countyscore
55.5
County Score
Income & Jobs 87.5Health 79.7Property Tax 78

County Report Card

About San Juan County, Washington

A national leader in island livability

San Juan County earns a high composite score of 55.4, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. This ranking reflects a unique combination of wealth and low tax burdens.

Among the most livable counties in Washington

The county's 55.4 score far exceeds the Washington state average of 44.1. It is one of the premier destinations in the Pacific Northwest for those who can afford the entry price.

Exceptional tax climate and community health

The tax score of 78.0 is driven by a very low effective tax rate of 0.569%. Residents also enjoy a health score of 79.7 and a strong income score of 87.5.

Severe water scarcity and housing costs

A critical water score of 4.1 signals significant resource challenges on the islands. Furthermore, the cost score of 8.7 reflects a median home value of $726,500, creating a high barrier to entry.

Perfect for wealthy residents and retirees

This county is a haven for high-net-worth individuals who value low taxes and community health over resource ease. It is best for those who can afford luxury housing and manage island water limitations.

Score breakdown

Tax78Cost8.7Safety68.5Health79.7Schools48.2Income87.5Risk64.7Water4.1Weather68.6
🏛78
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠8.7
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼87.5
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡68.5
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤79.7
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓48.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡64.7
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧4.1
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤68.6
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨72.1
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱43.5
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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Nearby counties

Island County
Washington
50.7
Whatcom County
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38
Skagit County
Washington
37.3
Clallam County
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Jefferson County
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Kitsap County
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Snohomish County
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Mason County
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Deep Dives

San Juan County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in San Juan County

via TaxByCounty

San Juan has lowest rate nationally

San Juan County's effective tax rate of 0.569% ranks in the bottom 10% nationally, well below the national median of 0.750%. Despite high home values, the median property tax of $4,131 remains below the national median of $2,690 due to lower rate.

Washington's lowest effective rate

San Juan County has the lowest effective tax rate in Washington at 0.569%, compared to the state average of 0.761%. The county's median property tax of $4,131 reflects its sky-high median home value of $726,500 rather than the tax rate.

Island premium homes, island discounts

San Juan County's 0.569% rate is dramatically lower than neighboring Skagit County (0.824%) and Snohomish County (0.794%), reflecting the islands' unique tax structure. Wealthy island homeowners benefit from both high property values and unusually low rates.

Premium homes, moderate tax bills

San Juan County's median home value of $726,500 would generate roughly $4,131 in annual property taxes at the county's 0.569% rate. Non-mortgaged homeowners pay about $4,453 while mortgaged owners pay $3,916.

Even wealthy homeowners should appeal

San Juan County homeowners, regardless of home value, should review assessments for accuracy and file appeals when warranted. The low rate means small assessment errors cost proportionally less, but over decades they add up.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in San Juan County

via CostByCounty

San Juan County's Coastal Premium

San Juan County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.3% exceeds the national average, reflecting its island location and constrained housing supply. With a median household income of $83,682 and rent at $1,413/month, the county demands a larger income share for housing than most American counties.

Above-Average Housing Costs Statewide

San Juan County's 20.3% rent-to-income ratio ranks above Washington's 18.8% average, placing it among the state's pricier rental markets. At $1,413/month, median rent runs $211 above the state median, a premium driven by island geography and limited developable land.

San Juan's Island Price Premium

San Juan County's median rent of $1,413 exceeds nearby Skagit County ($1,439) by just $26, but the counties' home values tell a starkly different story: San Juan's median home price of $726,500 towers 49% above Skagit's $486,200. The island premium is unmistakable in ownership costs.

Renting vs. Buying on the Islands

San Juan County renters spend 20.3% of income on rent ($1,413/month), while owners dedicate 21.5% to mortgage and costs ($1,499/month). The median home value of $726,500 is the state's highest, making island ownership an expensive proposition despite strong median incomes.

San Juan: Island Living at a Premium

San Juan County offers island charm and outdoor recreation, but budget accordingly: housing costs consume a larger income share than most Washington counties. If island life appeals but affordability matters, compare San Juan's costs against Pend Oreille or Skamania before committing to relocation.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in San Juan County

via IncomeByCounty

San Juan County far exceeds U.S. median

San Juan County's median household income of $83,682 surpasses the national median of $74,755 by 11.9%, placing the county in the top 30% nationally. The strength stems from a mix of tourism, professional services, and affluent retirees in island communities.

Upper-middle rank among Washington counties

San Juan County ranks 7th among Washington's 39 counties, exceeding the state average of $76,363 by $7,319. The island location attracts higher earners and seasonal wealth, boosting aggregate household income.

Strong income, islands command premium

San Juan County's $83,682 income trails Snohomish ($107,982) and Pierce ($96,632) but exceeds Skagit ($85,474), Skamania ($90,085), and rural counties. Yet San Juan's per capita income of $63,173 ranks highest—reflecting wealth concentration and part-time employment patterns.

High housing costs strain affordability

San Juan County's rent-to-income ratio of 20.3% is manageable, but the median home value of $726,500 represents nearly 8.7 years of median income—the highest ratio among the eight counties. Island geography and limited housing supply drive premium property costs.

