionals seeking to maximize their take-home pay through low taxes. The low $743 median rent and high safety scores create a secure environment for long-term residency. It suits those who value a quiet, fiscally efficient lifestyle in a low-risk setting.

Score breakdown

Tax98.6Cost62.2Safety75.4Health71Schools71.3Income79.8Risk99.2Water7Weather47.8
🏛98.6
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠62.2
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼79.8
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡75.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤71
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓71.3
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡99.2
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧7
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤47.8
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱31.9
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

Cache County
Utah
51.3
Morgan County
Utah
57.5
Weber County
Utah
38.9
Uinta County
Wyoming
52.4
Summit County
Utah
52.6
Bear Lake County
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63.3
Franklin County
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Davis County
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49.1

Deep Dives

Rich County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Rich County

via TaxByCounty

Rich County taxes well below national average

Rich County's effective tax rate of 0.290% ranks in the bottom 15% nationally, meaning homeowners here pay significantly less than the U.S. median property tax of $2,690. The county's median tax bill of $846 is less than a third of what Americans typically owe, reflecting both lower property values and a light tax hand.

Utah's lightest tax burden

Rich County has the lowest effective tax rate among all 29 Utah counties at 0.290%, compared to the state average of 0.498%. With a median tax of just $846 versus the statewide median of $1,815, Rich County residents enjoy the state's most affordable property tax environment.

Significantly cheaper than surrounding areas

Rich County's 0.290% rate stands out dramatically against nearby Uintah County (0.535%) and Daggett County to the north. Even compared to other rural Utah counties, Rich's tax burden remains the lightest in the region and state.

Median home costs $846 annually in taxes

A typical Rich County home valued at $291,200 generates an annual property tax bill of $846. Whether you own your home outright or carry a mortgage, your tax obligation remains remarkably stable at around $840–$870 per year.

Review your assessment—overages are common

Even in low-tax counties like Rich, homeowners occasionally face inflated assessments that don't match market reality. If your tax bill feels high relative to comparable homes, filing an appeal with the county assessor's office could uncover savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Rich County

via CostByCounty

Rich County beats the national average

At 11.6%, Rich County's rent-to-income ratio is well below the national benchmark, meaning renters here spend less of their paychecks on housing than typical Americans. The county's median household income of $76,875 also outpaces the national median of $74,755, creating more breathing room in family budgets.

Utah's most affordable housing market

Rich County ranks as Utah's most affordable county, with a rent-to-income ratio of 11.6% compared to the state average of 16.6%. At just $743 per month for median rent—well below Utah's $1,101 state average—renters here enjoy significantly more housing affordability than their peers statewide.

Outpacing nearby mountain counties

Rich County's $743 monthly rent is substantially lower than similar mountain communities like Sevier County ($878) and Uintah County ($914). The county's 11.6% rent-to-income ratio significantly beats Summit County's 17.2%, even though Summit attracts higher earners.

Where your income goes in Rich County

Renters spend $743 monthly on housing while homeowners pay $850, leaving most of a median $76,875 household income available for other needs. Together, these housing costs consume just 11.6% to 13.3% of monthly income—among the lowest burdens in Utah.

Consider Rich County for affordability

If housing costs are pushing your budget tight elsewhere, Rich County offers stable affordability with incomes above the national average and rents well below state levels. The county's median home value of $291,200 and low rent-to-income ratio make it a compelling option for renters and buyers alike.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Rich County

via IncomeByCounty

Rich County exceeds national income benchmark

Rich County's median household income of $76,875 edges above the national median of $74,755, placing it firmly in the upper-middle tier nationally. This $2,120 advantage reflects the county's economic resilience compared to the average American household.

Below Utah's prosperous state average

Rich County ranks below Utah's state median of $80,176 by about $3,300, placing it in the middle tier of Utah's 29 counties. The per capita income of $29,074 also trails the state average of $35,055, indicating wage growth opportunity in the region.

Competing regionally with similar counties

Rich County's $76,875 median income sits between Sevier County ($73,765) and Uintah County ($69,861), positioning it as a moderate earner in its peer group. Its $291,200 median home value is competitive with neighboring counties of similar economic profiles.

Housing costs remain comfortably affordable

Rich County's 11.6% rent-to-income ratio is among the healthiest in Utah, well below the 30% threshold that signals affordability strain. This means households spend roughly $745 monthly on rent relative to median income, leaving substantial room for savings and other expenses.

