countyscore
42.3
County Score
Income & Jobs 95.9Health 78.7Property Tax 63.3

County Report Card

About San Diego County, California

San Diego approaches national livability median

San Diego County scores 42.3 out of 100, trailing the national median of 50.0 by 7.7 points. The county ranks in the 40th percentile nationally—below average but not severely challenged compared to U.S. counties overall.

Above California's state average score

San Diego's 42.3 exceeds the California state average of 40.9, placing it in the upper half of the state's counties. The county outperforms most of its California peers on livability metrics.

Excellent health and income lead the way

San Diego excels with the second-highest health score of 78.7, reflecting strong healthcare and wellness infrastructure, and a median household income of $102,285 (income score: 95.9). The effective tax rate of 0.700% also ranks among the lowest in this group.

Housing affordability remains the critical squeeze

The cost score of 0.8 reveals severe housing unaffordability, with median home values at $791,600 and gross rent at $2,154 monthly—among the highest in the nation. Safety concerns persist with a score of 20.1, though schools show moderate performance at 56.8.

Ideal for affluent families valuing health

San Diego suits high-earning families and retirees who prioritize excellent healthcare, strong income potential, and pleasant lifestyles despite premium housing costs. Those relocating should have substantial savings to absorb mortgage or rent expenses while enjoying the county's health and economic advantages.

Score breakdown

Tax63.3Cost0.8Safety20.1Health78.7Schools56.8Income95.9Risk0.3Water54.6Weather60.7
🏛63.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠0.8
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼95.9
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡20.1
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤78.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓56.8
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡0.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧54.6
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤60.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱25.5
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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Counties with similar scores

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Nearby counties

Orange County
California
44.3
Riverside County
California
37.2
Los Angeles County
California
36.9
San Bernardino County
California
33.7
Imperial County
California
33.7
Ventura County
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44.3
Yuma County
Arizona
34.8
La Paz County
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37.2

Deep Dives

San Diego County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in San Diego County

via TaxByCounty

San Diego's rate is near national norm

San Diego's effective tax rate of 0.700% sits just below the national median of 0.714%, placing it in the middle of the national range. However, the median property tax of $5,542 far exceeds the national median of $2,690, due to San Diego's $791,600 median home value.

San Diego slightly undercuts state average

San Diego County's 0.700% effective rate is slightly below California's state average of 0.714%, making it one of the state's lower-tax counties by rate. Yet the median tax of $5,542 exceeds the state median of $4,045, reflecting the region's premium home values.

San Diego balances rate and value

San Diego's 0.700% rate is nearly identical to San Luis Obispo's 0.705% and lower than San Benito's 0.809%, though San Diego's higher median home value of $791,600 means larger absolute tax bills. The rate advantage is offset by the cost of living in the county.

Median San Diego home costs $5,542

With San Diego's median home value of $791,600, homeowners pay approximately $5,542 in annual property taxes. Including mortgage-related assessments, the total can reach $6,119.

San Diego assessments warrant review

San Diego County homeowners should assess whether their property valuations are current, as appreciation and reassessment errors can inflate bills unnecessarily. Filing an appeal request is free and could reduce your annual tax burden.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in San Diego County

via CostByCounty

San Diego's housing costs exceed national norms

San Diego County's 25.3% rent-to-income ratio represents one of California's worst affordability rates, far surpassing the national baseline of 22.4%. Despite a strong median household income of $102,285—37% above the national average of $74,755—residents still face outsized housing burdens.

San Diego ranks among California's least affordable

At 25.3%, San Diego's rent-to-income ratio edges Riverside (24.3%) and San Bernardino (24.9%) as the worst in this survey, sitting 2.9 points above California's state average. The county's coastal premium places housing affordability among the state's sharpest challenges.

San Diego's coastal premium is unmistakable

San Diego's $2,154 median rent significantly outpaces inland neighbors Sacramento ($1,702) and Riverside ($1,814)—the $452 difference signals clear coastal pricing. Home values of $791,600 align with San Francisco's stratospheric pricing, making San Diego a coastal affordability outlier.

Housing gobbles over one-quarter of San Diego income

San Diego renters pay $2,154 monthly while homeowners face $2,484—a substantial $330 gap reflecting competitive ownership markets. At $102,285 median income, housing consumes 25.3% of earnings, the highest burden among examined counties despite above-average incomes.

San Diego: California dream with coastal premium

San Diego's lifestyle appeal comes at a price: $2,154 rents and $791,600 median homes demand above-average incomes and housing tolerance. Only high-earning professionals ($102K+) with strong commitment to coastal living should target San Diego; Sacramento and Riverside offer similar California living at substantial savings.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in San Diego County

via IncomeByCounty

San Diego earns 37% above nation

San Diego County's median household income of $102,285 significantly exceeds the national median of $74,755—a 37% premium. The county's diverse economy spanning biotech, aerospace, military presence, and tourism drives strong household earnings.

San Diego ranks among state's top earners

At $102,285, San Diego's median household income substantially exceeds California's $87,001 state average. The county ranks in the upper tier among California's 58 counties, reflecting its status as a major economic hub in Southern California.