Plan for island living expenses

San Juan County residents earning $83,682 must account for steep housing costs when building wealth plans. Exploring second-home investments on the mainland or diversifying into non-real-estate assets can balance portfolio risk while enjoying island living.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in San Juan County

via CrimeByCounty

San Juan County Ranks Among the Safest

San Juan County boasts an impressive safety score of 98.8, driven by a very low total crime rate of 738.9 per 100,000. This rate is nearly one-third of the national average of 2,385.5.

A Leading Safety Score in Washington

With a safety score of 98.8, San Juan County far exceeds the Washington state average of 96.2. Data from its single reporting agency shows a crime rate that is significantly lower than the state average of 2,377.2.

Island Living Offers Enhanced Security

San Juan County’s isolated geography contributes to a crime rate of 738.9, which is much lower than mainland neighbors like Skagit County. This unique environment creates one of the most secure counties in the Pacific Northwest.

Minimal Violent Crime on the Islands

Violent crime is extremely low at just 38.9 per 100,000, compared to the national average of 369.8. Property crime is also minimal at 700.0, though residents should note these figures come from a single reporting agency.

Maintaining Peace in San Juan

Even in high-safety areas, basic precautions like locking doors and windows are recommended. Residents should stay involved with community alerts to maintain the county's reputation as a safe haven.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in San Juan County

via HealthByCounty

San Juan County leads nation on longevity

At 87.4 years, San Juan County residents live nearly 9 years longer than the U.S. average of 78.5 years—among the highest life expectancies in America. Only 13.5% report poor or fair health, the lowest rate among all Washington counties and well below national norms.

Washington's healthiest county by far

San Juan County ranks first statewide for life expectancy, exceeding Washington's 78.1-year average by 9.3 years—a gap nearly as wide as the entire state range. This island community's exceptional health outcomes suggest unique demographic, economic, and lifestyle factors at work.

Outpaces all regional and national comparisons

San Juan's 87.4-year life expectancy towers above neighboring Skagit (78.5 years) and even exceeds most affluent U.S. counties. The county's 65 primary care providers and 447 mental health providers per 100,000 deliver robust care for its island population.

Unique access profile for island community

Despite exceptional longevity, San Juan County's 9.9% uninsured rate matches Pacific County's, suggesting some residents still lack coverage. Island geography creates distinct care logistics, yet the community achieves stunning health outcomes that merit national study.

Maintain coverage for island health security

Island residents face unique healthcare logistics; having solid insurance ensures seamless access to mainland specialists when needed. Visit Healthcare.gov today to review your coverage and confirm you're protected year-round.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in San Juan County

via SchoolsByCounty

Island Learning Across Four Districts

San Juan County serves 1,720 students through 15 public schools spread across four island-based districts. The infrastructure is entirely rural, consisting of seven elementary schools and a handful of middle and high schools.

Strong Investment in Island Education

The county invests $10,052 per pupil, which is significantly higher than the state average of $9,250. This funding supports a respectable 79.1% graduation rate and a school score of 54.4, slightly above the state average.

San Juan and Orcas Island Hubs

San Juan Island and Orcas Island districts are the primary providers, serving 782 and 701 students respectively. There are zero charter schools in the county, ensuring all public funding remains within the traditional local districts.

An Intimate, Rural Island Feel

Every school in the county is classified as rural, with an average enrollment of just 115 students. Friday Harbor Elementary is the largest campus with 321 students, offering a community-centric feel that is rare in larger counties.

Discover an Island Education

Families seeking a safe, rural environment with strong per-pupil funding will love San Juan County. Search for homes today to find your place in these unique and supportive island school communities.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in San Juan County

via RiskByCounty

San Juan County has very low disaster risk

San Juan County scores 35.37 on the composite risk scale, well below Washington's state average of 70.01 and in the very low risk category nationally. This island county faces less frequent or severe natural hazard exposure than the typical American county. Its marine location and relatively protected geography create a favorable disaster risk profile compared to mainland Washington communities.

Among Washington's safest counties

San Juan County ranks in the bottom tier for disaster risk statewide, with a 35.37 score comparable to Pend Oreille County (28.02) and Skamania County (49.68). The county's low scores reflect minimal tornado (4.42) and wildfire (41.32) risks, though earthquake risk is higher at 89.44 due to regional tectonics. San Juan is one of only three Washington counties scoring below 40 on the composite scale.

Island safety with seismic considerations

San Juan County's 35.37 score is lower than neighboring Skagit County (88.77) on the mainland and comparable to remote Pend Oreille County (28.02). San Juan's earthquake risk (89.44) is high relative to its overall score, reflecting the same Cascadia Subduction Zone exposure as western Washington counties despite lower composite risk. Wildfire and tornado risks in San Juan are dramatically lower than mainland neighbors due to marine climate and isolation.

Earthquakes and flooding top the list

Earthquake risk (89.44) is San Juan County's most significant threat, with the Cascadia Subduction Zone affecting the islands despite their protected island location. Flood risk (58.40) is moderate and primarily affects low-lying areas and marine infrastructure during storm surge events. Tornado (4.42) and wildfire (41.32) risks are minimal for island communities, making seismic preparedness the clear priority.

