countyscore
43.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 97.1Health 74.5Lawn Care 63.6

County Report Card

About San Benito County, California

San Benito edges above national livability median

San Benito County scores 43.3 out of 100, exceeding the national median of 50.0 by just 6.7 points. This places the county in the 45th percentile nationally—middle-of-the-road for livability compared to all U.S. counties.

Outperforms California on the whole

San Benito ranks above California's state average of 40.9, placing it in the upper half of the state's counties. The county performs better than most of its California peers on overall livability measures.

Highest incomes in the group, solid health

San Benito leads with a median household income of $108,289 and the highest income score of 97.1 among these eight counties, signaling strong earning power. A health score of 74.5 further demonstrates solid healthcare and wellness infrastructure supporting residents.

Housing costs and schools lag significantly

The cost score of just 0.9 reflects severe housing unaffordability, with median home values at $751,500 and gross rent at $1,922 monthly. Schools also struggle with a score of only 37.9, and water availability concerns emerge with a score of 38.6, hinting at regional resource constraints.

Perfect for wealthy professionals unconcerned with schools

San Benito suits high-income earners and remote workers who can comfortably afford premium housing and value strong health outcomes. Families prioritizing public schools or seeking affordability should look elsewhere, as this county's real estate commands top-tier prices.

2040608010052.50.950.274.537.997.114.838.659.4Tax52.5Cost0.9Safety50.2Health74.5Schools37.9Income97.1Risk14.8Water38.6Weather59.443.3/100
This county
National avg
2 above average4 below average

San Benito County DNA

Foverall

How San Benito County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

San Benito County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Income (97.1/100) but notably weak in Cost of Living (0.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
52.5
Cost
0.9-47.1
Safety
50.2
Health
74.5+24.5
Schools
37.9-16.1
Income
97.1+46.099999999999994
Risk
14.8-32.2
Water
38.6-19.4
Weather
59.4
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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$751,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$1,922/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$751,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$76,880/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum6.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $108,289/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

9.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

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
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Nearby counties

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Merced County
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Santa Cruz County
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41.6
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Santa Clara County
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Deep Dives

San Benito County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in San Benito County

via TaxByCounty

San Benito's tax rate is well above average

San Benito's effective tax rate of 0.809% significantly exceeds the national median of 0.714%, placing it in the top tier nationally. The median property tax of $6,078 is more than double the national median of $2,690, driven by a median home value of $751,500.

San Benito ranks high among state counties

Among California's 58 counties, San Benito's 0.809% effective rate stands above the state average of 0.714%. The median tax of $6,078 significantly exceeds California's state median of $4,045, making it one of the state's higher-tax counties.

San Benito leads regional tax burden

San Benito's 0.809% rate is the highest among nearby California coastal and valley counties, surpassing San Luis Obispo's 0.705% and San Diego's 0.700%. The combination of high home values and the rate itself makes San Benito a notably expensive county for property taxes.

Median San Benito home exceeds $6,078

With a median home value of $751,500, San Benito homeowners pay approximately $6,078 per year in property taxes. Including mortgage-related assessments, the total can exceed $6,645 annually.

Appeal your assessment to save

San Benito homeowners with higher assessed values should request an assessment review, as overvaluation is common in high-appreciation markets. A successful appeal costs nothing to request and can deliver substantial year-over-year savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in San Benito County

via CostByCounty

San Benito punches above its weight

San Benito County's 21.3% rent-to-income ratio beats the national average of 22.4%, earning it status as a relative bargain. With median household income of $108,289—44% above the national median of $74,755—San Benito workers enjoy strong income-to-rent ratios.

San Benito: affordability leader in California

San Benito's 21.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks among California's best, falling below the state average of 22.4% despite higher home values. The county combines reasonable rents with robust household incomes, creating true affordability relative to peer counties.

San Benito balances cost and income smartly

San Benito's $1,922 median rent sits between San Luis Obispo ($1,899) and Riverside ($1,814), but its median household income of $108,289 dwarfs both. Home values of $751,500 lag San Luis Obispo ($777,200) and rival San Diego's coastal premium.

High income shields San Benito from housing stress

Renters in San Benito pay $1,922 monthly while homeowners face $2,738—a substantial $816 gap reflecting steep ownership costs relative to rents. Yet the county's exceptional median income of $108,289 means even mortgages consume only 30% of household earnings, easing the burden.

San Benito: California's hidden gem for earners

High-income professionals seeking California living should target San Benito, where rents rank among the state's most affordable relative to income. The county's 21.3% rent-to-income ratio and robust median income of $108,289 create rare housing relief in expensive California.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in San Benito County

via IncomeByCounty

San Benito earns 45% above nation

San Benito County's median household income of $108,289 far exceeds the national median of $74,755—a remarkable 45% premium. This high-earning county punches above its size, reflecting agricultural prosperity and proximity to Silicon Valley labor markets.

San Benito ranks among state's best

At $108,289, San Benito's median household income significantly outpaces California's $87,001 state average. The county ranks in California's top tier for household income, driven by agricultural wealth, wine production, and commuter wages from tech corridors.