Competing with wealthy Bay Area region

San Diego's $102,285 trails San Francisco County ($141,446) but exceeds San Luis Obispo ($93,398) and San Benito ($108,289) in a tight range. The county anchors Southern California's income profile, second only to San Francisco statewide.

Highest housing costs strain even high earners

Despite strong income, San Diego's rent-to-income ratio of 25.3% is the highest in this survey, with a median home value of $791,600. The county's desirable location and limited housing supply push costs above the typical 20% affordability threshold.

High income demands sophisticated planning

San Diego's $102,285 median income creates substantial wealth-building potential, but high housing costs require strategic financial planning. Residents should explore tax-efficient investing, diversification across asset classes, and long-term real estate strategy to maximize their economic advantage.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in San Diego County

via CrimeByCounty

San Diego County Safety Performance

San Diego County enjoys a safety score of 96.7, making it safer than the national average. The total crime rate of 2,080.5 per 100,000 is about 13% lower than the national figure of 2,385.5. This high level of safety is a hallmark of the region's major metropolitan area.

San Diego's Standing in California

San Diego's safety score of 96.7 outperforms the state average of 96.3. Its total crime rate of 2,080.5 is also lower than the statewide average of 2,355.2 per 100,000 residents. 37 reporting agencies work together to maintain this standard across the county's coastal and inland communities.

Safety Leader in Southern California

San Diego County is significantly safer than its northern neighbors, Riverside (2,678.5) and San Bernardino (2,604.0). Its total crime rate of 2,080.5 stands as a regional benchmark for safety in a high-population area. This makes it a preferred destination for those seeking a lower-crime environment in Southern California.

Property and Violent Crime Breakdown

The property crime rate is 1,686.0 per 100,000, well below the national average of 2,015.7. Violent crime is slightly higher than the national mark at 394.5 compared to 369.8 per 100,000. These statistics show that while person-to-person crime is a factor, property theft is relatively uncommon.

Maintaining Security in San Diego

With property crime rates trending low, residents can focus on preventative measures to maintain this trend. Visible security cameras and well-lit entryways serve as effective deterrents for opportunistic theft. Engaging with local law enforcement across the 37 agencies keeps the community informed and secure.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in San Diego County

via HealthByCounty

San Diego exceeds national health norms

San Diego residents live 80.3 years on average, surpassing the U.S. average of 80.2 years by a full year. Only 16.4% report poor or fair health, the second-best rate in this group and well below the national average of 15%. The county's health profile is among America's strongest.

Healthiest in California comparison

At 80.3 years, San Diego's life expectancy outpaces California's 78.5-year average by 1.8 years, ranking it among the state's healthiest counties. The 7.3% uninsured rate is barely above the state average of 7.2%, indicating near-universal coverage. San Diego is a beacon of health equity in California.

Outperforms all regional peers

San Diego's 80.3-year life expectancy exceeds Riverside (77.8), Sacramento (78.0), and San Joaquin (76.4), matching San Luis Obispo (80.7) and trailing only San Francisco (82.4). The 7.3% uninsured rate is lower than Riverside (8.3%) and San Bernardino (8.7%), showing strong regional leadership. San Diego's health advantage is clear.

Robust care network supports outcomes

San Diego offers 84 primary care providers and 526 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—among the strongest in this group. With 7.3% uninsured and broad provider access, most residents can access preventive, acute, and behavioral health care. Infrastructure and coverage alignment drive longevity.

Keep San Diego's momentum going

San Diego's health success rests partly on its 7.3% uninsured rate—close to the lowest in California. If you're part of that uninsured 7.3%, enrolling in Covered California at coveredca.com connects you to preventive care and specialist access. Sustained coverage is how San Diego stays healthy.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in San Diego County

via SchoolsByCounty

A massive and multifaceted school system

San Diego County boasts 764 public schools, the most in this region, serving 467,869 students. This expansive system is managed by 160 districts, ranging from large urban centers to small rural outposts.

Consistent performance and high grad rates

The county's 88.3% graduation rate surpasses both the national 87% and state 87.5% averages. While the per-pupil expenditure of $8,561 matches the state average, the county's composite school score of 56.0 is perfectly aligned with the state baseline.

Urban giants and a thriving charter sector

San Diego Unified is a powerhouse with 175 schools and 93,694 students. The county also features 120 charter schools, making up 15.7% of all schools and including large-scale options like Pacific Coast Academy.

City schools with mid-sized campuses

The majority of schools are located in city (393) or suburban (307) locales, maintaining an average school size of 623 students. San Marcos High stands out as a major hub with 3,380 students, while the county still preserves 55 rural campuses.

Premium education in a coastal setting

With graduation rates exceeding national norms and a massive variety of charter options, San Diego remains a top choice for families. Exploring homes near high-performing districts like Poway or San Marcos is a common strategy for local buyers.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in San Diego County

via RiskByCounty

San Diego ranks in nation's highest-risk tier

San Diego County's composite risk score of 99.71 marks it as "Very High" and places it among America's most disaster-prone counties. This score significantly exceeds California's average of 88.72, reflecting severe exposure across multiple hazard categories.