Build on your solid income foundation

With median income slightly above national levels and excellent housing affordability, Rich County residents are positioned to invest in wealth-building vehicles like retirement accounts and home equity. Consider working with a financial advisor to maximize the gap between income and housing costs.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Rich County

via CrimeByCounty

Exceptional Safety Levels in Rich County

Rich County boasts an impressive safety score of 99.1, far exceeding the state average of 98.1. Its total crime rate of 589.8 per 100,000 residents is nearly four times lower than the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leader in Utah Public Safety

With a total crime rate of 589.8, Rich County remains well below the Utah state average of 1,204.8. These figures place the county among the most secure regions in the state, although data comes from a single reporting agency and should be viewed with that context.

Regional Comparison with Sanpete County

Rich County maintains a lower overall crime rate than Sanpete County, which reports 600.4 crimes per 100,000 people. While both counties share a 99.1 safety score, Rich County reports significantly fewer violent crimes at 78.6 compared to Sanpete's 145.8.

Property Crimes Predominate Local Incidents

Property crime accounts for the majority of local offenses at 511.2 per 100,000 residents, while violent crime remains low at 78.6. This violent crime rate is significantly lower than the national average of 369.8, suggesting a peaceful local environment.

Maintaining Security in Quiet Communities

Despite low crime rates, property crime represents the largest share of local reports. Residents should remain vigilant by securing entry points and using motion-activated lighting to deter opportunistic theft.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Rich County

via HealthByCounty

Rich County lives longer than most Americans

At 83.7 years, Rich County's life expectancy outpaces the U.S. average of 76.4 years by over seven years. Just 15.6% of residents report poor or fair health, matching the national median and suggesting strong overall wellness despite the county's rural character.

Utah's longest-living county

Rich County ranks among Utah's healthiest by life expectancy, exceeding the state average of 77.9 years by 5.8 years. This longevity advantage reflects the county's consistently strong health outcomes across its small population.

Outliving nearby mountain counties

Rich County's 83.7-year life expectancy significantly exceeds Summit County (84.0 years, comparably high) and vastly outpaces San Juan County (72.8 years). The 11-year gap underscores stark regional health disparities within Utah.

Healthcare access data limited

Rich County's 11.4% uninsured rate sits slightly above Utah's state average of 10.2%, meaning roughly 1 in 9 residents lack coverage. Primary care provider data is unavailable for the county, though 38 mental health providers per 100,000 residents suggest modest mental health capacity.

Check your health insurance options

With 11.4% of Rich County residents uninsured, exploring coverage through Healthcare.gov or Utah's state marketplace could improve access to preventive care and medications. Talking to a local health department representative can clarify eligibility for subsidies or community health programs.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Rich County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Close-Knit Rural Education Network

Rich County operates a focused education system with five total public schools serving 513 students. The infrastructure consists of two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, all managed by a single school district.

High Graduation Rates and Local Investment

The county boasts a 90.0% graduation rate, which exceeds both the Utah state average of 89.1% and the national benchmark of 87.0%. Local investment is strong, with per-pupil expenditure reaching $10,908, significantly higher than the state average of $6,829.

The Unified Rich District Core

Rich District manages all 513 students in the county across its five facilities. There are currently no charter schools in the area, meaning the public district provides the primary educational framework for all local families.

Personalized Learning in a Rural Setting

Every school in the county is classified as rural, offering an intimate average school size of just 128 students. Rich High is the largest campus with 156 students, while North Rich School provides a small-scale environment for its 113 pupils.

Find Your Home in Rich County

Families seeking a tight-knit community with high graduation rates should explore housing options within the Rich District boundaries. School quality and small class sizes remain a primary draw for home buyers in this northern Utah enclave.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Rich County

via RiskByCounty

Rich County's disaster risk stays very low

With a composite risk score of 0.83, Rich County sits far below the national average and ranks among America's safest counties for natural disasters. This very low rating reflects minimal exposure to most major hazard types across the region.

Utah's second-safest county

Rich County's score of 0.83 is dramatically lower than Utah's state average of 36.19, making it one of the state's most resilient counties. Only one Utah county outperforms Rich in overall disaster safety.

Safer than nearby mountain counties

Rich County's risk profile is significantly lower than neighboring Summit County (60.08) and Tooele County (48.89). This advantage stems from lower exposure to flooding, tornadoes, and earthquakes across the region.

Wildfire remains the primary concern

Wildfire risk at 75.89 is Rich County's highest hazard exposure, though still manageable with standard precautions. Earthquake risk (36.77) and flood risk (3.02) pose minimal threats to most residents.