Outearning nearby counties decisively

San Benito's $108,289 median income towers over San Joaquin County ($88,531) and exceeds San Luis Obispo County ($93,398). The county's strategic location between agricultural regions and tech hubs gives it a unique economic advantage.

Still high housing costs despite high income

San Benito's 21.3% rent-to-income ratio is the most favorable in this survey, yet the median home value of $751,500 remains steep. High household incomes help, but even affluent San Benito residents must commit substantial wealth to housing.

High earners must invest strategically

San Benito's $108,289 median income positions households above most of California, creating significant capacity for wealth building. Beyond housing, residents should prioritize diversified investments, tax-advantaged retirement accounts, and estate planning to maximize long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in San Benito County

via CrimeByCounty

San Benito County’s Exceptional Safety

San Benito County stands out with an impressive safety score of 98.2, far surpassing national standards. Its total crime rate of 1,122.8 per 100,000 residents is less than half of the national average of 2,385.5. This makes it one of the most secure environments in the country.

A Leader in California Safety

San Benito's safety score of 98.2 easily beats the California state average of 96.3. With a total crime rate of 1,122.8, it performs significantly better than the state average of 2,355.2 per 100,000 residents. Only three reporting agencies manage this vast, relatively quiet area.

Comparing Coastal and Inland Safety

San Benito County is remarkably safer than its neighbors, with a crime rate of 1,122.8 versus San Joaquin’s 2,695.6. It even outperforms San Luis Obispo, which reports a rate of 2,295.6 per 100,000. This data confirms San Benito as a regional haven for low-crime living.

Breakdown of Local Crime Stats

The property crime rate of 786.1 is exceptionally low compared to the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is also lower than the national benchmark, sitting at 336.7 per 100,000 residents. Residents enjoy a high degree of peace of mind regarding both their property and personal safety.

Keeping San Benito Secure

While crime is low, maintaining high security standards ensures San Benito stays safe. Simple measures like exterior lighting and smart doorbells provide an extra layer of protection. Community vigilance remains the best tool for the three agencies serving this county.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in San Benito County

via SchoolsByCounty

Small-scale education in a rural setting

San Benito County operates a boutique school system of just 27 schools serving 11,519 students. These schools are distributed across 13 districts, focusing heavily on primary education with 17 elementary campuses.

Graduation rates trailing state averages

The county's graduation rate stands at 83.8%, which is lower than both the state and national averages of 87%. Investment is also lean, with per-pupil expenditure at $7,690 compared to the $13,000 national average.

Hollister districts dominate the landscape

The Hollister district is the primary provider, managing 10 schools for 5,670 students. Options outside traditional districts are limited, as there is currently only one charter school operating in the entire county.

A town and rural learning experience

Unlike its urban neighbors, San Benito's schools are split between town and rural locales, with no city or suburban designations. While Hollister High is a large hub with 3,465 students, the average school size is a modest 461 students.

Peaceful living near close-knit schools

For families seeking a slower pace, the county's rural and town-based schools offer a smaller, community-focused environment. Homebuyers in Hollister find themselves at the heart of the county's primary educational infrastructure.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in San Benito County

via RiskByCounty

San Benito's risk is above U.S. average

With a composite risk score of 85.24, San Benito County ranks as "Relatively Moderate"—lower than most California counties but still above the typical U.S. county's baseline risk. The county sits slightly below California's 88.72 average, offering somewhat lower relative hazard exposure.

Moderate risk among California's 58 counties

San Benito ranks in California's lower-middle tier for overall natural disaster risk, benefiting from lower tornado (10.24) and flood (69.43) exposure. However, earthquake (97.26) and wildfire (95.42) risks remain substantial threats.

Safest among San Francisco Bay Area counties

San Benito (85.24) is significantly less risky than San Francisco County (99.52), San Luis Obispo (95.90), and neighboring inland counties. Its rural, mountainous geography reduces flood and tornado threats while maintaining baseline earthquake and wildfire exposure.

Earthquakes and wildfires are primary concerns

San Benito's earthquake risk (97.26) and wildfire risk (95.42) dominate the hazard landscape, reflecting the county's position along the San Andreas Fault. Wildfire seasons regularly bring air quality issues and evacuation threats across the county.

Earthquake and wildfire coverage recommended

San Benito residents should prioritize earthquake and wildfire insurance riders, as standard homeowners policies exclude both. If your property sits in a wildland-urban interface zone, wildfire coverage is especially critical.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in San Benito County

via WaterByCounty

Compliance Challenges in San Benito

San Benito County carries an 'F' grade for drinking water quality, reflecting 22 health violations in five years. While the violation rate of 35.9 per 100,000 is lower than the state average of 49.1, the severity of issues triggers the failing grade. Smaller systems in the county often struggle more with consistent SDWA compliance.

Half of Assessed Waters Fail Standards

Exactly 50.0% of the county's 30 assessed water bodies are classified as impaired in the 2022 cycle. Fecal coliform, turbidity, and E. coli are the primary pollutants degrading local water quality. This impairment rate significantly exceeds the California average of 37.2%.