Third-riskiest county in California

San Diego ranks just behind San Bernardino and Riverside in overall state risk, driven by maximal wildfire risk (100.00), near-maximal earthquake risk (99.68), and critical flood risk (99.75). The county's dense population amplifies the impact of these natural disasters.

Far riskier than adjacent Riverside County south

San Diego (99.71) essentially matches Riverside (99.90) and San Bernardino (99.84) in overall risk, though its wildfire exposure is highest in the state at 100.00. Neighboring San Luis Obispo (95.90) faces notably lower threat levels.

Wildfires dominate; earthquakes and floods critical

San Diego's wildfire risk scores 100.00—the absolute maximum and state's highest—with annual fire seasons destroying hundreds of structures and displacing thousands. Earthquake (99.68) and flood (99.75) risks remain severe, creating overlapping disaster scenarios.

Wildfire insurance is non-negotiable in San Diego

San Diego residents face the state's highest wildfire risk and must secure wildfire coverage through their insurer or California's FAIR Plan immediately. Add earthquake coverage and verify flood insurance—this county requires the full suite of disaster protection.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in San Diego County

via WeatherByCounty

Mild Mediterranean comfort in San Diego

San Diego County averages 62.6°F annually, offering a temperate climate warmer than the national median. It receives 14 inches of rain, characteristic of a semi-arid coastal region.

Consistently warmer than state average

At 62.6°F, the county is warmer than the California average of 58.7°F. Its rainfall is roughly half of the state average, reflecting the dry nature of Southern California.

More moderate than the interior

San Diego is much cooler than neighboring Riverside County, which averages 69.5°F. It also receives nearly double the annual rainfall of its inland neighbors to the north and east.

Stable temperatures year-round

The county only experiences 43 extreme heat days, far fewer than the 140 seen in Riverside. January averages 53.5°F and July averages 73.3°F, showing very little seasonal variation.

Focus on sun and drought

With 43 days of heat over 90°F, moderate cooling is usually sufficient. Water-wise landscaping is critical given the modest 14 inches of annual precipitation.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in San Diego County

via SoilByCounty

Coastal Soil Diversity

Soil profiles for pH and taxonomy are not currently consolidated for San Diego in this dataset. Most coastal areas trend toward slightly acidic to neutral, but local variations are extremely common. A simple home test can reveal if your soil hits the national median of 6.5.

Learning Your Soil's Texture

Without specific sand or silt percentages on record, gardeners should observe how quickly their soil dries after irrigation. Sandy coastal soils drain fast, while inland valleys may have higher clay content. Understanding your unique mix is the first step toward efficient, sustainable watering.

Nurturing Biodiversity with Compost

Organic matter data is missing, but many coastal soils require supplementation to reach the 3.30% state average. Healthy soil is the secret to sustaining the region's famous biodiversity and lush landscapes. Focus on building organic matter to improve nutrient hold and plant health.

Protecting Plants from Wet Feet

Dominant drainage classes are not listed, making on-site percolation tests vital for local home builders. Proper drainage ensures that coastal plants do not suffer from root rot during the rainy season. Observe how water moves across your property to prevent erosion on sloped lots.

Tropical Paradise in Zone 10b

San Diego sits in Zone 10b, a paradise for tropical fruits, succulents, and vibrant flowers. The mild climate allows for gardening 365 days a year, offering endless opportunities for growth. Start your garden today and enjoy the best growing conditions in the country.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in San Diego County

via LawnByCounty

Challenging coastal and inland conditions

San Diego County holds a lawn difficulty score of 25.5, indicating a significant challenge compared to the 51.3 state average. In Hardiness Zone 10b, the lack of rainfall is your primary obstacle to keeping a healthy lawn year-round.

Mild temperatures versus low moisture

You only face 43 extreme heat days per year, which is better than the state average, but annual rainfall is low at 14.0 inches. This creates a climate where grass doesn't burn up instantly but slowly starves for water without intervention.

Preparing for diverse soil types

With limited regional soil data available, local gardeners often find a mix of clay and decomposed granite. Adding organic compost before planting is a universal best practice here to improve water retention in your lawn's root zone.

Managing 37 weeks of dry spells

The county recently endured 37 weeks of drought, putting a strain on municipal water supplies. To stay resilient, consider installing a smart irrigation controller that adjusts your watering schedule based on real-time local weather data.

Year-round growth in Zone 10b

St. Augustine and Zoysia are excellent choices for the mild but dry San Diego climate. Since the last spring frost doesn't occur until April 18, wait for the ground to warm up before starting your spring lawn renovation.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is San Diego County's county score?
San Diego County, California has a composite county score of 42.3 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 Diego County rank among counties in California?
San Diego County ranks #22 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 Diego County, California?
The median annual property tax in San Diego County is $5,542, with an effective tax rate of 0.70%. This earns San Diego County a tax score of 63.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in San Diego County?
The median household income in San Diego County, California is $102,285 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. San Diego County earns an income score of 95.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is San Diego County, California a good place to live?
San Diego County scores 42.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #22 in California. The best way to evaluate San Diego 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 Diego 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.