Standard homeowners insurance protects you

Given Rich County's very low overall risk, standard homeowners insurance provides adequate protection for most properties. Consider adding wildfire coverage or a separate policy if your home is in a forested area or near wildland-urban interfaces.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Rich County

via WeatherByCounty

High Altitude and Low Temperatures

Rich County’s average annual temperature of 41.7°F sits nearly 13 degrees below the national median. This high-altitude climate is significantly cooler than the typical American environment.

Among Utah's Coldest Regions

The county is one of Utah's coldest, with an annual average more than 7 degrees lower than the state mark of 48.9°F. Its mountain valleys maintain a chill that sets it apart from the warmer southern basins.

Chillier Than High-Mountain Neighbors

While nearby Summit County averages 44.1°F, Rich remains harsher at 41.7°F. It shares a rugged, high-elevation profile with its northern neighbors but experiences deeper winter dips.

Long Winters and Brief Summers

Winters are intense with a December-February average of 20.9°F and 68.4 inches of snow. Summers are brief and mild, seeing only 5 days per year where temperatures reach or exceed 90°F.

Gear Up for Deep Freezes

Residents prioritize high-efficiency heating systems to combat the long, sub-freezing winters. Heavy-duty snow removal equipment and winter vehicle prep are essential for managing the nearly 70 inches of annual snowfall.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Rich County

via SoilByCounty

Rich County's soil profile awaits classification

While specific pH data is missing, most Utah soils trend more alkaline than the 6.5 national median. This high-altitude region likely shares the state's characteristic mineral-rich composition.

Texture data is currently being gathered

Without specific sand or clay percentages, local gardeners should check for the gritty feel of mountain sediment. This varied terrain influences how well your land holds onto water and nutrients.

Local organic matter tests are essential

We lack specific numbers, but the state average of 7.59% organic matter sets a high bar for local growers. Available water capacity remains a variable that depends on your specific plot's elevation and history.

Strategic drainage is key for mountain builders

Official drainage classes are not yet recorded for this area, making on-site percolation tests a priority. Understanding how water moves across your land prevents foundation issues and root rot in your garden.

Gardening in a cold Zone 5b

The short growing season favors cool-weather crops like spinach and radishes. Use raised beds to help the soil warm up faster during the brief summer window.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Rich County

via LawnByCounty

High Elevation Lawn Challenges in Rich County

Rich County earns a lawn difficulty score of 31.9, making it slightly easier to manage than the Utah state average of 28.5 but well below the national median of 50.0. Homeowners in this USDA Hardiness Zone 5b region must contend with a shorter window for growth and survival. The high elevation creates a unique environment where cool-season grasses are the standard.

Cold Winters and Limited Moisture

With only 13.9 inches of annual precipitation, lawns here receive less than half of the ideal 30-50 inches required for lush growth. The county sees just 5 extreme heat days per year, meaning heat stress is rare compared to the state average of 43 days. However, low growing degree days (1460) indicate a slow growth rate that requires patient mowing schedules.

Understanding Local Soil Needs

Specific soil metrics for Rich County are currently limited in regional data sets, making on-site testing vital for local gardeners. Testing for pH and drainage allows you to tailor your fertilizer application to the exact needs of your property. Adding organic matter can help improve water retention in this arid environment.

Managing 42 Weeks of Drought

Rich County spent 42 weeks in drought over the past year, with 23.7% of the area currently facing severe conditions. All 100% of the county is considered abnormally dry, necessitating strict water conservation. Deep, infrequent watering early in the morning helps grass roots grow deeper to survive these dry spells.

Start Growing After the June Frost

Wait until after the last spring frost around June 14 to begin heavy seeding or sodding projects. Fine fescues and Kentucky bluegrass are excellent choices for the 5b hardiness zone because they withstand the harsh winters. Plan your final fall maintenance before the first frost arrives typically around October 4.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rich County's county score?
Rich County, Utah has a composite county score of 73.3 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 Rich County rank among counties in Utah?
Rich County ranks #2 among all counties in Utah 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 Rich County, Utah?
The median annual property tax in Rich County is $846, with an effective tax rate of 0.29%. This earns Rich County a tax score of 98.6/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Rich County?
The median household income in Rich County, Utah is $76,875 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Rich County earns an income score of 79.8/100 on CountyScore.
Is Rich County, Utah a good place to live?
Rich County scores 73.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #2 in Utah. The best way to evaluate Rich 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 Rich 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.