Focused Monitoring in Smaller Networks

Data from 30 monitoring sites has produced 8,764 water quality results over the past five years. Measurements focus on physical properties and organic pesticides to track environmental health. While the site count is lower than urban neighbors, it provides essential data on the high turbidity and bacteria levels.

San Benito River Runs Dry

Current readings at the San Benito River near Hollister show 0 cubic feet per second, a total halt in flow compared to the 30 cfs mean. This 0% of typical flow indicates severe seasonal drying for the 596 square mile drainage area. Lack of flow can concentrate existing pollutants and bacteria in stagnant pools.

Bacterial Risks and Filtration Needs

Given the 'F' grade and high bacteria levels, residents should consider certified filtration systems for their tap water. When local rivers stop flowing, any remaining water often has high concentrations of E. coli and fecal coliform. Avoid contact with stagnant creek beds and ensure private wells are tested annually for bacterial contamination.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in San Benito County

via WeatherByCounty

San Benito's moderate annual profile

San Benito County averages 58.2°F, placing it very close to the California state average and the national median. It receives a modest 13.6 inches of rain per year, typical for the Central Coast hinterlands.

Aligning with the state average

The county's 58.2°F average is nearly identical to the California statewide average of 58.7°F. Its precipitation of 13.6 inches is notably lower than the state average of 25.8 inches, indicating a drier environment.

Cooler than the inland valleys

San Benito is significantly cooler than nearby San Joaquin County, which averages 62.5°F. This reflects the county's transitional geography between the coast and the hot interior.

Warm summers with crisp nights

The county sees 54 extreme heat days a year, significantly fewer than the deep Central Valley. July averages a comfortable 69.1°F, while winters are cool with a January average of 47.9°F.

Prepare for dry, temperate weather

While heat is less intense than inland, 54 days of 90°F weather still require cooling solutions. Light winter gear suffices for the mild 48.3°F winter average.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in San Benito County

via SoilByCounty

Neutral Soils with Coarse Character

San Benito features a coarse sand texture with an average pH of 6.69. This level is nearly identical to the national median of 6.5, offering an ideal neutral environment for most crops. The balanced chemistry supports a wide variety of agricultural uses.

Sand-Heavy Mix for Easy Workability

The composition is 41.4% sand, 31.9% silt, and 23.5% clay. This mix creates a soil that is easy to work and dig but requires careful management of its clay component. The high silt and clay levels help hold nutrients that sand alone would lose.

Strong Water Retention for Growth

Organic matter reaches 3.00%, which is higher than the national average but slightly below the 3.30% state level. The water capacity of 0.147 in/in beats the state average of 0.141 in/in, meaning this land holds moisture remarkably well. These fertile conditions provide a strong foundation for local orchards.

High Runoff Potential in Group D

Classified in hydrologic group D, these soils have a high runoff potential when they become thoroughly wet. Farmers and builders must manage irrigation and drainage carefully to avoid surface saturation. Strategic landscaping can help direct water flow and prevent erosion on hillsides.

Orchards and Vineyards in Zone 9b

Zone 9b supports a thriving wine and orchard culture in San Benito's Mediterranean climate. Plant some heirloom fruit trees or a backyard vineyard to take advantage of these water-retentive soils. Your garden will thrive in the county's warm days and cool nights.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in San Benito County

via LawnByCounty

Above average conditions for San Benito

With a lawn difficulty score of 63.6, San Benito County is one of the easier places in California to maintain a green space. Your Hardiness Zone 9b climate offers a balance that is more forgiving than the state average of 51.3.

Milder heat and focused growing days

San Benito experiences 54 extreme heat days per year, which is just below the California average. However, 13.6 inches of annual precipitation is less than half of what a typical lawn prefers, so efficient irrigation remains essential.

Starting with nearly perfect soil pH

Your soil pH of 6.69 is right in the 'sweet spot' for grass growth, falling perfectly within the ideal 6.0-7.0 range. The coarse sand texture and 41.4% sand content suggest excellent drainage, though you may need to fertilize more frequently.

Maintaining resilience in dry years

While the county had zero weeks in drought over the last year, the low annual rainfall makes you vulnerable to shifts in weather. Using mulch around lawn edges and maintaining a higher mowing height will help keep the soil cool and moist.

Spring planting after the April frost

Perennial ryegrass or fine fescues do well in this climate's moderate temperatures. Wait until after the last spring frost on April 14 to begin your seeding projects for the most reliable results.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is San Benito County's county score?
San Benito County, California has a composite county score of 43.3 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 San Benito County rank among counties in California?
San Benito County ranks #18 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 San Benito County, California?
The median annual property tax in San Benito County is $6,078, with an effective tax rate of 0.81%. This earns San Benito County a tax score of 52.5/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in San Benito County?
The median household income in San Benito County, California is $108,289 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. San Benito County earns an income score of 97.1/100 on CountyScore.
Is San Benito County, California a good place to live?
San Benito County scores 43.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in California. The best way to evaluate San Benito 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 San Benito County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.