Earthquake insurance and storm preparedness

San Juan County homeowners should prioritize earthquake insurance coverage, as standard homeowners policies exclude seismic damage. Ensure your property is built or retrofitted to modern seismic standards, particularly if you own older structures or waterfront property vulnerable to tsunami hazards. While wildfire risk is low, review emergency evacuation plans for island communities, where ferry access may be limited during major events.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in San Juan County

via WeatherByCounty

The Gentle Climate of the Islands

San Juan County averages 50.8°F annually, remaining cooler than the national median. Located in a rain shadow, it receives only 23.8 inches of annual precipitation, making it much drier than most coastal regions.

Warmer and Drier than the Mainland

The county's 50.8°F average annual temperature is slightly higher than the state average of 49.9°F. Its 23.8 inches of rain is remarkably low compared to the Washington average of 38.5 inches.

Drier Skies Compared to Skagit County

While Skagit County receives 57.9 inches of rain, the San Juan Islands receive less than half that amount. The surrounding waters insulate the islands, keeping winters milder than the nearby mainland.

Zero Extreme Heat and Mild Winters

The county records zero days of extreme heat over 90°F, with July temperatures averaging 61.5°F. Winters are similarly gentle, with a January average of 41.5°F and only 5.8 inches of annual snow.

Focus on Water Conservation and Light Layers

Air conditioning is virtually unnecessary here given the total lack of extreme heat days. Instead, residents should plan for water conservation during dry summers and keep light layers ready for the consistently mild, maritime air.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in San Juan County

via SoilByCounty

Deeply Acidic Island Soils

San Juan County features quite acidic soil with an average pH of 5.16. This is significantly lower than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.20. Such acidity typically requires lime amendments for traditional vegetable gardening.

A Gritty Sandy Blend

The soil is dominated by 49.8% sand, balanced by 34.5% silt and a low 9.5% clay. This high sand content ensures easy workability and prevents the heavy compaction often seen in clay-rich areas. It offers a light, manageable texture for island farmers.

Incredible Organic Richness

This county boasts a massive 49.87% organic matter, nearly triple the state average of 14.85%. This richness translates to an available water capacity of 0.324 in/in, which is much higher than the state average of 0.194. Your plants will have excellent access to both nutrients and moisture.

Managing the Island's Water

While official drainage classes are not listed, the nearly 50% sand content suggests very rapid drainage. This is excellent for preventing root rot but means the soil can dry out quickly in the summer. Careful irrigation management is necessary during the drier months.

Island Bounty in Zone 9a

The mild Zone 9a climate and high organic content make San Juan a gardener's dream. Acid-loving plants like blueberries, rhododendrons, and camellias will thrive in this natural soil environment. Start your island garden and enjoy the benefits of this unique soil profile.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in San Juan County

via LawnByCounty

Island Living and Lawn Ease

San Juan County is one of the easiest places in Washington to grow a lawn, scoring 43.5 on the difficulty scale. Its USDA Hardiness Zone 9a classification ensures very mild winters, allowing for year-round root activity. While easier than the state average of 36.9, it still requires more effort than the national median of 50.0.

The Rain Shadow Effect

Located in a rain shadow, the county receives just 23.8 inches of rain annually, which is below the 30-inch ideal for turf. However, with 0 extreme heat days and only 1,493 growing degree days, the grass never faces the scorching temperatures found inland. You will need to water regularly, but you won't have to fight heat-related diseases.

Acidic and Sandy Island Soils

The soil here is quite acidic with a pH of 5.16, well below the preferred 6.0 to 7.0 range. It is also very sandy at 49.8%, which means water and nutrients drain away much faster than in clay-heavy soils. You will likely need to apply lime to raise the pH and use slow-release fertilizers to prevent runoff.

Managing Water on the Islands

San Juan County experienced 22 weeks of drought over the past year, though only 1.7% of the area is currently dry. Because the sandy soil drains so quickly, even short dry spells can stress your grass. Collecting rainwater or using greywater systems can be effective ways to maintain your lawn without straining limited island aquifers.

Seeding in the Mildest Climate

The extremely long growing season runs from late March until late November, giving you plenty of time to establish new turf. Fine fescues are highly recommended for their ability to tolerate the sandy, acidic soil conditions found across the islands. For best results, seed in early April when the spring rains provide consistent, gentle moisture.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is San Juan County's county score?
San Juan County, Washington has a composite county score of 55.5 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 Juan County rank among counties in Washington?
San Juan County ranks #5 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 San Juan County, Washington?
The median annual property tax in San Juan County is $4,131, with an effective tax rate of 0.57%. This earns San Juan County a tax score of 78/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in San Juan County?
The median household income in San Juan County, Washington is $83,682 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. San Juan County earns an income score of 87.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is San Juan County, Washington a good place to live?
San Juan County scores 55.5/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #5 in Washington. The best way to evaluate San Juan 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 Juan County with other counties side by side.

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🏛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.